1. The Falafel stand
The name of the stand is not actually known but it can be found in Long Street Cape Town right outside the once popular Miam Miam. One doesn’t know what exactly goes into these falafels and shwarmas but they taste damn good.
2. Saul’s Saloon
This great institution in Sea Point, Cape Town is pumping at 4am, packed with familiar faces, all gathering after a big night out. Everyone is there to wind down and conduct a ‘post-mortem’ of the evening. Regulars know that the burger is the best option (although whatever you do, don’t attempt the beat the burger challenge!). Try their tator tots (fried little hash browns) and toasted sandwiches. It hits the spot.
3. 24 hour Woolworths (Engen service stations)
Going to Woolies is often more entertaining than the night out. Spot the social butterflies, druggies, posers and general creeps all clamouring for the last chicken and mushroom pie. Also very convenient to get headache pills, salt and vinegar chips and a large coke for the next morning’s inevitable hangover.
4. Starlight diner
This pseudo American diner is great especially if you are partying in the Northern or Southern suburbs. Open 24 hours, feast on a mouth-watering burger, all day and night breakfast’s, or delicious American style side orders and finish it off with a milkshakes… yum!
5. Lolly’s
Lolly’s is another one of Sea Point hidden treasures. Go there for seriously cheap food – from curry to hamburgers… beware of the old dodgy customers who are there ALL night.
6. Steers (Total service stations)
You cannot beat Steers chips for pure deliciousness. The barbeque sauce mixed with the thousand island sauce is magic. Pool together all your last coins and order the biggest packet of chips you can afford!
7. Wildbean Café (BP service stations)
Quick and easy after a big night out, especially if you just want to get home quickly. Try the hotdog… only the traditional! If you’re lucky, the lady working behind the counter, will fry up some hot chips. The chip and dip with garlic mayonnaise is world-class.
8. Spiga D’Ora
This place is THE place to go in Durban after a heavy night out on the tiles. This Durban staple is the perfect end to a big night. They serve up till 3am and they’re CHEAP. Try their famous Gnocchi Ala Luca or a plain Margarita pizza… absolutely delicious.
9. Johnny’s Roti
Johnny’s Roti – Sunrise Chip n Ranch is a stalwart morning hangout of Durban. This hole in the wall (literally) is buzzing. Try their famous triple chip and cheese roti. If you’re brave enough, try the meat dishes but it’s not recommended to due rumours of dubious ingredients. Bunny chows and curries are on offer too and they have the best slap chips in town.
10. Golden Dish
If you want great Cape Malay spicy food, the Golden Dish in Athlone is worth the drive. Open 24 hours a day, this place offers great spicy dishes, toasted sandwiches and a great vibe.
What’s your favourite munchie hangout in Johannesburg?