If you are the type to savour a meal rather than scoff it down, and enjoy a little light breeze and some flowers, then check out these top restaurants with a garden in and around Johannesburg.
Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa
Enjoy the beautiful sights and sounds of Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa with a delightful private picnic in their lush gardens? It’s a luxurious and tranquil way to relax in the heart of the city. This exquisite destination offers a selection of dining options, depending on what you’re in the mood for. Be it an afternoon tea, an scrumptious breakfast or something posh, they have it all.
Details: fairlawns.co.za | 011 808 7300 | reservations@fairlawns.co.za | 01 Alma Road, Morningside, Sandton, Johannesburg.
Glenda’s at Hyde Park Corner
Nestled in the heart of trendy Hyde Park, Glenda’s is a gastronomic gem that you simply must visit! Whether for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even some cocktails are the end of a long week, Glenda’s is sure to delight your palate. Grab a seat in their outdoor dining area, order something scrumptious and enjoy the lovely sunshine and fresh air at this sophisticated and lovely destination.
Details: glendas.co | 011 268 6369 | info@dottyglenda.co.za | Hyde Square, corner Jan Smuts Avenue and North Road, Hyde Park, Johannesburg.
Random Harvest Nursery
Random Harvest Nursery is one of the best garden centres in Gauteng. While you may have to travel a way out of the city to Krugersdorp, their tea garden is well worth it. Surrounded by plant life and birdsong, this outdoor cafe is the ideal place to unwind. The menu is simple – offering homemade classics like toasties, burgers and scones. Their milk comes directly from the small herd kept at the nursery, as does the homemade butter. Chef Linda’s mother also makes the strawberry jam which is oh-so-good. With fresh greens from their own garden, the Random Harvest Tea Garden hearkens back to simpler times. Visit them as soon as you can.
Details: 57 College Road, Muldersdrift, South Africa | 011 957 5354 | marketing@rhn.co.za.
Gia’s on Montrose
Gia’s Restaurant at Montrose Nursery in Morningside is made for outdoor summer brunches. Their patio is adorned with hanging flower baskets, and there is a great view of the garden centre from this viewpoint. Gia’s seasonally inspired menu showcases the best that summer has to offer. Pop in for a hearty Nordic breakfast or a healthy salad for lunch. Their baked cheesecake is well-renowned by Joburg foodies as well, so give it a try as a treat. Despite its location in Sandton, Gia’s is the ultimate antidote to busy city living. View their website here.
Details: Montrose Nursery, 66B South Road, Morningside, Sandton, Johannesburg | 011 326 5074 | giasonmontrose@mweb.co.za.
Leafy Greens Café
Leafy Greens Cafe is a firm favourite among Joburg vegans and health food fundis. Their food ethos is all about eating fresh and green, both for a better lifestyle and for the environment. Leafy Greens is located just outside the city in Muldersdrift, however this eclectic cafe feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle. Situated on a working farm, this is where you should be if a return to nature is what you seek. With a separate kiddies menu, Leafy Greens offers family bonding time and delicious, healthy meals within an exquisite garden setting.
Details: Rocky Ridge Rd, Muldersdrift, Gauteng | 010 595 4563 | mytable@leafygreens.co.za
The Secret Garden
The name says it all, doesn’t it? The Secret Garden, situated within Norscot Manor in Fourways, provides the ultimate alternative to fast food mall restaurants and impersonal service. You will feel right at home here, relaxing on the terrace overlooking the manicured lawns and distant views. There is also a fun play park for the kids, so everyone can have a good time outdoors. If you would like to see their menu then click here.
Details: 16B Penguin Avenue, Norscot Manor Recreation Centre, Fourways, Sandton, Johannesburg | info@thesecretteagarden.co.za | 010 880 8604.
Olives & Plates Wits Club
Here’s another restaurant with a garden to add to your list! This stunning outdoor setting awaits you and your friends! Whether you are planning an intimate celebration, want to go on a solo date or perhaps you’re looking for a new brunch spot. Whatever the reason, Olives & Plates Wits Club is the ideal scenic escape in the heart of Johannesburg. On the first weekend of every month, they host a high tea experience. In terms of their menu items, you can expect Greek and Mediterranean inspired dishes.
Details: 7 Yale Road, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193 | club@olivesandplates.co.za | 011 717 9365.
Vista Garden Restaurant at The Wanderers Club
Picture this, fairy lights and a summer evening dinner at this gorgeous outdoor restaurant in Illovo! The newly renovated Vista Garden is the perfect venue to enjoy a drink and a bite to eat with an adjoining kids play area. Whether you’re a spectator or looking to relax after your game of Padel, Bowls, Tennis or any one of the 14 sporting codes, you’ll be able to wind down over a plate of delicious food and ice cold drinks.
Details: 21 North Street, Illovo, Johannesburg, South Africa | contactus@wanderersclub.co.za | 011 788 5010.
The Culinary Table
Located in Lanseria, the quaint family run restaurant has a lovely deli, outdoor restaurant, butchery, lifestyle center and a nursery! The best part is that they’re open 7 days a week! If you’re looking for an outdoor restaurant that serves ethically sourced and organic food, then you’ll want to add this one to your must-visit restaurants in Joburg! All their produce and many of the ingredients that are included on the menu are available in their deli for customers to buy and take home.
Details: Unit 1, Lanseria Centre, Corner Ashenti Rd and Pelindaba Road, Lanseria | table@culinary.co.za | 011 017 0999
Do you know of any other restaurants with gardens in Johannesburg? Let us know about them!
Remember that our “Top Picks” are not paid for and are compiled at the discretion of the journalist. We only write about what we love.
