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When Cheap Meets Luxury: The 9 Most Affordable Fancy Restaurants in Johannesburg
As someone who loves good food but watches their budget, I get it; fine dining can feel like a luxury. But here in Johannesburg, there are plenty of spots where you can enjoy an elegant meal without breaking the bank.
And it’s not just about looking fancy. The food is genuinely good!
If you’re after cheap fine dining, I’ve got some great recommendations. These affordable local fancy restaurants bring you that luxurious vibe without the hefty price tag. You can now enjoy the experience without stressing about your wallet!
The Indian Bay Leaf Restaurant
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Address: 57 Mint Rd, Fordsburg
Phone: +27 114 920 868
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Website: http://www.bayleafrestaurantsa.co.za/
Price Range: R
For authentic and flavorful Indian cuisine, The Indian Bay Leaf Restaurant is a must-visit. It’s budget-friendly too, with main courses under R200, so you can enjoy a great meal without overspending.
The space is also family-friendly, making it ideal for group outings.
Their menu has over 150 dishes inspired by Indian, Pakistani, and Chinese cuisines. My go-to is the chicken karahi. It’s just R90 and packed with rich flavours! The tender meat, aromatic spices, and hearty gravy make it a comforting and satisfying choice.
If that’s not your vibe, try their biriyani, tandoori, or South Indian curries.
Tip: Order the masala soda. It’s a fizzy drink with mint, lime, ginger, and spices that pairs perfectly with the bold flavours of their dishes.
Parreirinha Restaurante
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Address: The Square Cnr High & Old House Lane, Melrose Arch, Melrose North
Phone: +27 114 353 809
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
- Sunday – 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Website: http://www.restauranteparreirinha.co.za/
Price Range: RR
Parreirinha Restaurante is a gem for those who want fancy dining without breaking the bank. It’s a Portuguese spot with real character, set in the old Sixth Street Police Station. The quirky decor, especially the ties left behind by diners, adds to its charm.
Their menu uses traditional Portuguese recipes while adding a modern twist. As someone who has never tasted Portuguese cuisine, I was surprised by their peri-peri chicken. It had a delightful kick from the spicy peri-peri sauce, and the chicken remained juicy and tender.
What’s great is the food won’t cost you a fortune. The peri-peri chicken is just R150, and most dishes are under R250.
Tips:
- Kick off your meal with the rissois de camarão—classic Portuguese prawn pastries.
- Pair the peri-peri chicken with a chilled Vinho Verde. Its crisp acidity cuts through the heat.
- Don’t forget to bring an old tie to leave behind. It’s a fun way to mark your visit!
Trumps Grillhouse and Butchery
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Address: Nelson Mandela Square, 5th St &, Rivonia Rd, Sandton
Phone: +27 117 842 366
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Website: https://www.trumpsgrill.co.za/
Price Range: RR
If you’re looking for a premier steakhouse with affordable prices, Trumps Grillhouse and Butchery is worth checking out. They’re known for their juicy steaks, but you’ll also find burgers, sushi, and seafood on the menu. Despite its classy vibe, you can enjoy a quality steak for as little as R200!
I loved their rump steak, which cost me around R300. It was a tender, flavourful cut with a satisfying char, adding depth to the taste.
The location is a bonus. You’ll dine with views of the iconic Mandela Square fountain, adding a touch of Joburg flair to your meal.
Tip: Pair the steak with Cabernet Sauvignon to complement the richness of the meat with its intense flavours of blackcurrant and blackberry.
Amuse-Bouche Food & Wine
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Address: 1 Alma Rd, Wendywood, Sandton
Phone: +27 118 042 540
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
- Sunday – 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Website: https://fairlawns.co.za/amuse-bouche/
Price Range: RR
At Amuse-Bouche Food & Wine in Fairlawns Boutique Hotel, you can enjoy a classy dining experience for a good price. This spot offers a sophisticated mix of modern African and French cuisine, with à la carte options starting at around R235.
It’s also perfect for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries. You’ll dine in style, surrounded by harlequin-patterned tiles, mirrors, and chandeliers, all without spending at least R1,000 on a meal.
Their crayfish thermidor, priced at R500, is worth every cent. I tried it recently, and the crayfish was tender, bathed in a rich, creamy sauce with mustard, shallots, and a hint of white wine. The sauce had savoury, buttery notes, and the golden, crispy cheese crust added a satisfying texture.
Tips:
- Ask about unlisted wines like the 2014 Amuse Bouche Napa and the 2014 Richard G. Peterson Pinot Noir to elevate your meal.
- Be patient when ordering their molten hazelnut lava cake for dessert, as it requires a short wait time.
The Grillhouse Rosebank
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Address: 1, The Firs, Hyatt Centre, Oxford Road & Biermann Avenue, Rosebank
Phone: +27 118 803 945
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
- Sunday – 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Website: http://www.thegrillhouse.co.za/
Price Range: RR
Another great spot for steaks is The Grillhouse in Rosebank. It’s been a local favourite for over 30 years, blending Art Deco vibes with a classic New York grillhouse feel. The menu balances quality with affordability, making it a must-try.
Most dishes hover around R500, but the spice-crusted fillet steak stood out for me. At R300, it was tender, flavorful, and packed with a unique mix of spices that made every bite memorable.
The menu isn’t just about steaks. You’ll find ribs, poultry, seafood, and even vegetarian options like their veggie burger or pasta, both priced around R165.
Tip: For a full experience, pop into Katzy’s jazz bar next door for live music, cocktails, and good vibes.
Marble Restaurant
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Address: Trumpet on Keyes Corner 19 Keyes and, Jellicoe Ave, Rosebank
Phone: +27 105 945 550
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Website: https://marble.restaurant/
Price Range: RR
Marble Restaurant is where fine dining meets a laid-back vibe without breaking the bank. Opened in 2016 by chef David Higgs and entrepreneur Gary Kyriacou, it’s become a go-to spot for top-notch food that doesn’t feel pretentious. They’ve perfected the mix of luxury and approachability.
I recently had their blackened octopus, and wow, it’s worth the hype! Tender, smoky, and paired with crushed paprika potatoes, it had just the right hint of sweetness from candied lemon. This dish highlights their talent for blending bold flavours seamlessly.
But it’s not just about the seafood. They’ve got incredible steaks like Wagyu and tomahawk, plus vegetarian options like red pepper Béarnaise. And the best part? Most mains are around R350, so you can enjoy a fancy night out without feeling guilty.
Tip: Marble sits on the rooftop of the Trumpet Building in Rosebank, giving you a fantastic view of Joburg’s skyline. The best time to visit is during sunset when the city lights start to sparkle. Make sure to book a table in advance for this experience.
Signature Restaurant
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Address: Shop U13, Rivonia Rd, Sandton
Phone: +27 118 848 888
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 12 p.m. to 12 a.m.
- Sunday – 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Website: https://signaturerestaurant.co.za/
Price Range: RR
For a top-notch dining experience in Johannesburg, Signature Restaurant is a must-visit. The meals are reasonably priced for a fine dining spot, with the most expensive dish at just R500. You’ll get generous portions, making it a great choice for a fancy dinner without breaking the bank.
I tried the charred beef fillet for R300, and it didn’t disappoint. The meat was tender and grilled just right, packed with flavour. It came with seasonal veggies that were fresh and delicious, rounding out the meal perfectly.
The floor-to-ceiling windows here offer incredible views, especially during Sandton’s golden sunsets. The staff goes above and beyond, making you feel like a regular by remembering your preferences.
Tip: Visit between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. from Thursday to Saturday for live entertainment while you dine.
Flames
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Address: 67 Jan Smuts Ave, Westcliff, Randburg
Phone: +27 114 816 000
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Website: https://flamesrestaurant.co.za/
Price Range: RR
Another affordable fine dining option is the Flames Restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel in Westcliff. Their most expensive option is the Sunday brunch at R850, but most dishes hover around R600. It’s a nice spot for a treat or special occasion without going overboard.
The executive chef, Dirk Gieselmann, brings his expertise from Michelin-starred kitchens like Auberge d’Ill and Pauly Saal.
One standout dish is the fried eggplant for R150. It’s perfectly crispy outside, soft and flavorful inside, and served with salsa verde and red pepper romesco for a fresh, zesty balance.
Tip: Pair your fried eggplant with a white wine like the Pinot Grigio to have a refreshing contrast to the richer sauces.
Cowfish Parktown
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Address: Shop 13, Corner 3rd & 7th, Parktown Quarter, Parktown North, Randburg
Phone: +27 101 578 128
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
- Sunday – 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Website: https://cow-fish.co.za/
Price Range: RR
Discover a mix of Eastern and Western flavours at Cowfish in Parktown. The menu offers a variety of options, from burgers to sushi, all at budget-friendly prices. It’s an excellent spot for those wanting a casual meal or drinks with friends.
The vibe here is relaxed with a touch of style. The decor takes cues from the Art Deco era, blending contemporary and cosy elements effortlessly. It’s a setting that feels inviting yet a little fancy.
When it comes to food, their signature burger stands out. The 160-gram handmade patty is packed with flavour, paired with fresh toppings and a perfectly toasted bun.
Tip: Don’t miss their sushi platters, especially the green dragon roll and rock shrimp roses. They’re a treat!
