The Old Oak Restaurant at Royal Johannesburg: An In-Depth Review & Why Locals Keep Coming Back
The Old Oak Restaurant at Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Club is a refined yet family-friendly destination that merges culinary excellence with the serene elegance of a world-class golf course. Locals adore it for its relaxed ambiance, diverse menu, kid-friendly atmosphere, and seamless fusion of heritage and hospitality. Operating Tuesday to Sunday, it’s more than a restaurant—it’s a lifestyle hub for families, foodies, and golfers alike.
A Modern Gem with Traditional Roots
Located at 1 Fairway Ave, Linksfield North, Johannesburg, The Old Oak Restaurant stands proudly within the Royal Johannesburg and Kensington Golf Club—one of the city’s most prestigious golf estates. It’s named after a legendary oak tree that once graced the grounds, serving today as a timeless symbol of tradition, strength, and hospitality.
Combining a tranquil natural backdrop with top-tier service, The Old Oak is as much a retreat as it is a restaurant. Whether you’re there for brunch, a family outing, or post-game drinks, the experience resonates with relaxation and elegance.
Why Locals Flock to The Old Oak
Locals in Johannesburg keep returning for a few key reasons:
- A Relaxed Yet Upscale Atmosphere: The balance between luxury and casual comfort is rare.
- Scenic Views: Overlooks lush, award-winning golf courses.
- Family-Centric Design: Features a playground and kids’ menu.
- Diverse Menu: From artisan coffees to juicy ribeyes.
- Heritage Factor: Deeply rooted in Johannesburg’s rich golfing history.
One local guest told me, “It’s the one place where my kids can run free while I sip cappuccino on the deck and watch the golfers tee off. There’s nothing like it.”
Ambiance & Setting: Dining with a View
Imagine sipping an iced latte while watching the sun rise over a pristine greenway—this is everyday reality at The Old Oak.
The venue has:
- Floor-to-ceiling glass panels
- Alfresco deck seating
- Large oak accents and wood-panel interiors
- Child-friendly spaces with minimal noise interference
The interior décor celebrates rustic-modern chic, with warm tones and minimalist Scandinavian-style furnishings.
My Personal Experience: A Saturday Morning at The Oak
I visited on a breezy Saturday around 10 a.m. The crowd was a mix of young families, golfing veterans, and trendy millennials taking Instagram-worthy brunch pics.
I ordered the Eggs Benedict on Sourdough with flat white, and my daughter had fluffy pancakes and a babyccino. Our server, Blessing, was both prompt and cheerful—her service elevated the entire experience.
The ambiance was peaceful yet buzzing, with live acoustic guitar playing in the background.
Menu Overview: Food, Drinks, and Prices
Menus here are seasonal, locally inspired, and curated for variety. Here’s a snapshot:
Breakfast Menu & Pricing
| Item | Description | Price (ZAR) |
|---|---|---|
| Old Oak Breakfast | Eggs, bacon, sausage, tomato, toast | R120 |
| Eggs Benedict | Served on sourdough with hollandaise | R110 |
| Pancake Stack | With maple syrup and berries | R95 |
| Avocado Toast | Multigrain bread, feta, chili flakes | R90 |
| Cappuccino / Flat White | Double shot, foamed milk | R38 |
Lunch & Dinner Dishes
| Dish | Description | Price (ZAR) |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Oak Burger | Wagyu patty, caramelized onions | R155 |
| Chicken Pesto Pasta | Creamy basil pesto, cherry tomatoes | R135 |
| Grilled Ribeye Steak | 300g, served with chips or salad | R210 |
| Vegan Buddha Bowl | Quinoa, hummus, avocado, microgreens | R130 |
| Fish and Chips | Battered hake, tartar sauce | R145 |
Drinks & Beverage Offerings
| Drink | Size / Type | Price (ZAR) |
|---|---|---|
| Local Craft Beer | 500ml | R65 |
| Old Oak Iced Tea | House brewed with citrus | R40 |
| Glass of Sauvignon Blanc | 175ml glass | R70 |
| Fresh Fruit Smoothie | Seasonal ingredients | R55 |
| Kids’ Hot Chocolate | Frothy, served with marshmallows | R35 |
For the full menu and pricing updates, visit the official website or call 011 640 3021.
Family-Friendly Features
The Old Oak isn’t just child-tolerant—it’s child-focused:
- A secure outdoor play area
- Kid-sized meals with healthy options
- High chairs and changing stations
- Weekend puppet shows and storytelling sessions
It’s the kind of place where adults can enjoy a fine meal while children remain joyfully occupied.
Customer Feedback & Community Buzz
Online ratings consistently hover above 4.6/5 on Google and TripAdvisor.
“The perfect Sunday brunch spot! I love the live music and laid-back vibe.” — @jhb_foodie on Instagram
“Took my mom here for her birthday and the staff made her feel like royalty. Highly recommended!” — TripAdvisor review, March 2025
Social platforms like Facebook @RoyalJhbGolf are full of glowing testimonials and event photos.
Pros and Cons Table
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Scenic views of award-winning golf course | Closed Mondays |
| Family-oriented with play areas | Gets crowded on weekends |
| Wide-ranging, fresh menu | No dinner service after 5 p.m. |
| Exceptional customer service | Prices on the premium side |
How to Visit: Hours, Contact & Booking
- Address: 1 Fairway Ave, Linksfield North, Johannesburg
- Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Phone: 011 640 3021
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: royaljk.co.za
- Facebook: @RoyalJhbGolf
Reservations recommended for weekends.
FAQs (Collapsed Format)
Is The Old Oak Restaurant child-friendly?
Yes, it features an outdoor play area, kid-specific menu items, and weekend family activities.
Do I need to book ahead?
Reservations are advisable for weekends and public holidays.
Can I visit without being a golf club member?
Absolutely. The restaurant is open to the public.
Is there a dress code?
Smart casual is ideal, especially if you plan to dine outdoors or after a round of golf.
Conclusion
The Old Oak Restaurant is a blend of gourmet dining, community spirit, and leisure—all tucked into one of Johannesburg’s most scenic locations. Whether you’re swinging by after 18 holes, brunching with friends, or planning a family outing, The Old Oak delivers a well-rounded experience that leaves a lasting impression.
“The Old Oak isn’t just a place to eat. It’s where stories are shared, memories are made, and time slows down just enough for you to savor it.”
Disclaimer
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors such as pricing, hours, or location details. Please consult official websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
