Romance doesn't start and stop with Valentine's Day, and Joburg has no shortage of unique ways to celebrate your love all year long. Sure, we don't have the ocean views, the romantic, old cobbled streets, or even a river promenade to stroll along, but Joburg does have some fantastic restaurants and bars, beautiful parks, countryside getaways, and other fun places to go on a date.
Browsing a food market hand-in-hand or sipping sundowners with a spectacular view of the city, maybe even a thrill-seeking bungee jump in Soweto – here's our guide to some classic, and some less conventional, places to impress your date in Joburg.
1. Drinks and dining
PULL UP A SEAT WITH A VIEW FOR SUNDOWNERS IN JOBURG
Joburg is the perfect city for sundowners. Even in the middle of winter, the sun still sets relatively early. Order an ice-cold drink, find a table with a view, and enjoy one of Joburg's famously memorable sunsets at a local rooftop restaurant or terrace.
You can't beat the tree-lined view from Flames at Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff . I n Rosebank, David Higgs' renowned Marble restaurant on the top floor of Keyes Art Mile's Trumpet Building offers views that stretch out to the Magaliesberg mountains.
Sitting at the top of one of Africa’s tallest building, The Leonardo , at a dizzying 234m-tall, you can’t get higher than Alto234 bar. It's an exclusive spot offering unparalleled 360-degree views of the entire city and, of course, Moët is the drink of choice.
For something different, check out the hip rooftop hangout the Living Room in Maboneng in the City Centre.
As you can tell, this is a city with a wealth of tall buildings to enjoy a sky-high view, but Joburg is also surrounded by rocky ridges. Some of them are topped with mansions and others are declared as nature reserves, meaning you are spoilt for choice when it comes to interesting vantage points to enjoy a different perspective of the city. Read our guide to Joburg's best viewpoints and rooftop bars here.
EATING UNDER THE STARS AT THE NORTHCLIFF BOUTIQUE HOTEL
The Northcliff Boutique Hotel atop Northcliff Ridge is nestled inside a private housing estate. The distant Magaliesberg mountains form the backdrop, with a great spread of trees. Access the view by making a reservation at the restaurant. It is advisable to book well in advance, as this is a popular spot. The views are undeniably spectacular at any time of the day, so we suggest a lunch picnic for two or a dinner reservation with sunset drinks for that pop of romance.
EXPERIENCE NATURE'S MAJESTY AT PABLO HOUSE
Built clinging on to the ridge overlooking the rugged Melville Koppies Nature Reserve, Pablo House is the brainchild of bassist Louis Roux from the Shadowclub band. It’s a hideout with glam interiors and luxury touches. It also has a top restaurant, Pablo Dos Manos, renowned for great brunch, wood-fired pizza, and small-plate Middle Eastern-inspired dishes. Reservations are absolutely essential and subject to availability. In-house guests always come first.
SEE THE SETTING SUN AT GLAMOROUS CYRA
Treat your date to a swoon-worthy dinner at Cyra, a fine dining spot from acclaimed Chef Candice Philip at The Houghton Hotel. Named after the Persian word for "sun", every plate is wonderfully considered and presented here, and the views (especially as the sun is setting) never get old. Seven-course dinners are offered from Wed – Sun, and a four-course lunch is served every Sunday.
PLAYFUL PLATES AND SERIOUS STYLE AT THE POT LUCK CLUB
Nestled in the leafy charm of Melrose, The Pot Luck Club's home at The Peech Hotel is where bold flavours meet serious style. This is a fun spot for playful plates and a stellar wine and cocktail list. Whether you're in for a flavour-packed dinner (Tue – Sat) or a leisurely Saturday lunch, expect a sharing-style menu featuring favourites like Pork Belly Ssam with blood orange and fish sauce caramel. Why not turn date night into a full staycation in one of the hotel's luxurious rooms?
TEA FOR TWO AT TEA & ANTIQUE
Tea & Antique in Bedfordview blends charm and cosiness. This family-run haven serves up Chinese tea and mouthwatering dim sum in a beautiful, antique-filled setting. Whether you’re sharing dumplings or indulging in dainty Chinese cakes (the peach and oolong tea variety is a must), it’s the kind of place where even the smallest details make your date feel special.
