4 Best Restaurants in Johannesburg, South Africa

While Parkhurst is known for the countless restaurants that line 4th Avenue, the refined space at Embarc is in a league of its own making fine dining accessible to all through its relaxed environment. Fusing high-quality local produce and artisanal products with international flavors, coupled with a thoughtful combination of contrasting flavors and hues to create delectable dishes that can be eaten as starters or shared as mains. Embarc is owned by a chef-sommelier duo who pay utmost attention to every aspect of this welcoming establishment. Highly recommended, especially if you only have one night out on the town.

The relaxed fine-dining, Mediterranean-inspired fare at Ethos has as much appeal as its decor and design, which is characterized by beige hues, Doric columns, brass accents, and flowing ceiling baffles. Dishes are carefully curated to highlight how the natural flavors of various foods also complement each other in terms of texture, color, and thoughtful presentation. Servers are astute in advising how to best pair meals with the restaurant's extensive collection of South African wines. 

This intimate, modern eatery specializes in small plates that cater to conscious foodies and those with restrictive diets—vegan, keto-friendly, or gluten-free or lactose-free options available. The minimalist decor draws focus to the flavors and colors of the food, which is meant for sharing so as to avoid order envy—three plates per person should do the trick. It's ideal for a quick bite at lunchtime or a leisurely dinner. Outside of the most popular signature dishes, the menu changes seasonally (three times a year) and can be complemented with a selection of local wines from smaller wine estates with a deliberate focus on female and Black female winemakers.  

Doppio Zero serves wholesome, tasty Mediterranean-inspired meals with ingredients like grilled halloumi, fresh tomato, arugula, avocado, and salmon. More substantial meals such as pastas and pizzas are also on the menu. The outdoor seating is delightful on warm days. This chain of restaurants is found across Johannesburg, but the Rosebank branch is well located if you are peckish after a morning shopping at the nearby Rosebank Art and Craft Market or Rosebank shopping centers.