Johannesburg Food Scene: Braai, Bunny Chow & Fine Dining

Johannesburg's food scene reflects its multicultural DNA — a city where South African braai culture meets Indian-influenced bunny chow, where Cape Malay spices blend with Portuguese piri-piri, and where a new generation of chefs is putting modern African cuisine on the global map.

The Braai

South Africa's defining social institution — a charcoal or wood fire barbecue around which all of South African society gathers. Boerewors (spiced sausage), lamb chops, pap (maize meal) and chakalaka (spiced relish). The Craighall Park and Parkhurst suburbs have excellent braai restaurants. Zoo Lake braai areas on weekends are the real thing.

Neighbourhoods for Eating

• Parkhurst (4th Avenue) — Joburg's premier restaurant strip. Sidewalk dining, international and South African cuisine, excellent wine lists.
• Melville (7th Street) — bohemian, affordable, late-night bars and pizzerias alongside traditional South African spots.
• Sandton — upscale mall-based dining; The Grill House for premium steaks.

Must-Try

Bunny Chow — hollowed-out loaf of white bread filled with curry, a Durban invention beloved throughout South Africa. Find it at Indian restaurants throughout Joburg.