Looking for the perfect balance between fantastic food and family-friendly facilities? You’ll find an array of options when in the City of Gold. Think mouth-watering kiddies’ menus, attentive staff, and playgrounds aplenty. If the kids are entertained, it means the parents can relax and enjoy – a win-win for everyone.
Here’s our round-up of the best restaurants for families in Johannesburg.
BAMBANANI
A Happy Family Haven
Located in the trendy Melville neighbourhood, Bambanani boasts contemporary décor and a delectable Mediterranean menu that is sure to satisfy the entire family. The restaurant is a haven for kids as young as six months and up to 12. It goes above and beyond with full-time childminders and an expansive play area, including a four-storey covered jungle gym, media room, library, and creative dress-up area. The kids can also look forward to a jam-packed activity schedule – from pottery and paper mosaic classes to face painting, puppet shows, and more.
Location: 85 4th Avenue, Melville, Johannesburg, South Africa.
THE EATALIAN
An Authentic Italian Experience for the Family
Family is at the heart of the Italian culture, and this is immediately evident when you sit down to eat at The Eatalian Restaurant in Sandton. Created by two Italian brothers, The Eatalian specialises in food so delicious, you’d think it came straight out of mama’s kitchen. Along with its rich, aromatic coffee and truffles, this restaurant is famous for its specialty family meals. Made to serve four, these generous meals include a cheesy Pizza Regina, classic Spaghetti Bolognese and indulgent Chicken Parmigiana. Dig in and enjoy!
Location: 126, 11th Street, Parkmore, Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa.
THE FISHMONGER
Fresh Seafood Delights
Scoping out the best seafood in Jozi? Head straight to The Fishmonger in the trendy suburb of Illovo. With a reputation for serving up some of the freshest seafood in the city, this restaurant has been a firm favourite among locals for years. The main menu (there’s a separate menu for the hungry kids) boasts a wide range of options, from succulent shellfish to sushi and fresh line fish. If you’re not a fan of seafood, not to worry – the restaurant also offers organic beef dishes and a selection of delicious Portuguese cuisine. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the service is top-notch.
Location: Thrupps Centre, 204 Oxford Rd, Illovo, Johannesburg, South Africa.
SMOKE DADDY’S
A Kids’ Paradise
If you’re looking for a lip-smacking meal and some downtime, Smoke Daddy’s is the ultimate family restaurant for parents with young children. It boasts two sprawling play areas with well-trained childminders and a menu crammed with family favourites, including sticky ribs, deluxe milkshakes, melt-in-your-mouth fillet medallions, cheesy pizzas and the juiciest burgers in town. There are even little tables where the kids can sit and eat together. Known for its generous portions, Smoke Daddy’s is where it’s easy to fill hungry tummies, relax and enjoy time spent with those you love most.
Location: Cedar Square Shopping Centre, Fourways, Johannesburg, South Africa.
MUNCH EATERY
Founded by Family, For Family
Fuelled by family passion, and both child- and pet-friendly, Munch Eatery is a true Joburg gem. The restaurant was founded in 2010 by father and son duo, Gerry and Matthew Scott-Lyon, who share a love for great food made with farm-fresh ingredients. Their philosophy has driven the restaurant’s success, which has now expanded to three sites around Johannesburg. Munch Eatery’s menu is filled with delicious café fare – and there’s plenty for the kids, too. From a classic kiddies’ brekkie and honey-soaked French toast to chicken strips, burgers and pizza, there’s plenty of choice for the fussiest of eaters. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the service is friendly, making it the perfect spot for casual dining with family and friends.
Locations:
- Munch Eatery Bryanston: GardenShop, 278 Main Road, Bryanston, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Munch Eatery Parktown: GardenShop, 167 Jan Smuts Avenue, Parktown, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Munch Eatery Fourways: Freerange Lifestyle Centre, 42 Witkoppen Road, Fourways, Johannesburg, South Africa.
MOZAMBIK
A Celebration of Afro-Porto Flavours
Mozambik’s Afro Porto-inspired flavours are unapologetically bold. From its humble beginnings as a standalone restaurant in Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal, the Mozambik brand has seen rapid growth over the past five years, now with 24 restaurants nationally – most of which boast a massive children’s play area. Mozambik’s menu is a feast for the senses, with dishes that are inspired by the culinary traditions of Mozambique and Portugal. From the famous peri-peri chicken to succulent prawns and other fresh seafood, this lively restaurant has something for everyone.
Locations:
- Mozambik Fourways: Shop 15, Leaping Frog Shopping Centre, Corner William Nicol & Mulbarton Road, Fourways, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Mozambik Bedfordview: Eastgate Shopping Centre, Shop R14, 43 Bradford Rd, Bedfordview, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Mozambik Sunninghill: Sunninghill Square, Corner Leeukop Street and Naivasha Road, Sunninghill, Johannesburg, South Africa.
