If you’ve over-exercised your wallet this past festive season, surviving until January’s payday can be tricky. To help you through the month, here are our picks of the best inexpensive restaurants in Joburg that offer delicious food at great value.
J’s Diner, Blairgowrie
When it comes to no-fuss, authentic Mozambican Portuguese food, J’s Diner is a win. With its casual, family friendly atmosphere, it’s packed on most evenings, which says a lot about the loyal following of this long-standing, family-run restaurant. Although its specialty is seafood (the grilled prawns are a must), you can also order things like chicken and beef pregos, steaks and salads – all at reasonable prices.
Parreirinha
Also offering a huge menu of Mozambican Portuguese food with seafood as its highlight, Parreirinha is a Joburg institution that’s been around since 1975. It’s best to soak up the restaurant’s atmosphere in a festive group, and there’s a cosy pub adjoining it which is great for enjoying a beer before your meal.
Thunder Gun, Blackheath
No Jozi steakhouse roundup is complete without mentioning Thunder Gun, the granddaddy of them all, that’s been open for over 40 years. The steakhouse has stuck to a winning formula that’s changed little over the years, and it’s kept its reputation for serving great steaks, ribs and burgers – and a huge carvery buffet on weekends. Sit inside in the restaurant or pub area, or move outside onto the terrace for sunny days and balmy evenings.
Franco’s Pizzeria & Trattoria, Parkview
From the day he built his pizza oven in 1987, Franco Forleo hasn’t looked back. Franco’s is tucked away in the Parkview Centre on Tyrone Avenue, and it’s everything that a neighbourhood Italian restaurant should be, with warm and friendly staff , a cosy interior and, of course, deliciously hearty Italian pizzas and pastas. The dishes have been kept traditional, so you won’t find any wild and wacky fusion pastas or pizza toppings – but why fix something that isn’t broken?
J’s Diner
011 781 3401
Parreirinha
011 435 3809
Thunder Gun, Blackheath
011 678 7224
Franco’s Pizzeria & Trattoria
011 646 5449
Words: Catherine Black
Images: Supplied
