TL;DR
If you’re craving the best Indian food in Johannesburg, this guide features the top restaurants where authenticity, rich flavours, and impeccable service meet.
From lively Durban-style curries to refined North Indian delicacies, these restaurants have earned stellar reviews and are local favourites for good reason. Dive straight in to find must-try dishes, pricing, hours, locations with maps, and real user insights to plan your next delicious meal in Greater Johannesburg.
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Why Johannesburg Is a Haven for Indian Cuisine
Johannesburg’s vibrant Indian community has enriched the city with a culinary tradition that perfectly blends diverse regional spices and cooking styles. Over the years, restaurants here have evolved beyond the typical curry houses, offering everything from street-food style snacks to gourmet dining — all within the city’s bustling neighborhoods.
As someone who has explored these spots extensively, I’ve witnessed firsthand how each restaurant tells a unique story through their menus and hospitality, elevating Indian cuisine in South Africa to new heights.
Discover the Best Indian Restaurants in Johannesburg: Detailed Reviews, Menus & Insider Tips
1. MisPatisserie & Indian Kitchen, Bedfordview
Address: Bedfordview Village, 3 Haseltine Rd, Bedfordview, Johannesburg
Contact: +27 11 482 5901 | [email protected]
Hours: Mon-Sun: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Overview: MisPatisserie blends traditional Indian homestyle cooking with artisanal pastries, offering an upscale yet cozy space. Their butter chicken is the talk of the town, creamy with perfectly balanced spices. I recall my first bite—like a warm hug on a cold Johannesburg night.
Pricing: Moderate. Most main dishes range from R120 to R180.
Best Dish: Butter Chicken paired with garlic naan.
User Review: “Authentic flavours served with finesse. The staff’s attentiveness made our dinner here unforgettable.” – Sarah M., TripAdvisor
2. Maharaja Indian Restaurant, Sandton
Address: 88 Rivonia Rd, Morningside, Sandton, Johannesburg
Contact: +27 11 412 5270
Hours: Tue-Sun: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Closed Mon
Overview: Perfect for a special occasion, Maharaja combines vibrant decor with a menu boasting North Indian and Maharashtrian cuisine. Their signature lamb rogan josh stands out — perfectly spiced and tender. Dining here feels like a cultural dive into Indian regal dining traditions that Johannesburg warmly celebrates.
Pricing: Higher-end, mains around R180-R250.
Best Dish: Lamb Rogan Josh and Paneer Tikka.
User Review: “Generous portions and robust flavours. The staff suggested the perfect wine pairings, which made the meal superb.” – Raj P., Google Reviews
3. Vishal Indian Restaurant, Fordsburg
Address: 394-396 Albert St, Fordsburg, Johannesburg
Contact: +27 11 482 3065
Hours: Daily: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Overview: An iconic spot for anyone looking to experience true Durban-inspired Indian food. The dosas and bunny chows here match the vibrant community spirit of Fordsburg. I trusted a local couple’s advice here once, and their dhal puri and lamb bunny chow remain some of my favourite comfort foods in Johannesburg.
Pricing: Affordable; typical main dishes around R80 to R120.
Best Dish: Lamb Bunny Chow and Masala Dosa.
User Review: “Flavor-packed and budget-friendly. The authentic taste is unmatched in the city.” – Thabo K., Facebook
4. Red Spice Road, Rosebank
Address: 4 Cradock Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg
Contact: +27 11 465 0743 | [email protected]
Hours: Mon-Sat: 12:00 PM–10:00 PM; Sun: Closed
Overview: Red Spice Road is known for innovative takes on Indian flavours with a modern gastronomic twist. The ambiance is trendy, making it ideal for foodies looking for a contemporary Indian experience. I particularly enjoyed their glass dumplings and seafood curry — each bite delivered an extraordinary depth of flavor crafted with finesse.
Pricing: Premium; main courses from R160 to R280.
Best Dish: Tuna and Butternut Seed Dumplings, Seafood Curry.
User Review: “A perfect blend of tradition and innovation. A must-visit for adventurous palates.” – Ayesha J., Zomato
5. Bukhara Grill and Kitchen, Fourways
Address: Fourways Mall, Corner Witkoppen Rd & N14, Fourways, Johannesburg
Contact: +27 11 456 7890
Hours: Mon-Sun: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Overview: Bukhara Grill and Kitchen boasts a contemporary take on Indian charcoal grilling techniques. Their tandoori chicken and lamb chops are exceptional, bursting with smoky goodness. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a great venue to enjoy family dinners, and locals often praise their attentive service.
Pricing: Mid to high range; mains R150-R230.
Best Dish: Tandoori Chicken and Garlic Naan.
User Review: “The grill flavours are authentic, and the service is impeccable. It felt like dining straight in Punjab.” – Nikhil D., Google Reviews
6. Seven Olives Indian Cuisine, Greenside
Address: 101 Gleneagles Rd, Greenside, Johannesburg
Contact: +27 11 481 2900
Hours: Tue-Sun: 12:00 PM – 9:30 PM; Closed Mon
Overview: I’ve always appreciated how Seven Olives honors the integrity of classic Indian dishes without over-complicating the flavours. Their vegetarian thali set is an excellent way to sample numerous regional dishes at once. The intimate setting, coupled with knowledgeable waitstaff, adds to a memorable dining experience.
Pricing: Affordable to mid-range; thali and mains R100-R160.
Best Dish: Vegetarian Thali and Chicken Tikka Masala.
User Review: “Comforting food with homely flavours. Perfect for family dinners.” – Lebo M., Zomato
7. Taj Indian Restaurant, Melrose Arch
Address: Shop 11, The Firs, Melrose Arch, Johannesburg
Contact: +27 11 461 1041
Hours: Mon-Sun: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Overview: Renowned for its elegant atmosphere and diverse menu, Taj Indian Restaurant offers an array of dishes from all corners of India. Their meticulously spiced biryanis and succulent lamb seekh kebabs showcase their culinary mastery. The first time I visited, I was impressed by how well the traditional and modern blended seamlessly here.
Pricing: Mid to high; mains R140-R260.
Best Dish: Lamb Seekh Kebab and Hyderabadi Biryani.
User Review: “Exquisite food and ambiance – perfect for date nights or business dinners.” – Anjali T., TripAdvisor
8. Indian Palace, Fordsburg
Address: 291 Albert St Extension, Fordsburg, Johannesburg
Contact: +27 11 484 4412
Hours: Daily: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Overview: Indian Palace is revered for delivering an extensive menu packed with authentic flavours and generous portions. The masala dosa and butter chicken here stood out for me during multiple visits, consistently fresh and perfectly spiced as per traditional recipes. It’s a preferred place for locals in Fordsburg who seek affordable quality.
Pricing: Budget-friendly to moderate; mains R70–R130.
Best Dish: Masala Dosa and Butter Chicken.
User Review: “Classic Indian dishes done right. Great for casual family dinners.” – Pooja S., Google Reviews
9. Maruti Indian Restaurant, Cresta
Address: Shop 152, Cresta Shopping Centre, Beyers Naudé Dr, Johannesburg
Contact: +27 11 764 3930
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Closed Sun
Overview: Maruti offers a fusion of Indian and Gujarati cuisine with an emphasis on vegetarian options. Their thali platters provide a satisfying variety of flavours that highlight North Indian culinary traditions. As a vegetarian, I found this spot a reliable go-to for both taste and extensive options.
Pricing: Reasonably priced; thalis and mains R90 – R140.
Best Dish: Gujarati Thali and Paneer Butter Masala.
User Review: “Excellent vegetarian Indian dishes with authentic tastes and plentiful servings.” – Raj B., Zomato
10. Kulcha Indian Restaurant, Glenhazel
Address: 128 Bevan Rd, Glenhazel, Johannesburg
Contact: +27 11 482 4227
Hours: Mon-Sun: 12:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Overview: Kulcha is famed for its fresh, flavourful Indian street food and casual dining. Their kulchas (stuffed breads) are a highlight, offering a crispy yet soft bite bursting with regional spices. A hidden gem recommended to me by a friend, this place delivers authentic tastes at wallet-friendly prices.
Pricing: Very affordable; mains R70-R110.
Best Dish: Butter Kulcha and Chicken Korma.
User Review: “Great for casual dining, authentic and consistently good.” – Siyabonga L., Google Reviews
Tips For Choosing the Best Indian Cuisine in Johannesburg
From my experience exploring these restaurants, here are some personal tips to get the most out of your Indian dining adventures in Johannesburg:
- Try regional specialties — Durban bunny chow and Gujarati thalis showcase diverse cultural flavors.
- Visit during off-peak hours for better service and less noise.
- Ask for recommendations from waitstaff — many dishes are off-menu or seasonal.
- Don’t miss the bread varieties like naan, roti, and kulcha — they’re essential to the Indian dining experience.
- Look out for authentic spice levels; Indian cuisine can range from mild to very spicy, so specify your preference.
Frequently Asked Questions About Indian Restaurants in Johannesburg
What is the best Indian dish to try in Johannesburg?
While tastes vary, classics like butter chicken, lamb rogan josh, and Durban bunny chow are top crowd-pleasers. Vegetarian options such as paneer tikka masala and vegetarian thalis also receive high praise.
Are these Indian restaurants vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, most of the featured restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly options with extensive menus to cater to vegetarians and vegans alike.
Do these restaurants provide takeout or delivery?
Many restaurants offer takeout and partner with food delivery services like UberEats and Mr D Food. It’s best to check individual restaurant websites or contact them directly for the latest delivery options.
Is it necessary to book a table in advance?
For popular places like Maharaja and Red Spice Road, reservations especially during weekends are advised to avoid long waiting times.
Final Thoughts: My Personal Indian Food Journey in Johannesburg
Indian cuisine in Johannesburg thrives with passion, authenticity, and community spirit. From my earliest taste at humble Fordsburg eateries to refined meals in Sandton, each experience deepened my appreciation for the layers of spice, technique, and story each restaurant unfolds. Whether you’re a local or visiting, these top Indian restaurants deliver not just food, but a cultural experience that leaves you with lasting memories and a happy palate.
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.
