(image: iStock)
Cheers to December, our favourite month of the year! If, like us, you’re in the mood to have a couple of decadent cocktails (and even a bit of a dance) with your dinner, read on.
Even if you’re staying in Joburg over the festive season, visiting this Linden hotspot will make you feel as though you’ve taken a vacay in the Bahamas. We absolutely love the décor (think giant tropical plants and strings of coloured fairy lights) and the Caribbean menu, which offers hungry-man-size portions at very reasonable prices. The fish cakes and jerk-marinated rump steak get the thumbs up, although there are far more exotic dishes on the menu – be sure to try the crab curry. And don’t leave without having a few Old Fashioneds.
Love burgers? Love shirtless men with lots of muscles? Combine the two, throw in a drag queen and some bingo, and you have the recipe for one of Johannesburg’s most entertaining nigh’s out.
Brand new on the scene, Roxanne’s isn’t just about a fantastic drinks menu – although, with cocktails like strawberry mojitos and grapefruit G’nT on tap, as well as an impressive array of spiked freakshakes, rum and adult ice teas, it definitely has that. You’ll also find absolutely sumptuous breakfast options, like the irresistible breakfast lasagne, and pizzas with out-of-the-ordinary toppings.
Fancy a spot of karaoke? The good news is that, at Saigon Suzy, you don’t have to put your mic skills to the test in front of a big crowd – just rent your own karaoke pod for the night. Afterwards, toast your talent with cocktails featuring Asian-inspired ingredients while you munch on specialties like pumpkin tempura, braised beef short rib bao or peanut and cheese springrolls.
A Johannesburg stalwart, Giles has withstood the flavour-of-the-month frenzy that has afflicted many of its less longstanding rivals. Regulars put this down to the unfailingly festive atmosphere, especially during rugby season, as well as tried and tested menu staples.
We’re not usually a fan of chain restaurants, but the vibe at these eateries simply cannot be ignored. The margarita menu is marvellous, and a great way to start the festivities. Foodwise, there are plenty of old favourites like fajitas and burritos to choose from (the nachos are outrageously, deliciously cheesy), but you can also make your own salad or choose from a Mexican pasta.
Looking for a chilled daytime party spot? This is it: the ideal spot to grab a beer, glass of wine or mescal, sit under the trees and kick back. We love the live music – usually a mix of blues and country, with vinyl evenings on Thursdays and Fridays. On the menu? Moreish bar nibbles – think pregos with bite, or charcuterie boards for sharing
It started out as a gourmet pizzeria, and has become a favourite weekend hangout. Sample the signature cocktails and you’ll understand why – the list includes beauties like the vanilla, lavender and rosemary mojito, as well as boozed-up milkshakes. The pizzas are still fantastic. Our pick? Go for the brie, bacon, pear, balsamic glaze and rocket, or indulge your sweet tooth with a dessert pizza (ricotta, cream cheese, Nutella, lemon juice and pecans).
Which place sounds like great party venue for you and your people?
Also try: