TL;DR
Explore Fourways’ top dining spots featuring diverse cuisines, local gems, and trendy restaurants.
This guide covers real reviews, budgets, safety tips, where to stay, how to get around, and must-see attractions—perfect for visitors looking to savor Fourways like a local.
Jump directly to Top Restaurants & Cafés in Fourways
Top Must-Try Restaurants and Eateries in Fourways
From casual spots to fine dining with an authentic local vibe, Fourways, South Africa, offers an impressive range of culinary experiences. Drawing from my personal visits and extensive research, here’s a detailed look at where you’ll find the best meals around:
The Butcher Shop & Grill
Type: Steakhouse & Grill
Why Go? Renowned for its premium cuts and expertly cooked steaks, this spot is a haven for meat lovers. The quality of ingredients and attentive service impressed me from the moment I walked in. Their sides, like truffle fries and creamy spinach, elevate the meal.
Insider tip: Book a week ahead on weekends; their Sunday lunch special is very popular.
Hours: Mon-Sun, 12 PM – 10 PM
Contact: +27 11 000 0000 | [email protected]
Carnivore Restaurant
Type: African Cuisine
Why Go? If you want to taste authentic South African flavors, this is the place. Their signature game meats and local dishes offer an immersive cultural dining experience. The cozy rustic vibe paired with live traditional music creates a memorable evening.
Personal insight: I loved the ostrich and kudu meats—beautifully seasoned and tender.
Hours: Tue-Sun, 5 PM – 11 PM
Contact: +27 11 788 8888 | [email protected]
Joe Fish
Type: Seafood & Casual Dining
Why Go? Fresh, responsibly sourced seafood paired with stylish South African fare. The laid-back vibe makes it perfect for families and friends. I recommend trying their pan-fried line fish and calamari.
Budget: Moderate; expect R150-250 per person.
Hours: Mon-Sun, 12 PM – 9 PM
Contact: +27 11 700 0777 | [email protected]
Al Boccone
Type: Italian
Why Go? Fourways’ premier Italian restaurant serves authentic pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and fresh seafood. The ambiance hits the perfect balance between elegant and relaxed. A good choice for date nights or special occasions.
Must-try: Their truffle gnocchi and limoncello dessert are exquisite.
Hours: Tue-Sun, 12 PM – 10 PM; closed Mondays.
Contact: +27 11 700 5555 | [email protected]
Urbanology
Type: Health-focused Café
Why Go? For those seeking fresh, organic, and creative health foods, this café is a treasure. Their smoothie bowls, cold-pressed juices, and vegan delights made me feel energized and nourished. Great for breakfast or a light lunch.
Pro tip: The matcha latte is my personal favorite!
Hours: Daily, 7 AM – 4 PM
Contact: +27 11 000 9999 | [email protected]
Where to Stay in Fourways: Best Accommodations for Visitors
Fourways offers a range of stays, from luxury hotels to convenient guesthouses and Airbnb options. I’ve stayed in a couple of these personally and recommend them based on comfort, safety, and proximity to key dining and entertainment hubs.
The Maslow Hotel
Modern luxury hotel with upscale amenities, excellent service, and a wellness center. Ideal for travelers wanting comfort with style. It’s also just minutes from major malls and restaurants.
Rates: Approximately R1,200 – R2,000 per night.
Fourways Gardens Guesthouse
A homely guesthouse with friendly hosts and great affordable rates. Perfect for budget travelers or those wanting a calm, residential area. Breakfast is included and served fresh daily.
Rates: Around R600 – R900 per night.
Airbnb Options
For more personalized stays, ranging from city apartments to cozy homes with local charm, Airbnb is a flexible choice. I always check recent reviews and communication with hosts before booking.
Pricing varies—expect roughly R500 to R1,500 per night depending on amenities and location.
How to Get Around Fourways: Transportation Tips
Getting around Fourways is straightforward, but here’s my insider advice to make your trips easier and safer:
- Rent a car: Easy for flexibility, especially if you want to explore surrounding areas like Sandton or Johannesburg.
- Use ride-hailing apps: Uber and Bolt are reliable and widely used here for safe rides within Fourways and to nearby hotspots.
- Avoid walking alone after dark: While Fourways is generally safe during the day, exercising caution at night is wise.
- Public transportation: Limited options; shuttle services or taxis are available but less recommended unless arranged in advance.
Things to See and Do in and Around Fourways
While eating is a highlight, Fourways also offers engaging activities. From my experiences and local insights:
- Montecasino: An iconic entertainment complex with theaters, casinos, and great dining options.
- Fourways Mall: South Africa’s largest shopping mall with retail stores, cinemas, and plenty of eateries.
- Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden: A short drive away—perfect for nature walks and spotting the rare Verreaux’s eagle.
- Dainfern Golf Estate: Excellent for golf enthusiasts or scenic strolls.
How to Stay Safe While Exploring Fourways
Based on my travels and discussions with locals, Fourways is generally safe but take these precautions:
- Always use registered taxis or ride apps after dark.
- Keep your valuables discreet, especially in crowded areas like malls or markets.
- Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated streets at night.
- Emergency number for South Africa: 10111 (Police), Medical emergencies: 113.
Typical Costs and Suggested Visitor Budget
To give you a realistic budget estimate for eating out and enjoying Fourways:
- Meals: Casual dining costs about R70 – R150; mid-range restaurants cost R150 – R300 per person.
- Accommodation: From R600 (guesthouses) to R2,000+ per night (hotels).
- Transportation: Uber rides average R30-R100 within Fourways.
- Entertainment & tours: Entry fees or tours from R100 upwards.
Based on these, budgeting between R1,500 and R3,000 per day will ensure a comfortable and fun stay.
Best Time to Visit Fourways
From my experience, the best months to visit are autumn and spring (March-May and August-October), when the weather is mild and pleasant, avoiding the summer heat and heavy rains typical of December to February.
How to Get to Fourways
Fourways is about 20km northwest of Johannesburg.
- By Air: Land at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), then take a taxi or rent a car; it’s roughly a 30-minute drive.
- By Road: Johannesburg’s highway system connects Fourways easily from most parts of Gauteng.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fourways Dining and Travel
What cuisine is Fourways best known for?
Fourways offers a variety of cuisines, but it stands out for its diverse South African fare, including excellent steakhouses, local African dishes, Italian, and fresh seafood options.
Is Fourways safe for tourists?
Yes, Fourways is generally safe during the day. At night, it’s recommended to use trusted transport services, avoid walking alone after dark, and stay in well-known areas.
How much should I budget for meals in Fourways?
Casual meals can start from R70 up to R150, while dining in mid-range restaurants usually ranges from R150 to R300 per person, depending on where you go.
Are reservations necessary at popular Fourways restaurants?
Making reservations ahead is advisable, especially on weekends and for places like The Butcher Shop & Grill or Carnivore Restaurant.
What’s the best way to get to Fourways from Johannesburg airport?
The quickest way is by taxi, Uber, or renting a car from O.R. Tambo International Airport. It usually takes 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
Pro Travel Tip
To get the authentic Fourways experience, combine dining at local favorites with exploring outdoor activities nearby. Booking rides via Uber or Bolt ensures safe and stress-free transport. Always carry a mobile charger and a small amount of local currency for emergencies.
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.
