South Africa‘s vibrant capital, Johannesburg, is a melting pot of cultures, flavors, and experiences. Visitors and locals alike enjoy the city’s halaal dining scene. Restaurants certified as halaal in Johannesburg cater to all palates, from fine dining to casual eateries. Our comprehensive guide will help you navigate Johannesburg’s food scene like a pro by exploring the best halaal restaurants, sharing personal insights, and sharing practical tips.
There are many reasons why Johannesburg’s Halaal food scene stands out from the rest
Johannesburg’s halaal dining scene reflects its diverse population. In addition to Indian, Middle Eastern, Turkish, and African influences, the city’s halaal restaurants offer a unique fusion of flavors. Johannesburg has something for everyone, whether you want a gourmet meal or a quick bite.
Despite traveling around the world, Johannesburg’s halaal food scene is truly unique. “The variety, quality, and creativity here are unmatched,” says a frequent traveler.
Here is a list of the top Halaal restaurants in Johannesburg
1. Del Forno Killarney
Hours: 12 PM–10 PM (Mon–Sun)
Address: Shop 25a, Killarney Mall, 60 Riviera Rd, Killarney, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
Google Maps Link | Instagram
Del Forno Killarney is a gem for Italian food lovers. Their halaal-certified menu features classics like Margherita pizza and creamy carbonara. The restaurant‘s warm, rustic decor makes it perfect for a romantic dinner or a family outing.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Wood-fired Margherita Pizza
- Truffle Mushroom Risotto
- Tiramisu
Pros:
- Authentic Italian flavors
- Friendly service
- Great for special occasions
Cons:
- Can get busy during peak hours
- Limited parking
Personal Insight:
“The first time I visited Del Forno, I was blown away by their Truffle Mushroom Risotto. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. The ambiance is perfect for a romantic dinner or a family celebration.”
2. Lokkum (Norwood)
Cuisine: Turkish
Location: 119 William rd (Cnr, Grant Ave, Norwood, Johannesburg, 2192, South Africa
Price Range: R150–R300 per person
Highlights: Mezze platters, succulent kebabs, and baklava.
Lokkum brings the flavors of Turkey to Johannesburg. Their halaal-certified menu is a feast for the senses, with dishes like lamb shish kebabs and creamy hummus. The outdoor seating area is perfect for a relaxed dining experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Adana Kebab
- Mixed Meze Platter
- Baklava
Pros:
- Generous portions
- Authentic Turkish coffee
- Vibrant atmosphere
Cons:
- Limited vegetarian options
- No alcohol served
Personal Insight:
“The Adana Kebab at Lokkum is a must-try. The spices are perfectly balanced, and the meat is incredibly tender. Pair it with their freshly baked pita bread, and you’re in for a treat.”
3. Pigalle By Villamoura (Sandton)
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Location: Sandton
Price Range: R300–R600 per person
Highlights: Seafood platters, grilled meats, and live music.
Pigalle is synonymous with luxury. This halaal-certified restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that highlights Mediterranean flavors. The live jazz performances add to the upscale ambiance.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Grilled Calamari
- Lamb Shank
- Chocolate Fondant
Pros:
- Elegant setting
- Extensive wine list (non-alcoholic options available)
- Impeccable service
Cons:
- Expensive
- Dress code enforced
Personal Insight: “Dining at Pigalle feels like a special occasion every time. Their seafood platter is a must-try.”
4. Mo-Ez Fusion (Lenasia)
Cuisine: Indian
Location: Lenasia, Johannesburg
Price Range: R100–R250 per person
Rating: 4.5/5
Mo-Ez Fusion is a favorite among locals for its authentic Indian cuisine. The halaal-certified menu features a mix of North and South Indian dishes, all bursting with flavor.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Butter Chicken
- Lamb Biryani
- Garlic Naan
Pros:
- Affordable
- Family-friendly
- Spicy and flavorful dishes
Cons:
- Limited seating
- Can be noisy
Personal Insight: “Their butter chicken is creamy and perfectly spiced. It’s comfort food at its best.”
Hours: 10 AM–9 PM (Mon–Sun)
Address: 2 Protea Ave, Lenasia, 1821, South Africa
Google Maps Link | Instagram
5. Jasmine Fusion
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Location: Multiple locations
Price Range: R150–R350 per person
Highlights: Sushi, dim sum, and Thai curries.
Jasmine Fusion offers a modern twist on Asian cuisine. Their halaal-certified menu includes a variety of sushi rolls, stir-fries, and noodle dishes.
Pros:
- Creative menu
- Stylish decor
- Great for groups
Cons:
- Portions can be small
- Service can be slow
Personal Insight: “The sushi here is fresh and beautifully presented. It’s a great spot for a casual lunch.”
Hours: 11 AM–10 PM (Mon–Sun)
Address: Check website for locations
Website | Instagram| Phone: +27 82 443 3721
6. Istanbul Kebab Melrose Arch
Cuisine: Turkish
Location: Melrose Arch
Price Range: R120–R250 per person
Highlights: Doner kebabs, pide, and kunefe.
Istanbul Kebab is a go-to for Turkish street food. Their halaal-certified menu features hearty portions of kebabs, wraps, and desserts.
Pros:
- Quick service
- Affordable
- Authentic flavors
Cons:
- Limited seating
- No reservations
Personal Insight: “The doner kebab is packed with flavor and perfect for a quick meal on the go.”
Hours: 10 AM–9 PM (Mon–Sun)
Address: Melrose Arch, Johannesburg
Google Maps Link | Instagram
7. Ozzy’s Kitchen
Cuisine: South African
Location: Call for more information. Phone: +27 10 010 0938
Price Range: R100–R200 per person
Highlights: Bunny chow, kota, and grilled meats.
Ozzy’s Kitchen celebrates South African street food. Their halaal-certified menu includes local favorites like bunny chow and kota.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Casual vibe
- Great for takeout
Cons:
- Limited seating
- Can be greasy
Personal Insight:
“The Lamb Bunny Chow at Ozzy’s Kitchen is a must-try. The curry is flavorful, and the bread is soft and fresh.”
Hours: 9 AM–8 PM (Mon–Sun)
Address: Call for more information. Phone: +27 10 010 0938
Website | Instagram
8. Calistos (The Zone at Rosebank and Nelson Mandela Square)
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Location: Rosebank and Sandton
Price Range: R250–R500 per person
Highlights: Seafood paella, lamb chops, and baklava.
Calistos offers a luxurious dining experience with a focus on Mediterranean cuisine. Their halaal-certified menu is perfect for special occasions.
Pros:
- Elegant ambiance
- Extensive menu
- Great for celebrations
Cons:
- Expensive
- Limited parking
Personal Insight: “The seafood paella is a showstopper. It’s packed with fresh seafood and bold flavors.”
Hours: 9 AM–8 PM (Mon–Sun)
Address: Shop 25, The Zone at Rosebank, Johannesburg
Website | Instagram
9. Bay Leaf (Fordsburg)
Cuisine: Indian
Location: Fordsburg
Price Range: R80–R200 per person
Highlights: Biryani, curries, and tandoori dishes.
Bay Leaf is a Fordsburg institution. Their halaal-certified menu features classic Indian dishes that are rich and flavorful.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Generous portions
- Authentic flavors
Cons:
- Can be crowded
- Basic decor
Personal Insight: “The biryani here is fragrant and perfectly spiced. It’s a must-try.”
Hours: 11 AM–9 PM (Mon–Sun)
Address: Fordsburg, Johannesburg
Google Maps Link | Facebook
10. Dosa Hut (Fordsburg)
Cuisine: South Indian
Location: Fordsburg
Price Range: R50–R150 per person
Highlights: Dosas, idlis, and vadas.
Dosa Hut specializes in South Indian cuisine. Their halaal-certified menu features a variety of dosas, from plain to masala.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Quick service
- Great for vegetarians
Cons:
- Limited seating
- Can be greasy
Personal Insight: “The masala dosa is crispy and filled with a flavorful potato filling. It’s comfort food at its best.”
Hours: 10 AM–8 PM (Mon–Sun)
Address: Fordsburg, Johannesburg
Google Maps Link | Instagram | Phone: +27 61 300 8946
Other Places Worth Mentioning
- Halaal Hotels in Johannesburg: Many hotels in Johannesburg offer halaal-certified dining options. Some top picks include The Saxon Hotel, Sandton Sun, and The Michelangelo Hotel.
In addition to Simply Asia (The Zone at Rosebank, Mall of the South, Norwood, Killarney Mall, Mall of Africa and Mall of Africa),
There is no better halaal Thai food in Johannesburg than Simply Asia. My favorite dish is the 514: Ba-Mee Prik-Phao (Roasted Chilli Paste and Cashew Nut Noodles). Other dishes on the menu, like 622 (Linguine Phad Tom Yum), have not disappointed. Find them here.
Akhalwayas
If you’re looking for some lekker junk food, look no further. It has branches all over the city, but one of our personal favorites is the Church Street branch for their Wonder Why pizzas and Akhalwayas Bree (84 Lillian Ngoyi Rd) for everything else, especially their toasted specials.
Syrian Rose (Fordsburg)
They are known for their schwarmas and chicken dishes.
RocoMamas (Melrose Arch and Nelson Mandela Square)
This restaurant is known for its smash burgers, cheesy fries, ribs, and cheese bombs.
Kauai (Sandton City and Cresta)
It is well known for its delicious, healthy wraps and superfood smoothies.
When you just can’t seem to decide what to eat on one of those days, these recipes will help you decide
You will find a large number of halaal options in the following shopping centres:
-
The Zone at Rosebank
-
Sandton City
-
Mall of the South
-
Cresta Shopping Centre
-
Eastgate Shopping Centre
-
Killarney Mall
In Johannesburg, there are many Halaal hotels to choose from, including
- Hyatt House Johannesburg Sandton
- Hyatt House Johannesburg Rosebank
- Lilian Lofts Fordsburg
- Qurtuba Boutique Hotel and Spa
- Palm Continental
- Monarch Boutique Hotel
- Alcazaba Lodge
FAQs
1. Are all the restaurants listed fully halaal-certified?
Yes, all the restaurants mentioned in this guide are halaal-certified.
2. Do these restaurants offer vegetarian options?
Most of the restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it’s best to check the menu beforehand.
3. Can I make reservations?
Some restaurants accept reservations, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Final Thoughts
Johannesburg’s halaal dining scene is a testament to the city’s cultural diversity and culinary creativity. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these restaurants offer a taste of the world right at your doorstep. So, grab your fork and embark on a flavorful journey through Johannesburg’s best halaal eateries.
