The article was written by one of our contributing writers.
I once read a meme that said, 'I decided to take the kids out for a meal and then regretted it 5 minutes later.' To be honest I feel like that weekly. I love food and love to try new restaurants but I also have two boys who just want to destroy everything they come into contact with. But... does that stop me from being a Foodie? NEVER!!
If you ever find yourself in Johannesburg South Africa, these are some of the must-try halal eateries that are guaranteed to touch your soul with or without the mini-mes in tow.
Image Credit: Clenergy on Facebook
With health and wellness being the new buzzword at the moment, this health food restaurant in Greenside is currently in the spotlight. Don't get put off though because although it says health food the food is so cleverly disguised and so beautifully seasoned that you would swear you were eating something totally waist-expanding. The menu is extremely extensive and ranges from burgers to pizzas to even brownies on the dessert menu. How is this even possible you may ask? Well, the restaurant follows a complete banting approach so everything made is prepared as its healthy alternative. They also have a wide selection of prepacked frozen food that makes very convenient lunches. The seating area is comfortable and with free wifi, it's a winner with the kids!
Address:
51 Greenfield Road, Greenside, Jhb 2034
Opening Hours:
Mon to Thurs: 9am - 5pm
Fri to Sun: 9am - 8pm
Image Credit: Ozzy's Kitchen on Facebook
Nestled in the industrial side of Sandton, this is an absolute culinary delight. Ozzy was actually a contestant on Masterchef South Africa so you can be rested assured that the plating will be on point. The menu is quite vast despite the fine dining and caters to kids as well with the most amazing chicken strips I've ever tasted. Although this may appeal to parents there are also more higher-end options for the richer palate such as a lobster and lamb shank dish available. Complete with a prayer room and kid's play area it's an enjoyable place to celebrate any occasion.
Address:
55 Andries Street, Wynberg 2090 Sandton, South Africa
Opening Hours:
Daily (except Fri & Sat): 9.30am - 5pm
Fri & Sat: 9.30am - 10pm
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Image Credit: Galata Bakery on Facebook
Although called a bakery it has a fully-fledged authentic Turkish menu. From everyday pizzas to Turkish braais and pides, Galata in Greenside manages to effortlessly transport you to the streets of Istanbul. A nice touch is the complimentary pizzas given as a starter and there is also an outside seating area that allows one to relax with a cup of Turkish tea and a rented Shesa. The seating inside is quite spacious but be careful because this places you in full view of the tantalizing Turkish delights that are ever so hard to resist. Please do try their Pina Coladas too. Not many places especially halaal places know how to pull off a good Pina Colada but theirs is absolutely delicious
Address:
131 Greenway, Greenside, Randburg, 2034, South Africa
Opening Hours:
Daily: 7am - 10pm
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Image Credit: Bagel Street
Also situated in Kelvin Sandton, this eatery takes the average plain and boring bagel to the next level. The seating area and actual location is a bit impractical but the food is phenomenal. The menu caters to all palates including the little ones with a very cute kiddies menu and the names of the bagels are a fun play on New York landmarks. For example, you could order a 5th Avenue but will actually be in for very a scrumptious treat consisting of a delicious chicken and feta bagel. This is a must-try because the owners really know what they are doing with their bagels.
Writer's note: I really would suggest opting for take away rather than a sit-down.
Address:
Morning Glen Mall Shop 10 | Ground Floor, Morningside Manor, Johannesburg, 2057, South Africa
Opening Hours:
Mon - Thur: 9am – 5pm
Fri - Sat: 9am – 6pm
Sun & Public Holidays: 10am – 5pm
Closed 12.15pm - 1.30pm every Friday & on selected Islamic/Religious holidays.
Image Credit: @velvetongrant on Instagram
Also nestled on Grant Street in Greenside this quaint eatery is wonderful for an intimate homemade type of meal especially if you are trying to avoid the crowds. The owner is also the chef so a lot of pride is taken with each meal. The menu is decent and includes the likes of pasta, steak, pizza, and chicken with a wonderful Indian infusion. The owner actually transformed an old house into a restaurant so it's still a work in progress but the ambiance is cozy and the food delicious.
Address:
26 Grant Avenue, Norwood, Johannesburg, 2192, South Africa
Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm
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If you ever find yourself in Johannesburg make sure to make your way to these not to be missed culinary delights
