Chapter 3: Casual Dining
Tashas
Tashas has successfully introduced a new boutique café experience, which has a unique signature style and a point of differentiation from the existing, global franchise model.
Why go?
The NYC-style breakfasts here include chilli eggs and hashbrowns, eggs Benedict, and maple-bacon flapjacks.
Airy, contemporary café and coffee shop, Image Credit: Tashas
Details
a: Shop No. G28, The Zone, Oxford Rd, Rosebank
w: tashascafe.com/locations/johannesburg/rosebank
t: +27 11 447 7972
e: rosebank@tashascafe.com
h: Monday to Sunday, 07h30 – 21h00
Rockets
Every aspect of the sensory experience at Rockets has been carefully considered as they do their part in transforming the art of a meal into a lifestyle. Enjoy long leisurely lunches on the deck, in the zen garden, or in the high-ceilinged restaurant.
Why go?
This one-of-a-kind space is versatile, offering a unique experience for every function type, including casual cocktails on the rooftop, private dining, conferences, or great coffee.
Rockets has an unbridled passion for the exquisite, Image Credit: Rockets
Details
a: 86 Hobart Centre, Hobart Rd, Bryanston, Sandton
w: rocketslife.tv/rockets-lifestyle/bryanston
t: +27 87 727 2777
e: bryanston@rocketslife.tv
h: Monday to Wednesday, 11h00 – 00h00, Thursday to Sunday, 11h00 – 02h00
Espresso
With a menu spanning café classics, grill favourites, fresh seafood and wood-fired pizzas, Espresso delivers consistently tasty, well-prepared dishes in a relaxed setting. Service is friendly and efficient, making it an easy choice for a casual meal that still feels special.
Why go?
Come for the unfussy atmosphere, stay for the reliably delicious food – from perfectly grilled steaks to standout seafood – all served with genuine charm.
Unfussy atmosphere meets reliably delicious food, Image Credit: Espresso
Details
a: 23A Cnr 10th & 4th Avenue, Parkhurst, Johannesburg
w: espressoparkhurst.com
t: +27 11 447 8700
h: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday, 09h00 – 21h00, Thursday and Friday, 09h00 – 22h00; Sunday, 09h00 – 20h00
Mr George
Fresh, locally inspired flavours take centre stage at this laid-back yet polished eatery. Think sizzling charcoal-grilled steaks, vibrant sushi, crisp salads, gourmet burgers, and wood-fired pizzas – all prepared with care and flair.
Why go?
A versatile menu, fresh ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect pitstop for any appetite. Whether it’s a quick coffee, a relaxed lunch, or a hearty dinner with friends, every dish and drink is made to please.
Explore the versatile menu at this laid-back yet polished eatery, Image Credit: Mr George
Details
a: 3 The High Street, Melrose Arch, Melrose, Johannesburg
w: mrgeorge.co.za
t: +27 11 684 2999
e: reservations@mrgeorge.co.za
h: Sunday to Tuesday, 11h00 – 22h00; Wednesday to Saturday, 11h00 – 22h30
PAUL
With roots tracing back to 1889, PAUL brings its French heritage to life through artisanal baking and classic café fare. From flaky pastries and fresh breads to hearty breakfasts, gourmet lunches, and elegant dinners.
Why go?
A taste of France as part of your everyday, perfect for a morning coffee, a business lunch, or a lingering catch-up over pastries. Everything is made daily from scratch.
A taste of France as part of your everyday, Image Credit: PAUL
Details
PAUL Melrose Arch
a: Melrose Arch Shopping Centre, Melrose North
w: paulsa.co.za
t: +27 10 020 9208
h: Sunday to Thursday, 07h00 – 21h00; Friday and Saturday: 07h00 – 22h00
PAUL Bryanston
a: Winifred Mandela Precinct, Bryanston
w: paulsa.co.za
t: +27 10 025 6349
h: Monday to Sunday, 07h00 – 18h00
PAUL Morningside
a: Morningside Shopping Centre, Morningside
w: paulsa.co.za
t: +27 10 020 9204
h: Sunday and Monday, 07h00 – 18h00; Tuesday and Wednesday: 07h00 – 20h00; Thursday to Saturday: 07h00 – 21h00
Olives and Plates
Built on the belief that happiness is best when shared, Olives and Plates brings people together over extraordinary food and heartfelt service. They honour flavours passed down through generations while adding their own creative touch.
Why go?
For soulful flavours, genuine hospitality, and a dining experience that turns every meal into a celebration. They craft dishes that feel like home – warm, comforting, and made to be enjoyed in good company.
Every meal is a shared celebration, Image Credit: Olives and Plates
Details
The Club
a: 7 Yale Road, Parktown, Johannesburg
w: olivesandplates.co.za
t: +27 11 303 9282
e: club@olivesandplates.co.za
h: Monday to Friday, 07h30 – 16h00; Saturday and Sunday, 08h00 – 16h00
Embassy Towers
a: 175 Empire Place, Sandhurst
w: olivesandplates.co.za
t: +27 11 303 9293 / +27 10 007 1415
e: embassy@olivesandplates.co.za
h: Monday to Wednesday, 07h30 – 16h30; Thursday to Saturday, 07h30 – 22h00; Sunday, 08h00 – 16h30
Hyde Park
a: Hyde Park Corner Shopping Centre (inside Exclusive Books), Corner Jan Smuts Avenue and William Nicol Drive, Johannesburg
w: olivesandplates.co.za
t: +27 11 303 9280 / +27 10 013 1074
e: exclusive@olivesandplates.co.za
h: Monday to Saturday, 07h30 – 22h00; Sunday, 08h00 – 16h00
The Verge
a: 100 Linksfield Rd, Dowerglen, Johannesburg
w: olivesandplates.co.za
t: +27 11 303 9297
e: linksfield@olivesandplates.co.za
h: Monday to Saturday, 07h30 – 22h00; Sunday, 07h30 – 17h00
Chapter 3/9
Featured image credit: Valeria Boltneva
