Melville is the place to be where delicious food is concerned. If you're a foodie of any description, the restaurants in Melville will be your idea of heaven! You can sample a variety of delicious foods from so many different cuisines, pretty much all on one street! Let's get ready to tuck into some divine treats as we take you on a journey down Melville's culinary streets and avenues.
What Are You Looking For?
African
American and Fast Food
Asian
Mediterranean
Coffee Shops and Cafes
African
Lucky Bean Restaurant
The Lucky Bean Restaurant in Melville serves a delicious fusion menu of African-inspired food, as well as some of Johannesburg's best vegan and vegetarian cuisine. Known for its relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, Lucky Bean is a local favourite. Also a bar and lounge, The Lucky Bean Restaurant is a perfect spot to stop by for a drink and a tasty meal after a long day.
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American & Fast Food
Have Wings
A unique restaurant experience to be sure, this trendy little restaurant chain started in Melville and has expanded across South Africa from there! They specialise in chicken wings, and offer five mouthwatering flavour options: Hot & Smokey, Extra Hot & Smokey, Sweet & Sticky, Oriental and Lemon & Coriander. All wings come with freshly-prepared, delicious dips, also available in a variety of flavours, as well as fresh, tasty side dishes.
Hell's Kitchen
Hell's Kitchen is an American-style, rock-themed bar and restaurant in Melville. Known for its iconic "Be Naked When I Get Home" neon sign, 1920s New York speakeasy glamour, and secret poker room hidden away behind the bookcase, Hell's Kitchen is an iconic and fun restaurant for a night out. Enjoy a burger, pizza, steak or chicken wings while savouring some Jameson's whiskey. Bliss!
Ratz Bar + Diner
A real Melville institution, Ratz Bar + Diner has been in operation for over 24 years! Ratz has earned a reputation as Melville's premier LGBTQI+ friendly restaurant and cocktail bar. Ratz is known for delicious food, tasty cocktails, and hits from the 70s til the present day to dance the night away to. If you're in the mood for dinner, drinks, and dancing, Ratz Bar + Diner is definitely the place for you!
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Asian
The Anti Social Social Club
The Anti-Social Social Club is a modern, Asian-inspired bar and restaurant in Melville. The menu at the Anti Social Social Club is light and pairs perfectly with their equally-delicious cocktail menu. If you’re in the mood to socialise with friends and enjoy good company, food and drinks in an unusual setting, this little bar and restaurant is perfect for you.
Visit The Anti Social Social Club.
Bambanani
Bambanani is all about family and food. Located in Melville, Bambanani serves up a fresh and delicious Asian-inspired menu, combining a boutique restaurant experience with a kid's play area. Bambanani provides full-time child minders and a safe environment, allowing parents to relax and enjoy their meals.
Love Me So
Ramen! Who doesn't get excited about it? While Love Me So in Melville have made a name for themselves serving heavenly Asian fusion cuisine, they are best known for their ramen. Also definitely worth sampling is their sticky, crispy Korean BBQ, and Japanese Izakaya (shared plates). If you feel like something a bit lighter, a poke bowl could be just what you need. Make sure to try a cocktail while you're there!
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Mediterranean
Ba-Pita
Ba-Pita brings the taste of the Mediterranean to the heart of Melville. This petite restaurant located in 7th Street specialises in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean foods. So, it doesn't matter if you're craving shawarma, falafel, or kebab, Ba-Pita packs a punch where flavours are concerned. Close your eyes and you'd be forgiven for forgetting where you are!
La Petite Maison
Often described as one of Johannesburg's hidden gems, La Petite Maison is a restaurant you truly need to experience to understand. Located at the top of Melville's 7th Street, La Petite Maison is an intimate space, and seats only 20 people. The menu is limited, and dishes are accompanied by a fine selection of boutique wines.
Piza Ē Vino Melville
Piza Ē Vino is a firm South African favourite. At Piza Ē Vino, they prepare every dish using basic, yet flavourful ingredients. Because of this, every dish is bursting with Italian flavour and deliciousness! Their wide menu features antipasto, pizza, pasta and desserts.
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Coffee Shops & Cafes
Cafe De La Creme
A real Melville favourite, Cafe De La Creme patisserie has been baking up a storm in Melville for many years. No visit to Melville would be complete without stopping at Cafe De La Creme for a sweet treat or a wholesome meal. If your sweet tooth has been tickling you, this is definitely the place to be!
IT Corner
IT Corner Cafe is a fantastic, unique little cafe located in the heart of 7th Street, Melville. Offering an unusual, yet effective combination of tech support and breakfast delights, IT Corner Cafe is the place to go if your laptop, computer, phone or tablet is acting up. Bonus points for their fantastic cappuccinos and light, hearty menu items!
Service Station
Service Station Café Melville is another classic Melville cafe. Located in the Bamboo Centre, Service Station is both a restaurant and a food store. Head to Service Station for a sit-down meal, freshly made treats, all based on local fresh produce. Service Station also stocks a selection of local and international products.
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Just like any other part of Johannesburg, Roodepoort has restaurants as diverse as its residents. No matter your tastes, there's bound to be the perfect treat at the ready to delight you! Whether it's sweet or savoury, sit down or take-away, you're going to enjoy your culinary world tour through Roodepoort.
What Are You Looking For?
Fast Food
Asian
Italian
Steak and Grill
Portuguese
Coffee Shops and Cafes
Image Source: Freepik
Fast Food
Big Fat Greek
A firm local favourite, Big Fat Greek is a flavour bomb waiting to go off! This dine-in or take-away Greek restaurant in Roodepoort specialises in all your favourite takeaway treats. Fancy some giros, meze, dolmades or souvlaki? Then, this is definitely your kind of place. If you're not feeling especially adventurous, you can always grab a fast food staple, such as a hamburger, fish and chips, or a chicken burger. Top off your meal with some baklava for dessert!
Visit Big Fat Greek.
RocoMamas Featherbrooke
RocoMamas has carved out a solid reputation as one of the biggest names in the burger and grill business, and they stick to this at their Featherbrooke location. Enjoy all your favourites, from their famous Smash Burgers to delicious sticky ribs and fried chicken. Is your sweet tooth tingling after all that salty goodness? Make sure to top it all off with a Rocomamas signature G-Shake or Freak Shake, or a sweet Killer Waffle.
Visit RocoMamas Featherbrooke.
Yusufs Take-Away
Described as "the best take-away in Roodepoort", Yusufs Take-Away offers traditional fresh, hot, halaal goodness. Make sure to try the Samoosas with Dip, as well as the AK47 Roll and Russian Roll. Still hungry? The Koeksisters are always a delicious way to end off your snack attack.
Visit Yusufs Take-Away.
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Asian
Simply Asia Clearwater
Love Thai food? Simply Asia keeps it as authentic as a chain restaurant can: at Simply Asia, native Thai chefs do all the cooking! They specialise in stir fries, red and green curries, traditional Thai soups, and noodles. You can enjoy a meal as mild or as spicy as you can handle, and they also serve some non-traditional dishes such as sushi. Make sure to top off your savoury meal with a Thai sweet treat - we'd recommend chocolate spring rolls or a Thai chocolate brownie!
Visit Simply Asia Clearwater.
Yummy Asian Chinese Food & Sushi Bar
If you're in the market for a delicious family feast, Yummy Asian Chinese Food & Sushi Bar is the spot for you! They offer a fantastic selection of delectable sushi platters at affordable prices, as well as delicious Chinese cuisine. With friendly staff and efficient service, they're a neighbourhood favourite.
Visit Yummy Asian Chinese Food & Sushi Bar.
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Italian
Papachinos Clearwater
Papachinos is a restaurant with a strongly family-friendly ethos. As a family-friendly restaurant, kids can have fun with "roll, make and bake" pizza, making delicious food in the process. Papachinos Clearwater is exactly the place to enjoy hearty meals with your whole family, in a fun and friendly environment for children to enjoy.
Visit Papachinos Clearwater.
Image Source: Freepik
Steak & Grill
Bossa Good Times Bar & Restaurant
Bossa is a firm favourite restaurant in Roodepoort. Beloved by locals and newcomers to the area, Bossa always delivers something memorable and delicious. With everything from burgers and beer to cocktails and snacks, this restaurant is a versatile sports bar with a twist. Even equipped with a play area, Bossa is child-friendly, too.
Visit Bossa Good Times Bar & Restaurant.
La Rosa Mexican Grille and Tequileria
Are you ready for a Mexican restaurant extravaganza in the heart of Roodepoort? La Rosa Mexican Grille and Tequileria is the place to go for an unforgettable taste of Mexico. Whether you're in the mood for food or drink, the Grille and Tequileria will deliver an unmissable experience.
Visit La Rosa Mexican Grille and Tequileria.
Founders Grill Florida
The original Founders Restaurant and Grill was established in 1984 in Florida North on the West Rand of Gauteng. Founders Grill is one of Roodepoort's firm favourite restaurants, serving up delicious grilled meats, seafood and more! A family restaurant with a long history in the area, Founders Restaurant and Grill is the perfect place to come for a sit-down meal with friends and family.
Visit Founders Grill Florida.
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Portuguese
Adega Retail Crossing
Craving a Portuguese-style feast? Adega restaurants specialise in exactly that! Adega Retail Crossing brings the deliciousness and flair of Portuguese cuisine to Roodepoort. Come hungry, and bring your friends and family to tuck into an unforgettable variety of foods. Their specialties are, of course, Portuguese, as well as seafood, sushi and vegetarian food.
Visit Adega Retail Crossing.
Mozambik Retail Crossing
If you're in need of a relaxed, family-style dining experience, Mozambik restaurants are what you need. Mozambik Retail Crossing serves traditional Portuguese-style seafood, as well as a large variety of Portuguese dishes at their Roodepoort restaurant. With a relaxing vibe and awesome food, Mozambik provides a welcoming experience for family and friends.
Visit Mozambik Retail Crossing.
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Coffee Shops and Cafés
Little Miss Muffin
Stop by Little Miss Muffin for a cosy and relaxing coffee shop experience. Tucked away in the heart of Roodepoort, Little Miss Muffin is small, quaint, and eclectically decorated! This hidden gem is perfect for everything from kitchen teas, to stopping by for a quick cuppa. Enjoy their delicious food and child-friendly atmosphere.
Visit Little Miss Muffin.
Nostalgie Koffiewinkel
Another of Roodepoort's hidden gems, Nostaglie Koffiewinkel is an inviting little cafe with personality and a cosy atmosphere. Their coffee and sandwiches come highly recommended, as does their friendly service! Nostalgie is the perfect coffee shop to stop by for a relaxing afternoon coffee and a chat with the owners or with friends.
Visit Nostalgie Koffiewinkel.
Oh My Beans
Cute and quiet, Oh My Beans is a homey garden cafe in Roodepoort. Overlooking a bright and colourful nursery, Oh My Beans brings delicious food and yummy coffee (make sure to try the mochas) to your table. Their nursery is overflowing with gorgeous flowers, so make sure to stop and smell the roses while you're enjoying your sweet treats!
Visit Oh My Beans.
Wakey Wakey
What puts a kick in your step better than a piping hot cuppa joe? Come and get your wake up call at the newly refurbished Wakey Wakey Cafe. This little corner cafe has been known by many names, starting out as Cafe Bruegel, before becoming Paoletto Cafe and now Wakey Wakey! But, it doesn't really matter what their name is, this place is known for their Italian coffee, Belgian-style waffles and great ambiance. With free WiFi, there really is no reason not to stop by here on a weekend morning.
Details: Cnr Horwood Street & 8th Avenue, Edenvale, Gauteng | 011 454 5325 | [email protected]
De Molen Pancake House
Not in the mood for waffles? Pop down the avenues to De Molen Pancake House at De Bakery. This traditional Dutch bakery and restaurant is housed inside a windmill, offering the quaintest and most authentic dining experience. Plus, their pancakes are to die for! We recommend the Dutch Apple and Cinnamon paired with a frothy cappuccino. While De Molen is not known for its barista skills, the coffee is good enough to enjoy out on the windmill balcony. This eatery is all about good home-style Dutch cooking, so expect generosity and ample kindness.
Details: 47 Van Riebeek Avenue, Edenvale, Gauteng | 011 453 2222
The Red Door Cafe
Still not hitting the spot? Try out The Red Door Cafe's variety of hipster-esque Illy Arabica drinks. Alongside the Illy brand, the Red Door also hosts an alternative 'guest coffee' of the month. Currently their guest is Kingsman Coffee Roastery, an ethically sourced high-quality green coffee loved around the world. The menu features all the good old classics, but with a nod to the vegans of Edenvale. Order your favourite coffee with almond or soy milk, a dash of cinnamon and a little honey - heavenly. The Red Door's bakery is famous for their chocolate croissants, cruffins and other assortment of sweet delights. Now you can have your cake and coffee and eat them!
Details: 26, 5th Avenue, Edenvale, Gauteng | 011 453 1926 | [email protected]
La Tazzina
Now, this one may be a little difficult to find. La Tazzina Restaurant is so well hidden that many Edenvale residents don't even know it's there. Unassuming from the outside, this cakery and cafe is a must-visit hidden gem. Their outdoor dining area is idyllic and sweet, with pops of pastel and sprawling plant life. However, what really leaves a good impression is the sight (and smell) of their confectionery display. Adorned with indulgent chocolate cake, scones, cupcakes and pretty macarons, this table is well worth drooling over. Partnered with one of La Tazzina's strong Italian blends, these dessert delights will have you coming back for more. This is the perfect place for a catch up with friends or long brunch. The coffee here is always perfectly prepared, so give it a try.
Details: Cnr Of 1st Ave & Amelia St, Edenvale, Gauteng | 011 454 4334 | [email protected]
Little Penny Farthing Coffee Shop
Directly opposite the Red Door Cafe is the Little Penny Farthing Coffee Shop. Offering a more family-friendly environment, this coffee shop is the best spot in Edenvale for a quick cuppa with the kids in tow. There is ample space for them to play around here, so you can enjoy your beverage in relative peace. With its cosy setting, Little Penny Farthing is a welcome escape for many moms and dads. Bring the family along for a hearty breakfast served with good, rich coffee.
Details: 25 Fifth Avenue corner 2nd street (BG's on 2nd), Edenvale, Gauteng | 011 454 4744
Royal Coffee Roasters
Edenvale's truest coffee connoisseurs know that there is only one place to go for premium roasts, perfectly ground and percolated. Delivering a subtly bitter, yet round coffee flavour that always beckons for more, Royal Coffee Roasters at Stoneridge Shopping Centre really know their way around a coffee bean. Serving up Ethiopian, Colombian, Nicaraguan, Kenyan and Ugandan brews with a smile. Give their Cinnamon Roll a try the next time you are there. Washed down with a Mocha topped with fresh cream, you're in coffee-meets-chocolate heaven. The best part about Royal Coffee Roasters is that you can purchase your coffee beans and equipment here. From French presses, to filters and even state of the art Italian coffee machines, they have it all!
Details: No 1 Stoneridge Drive, Stoneridge Centre, Greenstone Park, Edenvale, Gauteng | 011 452 2751 | [email protected]
The Landing Restaurant
Finally, we have the Landing Restaurant. If its designer coffee you are looking for in Edenvale, then this is where to find it. While they do offer all the classics like espresso, macchiato, flat white, americano and cappuccino, the Landing Restaurant also delivers gourmet coffee unlike anywhere else in the East. Think Creme Brulee Latte, Dirty Chai, Tiramisu Latte, Popcorn Latte, Lavender Latte and a super healthy Tumeric Latte! Their iced coffees are also a big hit. Our favourite is the Greek Frappe - a sweet blend of espresso, condensed milk and ice. Yum!
Details: 15 Linksfield Rd, Dunvegan, Edenvale, Gauteng | 011 453 1936 | [email protected]
Do you know of any other great coffee shops in Edenvale? Let us know about them!
What Is Affogato?
Affogato is a scoop of good ice-cream drowned in a scorching shot of espresso, these ingredients combine to create the perfect dessert. As simple as this sounds, the taste is nothing close to simple.
Originating from Italy, this sweet treat has become a popular after-dinner indulgence in Joburg. Try is at any one of these great eateries.
Saint Restaurant
Saint Restaurant is one of the most loved restaurants in Sandton. This restaurant is home to one of the most delicious affogatos around. They have jazzed up their affogato offerings to create a bittersweet treat that will tantalise your taste buds.
If you are craving a sweet treat, then this is the place you should visit.
Cafe Del Sol Bonatico
Cafe Del Sol Bonatico offers traditional Italian delights. There are a few branches across the city, so you have no excuse not to pop by. Their affogato is simply delicious for any time of the day. We recommend it as a start and end to your meal.
Pomodoro Ristorante
Pomodoro Ristorante is an Italian restaurant that specialises in traditional eats. One of their top offerings is the affogato, with a shot of espresso and a scoop of the most delicate ice-cream. This is a must-visit spot for anyone seeking good quality Italian fare.
What's your favourite affogato spot? Let us know in the comments section below!
What's Brewing?
Parkhurst is a coffee loving haven. This bustling 'burb is filled with many places to enjoy a great cuppa. Each of the places are unique, offering an authentic experience.
Bloom Coffee
Bloom Coffee has become one of the most popular cafes in the city. With their delicious coffee and gorgeous shop, we're not surprised that they are blooming everyone away.
Apart from the great coffee, they also have delicious delights to pair with your java. Spend the morning enjoying an amazing meal accompanied by the best brew to start your day.
Other than being a wonderful spot for business meetings, they also host functions and events.
Urban Grind Roasters
Urban Grind Roasters love the craft of coffee. They have created a platform to educate patrons about all things coffee.
Urban Grind Roasters will take you on a journey of the grind, roast, brew, and art of pouring coffee, which all results in a cup of magnificent coffee.
To top it all off, they also offer barista courses for those who want to learn more about the perfect cup of coffee.
4th Avenue Coffee Roasters
4th Avenue Coffee Roasters pride themselves on their hand-roasted, premium quality coffee, making sure that you get the best out of every sip. Their secret house blend will have you coming back for more.
4th Avenue Coffee Roasters has a delightful range of exciting eats, with a combination of traditional options and some interesting highlights.
And there you have Jozi, your guide to your next coffee hop and journey to the perfect blend in Parkhurst.
Fego Caffé
Fego Caffé is a cosy little café that has several locations in Joburg. All the branches we have been to leave us feeling warm and snug. The little café boasts a hearty feeling of home with "warmth in every cup". Their menu comprises simple, yet delicious, savoury items with a wide variety of cakes and other baked goods like muffins, croissants and even bread and butter pudding - comfort on a plate. Their coffee is simply delicious, whether it's a classic Americano or an over-the top Coconut Mocha Crunch, coconut hot chocolate, chocolate sauce, whipped cream and honeycomb chocolate. The main reason they made it to this list, however, is their yummy Hazelnut Latte, steamed milk, warm espresso, gooey chocolate hazelnut spread with a generous lashing of whipped cream.
Royal Coffee Roasters
Royal Coffee Roasters, previously named Beans About Coffee, is a gem of a coffee shop that just popped up in Edenvale's Stoneridge Shopping Centre one day. And they know their coffee! This charming café is decorated with converted coffee crates and littered with old coffee sacks to create a place that spells c-o-f-f-e-e. Royal Coffee Roasters sells a selection of specially roasted coffee beans from all over the world, as well as every coffee machine ever invented. This includes the Hario Coffee Syphon, which can only be described as a coffee chemistry apparatus. Their food is delicious, their staff friendly, the decor inviting and the coffee irresistible. Their Mocha is, without a doubt, the best we've have ever tasted. It is creamy, warm, chocolately and most importantly — coffeely (is that a word?). Unlike some other drinks, this Mocha tastes like both coffee and chocolate with just enough of each flavour to compliment the other.
Cramers Coffee
Cramers Coffee is an adorable coffee shop in Marshaltown, known for its welcoming ambiance, created by their delicate music selection, quirky decor and smiling staff. Located on a bustling street in Joburg CBD, Cramer's Coffee makes delicious bakes and cakes (the red velvet is definitely a must-try). They have many delicious drinks on their menu, including the Hazelnut Hot Chocolate and sinful Caramel Latte. But the reason we keep coming back is their Gingerbread Latte, deep and rich espresso, frothy seamed milk and a glorious shot of gingerbread syrup. This is the perfect treat for a chilly autumn morning.
Walnut Grove
This coffee shop is tucked away in Sandton City. But don't let the huge mall and all the people put you off. Once inside, you'll feel right at home. Walnut Grove is perhaps most famous for their lustrous cakes. And while we can't disagree with that, we always find ourselves in their comfy seating for their gourmet coffee. All their coffees are wonderfully rich and gorgeous but we are particularly partial to the Bar-one Cappuccino, a luscious and creamy cappuccino made from their house blend of 100% Arabica beans flavoured with one of Joburg's favourite chocolate bars. What's not to love?
Europa
Europa is a café that specializes in delicious Mediterranean fare, from mouth-watering Italian anti-pasti to delectable pastas and everything in between. They have an extensive range of breakfasts, light lunches and amazing desserts (caramel popcorn brownies, anyone?). However, any Italian restaurant should have two things: great coffee and great tiramisu. And Europa has both! They come to you in the form of the most amazing Tiramisu Latte. Just thinking about this is making me drool on my keyboard. Yes, it's that good!
State 5
Last, but certainly not least is State 5. This coffee shop in Greenside and Fourways specialises in cold brewed coffee, which gives the coffee a "refreshing, less acidic, more dark chocolatey" taste with the added benefit of even more caffeine in every magnificent cup of coffee. State 5 has a huge variety of flavoured coffee, from a regular Espresso to the unheard of Mouth Flip, featuring their cold brew coffee, vanilla syrup, cream and wait for it... soda water. They also have a few alcoholic options from the tempting Espresso Martini to the 'I have to try that' Bronx Bomber. This is a mixture of their cold brew coffee, gin, absinthe and vodka. Is that even legal? For those of you who don't mix caffeine and booze, the Caramilizer is a must: cold brewed coffee, salted caramel and milk chocolate. This is definitely yum in a glass.
Fego Caffé
Fego Caffé is a cosy little café that has several locations in Joburg. All the branches I have been to leave me feeling warm and snug. The little café boasts a hearty feeling of home with "warmth in every cup". Their menu comprises simple, yet delicious, savoury items with a wide variety of cakes and other baked goods like muffins, croissants and even bread and butter pudding — comfort on a plate. Their coffee is simply delicious, whether it's a classic Americano or an over-the top Coconut Mocha Crunch — coconut hot chocolate, chocolate sauce, whipped cream and honeycomb chocolate. The main reason they made it to this list, however, is their yummy Hazelnut Latte —steamed milk, warm espresso, gooey chocolate hazelnut spread with a generous lashing of whipped cream.
Royal Coffee Roasters
Royal Coffee Roasters, previously named Beans About Coffee, is a gem of a coffee shop that just popped up in Edenvale's Stoneridge Shopping Centre one day. Royal Coffee Roasters know their coffee! This charming café is decorated with converted coffee crates and littered with old coffee bags to create a place that spells c-o-f-f-e-e. Royal Coffee Roasters sells a selection of specially roasted coffee beans from all over the world, as well as every coffee machine ever invented. This includes the Hario Coffee Syphon, which can only be described as a coffee chemistry apparatus. Their food is delicious, their staff friendly, the decor inviting and the coffee irresistible. Their Mocha is, without a doubt, the best I have ever tasted. It is creamy, warm, chocolately and most importantly — coffeely (is that a word?). Unlike some other places, this Mocha tastes like both coffee and chocolate with just enough of each flavour to compliment the other.
Cramers Coffee
Cramers Coffee is an adorable coffee shop in Marshaltown, known for its welcoming ambiance, created by their delicate music selection, quirky decor and smiling staff. Located on the bustling street of Joburg CBD, Cramer's Coffee make delicious bakes and cakes (the red velvet is definitely a must-try). They have many delicious drinks on their menu, including the Hazelnut Hot Chocolate and sinful Caramel Latte. But the reason we keep coming back is their Gingerbread Latte — deep and rich espresso, frothy seamed milk and a glorious shot of gingerbread syrup. This is the perfect treat for a chilly autumn morning.
Europa
Europa is a café that specializes in delicious Mediterranean fare, from mouth-watering Italian anti-pasti to delectable pastas and everything in between. They have an extensive range of breakfasts and light lunches and amazing desserts (caramel popcorn brownies, anyone?). However, any Italian restaurant should have two things: great coffee and great tiramisu. And Europa has both! They come to you in the form of the most amazing Tiramisu Latte. Just thinking about this is making me drool on my keyboard. Yes, it's that good!
State 5
Last, but certainly not least is State 5. This coffee shop in Greenside and Fourways specialises in cold brewed coffee, which gives the coffee a "refreshing, less acidic, more dark chocolatey" taste with the added benefit of even more caffeine in every magnificent cup of coffee. State 5 has a huge variety of flavoured coffee, from a regular Espresso to the unheard of Mouth Flip, featuring their cold brew coffee, vanilla syrup, cream and wait for it ... soda water. They also have a few alcoholic options — from the tempting Espresso Martini to the 'I have to try that' Bronx Bomber. This is a mixture of their cold brew coffee, gin, absinthe and vodka. Is that even legal? For those of you who don't mix caffeine and booze the Caramilizer is a must: cold brewed coffee, salted caramel and milk chocolate. This is definitely yum in a glass.
Where To Get Your Stash
The Tea Merchant
Running low on tea and need to stock up on a few interesting blends? Look no further, the Tea Merchant has everything you need for your brewing pleasure. For starters, they have a broad selection of tea types, ranging from flower teas and matcha to fruity variations, herbals and even tea espresso pods. Now, for the perfect teapot to brew or steep your tea... they have teapots for Africa! Cast iron, glass, Kinto, Sama Doyo, stainless steel – the list goes on. And don't forget the cups and accessories (tea infusers and thermometers are a must). Best of all, you can do you purchases in store or online!
Peacock Coffee & Tea Traders
If you're looking to take your tea experience to the next level, make a stop at Peacock Coffee & Tea Traders. Although their physical store is in Cape Town, you can get their 'tea-lightful' goodies delivered right to your door, as they offer countrywide delivery. Their products range from lots of tea (think white, black, oolong, exotic, tea flowers, Rooibos tea and presentation boxes) to classy house ware (cups and saucers, glassware, spoon rests, coasters, teapots, trays and much more) to cool accessories (candy sticks and milk frothers) and plenty of coffee delights (origin, capsules, organic and flavoured coffees).
The Tea & Coffee Emporium
No matter what your flavour, the Tea & Coffee Emporium will have it! Tea lovers will covet their varieties and brands of tea, while coffee connoisseurs can check out the coffee beans, coffee grounds, ready-to-drink beverages and the cool gadgets the emporium has to offer. There's also a selection of indulgent hot chocolates and syrups if you have a little bit of a sweet tooth, and to top it all off, they have a bunch of accessories for you to check out. You can't enjoy a tea party without tea warmers, infusers and diffusers!
Contessa
This lovely little spot in Rivonia is a tea-lovers paradise. Not only can you stock up on a wide assortment of flavoured teas and grab some traditional tea-ware, including teapots and glass cups, you can also sit back, relax and pour yourself a spot of tea. Contessa hosts a delightful high tea, which offers you and your fellow tea-loving friends a pot of exotic brew, accompanied by a glorious selection of sweet and savoury goodies from their high tea menu. This is the perfect place if you're looking to enjoy a tea tasting, sip on a few bubbles or indulge in a slice of cake (or two).
Yswara
For a tea experience that is purely African, you'll definitely want to get your hands on some tea-ware and stock from Yswara. Their mission is to make African teas a prestige product and create a tea-drinking experience like no other by introducing African tea rituals and locally made tea paraphernalia. Yswara also boasts a beautiful tea room where you can relax and indulge your senses.
Bubble Tea In The City!
Happy.Me
Happiness comes in bubbles. And tea. So why not combine the two and get your hands on some refreshing, yummy and moreish Happy.Me Bubble Tea? Best of all, you can create your own, custom bubbly treat. First, you pick your base from three options - rooibos, wild berry or jasmine green – then, you pick a flavour you'd like to infuse your tea with (in my case, green apple or passion fruit), and then choose your popping pearls, which are also all flavoured (my favourite is cherry). Swirl it all together and BAM... you have your very own personalised bubble tea. Just a fair warning; it gets addictive.
Simplicity Coffee & Tea
I haven't been to this side of town in a very long time, but the last time I visited Simplicity Coffee & Tea in Chinatown, Cyrildene, it was the best place to get a delicious Chinese pearl milk tea. They specialise in bubble tea, but also offer a variety of other drinks from smoothies to coffee.
Coco Fresh Tea & Juice
Another bubble tea hotspot in Chinatown, Cyrildene, is Coco Fresh Tea & Juice. Not only do they have refreshing bubble teas, but they also offer a variety of smoothies, juices, lattes, milk teas, coffee, ice teas and slushes. There's something for all tastes, whether you're on a health binge or need something to satisfy your sweet tooth. There are a few branches throughout the city too, so if you spot them, do give them a try! I know for a fact there's one in Cresta Shopping Centre as I'm there every weekend.
High Tea Musts
For the ultimate tea experience accompanied by little cucumber sandwiches and decadent tarts, make your way to one of these indulgent high teas in the city! Click here for more options.
The Maslow Hotel
At the Maslow Sandton, high tea has received new life with a modern twist. You can now expect and enjoy decadent tea-time treats perfectly paired with handpicked specialty teas in a delightful five-stage, palate-pleasing journey. In the comfort of luxurious arm chairs overlooking the hotel’s exquisite garden, guests can enjoy a sumptuous selection of gorgeous treats, paired with some of the most perfect teas available in the country.
Details: www.suninternational.com | [email protected] | 010 226 4652 | Rivonia Road and Grayston Drive, Sandown, Sandton, Johannesburg
Level Four At 54 On Bath
Not only is Level Four in Rosebank an upmarket and snazzy restaurant to visit if you’re looking to impress, but it also offers a delectable Afternoon Tea served daily from 14:30 – 17:00. This lovely little ‘time-out’ offers you a choice of English tea sandwiches, freshly baked scones, moreish pastries and premium tea leaves. Take your pick from the Traditional Afternoon Tea (R260* per person) or the Royal Afternoon Tea (R300* per person), compete with a glass of kir royale.
Details: www.tsogosun.com | [email protected] | 011 344 8500 or 011 344 8442 | 54 Bath Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg
The Tea Room at Crabtree & Evelyn
Whether you want a traditional afternoon tea or are planning something to mark some of life’s greatest moments (think stork parties and kitchen teas to birthday and kids’ parties), the Tea Room offers you a delightful venue for just these occasions. Spoil yourself with delectable cupcakes, decadent cakes and sweet or savoury tartlets along with a relaxing cup of tea. And, if you just want to kick back, relax and delight your taste buds with a selection of confectionery and finger snacks, they serve their traditional English high tea too. Booking is essential.
Details: www.crabtree-evelyn.co.za | [email protected] | 011 792 7572 | Shop 147, Design Quarter, William Nicol Drive, Fourways, Johannesburg.
Social on Main
There’s one thing that comes to mind the moment we hear the name Social on Main, and that’s COCKTAILS! This trendy, hip and happening hangout in the heart of Bryanston offers one of the broadest selection of cocktails we’ve seen in a long time! Think frozen margaritas, refreshing jam jar concoctions, flavourful mojitos, ice-cold G&Ts, and of course, the wide array of craft beers, ciders, red and white wines and some bubbles. There’s something for all tastes – sweet, tart, bitter, crisp, light or strong.
Details: Social on Main | 011 706 7115 | [email protected] | Shop 1, Posthouse Centre, corner Posthouse Street and Main Road, Bryanston, Johannesburg.
Tiger's Milk
This Cape Town favourite branched out to our beautiful city a few years ago and has become one of the most popular and coolest places to hangout in the city. Tiger's Milk offers a happy place for those looking to meet up with their mates or beat the peak-hour traffic with a draught or two. And if you’re looking for a cocktail, their selection is sure to tickle your taste buds. Take your pick from the selection of classics and virgin cocktails they have available or try something a little out of the ordinary.
Details: Tiger's Milk | Bryanston: 010 286 0105 | [email protected] | Shop 1, corner of St James and Bryanston Drive, Bryanston, Johannesburg.
Cedar Square: 010 286 1030 | [email protected] | Cedar Square Shopping Centre, Willow Avenue, Fourways, Johannesburg.
A Streetbar Named Desire
For cocktails inspired by classic literature, visit A Streetbar Named Desire in Parkwood. This tapas hot spot has three bars on-site, as well as a two-page long cocktail menu. Taking inspiration from Tennessee Williams' wicked personality and those of his delicate characters, their mixologists have crafted a variety of tantalising drinks. Try the Kindness of Strangers, with gin, lime juice, spiced rhubarb shrub, bitters and rhubarb stalk, for a back of the tongue tingling experience. Or, stick to the classics and order a Negroni - a delightful blend of Campari, gin and vermouth. Then, sit back and soak up the sensual charisma of the place.
Details: A Streetbar Named Desire | 011 268 6485 | 144 Jan Smuts Avenue, Unit 2 Parkwood Mansions, Parkwood, Johannesburg.
The Artisan – Cocktail & Tapas Bar
We all know and love the Greenside Strip, and if it’s cocktails you’re after, then you need to make a stop at The Artisan – Cocktail & Tapas Bar. Their cocktail menu includes everything from the classics (Long Island Ice Tea, Cosmopolitan, Gin Martini and the Classic Vodka Martini, just to name a few) and artisan specialties (the Tequila Rosemary Slammer is a must-try) to jugs perfect for sharing (Rum & Raspberry for the win).
Details: The Artisan | 011 027 3707 | [email protected] | 12 Gleneagles Road, Greenside, Johannesburg.
Mix Cocktail Bar
For sundowners re-imagined, be sure to visit Mix Cocktail Bar in the heart of in the Keyes Art Mile in Rosebank. This is a great spot to grab a couple cocktail with your mates after a long day or week at the office, accompanied by amazing sunsets and a trendy vibe. They have a wide selection of interesting cocktail blends and combinations for your to choose from, all you have to do is decide which one you'd like to sip on or how daring you are to try something new.
Details: www.mixbar.co.za | 010 594 5545 | [email protected] | 2nd Floor, Trumpet on Keyes, 21 Keyes Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg.
Sin+Tax
Sin+Tax in Rosebank is the perfect spot for a nightcap. They offer visitors some of the best cocktails you could find in the city and take the mixology to a whole new level! It’s cool, classy, trendy and exudes a speakeasy vibe. With such an awesome setting comes the incredible and ever-changing menu of artisanal cocktails – TOTALLY worth the experience.
Details: sintaxbar.com | 010 900 2559 | [email protected] | Corner of Bolton and Jan Smuts Roads, Rosebank, Johannesburg.
Six Cocktail Bar
This stylish and upbeat little bar is a great spot if you’re looking to sip on interesting cocktails during happy hour. It offers a young and fun vibe, complete with awesome tunes, a choice of over 60 different cocktails and, of course, delicious meals in case you get a little hungry. Round off the weekend with a spot of dancing with their Salsa Sundays and if your usual Happy Hour is a little too short for your liking, then you’ll be pleased to hear that Happy Hour at Six Cocktail Bar is from 12:00 – 19:00 every day! And during Happy Hour, don’t miss their two-for-one cocktail special. Cheers to that!
Details: Six Cocktail Bar | 011 482 8306 | [email protected] | 8 7th Street, Melville, Johannesburg.
The Ivy Champagne Garden
Looking to get together with your friends for a gossip session over a few delectable cocktails? If you're in the Bedfordview area, then you need to grab a table at The Ivy Champagne Garden. Take your pick from their impressive selection of creative and delicious cocktails and grab a tasty bite to eat from their Afro-Asian menu filled with sushi, tapas, salads, poké bowls and so much more. As for cocktails, we absolutely love the Rooftop Hawaiian – Havana Club Rum, blue curacao, fresh pineapple and pina colada syrup – divine!
Details: theivygarden.co.za | 010 203 9054 | [email protected] | HQ Building, Block A, 3rd Floor, 2 Arbroath Road, Bedfordview, Johannesburg.
Siphuza Bar at the Indaba Hotel
Cigars, sports on the big screen, wine and cocktails – what more do you need to help you unwind after a long and busy week at the office? If this sounds like just what you need to relax, then head to Indaba Hotel’s Siphuza Bar for a night on the town. They offer an array of wine and cocktails for your sipping pleasure, sporting action live on their screens, as well as a selection of cigars if you would like a little bit of a puff.
Details: www.indabahotel.co.za | 011 840 6600 | [email protected] | William Nicol Drive and Pieter Wenning Road, Fourways, Johannesburg.
Billy the Bums
Billy’s is a bar and cocktail lounge which caters for a more mature scene. It has recently undergone a big revamp and has now come back better and more stylish than ever before! With a variety of over 60 different cocktails (they have it all!), American-style 200g beef burgers (with over 15 different toppings to choose from) and good tunes, this is the ideal spot to wind down at the end of yet another crazy week. Sit and chill in the seated areas and socialise with friends or, if you feel like busting a move, there is a DJ playing the latest music – and you can make requests so you can dance to your favourite tunes.
Details: www.billythebums.co.za | 011 465 2621 | Pineslopes Centre, Fourways, Johannesburg | Facebook
Jolly Cool
This one is an oldie but still a goodie if you're in Parkhurst. Head through to Jolly Cool to play a few rounds of pool, grab a meal (they make a mean pizza), or grab a few drinks with your mates after work. This popular hangout is the place to be after 17:00. With reasonably priced food and drinks, what's not to like? Wash your pizza down with a chilled drink and enjoy!
Details: jollycool.co.za | 071 871 3049 | [email protected] | Corner 6th Street and 4th Avenue, Parkhurst, Johannesburg.
The Blind Tiger
Unwind, relax and indulge a little at the Blind Tiger in Parkview. This café offers delicious California-inspired cuisine as well as a delightful cocktail menu for you to sip and enjoy in their bar area or out in their outdoor terrace. Sip on your choice of classic cocktails and an interesting wine offering. As of September 2020, they're now open Monday to Thursday from 15:00 and Friday to Sunday from 12:00.
Details: blindtiger.co.za | 076 030 4200 | [email protected] | 62 Tyrone Avenue, Parkview, Johannesburg.
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.
Do you know of any other must-visit cocktail spots? Let us know about them in the comments section below!