Note: Operating hours in December are subject to change. We recommend calling ahead to confirm opening and closing times, and whether you need to book beforehand.
44 Stanley, Milpark
1. SAINT GERMAIN
Saint Germain at 44 Stanley offers a quirky French-inspired vibe with Parisian street café charm and a relaxed atmosphere. Co-owned by Sibusiso Mahlangu and Marien Mel, it’s the perfect spot for a laid-back coffee or bite. Open throughout December.
2. LA PERGOLA
With fresh, pizzas made from scratch and comforting northern Italian dishes, La Pergola at 44 Stanley offers a cosy, village-like charm with a delightful twist. Think authentic flavours, friendly service, and a warm atmosphere. Open throughout December, but closed on Thu, Dec 25 and Thu, Jan 1, 2026.
Rosebank and the Parks
3. SEC
With the restaurant Sec at Clico Boutique Hotel, Chef Dario de Angeli (chef-owner of the award-winning Cube Tasting Kitchen and Est Est Alea) plays with ingredients like Egyptian frost salt and Italian San Marzano tomatoes that he prepares in a small plate offering. On the meat side, more than venison, you can expect ingredients like crocodile and Namibian crab on the menu. Open throughout December.
4. COALITION
The word for Coalition's wood-fired pizzas is 'accomplished', made according to authentic Neapolitan methods and topped with the freshest buffalo mozzarella. The pizza menu at this Delta Park corner spot changes seasonally and features just a handful of choices, including pizza bianco (with no tomato) and a vegetarian treat, as well as meat options. A choice of tiramisu, affogato or salted caramel tart for dessert rounds out the menu, and there's a reasonably priced selection of Italian-style South African wines. Open throughout December.
5. JOLLY ROGER
One of Joburg's most infamous dive pubs, Jolly Roger never closes. Ever. You can even come and drink beers and scoff pizzas at the bar while you sink coins into the jukebox on Christmas Day. Very little affects Jolly Roger's 17 hours a day, 365 days a year stamina.
6. KANPAI AND THE PRAWNERY
Sister restaurants Kanpai and The Prawnery offer two distinct but equally satisfying dining experiences at Keyes Art Mile. Start off at Kanpai with drinks and Japanese-inspired small plates – the spicy Vietnamese stuffed chicken wings were our favourite – before crossing the passage to The Prawnery for mains (and more cocktails). We loved the buttery steak and fresh line fish. The flavours are bold, and the setting chic. Need more convincing? read our review. Both restaurants are open throughout December.
7. KOLONAKI GREEK KOUZINE
Be transported to a Greek island in Parkhurst while feasting on authentic grilled octopus or chicken souvlakia on the atmospheric terrace at this busy Greek restaurant, Kolonaki Greek Kouzina. Named for Athens' chic suburb of Kolonaki, it's perfect for family lunches. Opened throughout December.
8. LEVEL FOUR AT 54 ON BATH
Renowned for top-notch service and a picturesque rooftop terrace, 54 on Bath's hotel restaurant and bar, Level Four, never fails to impress. The menu is classic cuisine with a contemporary twist, heightened by the restaurant's elegant surroundings. For something different, try the afternoon tea – a splendid affair from top to bottom. Accompanied by your choice of loose-leaf tea, a Kir Royal cocktail or a glass of Perrier-Jouët Champagne, enjoy a fantastical assortment of sweet and savoury treats presented on a towering, tiered stand. Opened throughout December.
7. MARBLE
In the landmark Keyes Art Mile development, you can treat yourself to some fine dining at celebrity Chef David Higgs' rooftop restaurant Marble. At the heart of the rooftop restaurant is the fire grill in the open kitchen, a spectacular flame cooking up everything from meats and seafood to freshly baked bread. You can try out this restaurant on selected days during the Christmas and New Year's week, and their New Year's Eve dinner is something to consider. Closed Thu, Dec 25 – Fri, Dec 26 and Thu, Jan 1, 2026.
The Zone @ Rosebank
8. MAMASAMBA
Mamasamba is a vibey restaurant at The Zone @ Rosebank; an indoor jungle with emerald green tiles, hanging plants and tall palms. On the menu, you’ll find small plates inspired by Latin American street food, Nikkei sushi, coal-smoked meat and wood-fired seafood. Open throughout December, but closed on Thu, Dec 25, 2025.
9. MODERN TAILORS
Decked with burnt orange and navy walls, tiger print wallpaper, vibrant pops of colour and texture, and an Indian street food-inspired menu, that's what you'll find at Modern Tailors at The Zone @ Rosebank. Menu highlights include papri chaat loaded with fresh pineapple, herbs and pomegranate, and their masala dosa with spiced potato curry. Open throughout December, but closed on Wed, Dec 25.
9. PROUD MARY
Proud Mary's expansive bar and bistro (part of Hyde Hotel Rosebank) has one of the sexiest bar counters in the neighbourhood and an impressive wine and cocktail menu to match. Describing itself as 'a modern eatery' the menu boasts an extensive breakfast and lunch selection, a 'seafood raw bar' (think oysters, ceviche, and sashimi), picanha steaks, salads and a variety of small plates and 'cafe plates' – all exquisitely presented. Open throughout December, booking is advisable.
10. SAIGON SUZY
The luxurious karaoke rooms alone are a reason to visit Saigon Suzy, a hip Asian-inspired joint in Parkwood that attracts an energetic crowd. The food is Asian fusion with plenty of tasty choices ranging from small plates to baos, and the menu comes with checkboxes so you get to complete your order with ease. Open throughout December.
Parktown
11. Il CONTADINO
Located on the corner 4th Avenue and 7th Avenue in Parktown North, Il Contadino is a neighbourhood eatery that channels rustic Italian dining with a modern Joburg twist. Led by chef James Diack, it champions sustainability, sourcing most ingredients directly from the family farm. The menu blends earthy, wholesome flavours with refined technique, all in a laid-back, countryside-inspired setting. Enjoy the sun-dappled terrace, shelves of preserved produce, and warm farmhouse décor. Open throughout December.
12. MIKE'S HERITAGE HOUSE
One of Joburg’s oldest and most well-known restaurants, this heritage house was the spot for birthday parties in the ’90s and 2000s. A trip there was always a highlight as you ran around while the parents sat and chatted. Mike’s Heritage House is still a popular option today for a meal out or to watch the sport at the bar. With many of the original Victorian and Edwardian features in the ‘Eikenlaan’ house still present, Mike’s Heritage House has a setting that few restaurants can beat. Open throughout December, but closed on Wed, Dec 25.
Dunkeld and Illovo
13. BELLAGIO
Not an exclusive seafood restaurant, but the flawless fish dishes are the main attraction at Bellagio in Illovo. Grilled kingklip liberally slathered in lemon butter and herbs, gigantic langoustines and seared tuna steak feature prominently. The pasta menu is the real deal, straight from a Ligurian fishing village. Not the place to be in a hurry, Bellagio is more suited to lazy weekend lunches on the terrace, Mediterranean style. Closed Thu, Dec 25, Fri, Dec 26, 2025 and Thu, Jan 1, 2026.
14. GREENHOUSE BAR X THE SHORTMARKET CLUB
While Greenhouse Bar in Sandton may be known for its late-night party energy, there’s more to it than meets the eye. The Shortmarket Club (formerly at Oxford Parks in Rosebank) has recently moved into Greenhouse’s oasis – though you wouldn’t necessarily know it from a casual visit, as there’s no visible branding to signal the collaboration. We visited for a Friday dinner and were treated like royalty by Chef Siya Mlaba, the brainchild behind a new menu that features some of the same Mediterranean, French, and bold Asian flavours that The Shortmarket Club was known for. We tucked into seared tuna, sushi, and hot honey halloumi sticks – all three are from the starters menu – while the steak prego roll and beef tacos are part of the exclusive after-hours menu that’s available until midnight. The Henny Pot, Daytime Dreaming, Paloma, and Long Island Iced Tea cocktails were delicious. Closed between Mondays, Wednesdays and Sundays.
15. JOY JOZI
For kids, this is the best of the best. Adults will love it too. A first in Joburg – Dunkeld's Joy Jozi is 'a place where kids can take their adults'. The family playground and experiential venue features a twisty children's slide, action court, tree house, bicycle track, mini splash park and kids' vegetable garden. On the food front, Joy Jozi is a treat, delighting parents and kiddies in equal measure with their simple yet refined menu: Neapolitan pizzas, signature burgers, and steaks and salads are paired with a selection of swish cocktails and delicious milkshakes. Open throughout December except Thu, Dec 25, 2025 and Thu, Jan 1, 2026.
16. PAREA TAVERNA
Parea Taverna in Illovo dishes up hearty, homestyle Greek cooking like in a lively, no-frills setting. It’s a favourite for generous platters, meze, and a weekend buzz that feels like a mini island escape. With its warm, tavern-style charm, it remains one of Joburg’s go-to spots for long, laughter-filled meals. After 21:30 on Fridays and Saturdays, the place comes alive with belly dancing, Greek performers and crockery smashing. Open throughout Decemeber.
17. PINK MAMAS
What makes Pink Mama’s in Joburg unique isn’t just the Southern Italian-inspired menu or the pretty pink-hued house – it’s also the setting. Situated in a space cleverly split between lively padel courts and the restaurant, you can work up an appetite with a match or simply come for the food. Read our review here. Closed Thu, Dec 25 and on Mondays and Tuesdays.
18. TRABELLA
Trabella is a popular neighbourhood restaurant overlooking the busy Illovo Junction serving a classic pizza-pasta menu. Pastas are rich and creamy (our favourite, and it will be yours too) and the pizzas thin and crispy. The cosy atmosphere makes this a popular date night place, especially on warm evenings when the tables spill out onto the pavement.
Melrose Arch
After admiring the impressive Christmas lights display at Melrose Arch, visit one of the many popular terrace restaurants on the Melrose Piazza always busy at this time of year, such as tashas, Piza ē Vino or The Grillhouse. Almost all of Melrose Arch's many restaurants and bars (which number more than a dozen) stay open throughout the festive season, making this one of the liveliest places to go out in the evening during the Christmas week.19. PARRERINHA
Named after the little grapevine inside their previous location at La Rochelle, Parreirinha in Melrose Arch is an unpretentious and hugely popular spot. Hundreds of men’s ties hang from the ceiling, adding character to what is already a colourful place. The menu is loaded with garlic, chilli and Portuguese flavours, and the speciality dishes include bacalhau (cod), prawn cakes, steaks and delicious prawns. Call ahead for opening times. Closed Thu, Dec 25, Fri, Dec 26, 2025 and Thu, Jan 1, 2026.
20. SEBULE
Sebule is the new flagship restaurant at The African Pride Hotel at Melrose Arch, and it has a menu that focuses on live-fire cooking, bold flavours and spice, with steaks and seafood being the main event. Sebule, meaning 'Living Room' in Swahili, has smoked gnocchi with chargrilled asparagus, asparagus velouté and Parmesan that's got people talking. If steak is your thing, Sebule's signature dry-aged 500g ribeye on the bone is the way to go. Join them for a delightful set menu Christmas lunch where you'll be treated to West Coast mussels, braised beef shortrib and a summer Christmas trifle. Open throughout December but closed on Mondays.
Sandton and Hyde Park
21. BANCHAN
At this petite and unassuming family-run Korean restaurant just off Parkmore's Victoria Avenue (a five-minute drive from Sandton City), every detail is intended to be as authentic as possible. The wines and spirits at Banchan are all imported directly from South Korea, the tofu and kimchi are homemade and even the exotic teas, such as the unusual cinnamon blend with ginger, are created on site. Scores of local Koreans frequent Banchan to enjoy an authentic taste of home, while every effort is made to accommodate diners new to Korean cuisine. Call ahead for opening times.
22. THE BULL RUN
Succulent steaks cut by the in-house Italian butcher, top-rate service from a close-knit team, excellent salads, a superb wine list and knockout interiors make The Bull Run a Sandton institution. No-fuss culinary sophistication is the guiding thought behind the menu with an impeccably curated selection of steaks, seafood, wines and cocktails. Operating every day during the Christmas week, this classy steakhouse is an option for the holiday revelries. Call ahead for opening times.
23. CAFE 28
There are more than a few reasons to visit Café 28 in Inanda with its large patio and garden, and a view over an immaculate nine-hole golf course. Hidden away in an office park in the heart of Sandton, this is the place to make a pilgrimage to for what we think is the best Neapolitan pizza in Joburg. Just like the guild pizza restaurants of Naples, Café 28 imports ingredients from Italy to ensure the perfect slice – pillowy dough, feather-light, with a wide array of toppings. Of course, there's also a great selection of Italian beers to go with it. Closed Wed, Dec 24 – Thu, Dec 25.
24. OLIVES AND PLATES
Located inside Hyde Park Corner's Exclusive Books, Olives and Plates is a modern Mediterranean restaurant with a fresh and lively atmosphere. Blush pink flowers climb the walls, there's a lively buzz, soft lighting by night and by day, there's natural illumination from the floor-to-ceiling windows. The breakfast and lunch menus go beyond the usual Mediterranean offerings and also include other classic café favourites like eggs Benedict, granola bowls and burgers. If you’re craving pasta for dinner, we recommend the butternut and sage conchiglione – heavenly! See their festive operating times for each location here.
25. SAINT PAZZA ITALIANO
Located in The MARC building, Saint Pazza Italiano is the knockout, super-sexy space is a sister restaurant to Marble, so you better bring an appetite and a budget to match. It's definitely the go-to place if you favour Champagne with your pizza. The pizzas here, fresh from the gold mosaic pizza ovens, take inspiration from Milan’s pizza masters. Closed Thu, Dec 25 – Fri, Dec 26 and Thu, Jan 1, 2026.
26. PABLO
Pablo at The Mint Hotel has expanded from brunch to an all-day, full-dinner experience, taking diners on a Mediterranean to Middle Eastern culinary journey. The menu features sharable mezze, small plates, pizza, Middle Eastern-inspired tacos, and wood-fired grills. Teal and rust interiors, intimate and social seating, plus a flowing al-fresco patio with pool views complete the experience. Open throughout December.
27. RED CHAMBER
Our favourite Chinese restaurant, hidden on the second floor of Hyde Park Shopping Centre, Red Chamber will be open for most of the festive season. Along with Chinese classics like firecracker kingklip and sizzling beef, we’ll be stopping by for their steamed dumplings and spicy brinjal pot. Open everday except Mondays. Opened Thu, Dec 25 until 19:00. Closed Wed, Dec 31 and Thu, Jan 1, 2026.
City Centre and Mayfair
28. THE ARTIVIST
This effortlessly cool bar, eatery and gallery in Braamfontein, The Artivist will be serving good food and cocktails throughout the holidays. We love their beef tongue parcels and skop with steamed dombolo. And to wash it down, you have to try their rich, silky whisky sour. Closed Thu, Dec 25 and Thu, Jan 1, 2026. Call ahead to confirm before you head over there.
29. THE TROYEVILLE
The Troyeville restaurant is a warm and welcoming spot known for its hearty, flavourful dishes, and vibrant atmosphere. With a focus on comfort food and a simply good time, it’s the perfect place to gather for a holiday meal. Indulge in a traditional Portuguese holiday spread at The Troyeville’s Christmas Buffet on Thu, Dec 25 from 12:00 – 16:00. Reserve your seat with a R200 deposit, which will be credited towards your final bill. Book for this here. Open throughout December.
30. TURKISH KEBAB HOUSE
Enjoy a feast of authentic Turkish cuisine this festive season at Turkish Kebab House in Mayfair. Order a mix grill platter (the platter for two feeds three comfortably) and you’ll find the table heaving with a range of starters before the freshly grilled meats and chicken pieces arrive. These include a range of fresh salads like pickled red cabbage and carrots, spicy ezme (a finely chopped tomato and chilli blend) with delicious cacik (creamy yogurt with fine slivers of chopped garlic and mint) plus huge, pillowy flatbreads to mop it all up. And, after lunch, stop by the shop and butchery to buy marinated meat and kofte to braai at home. Open throughout December, but closed on Thu, Dec 25 and Thu, Jan 1, 2026.
Norwood, Houghton, and Linksfield
31.THE OLD OAK RESTAURANT AND FAMILY CENTRE
Hidden along the greens of the Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Club is a child-friendly restaurant The Old Oak. For the kids, there’s a massive playground equipped with a climbing wall, dedicated colouring books and pencils, and a special kids' menu. For us adults, there’s an excellent wine list and contemporary food menu including wagyu burgers and hand-stretched Neapolitan pizzas. Closed between Mon, Dec 8 – Tue, Dec 16, open Wed, Dec 17 – Sun, Dec 21, closed Mon, Dec 22 – Tue, Dec 23 and open Wed, Dec 24. The restaurant will be closed between Thu, Dec 25 – Thu, Jan 8, 2026.
32. TORTELLINO D'ORO
Our favourite old-school Italian restaurant, Tortellino d’Oro in Oaklands, is staying open for most of the festive season. Book a lunch and enjoy authentic, homemade pasta, or pop into the on-site deli – packed with pasta, sauces, freshly baked bread, and delectable desserts for all your holiday catering needs. Open throughout December, but closed on Thu, Dec 25, Fri, Dec 26 and Thu, Jan 1, 2026.
33. RIBS AND BURGERS
Juicy burgers and lip-smacking ribs are the order of the day at this casual eatery at The Neighbourhood Square in Linksfield. The emphasis at Ribs and Burgers is on the quality of the food and you'll taste it immediately – grass-fed beef burgers placed on a seeded brioche milk bun. There are also carb-free versions of all the burgers on the menu (lettuce cups filled with rocket, tomato, onion salsa and vinaigrette), and great options for vegetarians that include a veggie stack and Moroccan falafel. Open throughout December, but closed on Thu, Dec 25 and Thu, Jan 1, 2026. Find a list of all their Joburg eateries here.
Midrand and Waterfall
34. COWFISH
This restaurant at Waterfall Corner is part of a vibrant, all-rounder restaurant chain with an Asian fusion menu as quirky as its name, offering sushi, seafood and a burger line-up, plus a focus on cocktails. Expect surf and turf dishes at Cowfish, as well as noodles and poke bowls with something to satisfy picky eaters and adventurous ones, whether you crave seafood delights, prefer hearty grilled meats, or are more keen on vegetarian options. The dim sum platters are a great choice for snacking on while you settle on a main course. If you are a fan of creative cocktails, opt for the sassy Flaming Gin and Juice and try one of the bespoke house mixes, perhaps a Cinnamon and Sage Gin and Tonic. Operating throughout December, but closed on Wed, Dec 25.
35. MATH RESTAURANT
Also in Waterfall Corner, Math Restaurant blends modern and nostalgic energy, celebrating the owner’s family legacy. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering comfort-food classics alongside inventive global dishes. With communal tables and a “Gather Table” sharing option, it’s perfect for relaxed meals with friends or family. We suggest trying Rachel's seafood pasta and the oreo cheescake. Open throughout December, but closed on Wed, Dec 25.
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