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You haven’t tried the BEST restaurants in Durban if you haven’t been to these
If you think Durban’s food scene is all about beachside shacks and simple meals, think again. As someone who’s dived into the city’s culinary landscape firsthand, I can tell you there’s a world of flavours waiting to be discovered.
From spicy curries to fresh seafood, the best restaurants in Durban offer a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Ready to explore the city’s top dining spots? Let’s dive in!
9th Avenue Waterside
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Website: https://www.9thavewaterside.co.za/
Address: 2 Maritime Pl, Harbour
Phone: +27 31 940 4628
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 11 AM to 11 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
9th Avenue Waterside has a great focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients, and that really comes through in their seafood. It’s the kind of place where you know each dish is thoughtfully prepared, with the quality shining through.
I ordered the seafood platter, and the grilled calamari was smokey and tender, with the kabeljou adding a nice meaty bite. What surprised me was the biryani-style rice on the side; its fragrant spices added a warm, subtle flavour that paired nicely with the seafood.
| Pro Tip: Grab a table near the windows to enjoy views of the harbour while you dine. It adds a relaxed vibe to the meal, especially around sunset. |
The Grill Jichana
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Address: Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani, 63 Snell Parade, North Beach
Phone: +27 31 362 1300
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 6 PM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 4 PM
The Grill Jichana specialises in high-quality cuts of meat, sourced locally for freshness. Their dishes are elevated with rich African spices like cassia, cardamom, and turmeric, adding bold flavours to each bite.
I recommend the grilled chicken, which is seasoned with a blend of cardamom and turmeric for a rich flavour. Pair it with a glass of red wine to enhance the meal.
| Pro Tip: Arrive early and enjoy a stroll along Durban’s beachfront before your dinner at the restaurant. The sunset views are a great way to start your evening out. |
Joop’s Place
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Website: https://www.joopsplace.co.za/
Address: 14, Avonmore Centre, NINTH Avenue, Essenwood
Phone: +27 82 551 7199
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 5 PM
Joop’s Place is a cosy, family-run steakhouse that focuses on well-cooked steaks and a friendly atmosphere. What makes it stand out is the way they cook their meat to exactly your preference, ensuring a hearty and satisfying meal.
One of my personal favourites is the lamb shank and mash; it’s tender and flavorful. I usually pair it with their house red, but you can also bring your own wine for a small corkage fee.
| Pro Tip: On Saturday evenings, get a huge 1.5 kg of pork ribs with a side for R299. It’s a great deal for the amount of food you get, and it’s meant for one person to enjoy solo. |
Cafe Jiran
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cafejiran/
Address: Belaire Hotel Suites, 151 Snell Parade, North Beach
Phone: +27 31 332 4485
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 12 PM to 10 PM
Café Jiran operates as a coffee shop during the day and transforms into a gastro-restaurant in the evening. It caters to various dietary needs with options for both vegetarians and vegans.
I love their eggs Benedict, with its creamy hollandaise sauce that pairs perfectly with the poached eggs. For something heartier, the beef and Guinness pie is fantastic; the tender beef is simmered in rich Guinness gravy and wrapped in a flaky pastry.
| Pro Tip: Enjoy happy hour from Monday to Thursday, 5 PM to 6 PM, and Friday to Sunday, 5 PM to 7 PM. Buy any wine by the glass, beer, cider, or canned soft drink, and get a second one free. |
Madam & Sir
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Website: https://madamandsir.co.za/
Address: 262 Florida Rd, Morningside
Phone: +27 31 816 6670
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 9 AM to 10 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 8 AM to 11:30 PM
- Sunday – 8 AM to 10 PM
Madam & Sir offers a lively atmosphere with a menu that mixes classic and creative dishes. It’s a reliable choice whether you’re starting your day or looking for a satisfying meal later on.
I always go for the Sir Breakfast when I’m here. Those eggs, bacon, and sausage work well together to start my day. For a lighter option, I like the M&S Seafood Delight, which features tender fish with a tangy sauce that brings out its natural flavour.
| Pro Tip: If you’re tired of working from home, order any M&S breakfast and pay an extra R35 for bottomless cappuccino. Enjoy free Wi-Fi and a comfortable workspace while you’re there. |
Butcher Boys
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Website: https://butcherboysgrill.co.za/
Address: 170 Florida Rd, Morningside
Phone: +27 31 312 8248
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Tuesday – 11 AM to 9 PM
- Wednesday to Saturday – 11 AM to 10 PM
Butcher Boys is known for its dedication to high-quality beef, featuring a secret basting sauce and a carefully curated wine list. Their steakhouse menu showcases local beef at its best, with generous portions and a reputation for flavour.
I tried the buffalo wings as a starter, which were perfectly crispy and flavorful. For the main course, I had a 200 g rump steak with a mushroom sauce. Though I prefer my steak a bit more cooked, the taste was spot-on.
| Pro Tip: Check out their lunchtime promo from 12 pm to 4 pm. For R170, you can enjoy a 2-course meal, including a starter and a main course. |
Spiga
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpigaOriginal/
Address: 465 Innes Rd, Morningside
Phone: +27 67 138 1115
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 8 PM
Spiga is a classic spot for Italian fare that I’ve been enjoying for years. Their menu offers a comforting mix of hearty dishes and consistently good flavours.
Their feta and onion garlic focaccia is my favourite starter, featuring a mix of tangy feta and sweet caramelised onions in a garlic-infused crust. For the main course, the linguine di casa impresses with its creamy sauce and well-seasoned pasta.
| Pro Tips: When dining on an Italian menu, start with a light appetiser to tease your appetite, then enjoy your first course with carbs like pasta or risotto to prepare for the main protein-rich course. Moderation is key; enjoy each course without overindulging to fully appreciate the entire meal. |
Jack Salmon
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Website: https://www.jacksalmon.co.za/
Address: Shop 15, Glenore Centre, 1 Aubrey Dr, Glen Ashley
Phone: +27 31 572 3664
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 9 PM
Jack Salmon Fish House is known for its fresh seafood and extensive sushi menu. Their poke bowls are particularly noteworthy, allowing you to choose from soy-marinated salmon, tuna, or prawns.
I really liked the soy-marinated salmon; it was tender and flavorful, with a creamy touch from the sesame seeds and kewpie mayonnaise. The radish and pickled ginger added a nice, tangy crunch that made it all taste fresh and balanced.
| Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to let the staff know your preferences or any dietary restrictions. They’re great at accommodating requests and ensuring a memorable dining experience. |
NIKOS Suncoast
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Website: https://www.nikosgreek.co.za/restaurant/nikos-suncoast-casino
Address: Shop UR04 Suncoast Casino Suncoast Boulevard OR Tambo Drive
Phone: +27 31 942 2977
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11 AM to 9 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 11 AM to 10 PM
Nikos is all about home-style Greek cooking with a South African twist. They pride themselves on smoky, coal-grilled flavours and generous portions.
One dish I recommend is the moussaka, with its layers of brinjals, beef mince, and potatoes topped with creamy béchamel sauce. It’s a hearty and comforting choice that fills you up nicely.
| Pro Tip: Take advantage of the combo specials for R169, where you can mix and match dishes like wings with ribs or steak with calamari. Plus, enjoy free drinks with your combo meal on Fridays and Saturdays. |
Dukkah Restaurant and Bar
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Website: https://dukkah.co.za/
Address: 59 Florida Rd, Morningside
Phone: +27 31 271 3531
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 9 AM to 2 AM
Dukkah always has something new to offer, which keeps every visit exciting. I especially enjoy their woodfired roasted marrow bones—rich and buttery with a smoky edge, paired with a tangy and sweet kick.
For the main course, I highly recommend the Dukkah chicken. It has a perfect blend of spicy and creamy flavours that balance nicely and make for a satisfying meal.
| Pro Tip: Try to visit on a Sunday. They often feature live performances that add a great vibe to your dining experience. |
The Breakfast Room
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/the.breakfast.room20/
Address: 162 Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Point
Phone: +27 63 948 9227
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 8 AM to 5 PM
- Sunday – 8 AM to 4 PM
The Breakfast Room offers a cosy and welcoming atmosphere with an emphasis on great hospitality. The friendly staff makes you feel at home from the moment you walk in, which adds to the overall experience.
I had the chance to try their Kenyan coffee, and it was smooth and sweet. For breakfast, their all-day menu is mouth-watering; one standout was the fluffy scrambled eggs, which paired well with their crisp, fresh toast.
| Pro Tip: Don’t miss their Cocktails and Canvas event every first Friday of the month from 6 PM to 11 PM. It’s a fun way to enjoy art, food, and drinks while tapping into your creative side. |
The Curry O’s
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Address: Corner of Browns and, Lamp Rd, Point
Phone: +27 79 801 4542
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 5:15 PM
The Curry O’s is a great place to enjoy traditional Indian dishes in Durban. I love stopping by for their classic curry and bunny chow options.
The sugar bean bunny chow has a spicy, well-balanced sauce that soaks into the soft bread, and the beans add a hearty touch. I also enjoy the fresh chips, which are always crispy and golden, making for a satisfying crunch alongside the rich curry.
| Pro Tip: When eating bunny chow, scoop out some of the curry-soaked bread with the filling for a balanced bite. This way, you can enjoy both the curry and the soft bread together, making for a more satisfying meal. |
The Chefs’ Table
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Website: https://www.thechefstable.co.za/
Address: Protea Mall 1 Chartwell Drive 23-24 First Floor, Umhlanga
Phone: +27 31 001 0200
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 12 PM to 10 PM
The Chefs’ Table offers an interactive dining experience with an open kitchen, where you can watch the chefs prepare each dish.
When I visited, the artichoke starter stood out with its earthy, slightly nutty flavour, balanced by a hint of lemon. The fish of the day had a light, flaky texture, seasoned just right to let the natural taste of the fish come through without being overpowering.
| Pro Tip: Pair your meal with one of their wines. They have a reputation for choosing selections that complement the flavours nicely. |
Olive and Oil The Pavilion
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Website: https://oliveandoil.co.za/
Address: Rooftop, The Pavilion Shopping Centre, Jack Martens Drive, Westville
Phone: +27 31 201 6146
Operating Hours:
- Monday – 11 AM to 9 PM
- Tuesday to Thursday – 9 AM to 9 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 9 AM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 9 AM to 8 PM
Olive and Oil is renowned for its focus on gourmet steaks, served with careful attention to detail.
When I visited, I enjoyed their steak, which was juicy and cooked exactly as ordered, with a nice char on the outside. Additionally, the calamari I tried had a light, crunchy coating and was perfectly seasoned, making it a great choice to start your meal.
| Pro Tip: Visit on Mondays for their pizza and pasta specials. |
The Grill Room at the Oyster Box
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Website: https://oysterboxhotel.com/dining-and-drinks/the-grill-room
Address: 2 Lighthouse Rd, Umhlanga
Phone: +27 31 514 5000
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 11 AM to 9 PM
The Grill Room offers a refined dining experience with a focus on expertly prepared dishes and attentive service. One of their specialties is the 21-day aged sirloin steak, which is cooked to your preference.
When I tried the sirloin, it was tender with a rich, beefy flavour that stood out. The wine chosen had subtle berry notes that matched the steak’s savoriness, adding a pleasant contrast and depth to each bite.
| Pro Tip: Book a table on the ocean terrace to enjoy breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean while savouring the spectacular seafood platter. |
