Craving the freshest catch right in the heart of Johannesburg? Discovering the best seafood restaurants in this vibrant city promises a culinary experience that tantalizes the taste buds and leaves you wanting more. Don’t wait to indulge in oceanic delights; your next unforgettable meal is just around the corner!
5 Best Seafood Restaurants in Johannesburg
When it comes to seafood in Johannesburg, the city offers a treasure trove of dining experiences that cater to every palate. From casual eateries to upscale restaurants, each spot showcases its own unique flair while serving up the freshest fish and shellfish. Join us as we highlight the top five seafood destinations that have captured the hearts (and appetites) of locals and visitors alike, promising unforgettable flavors and memorable meals.
Name | Address | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|
Fahrenheit Seafood & Grill | Cnr Terrace, 1 Hudson Ave, Eastleigh, Edenvale, 1609, South Africa | ★★★★ 4.4 | 3791 |
Mozambik Linksfield | 110 Cnr of Club &, Linksfield Rd, Linksfield, Johannesburg, 2192, South Africa | ★★★★ 4.3 | 3537 |
Fishmonger Illovo | Thrupps Centre, 204 Oxford Rd, Illovo, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa | ★★★★★ 4.7 | 1437 |
Fishmonger Rosebank | The Firs Shop, 17 Cradock Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa | ★★★★ 4.4 | 948 |
Lobster Tavern | 41 Mowbray Rd, Greenside, Randburg, 2193, South Africa | ★★★★★ 4.7 | 196 |
Fahrenheit Seafood & Grill
Fahrenheit Seafood & Grill is a popular dining destination known for its vibrant atmosphere and family-friendly environment. With a menu that focuses on fresh seafood and grilled specialties, this restaurant has garnered attention from both locals and visitors alike. Over the years, it has built a reputation for providing a pleasant dining experience, although recent feedback suggests some inconsistency in service and food quality.
What We Liked
- Consistent Quality: Many patrons have praised the restaurant for its consistently good food and excellent service.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The restaurant features a play area for children, allowing parents to relax while ensuring their kids are entertained.
- Generous Portions: Guests have noted that the portion sizes are ample, providing good value for money.
- Responsive Staff: The management and staff have been described as incredible, often going above and beyond to ensure a pleasant experience.
- Good Overall Experience: Most visits result in a positive dining experience, with many guests returning for more.
What We Didn’t Like
- Inconsistent Food Quality: Some diners have experienced dishes that did not meet their expectations, such as dry steak and lackluster flavors.
- Noisy Environment: The ambiance can become quite loud, which may detract from the overall dining experience.
- Service Speed Issues: While some enjoy prompt service, others have noted that the quick meal delivery might indicate pre-prepared food lacking freshness.
- Recent Disappointments: A few guests have reported a decline in quality during their latest visits, raising concerns about consistency.
- Mixed Experiences: While many have had great meals, others have left feeling dissatisfied, indicating variability in food preparation.
Rating Scores
- Food Quality: ★★★ (3/5)
- Service: ★★★★ (4/5)
- Atmosphere: ★★★★ (4/5)
- Value for Money: ★★★★ (4/5)
- Overall Experience: ★★★★ (4/5)
Overall Score: ★★★★ (4/5)
In summary, Fahrenheit Seafood & Grill offers a lively dining experience with good food and a family-friendly environment. While many guests leave satisfied, there are instances of inconsistency that the restaurant may need to address. Overall, it remains a solid choice for seafood lovers seeking a casual dining atmosphere, though potential diners should be aware of the mixed reviews regarding food quality.
Contact Details
Logo | Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Fahrenheit Seafood & Grill | Cnr Terrace, 1 Hudson Ave, Eastleigh, Edenvale, 1609, South Africa | 011 452 9704 |
Mozambik Linksfield
Mozambik Linksfield is a vibrant restaurant that specializes in delicious Mozambican cuisine, offering a unique dining experience for families and food enthusiasts alike. Known for its fresh ingredients and flavorful dishes, this restaurant has become a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. With a focus on family-friendly dining, Mozambik Linksfield also provides a play area for children, making it an ideal destination for parents looking to enjoy a meal while their kids are entertained.
What We Liked
- Delicious Food: Many guests have praised the food for being fresh, perfectly cooked, and full of flavor.
- Attentive Service: The waitstaff, particularly a waiter named Friday, has been noted for being efficient and attentive, enhancing the dining experience.
- Family-Friendly Deals: The restaurant offers a special promotion on Monday nights where kids eat for free, making it budget-friendly for families.
- Prawn Specials: Regular patrons look forward to the Wednesday prawn specials, which have received high praise for their taste.
- Quick Service: Even during busy times, guests have reported that their meals are prepared and served promptly.
What We Didn’t Like
- Order Mix-Ups: There have been occasional issues with order accuracy, such as a guest not receiving their meal due to a miscount by the waiter.
- Busy Atmosphere: The restaurant can get quite crowded, which may lead to a lively but noisy dining experience.
- Inconsistent Experiences: While many visits are enjoyable, some guests have reported minor hiccups during their dining experience.
- Limited Special Days: The kids-eat-free promotion is only available on Mondays, which may not suit everyone’s schedule.
- Pricing Perception: While many find the prices reasonable, a few guests may feel that certain items could be priced more competitively.
Rating Scores
- Food Quality: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- Service: ★★★★ (4/5)
- Atmosphere: ★★★★ (4/5)
- Value for Money: ★★★★ (4/5)
- Overall Experience: ★★★★ (4/5)
Overall Score: ★★★★ (4/5)
In summary, Mozambik Linksfield stands out for its delicious food, attentive service, and family-friendly environment. While there are occasional issues with order accuracy, the overall dining experience is highly rated by patrons. With its enticing menu and special promotions for families, Mozambik Linksfield is a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful meal in a lively setting.
Contact Details
Logo | Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Mozambik Linksfield | 110 Cnr of Club &, Linksfield Rd, Linksfield, Johannesburg, 2192, South Africa | 011 264 1131 |
Fishmonger Illovo
Fishmonger Illovo is a renowned seafood restaurant that prides itself on delivering a top-notch dining experience. Known for its fresh and flavorful seafood dishes, this establishment has garnered a loyal following among seafood lovers. With a focus on exceptional service and a warm atmosphere, Fishmonger Illovo aims to make every visit memorable for its guests.
What We Liked
- Outstanding Service: Guests consistently praise the friendly and attentive staff, contributing to a welcoming dining environment.
- Delicious Seafood: The menu features a variety of well-prepared seafood dishes, with particular highlights being the prawns and oysters.
- Generous Portions: Many diners have noted the substantial portion sizes, ensuring that no one leaves feeling hungry.
- Complimentary Touches: The restaurant goes the extra mile by offering complimentary items, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Pleasant Atmosphere: The ambiance is described as inviting, making it a great spot for both casual dining and special occasions.
What We Didn’t Like
- Limited Vegetarian Options: As a seafood-focused restaurant, the selection for vegetarians is quite minimal, which may not cater to all dietary preferences.
- Pricey Menu: While many feel the quality justifies the cost, some diners find the prices on the higher side, making it more suitable for special occasions.
- Inconsistent Dish Quality: While most seafood dishes receive rave reviews, some items, like the calamari, have received mixed feedback.
- Busy Environment: The popularity of the restaurant can lead to a bustling atmosphere, which may not be ideal for those seeking a quieter meal.
- Parking Considerations: Although there is ample parking available, navigating the parking area can sometimes be a hassle during peak hours.
Rating Scores
- Food Quality: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- Service: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- Atmosphere: ★★★★ (4/5)
- Value for Money: ★★★ (3/5)
- Overall Experience: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Overall Score: ★★★★★ (5/5)
In summary, Fishmonger Illovo excels in delivering a top-tier dining experience characterized by exceptional service and delicious seafood. While there are some limitations regarding vegetarian options and pricing, the overall feedback from diners is overwhelmingly positive. For seafood enthusiasts looking for a delightful meal in a vibrant setting, Fishmonger Illovo is an excellent choice that promises satisfaction and a memorable outing.
Contact Details
Logo | Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Fishmonger Illovo | Thrupps Centre, 204 Oxford Rd, Illovo, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa | 011 268 0068 |
Fishmonger Rosebank
Fishmonger Rosebank is a celebrated seafood restaurant nestled within a shopping mall in Rosebank, Johannesburg. Known for its extensive menu featuring fresh seafood, meat, poultry, and sushi, this establishment has become a favorite among seafood enthusiasts. With a reputation for quality dishes and attentive service, Fishmonger Rosebank aims to provide a delightful dining experience for all its guests.
What We Liked
- Fresh Seafood Selection: The restaurant boasts a wide variety of seafood options, including grilled lobster, langoustines, and mussels, all praised for their freshness and flavor.
- Excellent Service: Guests have consistently highlighted the attentive and friendly service provided by the staff, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: The ambiance is described as comfortable and ideal for a relaxed night out, perfect for enjoying good food and people-watching.
- Consistently Great Experiences: Many diners report having wonderful meals and experiences during multiple visits, showcasing the restaurant’s reliability.
- Subtle Music Enhancement: The background music adds to the dining experience without being overwhelming, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere.
What We Didn’t Like
- Limited Non-Seafood Options: While the seafood selection is extensive, those looking for a wider variety of non-seafood dishes may find the options lacking.
- Chill Areas: Some guests noted that certain seating areas can be a bit breezy, which might not suit everyone’s comfort level.
- Busy Environment: Being located in a mall, the restaurant can get quite busy, which may lead to a lively but crowded dining experience.
- Slightly Higher Prices: While many find the quality justifies the cost, some diners may consider the prices on the higher side for casual dining.
- Occasional Wait Times: During peak hours, guests may experience longer wait times for seating and food service.
Rating Scores
- Food Quality: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- Service: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- Atmosphere: ★★★★ (4/5)
- Value for Money: ★★★★ (4/5)
- Overall Experience: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Overall Score: ★★★★★ (4.6/5)
In summary, Fishmonger Rosebank stands out as a premier destination for seafood lovers seeking fresh and flavorful dishes. With its excellent service and inviting atmosphere, it promises a delightful dining experience that keeps guests coming back for more. While there are minor considerations regarding non-seafood options and seating comfort, the overwhelmingly positive feedback makes Fishmonger Rosebank a must-visit for anyone in the area looking to indulge in delicious seafood.
Contact Details
Logo | Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Fishmonger Rosebank | The Firs Shop, 17 Cradock Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa | 011 447 2320 |
Lobster Tavern
Lobster Tavern is a seafood restaurant that aims to deliver a delightful dining experience, particularly known for its seafood boil offerings. With a menu that highlights various seafood dishes, the establishment has attracted attention from seafood lovers eager to indulge in flavorful meals. However, recent feedback reveals a stark contrast in customer experiences, ranging from outstanding service to significant dissatisfaction.
What We Liked
- Seamless Ordering Process: Many guests have found the ordering process to be straightforward and efficient, with staff providing clear information.
- Welcoming Staff: The friendliness of the staff, including personalized touches like thoughtful notes, has been appreciated by diners.
- Delicious Seafood Boil: Several patrons have praised the seafood boil for its generous portions and satisfying flavors.
- Positive Recommendations: Many diners recommend the restaurant, claiming it to be one of the best seafood spots in Johannesburg.
- Engaged Management: Some guests have noted that management is attentive and responsive, enhancing the overall experience.
What We Didn’t Like
- Inconsistent Food Quality: Numerous complaints have emerged about the seafood being overcooked, rubbery, or even rancid, leading to a disappointing dining experience.
- Cold and Incorrect Orders: Several customers reported receiving cold food and incorrect sauces, which significantly impacted their satisfaction.
- Poor Customer Service: Negative experiences have been highlighted regarding how complaints were handled, with some feeling insulted and ignored after raising issues.
- High Prices for Low Quality: Many guests felt that the prices charged for the seafood boil were not justified given the quality of the food received.
- Unresolved Complaints: Some diners reported a lack of follow-up or resolution from the restaurant after experiencing issues, leading to frustration.
Rating Scores
- Food Quality: ★★ (2/5)
- Service: ★★★★ (4/5)
- Atmosphere: ★★★★ (4/5)
- Value for Money: ★★ (2/5)
- Overall Experience: ★★2/5)
Overall Score: ★★ (2/5)
In summary, Lobster Tavern presents a mixed bag of experiences for diners. While some guests rave about the delicious seafood and welcoming service, others have faced significant issues with food quality and customer service. The disparity in reviews suggests that while the potential for a great meal exists, diners should approach with caution, particularly regarding the seafood boil. For those eager to try Lobster Tavern, it may be wise to consider the recent feedback before placing an order.
Contact Details
Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Lobster Tavern | 41 Mowbray Rd, Greenside, Randburg, 2193, South Africa | 076 810 0585 |
What is The Cost of Best Seafood Restaurants in Johannesburg
Dining out at the best seafood restaurants in Johannesburg can vary widely in terms of pricing. Factors such as location, menu offerings, and overall dining experience all contribute to the cost. Below, we break down the average prices you can expect when enjoying a meal at these top seafood spots.
Average Price Range
The cost for a meal at a seafood restaurant can depend on several variables, including the type of establishment and the specific dishes you choose. Here’s a general overview of what you might expect to pay:
Type of Restaurant | Average Main Course Price | Average Appetizer Price | Average Dessert Price | Average Drink Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Casual Seafood Eateries | R120 – R200 | R60 – R100 | R40 – R70 | R30 – R60 |
Mid-Range Seafood Spots | R200 – R350 | R100 – R150 | R70 – R100 | R50 – R80 |
Upscale Seafood Restaurants | R350 – R600 | R150 – R250 | R100 – R150 | R80 – R120 |
Additional Costs to Consider
While the above table provides a basic understanding of meal costs, there are other factors to keep in mind:
- Specialty Dishes: Some restaurants may offer premium seafood options, such as lobster or oysters, which can significantly increase the overall bill.
- Wine and Cocktails: Alcoholic beverages can add to the expense, especially at upscale venues where wine pairings and craft cocktails are available.
- Tipping: It’s customary to tip around 10-15% of the total bill in Johannesburg, which should be factored into your budget.
- Seasonal Promotions: Many restaurants offer special deals or discounts on certain days, which can help save money while enjoying a meal.
Overall, dining at Johannesburg’s best seafood restaurants can cater to various budgets, ensuring that everyone can enjoy exquisite seafood delights. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, there’s something to satisfy every craving without breaking the bank.
FAQ
What types of seafood can I expect to find at Johannesburg’s best restaurants?
Most seafood restaurants in Johannesburg offer a variety of options, including fish, shellfish, and specialty items like calamari, prawns, and oysters. Many places also feature seasonal catches and unique dishes inspired by different cuisines.
Are seafood restaurants in Johannesburg family-friendly?
Yes, many seafood restaurants cater to families by providing kid-friendly menu options and a welcoming atmosphere. Some establishments even offer special promotions for children or family-style dining.
Do I need to make a reservation at seafood restaurants?
Reservations are often recommended, especially at popular or upscale seafood restaurants. This ensures you have a table, particularly during peak dining times or special occasions.
What is the dress code at upscale seafood restaurants?
Upscale seafood venues typically have a smart-casual dress code. While some may allow more relaxed attire, it’s best to dress nicely to match the ambiance of the restaurant.
Can I find vegetarian or vegan options at seafood restaurants?
While seafood is the main focus, many restaurants also offer vegetarian or vegan dishes, such as salads, pasta, or vegetable-based appetizers. It’s always a good idea to check the menu or ask the staff for specific options.
Conclusion
Exploring the best seafood restaurants in Johannesburg is not just about enjoying a meal; it’s an adventure that celebrates the rich flavors of the ocean right in the heart of the city. From casual eateries to upscale dining experiences, each restaurant offers a unique take on seafood that caters to diverse tastes and budgets. Remember, the quality of ingredients, the creativity of dishes, and the warmth of service all contribute to an unforgettable dining experience. So, whether you’re a local or visiting, make sure to indulge in the delightful seafood offerings that Johannesburg has to offer—your taste buds will thank you!
How We Picked the Best Seafood Restaurants in Johannesburg
Selecting the top seafood restaurants in Johannesburg wasn’t just a simple task. We approached this with a careful and thoughtful process, ensuring that our recommendations reflect the best culinary experiences the city has to offer. Here’s a breakdown of how we made our choices:
1. Customer Reviews and Ratings
We scoured various platforms, including social media, food blogs, and review websites. Analyzing feedback from diners helped us gauge overall satisfaction and consistency in food quality. High ratings and positive comments played a significant role in our selection.
2. Menu Variety and Freshness
A diverse menu can elevate a dining experience. We looked for restaurants that not only offered a wide range of seafood options but also emphasized freshness. Establishments that sourced their ingredients locally or boasted daily catches were prioritized.
3. Ambiance and Service
Dining is about more than just food. We considered the atmosphere of each restaurant, including decor, cleanliness, and overall vibe. Exceptional customer service also factored into our decision-making process, as a welcoming environment enhances the experience.
4. Unique Selling Points
Every restaurant has its own charm. Whether it’s a signature dish, a special cooking method, or a unique location, we identified what sets each establishment apart. These unique selling points contributed to their appeal and made them stand out in a competitive market.
5. Consistency in Quality
Consistency is key in the culinary world. We sought out restaurants that maintained high standards over time, ensuring that each visit would yield a delicious meal. Regular patrons and repeat customers often indicate a reliable dining experience.
By combining these factors, we curated a list that not only highlights the best seafood restaurants in Johannesburg but also captures the essence of what makes each one special. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these selections promise to deliver memorable seafood experiences.