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Top Dessert Spots in Johannesburg for Your Sweet Tooth
It’s indisputable that everyone has a little bit of a sweet tooth—from adults and kids to those who are young at heart. Luckily, you don’t have to let your sweet cravings pass when in Johannesburg thanks to the many dessert spots around the city!
This South African city is home to some of the best desserts on the continent. Ice creams, candies, cakes—you name them, Johannesburg has them!
To help you decide which ones to check out, here’s our list of the city’s best dessert spots.
1. Forest Gelato
Address:
The Village Shopping Centre, 60 Tyrone Ave, Parkview, Randburg, 2193
44 Stanley Ave, Braamfontein Werf, Johannesburg, 2092
Website: https://www.forestgelato.co.za/
Contact Number: 087 808 0438
Operating Hours:
- Parkview:
- Monday to Thursday: 11h00 – 18h00
- Friday: 11h00-21h00 (summer hours from 1 September to 30 April)
- Saturday: 09h00 – 18h00
- Sunday: 09h00 – 16h00
- 44 Stanley, Braamfontein Werf:
- Monday to Friday: 10h00 – 17h00
- Saturday: 10h00 – 17h00
- Sunday: 10h00 – 17h00
Forest Gelato is a dessert destination that sets itself apart by crafting gelato and sorbet from scratch, prioritizing the use of fresh, high-quality, and often seasonal ingredients. Their commitment to sustainability and innovation in flavors makes them a unique choice for gelato lovers.
Forest Gelato’s commitment to using fresh, natural ingredients is one of its strongest selling points. With no artificial additives, preservatives, or colorants, their gelato delivers pure, authentic flavors that reflect the quality of the raw materials. Seasonal fruit-based options like Fresh Apricot and Apricot Kernel as well as Cling Peach with Basil stand out for their vibrant taste and freshness.
The rotating menu offers a sense of discovery, with flavors like Masala Chai, Orange and Szechuan Pepper, and Fresh Plum with Kirsch showcasing their creativity. Their ability to incorporate herbs they grow themselves adds a personal, farm-to-scoop touch.
Incorporating vegan gelato and sorbets into their offerings demonstrates an inclusive approach to catering to diverse dietary preferences. This makes Forest Gelato a welcoming spot for vegans and those who avoid dairy, with no compromise on flavor.
Forest Gelato’s dedication to reducing their carbon footprint is commendable. The use of biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable containers and cutlery aligns with eco-conscious values, appealing to customers who prioritize environmentally friendly choices.
The curated, nature-inspired vibe of Forest Gelato complements their focus on fresh and seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere feels artisanal and thoughtful, adding to the overall experience.
| Pro Tip: Seasonal offerings ensure that the menu remains exciting for frequent visitors. However, these flavors are only available for a limited time, so make sure to order them when you see them! |
2. Doppio Zero
Website: https://doppio.co.za/restaurant/rosebank/
Contact Number: +27 11 447 9538
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday, 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday to Monday, 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Doppio Zero is one dessert spot in Johannesburg that will leave you smiling long after your meal here. That’s because this eatery doesn’t just serve some fantastic sweets but also savoury food items such as halloumi eggs, soft shell tacos, and buttered chicken.
Their desserts are nothing short of spectacular, as they have just the right level of sweetness and creaminess. This is especially true for their decadent chocolate cake, blueberry cheesecake, and their chocolate beignets.
| Pro Tip: Ask their friendly wait staff about their different seasonal specials. During our visit, they had their Coco-Me series, which included crepes, lattes, and shakes with their signature chocolate flavour. |
3. Gelato La Cremosa
Address: Melrose Arch, Shop 12, The high street Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa
Website: https://www.gelatolacremosa.com/
Contact Number: +27 87 291 2307
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday, 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
You know it’s genuine Italian ice cream if Italians love it, and that rings true for Gelato La Cremosa, a quaint ice cream parlour located in Johannesburg. What we liked about this spot is their use of all-natural ingredients for that genuine taste!
All of their flavours are displayed for everyone to see and choose from, and these include almond and honey, caramello, nocciola, pistachio, cioccolato bianco, and creamy mango. We highly recommend that you try their Nutella-flavoured ice cream!
| Pro Tip: If you want something more filling with your ice cream, you can also pair their delicious flavours with their waffles. |
4. Paul Patisserie and Café
Address: Melrose Arch Corner High Street, Crescent Dr, &, 2076, South Africa
Distance from JO: 45 minutes
Website: https://www.paulsa.co.za/?y_source=1_MTU1NDQxNzEtNzE1LWxvY2F0aW9uLndlYnNpdGU%3D
Contact Number: +27 87 351 6091
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday, 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday, 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Paul Patisserie and Café is one of the best and most popular dessert spots in South Africa, and it’s not hard to see why. They offer some of the most mouth-watering breads and pastries in Johannesburg such as blueberry cheesecake, brownies, and eclairs.
However, this cafe became well-known across the country for its best-selling creme brulee and its divine macaroons. You can bring these dessert items up a notch by enjoying them with the cafe’s signature cappuccino or hot chocolate drink!
| Pro Tip: We recommend that you drop by this cafe early if you want to try out their creme brulee. Most customers order it, and stocks can run out pretty fast! |
5. Melt Chocolates
Address: Nicolway Shopping Centre, Winnie Mandela Dr, Bryanston, Johannesburg, 2191, South Africa
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Melt-Chocolates-Nicolway-Bryanston-100063653373070/
Contact Number: +27 11 463 1578
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Sunday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
We truly believe that Melt Chocolates is an aptly named coffee shop in Bryanston, as you will want to stay here and melt the day away! Aside from their chocolates, they also serve some heavenly cakes such as lemon drizzle and chocolate fudge cake.
Plus, Melt Chocolates offers some of the most varied and fresh salads and canapes on this side of Johannesburg. Their best-sellers, though, are their bite-sized melt-in-your-mouth chocolates, such as dulce de leche, caramel, and mint fondant!
| Pro Tip: The store offers hot beverages such as coffee and tea, but if the South African weather is a bit too hot, you can order their cold drinks as well. They have Freezochino, an iced coffee shake, to help you stay cool! |
6. Château Gâteaux
Address: Shop 20A, Thrupps Illovo Centre, 204 Oxford Rd, Illovo, Sandton, 2196, South Africa
Distance from JO: 32 minutes
Website: https://chateaugateaux.co.za/
Contact Number: +27 11 268 2211
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday, 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM
- Sunday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Hand-crafted cakes are a special treat, and here at Chateau Gateaux, you can readily enjoy these artisanal delights! Their menu items include Daily Delights, Signature Cheesecakes, and Variety Packs consisting of four different cake flavours.
If you’re planning to surprise someone or celebrate a special occasion, you can also order a cake from their Celebration Creations product line. Some of these celebration cakes include Caramel Velvet, Pinata Birthday Cake, and our favourite, Choco Ombre!
| Pro Tip: You can also just sample small portions of their cakes through their Mini Collection. A bite-sized slice of their cake only costs around ZAR 40 to 50, but you can also purchase 30 bite-sized pieces for ZAR 1,000. |
7. XO Patisserie
Address: Shop 127, 27 Boxes Mall, 76 4th Avenue, Melville, Johannesburg, 2109, South Africa
Website: http://www.xando.co.za/xo/
Contact Number: +27 82 040 0787
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
XO Patisserie draws crowds thanks to their amazing cronuts! People can’t seem to help but order tons of these sweet treats thanks to their fantastic flavours and texture—something that you should look forward to when you order your first one!
You’ll note that the bread base used in these cronuts is filling and lightly flavoured.
To top it all off, XO Patisserie uses some of the most delicious icing toppings, like candy sprinkles and almonds. They’re pleasantly not too sweet!
| Pro Tip: Cronuts aren’t the only thing you can order from XO Patisserie. Some of their best-sellers include Crazy Shakes, and we found their vanilla chocolate chip and choco hazelnut shakes to be out of this world! |
8. Sally Williams
Address: 46 Galaxy Ave, Linbro Business Park, Johannesburg, 2065, South Africa
Website: https://sallywilliamsfinefoods.com/
Contact Number: +27 11 608 3344
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- Closed on Saturday and Sunday
Sally Williams offers some of the most comprehensive product lines when it comes to chocolate and dessert snacking. They have almond nougat bars, milk chocolate bars, rose Turkish delight chocolate bars, and a decadent macadamia nougat bar.
They also have snack packs that are ideal for sharing, offering the same chocolate flavours but with more than enough for you to share with your loved ones. You can also purchase a gift pack that comes in a beautiful box that’s perfect for special occasions!
| Pro Tip: Sally Williams regularly gives away free stuff to their loyal customers and social media followers. Simply check out their social media page to stay updated on what they’re currently giving away for free (e.g. snack hamper). |
9. Rather Tart
Address: SHOP 8A, 100 South Rd, Morningside, Sandton, 2196, South Africa
Distance from JO: 1 hour and 4 minutes
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rathertart/
Contact Number: +27 82 558 5318
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
If you’re a crepe and waffle fanatic like us, then Rather Tart is the dessert spot to be when you’re in Sandton. Of course, these treats are combined with other sweet ingredients such as chocolate chips, ice cream, and syrups (maple and chocolate).
Their sweet waffles are unforgettable with a crispy exterior, soft interior, and light flavour.
You can customise your waffle and crepe experience here as well, adding toppings such as ice cream, strawberries and cream, marshmallows, and sweet peanut butter.
| Pro Tip: If you want something savoury before dessert, Rather Tart also offers some delicious savoury crepes. Ask the wait staff about them, but you may want to try out those that are topped with their Parma ham and salmon! |
10. Paul’s Homemade Ice Cream
Address: The Zone Mall, 117 Oxford Service Rd, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa
Website: https://paulshomemade.com/
Contact Number: +27 81 703 5558
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Sunday, 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
If you’re looking for high-quality ice cream, Paul’s Homemade Ice Cream got you covered. You won’t have to look for any other type of ice cream once you’re in their store; they have everything from bars to cakes!
Plus, you can order other dessert items such as truffles, cookies, and personalised (non-ice cream) cakes. What’s more, you can make your furry friends happy when you purchase their Pupcakes or Dog Stix!
| Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask the store staff about their flavour of the month. As of the time of writing, they’re offering a nougat-flavoured ice cream that they made with 1701! |
11. Moody Cow
Address: Clearwater Mall, Hendrik Potgieter Rd, Strubens Valley, Roodepoort, 1735, South Africa
Distance from JO: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Contact Number: +27 10 593 2740
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday, 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday, 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday, 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Gelatos and waffles galore are what’s up at Moody Cow in Roodepoort. Here, you can order waffles or crepes and have them topped with your favourite gelato flavours such as chocolate, strawberries, and their best-seller, vanilla!
In addition, you can further increase the sweetness level of your waffles by topping the gelatos with other sweet add-ons. These include berries, raisins, peanut butter syrup, chocolate syrup, marshmallows, and chocolate chip cookies; the options are endless!
| Pro Tip: If you still want something sweet but a little bit more light, you can try their shakes or lemonades. Some of their famous shakes include cocoa and popcorn flavours, and their flavoured lemonades are best-sellers. |
