In both atmosphere and food, Greek restaurants are bold, lively and colourful. Here, mixed dips, slow-cooked lamb, fish on the bone, and a comforting moussaka can all be consumed in an equally vibey environment. With one of the largest Greek populations in South Africa, Joburg has got you covered with cute and classy dining spots serving up authentic Hellenic eats.

Kolonaki Greek Kouzina

Kolonaki Greek Kouzina on 4th Avenue Parkhurst enjoys a solid reputation as one of Joburg’s top Greek restaurants. The unique vibe of the restaurant is its take on Greek food with heavy Mediterranean influences that embody this philosophy in their moreish menu.

Their menu guides foodies through a selection of homemade dips and carefully selected meats and line-caught seafood. The dips are the place to start, before working your way through from the small plates to the larger share plates and mains. Their slow-cooked lamb served on a bed of roasted tomatoes is definitely worth a try.

The mood is relaxed with loads of natural light giving the space somewhat of a Mediterranean feel and the perfect place to have a heart-to-heart with friends over a stately meal.

When: Monday to Thursday, 11:30m to 11pm; Friday & Saturday, 11:30am till late; Sunday, 11:30 to 10:30pm
Where: 18 4th Avenue Cnr, 9th St, Parkhurst, Randburg

Pappas on the Square

If you’re looking for Greek restaurants in Johannesburg and don’t head to Pappas on the Square at Nelson Mandela Square, you’ve pretty much missed out on one of the city’s most popular Hellenic experiences. This family-owned eatery has been going for over 30 years and serves up a medley of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.

From their sharing plate offering, try the grilled mushrooms with zucchini fritters, Greek meatballs, and grilled sardines served in lemon juice and olive oil. For sweets, be sure to check out some of the traditional Greek desserts and the homemade soft gelato.

When: Monday to Thursday, 8am to 10pm. Friday to Sunday, 8am to 10:30pm
Where: Nelson Mandela Square, 5th St, Sandton, Johannesburg

Website: pappasrestaurant.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 884 9991

Ethos

Ethos restaurant at Oxford Parks in Rosebank has long been ranked as one of the popular Mediterranean restaurants in Johannesburg thanks to their finely crafted menu and aesthetic interiors.

Head chef Leigh Pike conceives a fresh philosophy of authentic and honest dishes inspired by the Mediterranean and combines traditional and modern techniques. Diners can expect dishes such as Greek-style meatballs plated with sundried tomatoes and chimichurri, a beautiful Jerusalem artichoke with a medley of vegetables, steak and Wagyu cuts, seafood and small plates.

The setting too leans heavily towards the Mediterranean with Grecian nudes, stark wood accents and Italian marble, and an ornate bar area. Go here for sundowners with a warm glow washing in, or date nights with a moody atmosphere.

When: Monday to Saturday, 12pm to 10pm | Sunday, 12pm to 9pm
Where: Ethos Restaurant, Cnr Eastwood and Parks Blvd, Oxford Parks, Rosebank, Johannesburg

Website: ethosrestaurant.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 010 446 9906

Mythos

Mythos is a small chain of Greek restaurants with venues in Johannesburg, Pretoria and Cape Town. The concept was launched in 2006 by George Kutra whose focus was very much on authentic Greek cuisine, freshly prepared and served in an idyllic and welcoming atmosphere.

On the menu is an enjoyable variety of meze, traditional cooked meals such as kleftiko and moussaka, meat, fish, seafood dishes, light lunch options in pita, and much more. Vegetarians are well catered for and there are tantalising dessert dishes.

When: Daily from 11am to 10pm. Times may vary
Where: Venues at Design Quarter in Fourways, Cradlestone Mall in Krugersdorp, Waterfall Wilds in Midrand, Meyersdal. Pretoria venues include Irene Village Mall, Brooklyn Design Square, and Linton’s Corner

Website: mythos.co.za | Email: [email protected]

Soul Souvlaki

One of the most popular Greek dining spots in Joburg is Soul Souvlaki, which started way back in 2012 in a container space in Maboneng. Founder Dino Vlachos always remained steadfast with his approach to ‘Greek street food done the right way.”

Soul Souvlaki can today be found at 7 venues in Johannesburg with each one boasting it’s own rustic interior style. The menu is modern with a playful touch, and highlights include marinated pieces of chicken and lamb grilled to perfection on skewers and served alongside a zesty Aegean slaw or rolled in artisanal warm pitas with tzatziki, rocket, tomato, red onion and chilli.

Those with a sweet tooth will love the baklava, chocolate melomakarona and kourabiedes, all artisanally made. You’ll also find mini-fridges stocked with our own homemade ice cream in flavours like Ek Mek Kataifi and Halva.

Don’t leave without trying the coffee offering, imported from Greece and prepared in traditional brikis (copper pots) over an open flame to produce the ultimate rich and refined Greek coffee.

When: Opening times vary per venue
Where: Venues in Rosebank, Sandton Central, Parktown North, Bedfordview, Broadacres, Alberton and Dowerglen

Website: soulsouvlaki.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 452 8770

Filotimo Greek Taverna

There’s a big focus on simplicity at Filotmimo Greek Taverna in Bryanston. That philosophy is evident from the quaint and quirky taverna-inspired interiors and uncomplicated yet comforting platters and share plates. Let the waiters guide you through options that start with a mezze of salty saganaki, or a plate of house-made dips like tarama, eggplant and tzatziki, and fiery peppadew dip.

For mains, there’s a smorgasbord of meats and seafood. The lamb is slow-cooked and sliced straight from the grill, and vegans and vegetarians are in for an inventive selection of wraps, fritters, salads and much more.

When: Tuesday to Sunday, various times. Closed on Monday
Where: 277 Main Road, Bryanston, Sandton

Email: [email protected] | Tel: 010 035 5035

The Greek Taverna

The Greek Taverna is inspired by the rich culinary traditions and vibrant culture of Greece. This taverna in Germiston offers a dining experience that transports you to the shores of the Mediterranean. A wide offering of started and sharing plates are the real heroes on the menu, customers can opt for the plated souvlaki or platters which gives you an assortment of tasting dips and grills, lamb chops cooked the Greek way, and sweet treats to end.

All dishes are made with the freshest, locally sourced ingredients and traditional recipes passed down through generations. Go here for a family feast, a romantic dinner, or a lively gathering with friends.

When: Monday to Friday, 10:30am to 9am. Saturday, 8:30am to 9am. Sunday, 8:30am to 4pm
Where: 7 Civin Drive, Senderwood, Germiston, Johannesburg

Website: thegreektaverna.org | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 084 444 7335

Nikos

The signature at Nikos is making sure their authentic Greek menu comes packed with smoky, coal-grilled flavours. Portions are generous, the mood is modern and unfussed, and the family is always welcome.

The menu features stacked roasted eggplant, Halloumi saganaki, falafel bowls and arguably the best hummus in Johannesburg. For mains, try the grill platters with chicken and beef skewers, lamb chops, and Greek-style chicken livers. The gyros and souvlakis taste pretty close to the homeland’s, too.

Not sure where to start? Op for one of the set menus with the chef’s selection or meze or a Greek feast of starters, mains and dessert.

When: Times vary per venue
Where: Venues at Pineslopes Shopping Centre and Bowman Building in Sandton, and Montecasino

Website: nikosgreek.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 883 0938

Molitva

Molitva is a Mediterranean restaurant located in the Cradle of Humankind, approximately 3km from the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve. Head chef and part owner, Milan Cerimaj, describes the cuisine as “Orthodox Mediterranean” with subtle twists and adaptations.

The restaurant hones in on fresh, organic, homegrown fruits and vegetables, offering a menu centred around a variety of mezze and tapas-style dishes from various Mediterranean cuisines. For those seeking more substantial fare, Molitva serves up homemade pasta, salads, a choice of grills and burgers.

You’ll find the restaurant tucked in the lush countryside with gorgeous mountain views, perfect for a family day out, a romantic date, or a relaxed gathering with friends.

When: Wednesday to Sunday, 9am to 9pm. Closed on Monday and Tuesday
Where: Plot 10, Teak Place, Kromdraai Rd, Protea Ridge, Johannesburg

Website: molitva.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 069 146 3896

AKTI Meditteranean

Akti Mediterranean restaurant, founded by the folks who gave us George’s Grill House, offers modern Mediterranean with locations in both Rosebank and Bedfordview.

On the menu are dishes such as moussaka, tender souvlaki, crispy spanakopita, and grilled octopus. The restaurant also offers a selection of wood-fired pizzas adorned with fresh local ingredients and handmade pastas that blend traditional Italian recipes with European flair. And to round out your dining experience, run your eyes over the curated selection of wines from Greece and beyond, as well as signature cocktails infused with Mediterranean herbs and seasonal fruits.

When: Daily, from 11:30am to 10pm
Where: The Zone @Rosebank, 177 Oxford Rd, Rosebank, Johannesburg

Website: akti.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 010 497 5444

Sass Cafe

Drawing from their Mediterranean heritage, the founders’ palates are attuned to high-visual and flavourful dishes, and they’ve spared no effort in crafting an extensive menu for every occasion. You can dine on pasta, pizza, sushi and salads. Unsure of what to go for? Try the signature dishes with various steak cuts cooked creatively in six different ways.

Their tapas selection serves up a range of small plates packed with dishes such as Turkish dips with bread, Lebanese cabbage rolls, Ostrich Carpaccio, and much more. Order a few with cocktails, and your sundowners are set.

When: Daily, from 7am to 10:30pm
Where: 3 Iris Rd, Bedfordview, Johannesburg

Website: sasscafe.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 082 453 7561

Mezepoli Restaurant

Mezepoli Restaurant at Melrose Arch offers a vibrant dining experience that seamlessly blends Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Asian flavours. The menu is designed around the concept of meze—an extensive offering of seafood, vegetarian and meat small plates that come packed with flavourful dishes meant for sharing. Beyond the meze, there are fresh sushi, pita with dips, and dessert selections to try.

Expect a relaxed mood with minimalist interiors and lots of natural light washing in to complement the restaurant’s lively atmosphere. When the weather is good, head outdoors under spacious canopies where guests can enjoy their meals al fresco while soaking in the vibey surrounds of Melrose Arch.

When: Tuesday to Saturday, 11am to 10pm. Sunday and Monday, 11am to 9pm
Where: The Piazza at Melrose Arch, SL26, Whiteley Rd, Johannesburg

Website: mezepoli.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 684 1162

See more restaurant guides in our Food and Drink section