Hey Joburg foodies, craving an adventure for your taste buds? Buckle up because we’ve rounded up some of the city’s shining stars, recognised at the 2026 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards. These dining spots aren’t just places to eat; they’re experiences, each offering a unique twist to the vibrant food scene in Joburg. Whether you’re into shared plates, artistic expression, stylish escapes, or unconventional flavours, these spots have got you covered!

Cyra (Houghton Estate, Johannesburg) 

Cyra is an Eat Out 1-star restaurant at The Houghton Hotel, led by chef Candice. The intimate dining room features handcrafted chandeliers and a warm, softly lit atmosphere, with a focus on innovative cuisine, bold flavours, and artful presentation. Open for lunch Thursday to Saturday and dinner Tuesday to Saturday. 

Embarc (Parkhurst, Johannesburg) 

Embarc is an intimate 32-seater restaurant on the corner of 4th Avenue and 13th Street in Parkhurst. Founded by chef Darren O’Donovan, the restaurant is now led by head chef Aren Pollack, whose approach centres on bold, clean flavours, seasonality, and sustainability. The menu evolves constantly — not just with the seasons, but with trends and the times. A carefully curated wine list focuses on South Africa’s best producers, complemented by a small cocktail and spirits list. Open Wednesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner, Tuesday for dinner only, and Sunday for lunch. 

Les Créatifs Restaurant (Bryanston, Johannesburg)

In Bryanston, chef Wandile Mabaso, a global culinary artist, takes you on a trip that goes beyond the ordinary. Les Créatifs is a hub for culinary innovation and artistic expression. An intimate setting, ever-changing menus, and walls adorned with local art make it more than just a dining experience – it’s a masterpiece in the making. Get ready for “Afrique Moderne” – a celebration of modernised African flavours that dance on your taste buds!

Marble (Rosebank, Johannesburg)

Situated in Roam, the growing art, food and culture hub of Rosebank, Marble will boast a grand wood-fired grill imported from Washington as the focal point of the restaurant. A rooftop bar will provide a space for socialising and celebrating local wines, with a view stretching over Johannesburg towards the Magaliesberg.

Another exciting, on-trend element is the walk-in butchery – inspired by Australia’s Victor Churchill – that will form part of the downstairs area. This will give guests the opportunity to take home the same cuts of meat they enjoyed at the restaurant above.

Qunu (Sandhurst, Johannesburg) 

Qunu is the fine dining restaurant at the Saxon Hotel in Sandhurst, led by chef Scott Dressel. The experience begins with the Chef’s Playground — a selection of sharing small plates — before moving into à la carte starters, mains, and desserts. A vegan menu is available, and sommelier wine pairings can be arranged. Open daily for lunch and dinner. 

Saint Restaurant (Sandton, Johannesburg) 

Saint is an Eat Out 1-star Italian restaurant at The Marc in Sandton, guided by chef David Higgs. The menu offers wood-fired pizzas and authentic pasta prepared using imported Neapolitan ovens, alongside antipasti, seafood, and cuts from the Josper charcoal grill. The bar offers curated wines and cocktails. Open daily for lunch and dinner. 

The Pot Luck Club Johannesburg (Melrose, Johannesburg) 

The Pot Luck Club Johannesburg brings chef Luke Dale Roberts’s celebrated concept to The Peech Hotel in Melrose. The menu features globally inspired small plates designed for sharing, mixing original Pot Luck Club favourites with new dishes created specifically for Johannesburg. Guests can choose from the lunch and dinner menu or a sharing option. A wine list and signature cocktails are available. Open Wednesday to Sunday for lunch and Tuesday to Saturday for dinner. Reservations are essential. 

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