Must-Try Restaurants at Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton

There’s a host of popular, award-winning restaurants at Nelson Mandela Square that continue to position Johannesburg as one of the culinary capitals of South Africa. Expect to find the very best of fine cuisine, premium steaks, seafood and everything in between. We list some of the best picks to try.

TANG Sandton

If you’re after decadent and carefully crafted Pan Asian cuisine, head to the award-winning TANG Sandton overlooking the piazza at Nelson Mandela Square. Executive Chef Vixa Kalenga’s depth of kitchen creativity extends to an inspiring choice of wok dishes, prime cuts from the robata grill and a menu of classic and modern sushi plates.

‘From the beginning, TANG was created as a pan-Asian restaurant. We’re not fusion,’ says Kalenga. ‘Each dish stays true to the country of origin, and in the kitchen, we work incredibly hard to honour and respect those time-honoured culinary traditions.’

When: Daily, from 12pm to 11pm
Where: Shop No 120, Nelson Mandela Square, Cnr Rivonia Road and Central Sandton, Sandton, Johannesburg

Website: jhb.tanghospitality.com | Email: [email protected] | Tel & Whatsapp: 076 652 8972

The Raj Restaurant

The Raj has been satisfying the Indian cravings right here in Joburg since their very first launch in 1996 by Dr Arun Jairath. Today you’ll find their venues in Sun City, Pretoria, and Cape Town, but the Nelson Mandela Square outposts continue to court residents and visitors alike with their North Indian dishes.

The Raj prides itself on its tandoor-grilled kebabs, prawns, chicken and naan as well as an expansive menu boasting a healthy selection of vegetarian and meat dishes. Some favourites to look out for are the Springbok Tikka cooked in the tandoori oven and then simmered in a creamy onion and tomato gravy, flavoured; the Goanese crab curry cooked in a tomato-based sauce; and the spicy chicken Vindaloo. This Indian restaurant in Johannesburg is here to stay if its past ten years of service are anything to go by.

When: Monday to Thursday, from 12pm to 10pm, Friday to Sunday, from 12pm to 11pm
Where: Nelson Mandela Square, 5th St, Sandton, Johannesburg

Website: therajindianrestaurant.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 783 1521

Trumps Grillhouse & Butchery

Trumps Grillhouse & Butchery has been regarded as one of the top steakhouses in Johannesburg since its launch in 1994. Owners and brothers Dennis and Allen command a loyal group of regulars. Expect a casual dining area with a timeless, sophisticated feel that overlooks the iconic Nelson Mandela Square fountain, two separate dining rooms, a wine cellar, and a concept butchery.

The cellar at the iconic Nelson Mandela Square fountain is centred around a curated line of proudly South African wines to complement any meal and occasion.

When: Daily, from 11am to 10pm
Where: Nelson Mandela Square, 5th St &, Rivonia Rd, Sandton, Johannesburg

Website: trumpsgrill.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 784 2366

Cilantros

Cilantros serves a sophisticated selection of seafood, tapas, pasta, and grilled dishes prepared with only the best and freshest ingredients. Leafing through their menu, you’ll find fresh langoustines, sole, Mozambican prawns and lots more.

This restaurant in Sandton is a popular haunt for power lunches and weekend date meetups thanks to the bar area, indoor seating, and patio spots giving ground-level views over Nelson Mandela Square’s piazza. Their recipes and preparation techniques have been passed down from the famous Vilamoura Restaurant.

When: Sunday to Thursday, 11am to 10pm. Friday & Saturday, 11am to 10.30pm
Where: L25, Nelson Mandela Square, 5th St, Sandton, Johannesburg

Website: cilantros.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 784 2510

Shazmin’s Luxe Patisserie

Shazmin’s Luxe Patisserie is elevating the brunch experience in Johannesburg with its elegant and cutesy pink interior in a range of shades. Commonly known as one of Joburg’s most Instagrammable spots, the cafe specialises in French-style pastries, confectionery, all-day breakfast, lunch and an extensive menu. Not sure where to start? Their high tea ties together some of the cafe’s best sweet and savoury treats on a gorgeous grazingstand – mustt be booked 3 days in advance.

When: Monday to Thursday, 12pm to 12am. Friday & Saturday, 12pm to 1am. Sunday, 11am to 12am
Where: Shop 112, Nelson Mandela Square, 5th St, Sandton, Johannesburg

Website: shazmins.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 064 511 2658

Hard Rock Cafe Johannesburg

Hard Rock Cafe has long been the standard for easy American cuisine, music fans, and all the rock and roll feels. Located right on the cusp of Sandton City and Nelson Mandela Square, the global franchise chose Johannesburg as its first South African outlet when it opened in 2014.

The menu is made up of shared starter plates, grilled ribs and other fast food faves such as their popular Legendary® Burger with a steak patty, Applewood bacon, American cheddar cheese and crispy onion ring. The burger joint brings together the eclectic style of rock ‘n’ roll with imported designer features and some amazing signed artefacts from the world of rock and pop. Marvel at the polished marble bar and a floating constellation of more than 7,000 drumsticks.

When: Monday to Thursday, 11.30am to 12am. Friday to Saturday, 11.30am to 1am. Sunday, 11.30am to 12am
Where: Nelson Mandela Square, 5th St, Sandton, Johannesburg

Website: hardrockcafe.com | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 784 3144

Tashas Café

Tashas Café is all about beautiful food, stunning environments and engaging delivery. This popular cafe in Johannesburg tempts guests with the easy-going elegance and warm hospitality that makes them feel at home with friends.

They serve uncomplicated comfort food bursting with flair and imagination. Only the very best, impeccably fresh ingredients will do, grown, raised and farmed by their handpicked suppliers and artisans. Also at the Nelson Mandela Square venue is Flamingo Room by Tashas, a chic, yet relaxed fine dining experience hosting for lunch into the evening for dinners and cocktails.

When: Tuesday & Wednesday, 7:30am to 8:30pm. Thursday to Saturday, 7:30am to 10pm. Sunday, 7:30am to 3pm
Where: Nelson Mandela Square, 5th St, Sandton, Johannesburg

Website: tashascafe.com | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 076 586 8313

La Parada

La Parada at Nelson Mandela Square is renowned for its unique twist on innovative and mouth-watering dishes that are served with a dash of Spanish flavour. You can unwind in a stylishly decorated space, all while enjoying refreshing cocktails and scrumptious tapas.

When: Daily, from 11am to midnight
Where: Shop 30B, Nelson Mandela Square, 5th St, Sandton, Johannesburg

Website: laparada.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 010 001 0793

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: Sunday to Thursday, 8am to 10pm. Friday to Saturday, 8am to 10.30pm.
Where: Nelson Mandela Square, 5th St, Sandton, Johannesburg

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

The Butcher Shop & Grill

One of Joburg’s most respected steakhouses, The Butcher Shop & Grill has seen a bit of a glow-up of late since their 2023 renovation.

Although the restaurant tempts with modern accompaniments like creamy mussels, blackened salmon and espetada, their dry-aged and boutique-butcher-quality steaks have become a staple on the permanent menu. Each option can be paired with homemade sauces and vegetable and starch sides. Match your meal with one of the finest local wines from their wine list.

When: Daily, from 11am to 10.30pm
Where: Shop 30, Nelson Mandela Square, 5th St, Sandton, Johannesburg

Website: thebutchershop.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 784 8676

The Big Mouth

The Big Mouth is a contemporary take on the classic diner infused with culinary influences and ingredients from around the globe, yet it is still uniquely South African. The menu varies from the freshest grilled seafood to gourmet burgers to a selection of world-class sushi, and the heart of the kitchen is the unique, world-renowned Josper grill, with the charcoal oven giving the hot dishes an authentic, robust chargrilled or “braai’d” flavour.

Like the menu, the restaurant is a harmonious mix of elements – black steel shopfronts, a majestic white marble-clad sushi bar, bold blue seating and brass accents throughout – all leading out onto the famous square.

When: Sunday to Monday, 11am to 10pm. Tuesday to Saturday, 11am to 10.30pm (Kitchen closes an hour prior)
Where: Shop No. 13 & 14, Nelson Mandela Square, Cnr Maude & 5th Streets, Johannesburg

Website: www.thebigmouth.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 010 634 2890

Habibi

Habibi introduces patrons to Lebanese cuisine, where every dish is crafted with love and tradition.

The restaurant offers an authentic dining experience filled with warmth, hospitality, and the rich flavours of Lebanon. From creamy hummus to perfectly grilled shawarma, every bite is a celebration of family and culture.

Whether you’re dining with loved ones, hosting a business lunch, or simply exploring vibrant Middle Eastern flavours, Habibi invites you to come as guests and leave as family.

When: Daily from 10.30am to 10pm
Where: Shop No. 108, Nelson Mandela Square, Cnr Maude & 5th Streets, Johannesburg

Website: habibieatery.co.za | Tel: 061 528 9725

Nonnas Italian Kitchen

An authentic Italian food bar, with a contemporary twist, Nonnas Italian Kitchen delivers a genuine taste of Italy, crafted with love and premium ingredients.

The restaurant offers not only delectable dishes but also a beautiful ambience that captures the warmth and charm of a classic Italian kitchen. Whether you’re indulging in our homemade pasta, savouring a perfectly baked pizza, or enjoying one of our signature desserts, each visit promises to be a delightful dining experience.

When: Monday to Tuesday, 9am to 10pm. Wednesday to Thursday, 10am to 11pm. Saturday, 7am to 8pm. Sunday, 9am to 8pm.
Where: Shop U108, Nelson Mandela Square, Cnr Maude & 5th Streets, Johannesburg

Website: nonnasitaliankitchen.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 069 449 0850

Al-Hamra

A vibrant and modern establishment bringing the authentic taste of Indian cuisine to the heart of Sandton. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, Al-Hamra offers a diverse menu of traditional Indian dishes bursting with flavour and made with the freshest ingredients. From fragrant curries to spicy tandoori meats, our chefs use only the finest herbs and spices to create unforgettable dishes that will tantalise your taste buds.

When: Saturday to Thursday, 10am to 10pm. Friday 1.30pm to 10pm
Where: Shop 118, Nelson Mandela Square, Sandown, Sandton, Johannesburg

Tel: 077 452 3501

Calisto’s

Calisto’s has gained popularity for its diverse menu offering, from the best flame-grilled Portuguese chicken to the finest seafood and meat, with meals that are freshly prepared in the traditional Portuguese way using only the freshest, finest ingredients available.

Its authentic character and vibrant and electric atmosphere fill these eateries with a delightful experience that will bring you back time and time again.

When: Monday to Saturday, 9am to 8pm. Sunday, 9am to 6pm.
Where: Shop 110, Nelson Mandela Square, Sandown, Sandton, Johannesburg

Website: www.calistos.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 078 404 0275