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When it’s time to make dinner reservations, Joburgers tend to look towards the central suburbs. But, while people flock to the sidewalk cafes and ramen bars of the Parks, Fourways has been quietly – yet industriously – growing its own little culinary hub. Here’s where to eat when you’re northside.
The Steamworks
Describing itself as “not quite a bar and not quite a restaurant”, The Steamworks sits somewhere in between – offering really good food and a first rate wine list in an atmosphere that borders on Friday night rowdy. If we were British, we’d call it a gastropub – but since we’re South African we’ll just take in the quirky steampunk setting. Settle down and munch on gourmet burgers or speciality pizzas with interesting toppings (how about butter chicken with mint, tandoori yoghurt, mango chutney and cashews?).
The FireRoom Sushi and Grill
Sushi and grill? Yup. The aptly named FireRoom’s trademark technique, which sees everything (nori rolls included) set aflame, has gained a number of avid fans, positively evangelistic about this unique east/west fusion. The halloumi with ginger and mango puree is a particular favourite.
Lima Tapas Bar
Another Montecasino favourite, Lima gets top marks both for service and ambience. Tempting options include everything from nachos to tacos and sushi, as well as fantastic steaks steeped in the flavours of South America (think chimchurri and smoky paprika) and traditional Spanish tapas. The choice is enormous, so choose wisely – or you’ll be set to suffer severe menu envy!
Punchinello’s
This is the place to go when your dining companion is someone you really want to impress. Chances are, you haven’t encountered flavour combos like this before – we’re talking art on a plate, with pea and corn salad sprinkled with tiny crumbs that melt into tangy dressing in your mouth, along with tomato ‘crackling’. Or try the cannelloni of duck confit, Chef Nicholas Froneman’s take on pad thai. It’s as delicious as it is unusual. Our tip – be sure to enjoy a cocktail on the picturesque deck before you tuck in.
La Rosa Mexican Grille and Tequileria
Walking into this restaurant is like stepping inside last year’s Disney hit, Coco. Every wall bears a colourful tribute to Mexico’s Day of the Dead – definitely Insta-worthy. The food merits more than a few snaps, too, and even seasoned fans of Mexican cuisine are likely to find a few unfamiliar dishes. Our favourites? The creamy, caramel-laden torta de tres leches.
Lupa Osteria
We all wish we could keep a little Italian nonna in the kitchen to whip up pastas that taste like they were cooked in the heart of Rome– but this Design Quarter spot comes a close second. Regulars swear by the Italian nachos (fried ravioli, stuffed with cheese and accompanied by a fiery tomato dipping sauce) and the gnocchi Fantasia, drenched in creamy gorgonzola sauce.
Sister restaurant to Douglasdale institution The Throbbing Strawberry, Mon Petit Throbb bring French flair to Fourways. Although dinner and lunch options are delicious, it’s the breakfast menu that really stands out: look out for the bunny chow, a fresh brioche stuffed with chicken livers, scrambled egg and mango atchar.
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