image: Sir James van der Merwe, Courtesy of Katy’s Palace Bar
Don’t let the plumbing yard location of this tiny gem fool you. In fact, Kramerville Bakery’s humble exterior is part of the magic, giving no hint to the wonders that lie within: on the final Saturday of the month, the shop hosts glorious Bake Sales, where you can gorge on buttery baked delights as well as some savoury dishes. There are also monthly themed supper clubs, highlighting hero ingredients in each dish (think olive oil, for instance, enjoying several delicious permutations from pork belly with olive oil mash to extra virgin chocolate mousse with coffee crumb and tropical fruit), as well as the regular Sunday Roast.
One of those places that makes you feel healthier just by looking at the menu, Gorge specialises in the kind of fresh, light food that is summer’s signature. Although the menu offers some decadent options (could you say no to a banana and Nutella smoothie?) it’s the health tubs and snack pots that have helped to create a loyal base of regulars. There’s a good range of interesting salads and wraps, too, along with build-your-own options.
Looking for a quick stop to refuel? This is the spot. Don’t be fooled by the compact menu: in this case, dynamite really does come in small packages, as proved by tasty choices like the roasted aubergine wrap with creamy feta, pepped up with mint and rocket. The drinks menu is also a breath of fresh air: indulge your sweet tooth with a frozen caramel latte, or refresh with a pomegranate and elderflower spritzer.
You may already be familiar with Munch restaurants if you’re a keen gardener, as there are several outlets located at various Garden Shops throughout Johannesburg. This branch is found inside the Hertex showroom – and, as with its sister restaurants, it had us at the word ‘breakfast’. The selection is large and, although it all looks delicious, the chilli mince of ciabatta – topped by a perfectly poached egg and parmesan for an umami bite – is a stand out favourite. If you can’t resist a little bit of hedonism, the mascarpone French toast is for you.
New to the scene, Razor Charlie has already entrenched itself as a firm favourite – especially among those who enjoy their food on the spicy side. Part of the Mexican wave of restaurants that currently has Johannesburg in its grip, the nachos come highly recommended, as does the rump smothered in chimichurri. The dessert menu, although small, is intriguing. Think bread and butter pudding drenched in rum custard and roast fig and vanilla ice cream.
More of an after work cocktail spot than a restaurant, this secret bar opens every Wednesday night can be found inside the gorgeous Katys Palace Bar. Order a mezze platter and watch the sunset roll over Johannesburg’s iconic skyline.
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