WOMBLES
17 Third Avenue, Parktown North, Johannesburg
CONTACT: 011 880 2470 or visit www.wombles.co.za
A well-respected local favourite, Wombles is situated in the ever-trendy see-and-be-seen Parktown North. The restaurant is renowned for its prime cuts of juicy fillet steak – also its signature dish when teamed with the original Wombles sauce. The wine list is definitely worth a test-drive, with many local wineries represented at competitive prices. Booking is essential.
Recommended by: Melinda Pelser, Admin manager: Channel Life. She says: “I often enjoy business lunches here – the food and service are excellent!”
MYOGA
The Vineyard Hotel and Spa, 60 Colinton Road 7700, Newlands, Cape Town
CONTACT: 021 657 4545 or visit www.myoga.co.za
Myoga, is a tranquil venue offering the best in contemporary cuisine, as well as impeccable service. Their signature dish is the Porterhouse grilled ciabatta; a deluxe steak sandwich with red onion marmalade, rocket and parmesan, while in-season, their buffet Meze table is a hit with patrons. Bookings are preferable, especially if you require a specific table or want to soak up the terrace vibe.
Recommended by: Rapelang Rabana, CEO: Yeigo Communications. She says, “There is an extraordinary level of detail in everything, from the décor to the food. My friends and I like to think of Myoga as a food fashion show.”
PLAKA
1 Palm Boulevard at Gateway, Umhlanga, Durban
CONTACT: 031 566 7456 or mail umhlanga@plaka.co.za
An old favourite, Plaka restaurants across South Africa offer the best in Greek cuisine and an exuberant vibe that comes from celebrating their signature Mediterranean style. Plaka is renowned for its linefish, flame-grilled for maximum flavour, with lashings of lemon juice and olive oil – delicious with your choice of vegetables or mezze. Booking is useful, especially at the weekend.
Recommended by: Nazrien Kader, tax unit business leader: Deloitte KZN. She says: “Plaka has a real Durban atmosphere. It is welcoming, quiet and its location allows you to watch the world go by if you want to.”
CAFÉ ZANNE
16 Loop Street (corner of Loop and Riebeeck Streets), Cape Town
CONTACT: 021 421 6516
As you enter Café Zanne, a fusion of aromas envelops your senses but the spot is quiet enough to “talk shop”. They’re known for their vast lunch buffet, which offers the best in traditional South African dishes and authentic world cuisine. The menu changes daily but regular highlights include bobotie, springbok carpaccio and calamari, and portions are priced by weight. Booking is advisable and big groups can also be accommodated.
Recommended by: Nonandi Diko, associate attorney: Bowman Gilfillan CT. She says: “Café Zanne is quiet and upmarket, and the food is always excellent.”