Breakfast and Brunch in Johannesburg
Johannesburg, South Africa's bustling metropolis, is not only known for its rich history and vibrant culture, but also for its diverse culinary scene. Among the city's gastronomic offerings, breakfast and brunch hold a special place. From traditional South African dishes to international cuisine, the city's eateries offer a wide array of morning delights to kick-start your day. Whether you're a local looking for a new spot to try, a tourist wanting to taste the city's culinary delights, or a food enthusiast seeking a unique breakfast or brunch experience, Johannesburg has something to satisfy every palate. Explore the city's breakfast and brunch scene and discover why Johannesburg is a food lover's paradise.
Service station
4.3
(484)
Reviews:
Service Station doesn't need an introduction, as its been a stalwart of the Melville area. Known across Jhb as a great little cafe for breakfast and lunches, they also offer food delivery from their deli section which is full of great locally sourced products. Here you'll find not only baked goods, meats and cheeses, but also a good selection of preserves, cooking ingredients and even imported glass and kitchen wares. Our breakfast was quick to arrive after placing our order and was well prepared. Service is brisk and friendly.
Seanan Wai
Service Station is one of my favourite places. Their menu food is delicious, the harvest table is fresh and varied, fresh bread and treats are tasty. They also have a great variety of frozen foods but I think their best quality is their catering menu. Adds that something something to any event you're hosting. Can highly recommend.
Robyn Raath
Everything was good but for the first 10 minutes. There is no one greeting you or showing you a table. We had to chase for a waiter to get a menu, and we were never offered drinks until we had to ask. I think they wanted to have more space for customers so they have miniature tables where people can barely fit and waiters don’t really care about it (we were given a basket of bread to practically put on our laps). The coffee was very good and the food fresh and relatively fairly priced. I had a breakfast sandwich for about R95. I think it has potential, very easy fixes.
Victor P
Came back twice for the harvest table for self-service, pay-per-weight quiche and veggies. Food quality is consistently high and fairly-priced. Service is kind but a little chaotic at times. I do recommend this restaurant.
Michelle Ferng
A friend recommended Service Station. The breakfast wasnt too shabby.Cant say the same for the service of our first waiter. He was abruot and rude.Changed waiters and the experience was totally different.The deli and bakery on the premise offers a variety of goods.There is also a small book store on site.Will try teir lunch next time.
Ursula X
24 9th St, Melville, Johannesburg, 2109, South Africa
City perk cafe
4.3
(273)
Reviews:
Lovely lil establishment in town to grab a coffee or a snack.
Sejal
Great place for breakfast in the Jhb city center
Pieter du Plessis
This café is in a well gentrified area of the inner city. The eye is bombarded with a million and one points of interest from the mosaic tile paving to the art deco facade of the neighbouring buildings - it is indeed a beautiful spot. The food was fine with a significant serving size but the price matches. The gourmet sandwich I had would have been better with smoked salmon as per the menu, however they were out. I appreciate them being accommodating of that with the substitution of poached salmon. The milkshake was delicious. I am giving a 4 star rating because the wait was very long but the service in terms of friendliness was good.
Waseema Lombard
Had a scheduled day at the Mineral Council, looked for a coffee shop in close proximity that opened early (prefer coming in early to avoid the traffic). From the webpage, they stipulated a 06h30 opening. Perfect! Arrived at 06h32 and they were open, still busy packing out the outside tables, chairs and umbrellas, but they managed to open a path between the stacked chairs for me to access a corner table. Coffee machine was already on and it was not long and I had a Americano Grande in front of me, piping hot with some creme. Perfect. Not the best Espresso beans, but certainly suitable for your medium roast palates. Took about 45minutes to get the tables and chairs all sorted. Cleaning lady came round washing the floors, strong chemical smell, assume Jik bleach or such. Tended to singe the palate and nasal cavities - perhaps a better idea at the end of shift? Tables and chairs were suitable (fit for purpose) and the tables, cutlery and crockery was clean and not harsh on the eye. Morning newspapers were also available to peruse through to aid passing the time - been awhile since I last paged through a newspaper. Ordered a omelette from the Bantings friendly menu (kudos guys). Was reasonably well presented, a little dry for my likes, but the fresh avocado pear helped ease it down. Other customers came and went, particularly the outside coffee on the run/to go service. Noticed a window front area where those with laptops can work, out the way for the dash and grabbers. The art on display was interesting and added to the ambiance. Staff were friendly and service was good. Would gladly go again should the need arise. By the time I left at 08h30, the cafe was in full swing.
Derek Nell
This Cafe has Devine food, the aura makes you forget that you are in Joburg CBD. It is a nice spot to catch a breath from the busy Johannesburg. I came here after a long day at Home Affairs and Labour Department. The manager took my 1 week old for a min while i enjoy my cappuccino.
seipati mokoena
70 Fox St, Marshalltown, Johannesburg, 2107, South Africa
March restaurant
4.3
(10)
Reviews:
This restaurant is located within the Melrose Arch hotel, in an area popular for great restaurants of all cuisines. I visited on a Friday night there was only one other couple dining there. The internal decor was superb and really smart. The table was large and laid well with everything spotlessly clean. I was initially left a little disappointed by the menu since it wasn’t the most varied and I wasn’t left spoilt for choice. However, there’s a good number of wines available for reasonable prices and this was served quickly and professionally at the start of the meal. The chicken soup starter was incredible! The perfect amount of spice gave it a good kick, nice pieces of meat and a delicious small slice of toast topped with cheese and herbs. The portion size was also good and is one of the best starters I’ve had in recent years! Some small bread rolls were also served with a couple of dips which were really tasty. For the main dish I opted for the lamb shank. Again this was a sizeable portion and the meat fell off the bone beautifully. The sauce was probably a little overpowering but the vegetables were tasty and the dish was presented well. The panna cotta desert was fine although I don’t recall seeing any desert wines on the menu which would have rounded things off nicely. For the price it was a really good meal and a well executed experience by the staff. It was lovely to have the chef come out at the end of the meal to check how things had been and he seemed genuinely receptive to feedback. I would have no hesitations about returning here but a bit more variety would encourage me sooner.
Steve Bintley
It’s an expensive breakfast but it’s a five star hotel restaurant so I guess it’s normal. Hosts are most gracious.
Silvia X
Situated within the African Pride Melrose Arch Hotel, is the signature March restaurant, home to the finest quality dining and decor. It's an absolute must to dine there as it hails from the amazing artistic vision of the hotel and the menu holds promise to delicious food and fine dining.
Alpha Black
I visited March Restaurant for Valentines Day, I was greeted by the sound of an amateur saxophonist, it didn't really create a great atmosphere as it sounded like he was practising rather than performing. We opted for the 7 course set menu, the amuse was decent but the meal took a nose dive at the starter when I was served an overcooked under seasoned piece of kingclip, the flavours of the dish were unbalanced and left me feeling a bit nauseous, I can only describe this as an insult to my palate. The mushroom soup arrived, only for me to find out that it was so heavily salted that I almost thought it was a bowl of sea water, once again the flavours just missed the target. The main course was duck that was again overly seasoned, much too salty and a bit dry, the entire dish lacked balance. A champagne & berry 'sorbet' was then served, now my biggest concern with this 'sorbet' was that it was dairy based and it was basically a cold running liquid, completely missed the mark on that one! It was also over sweetened. During the meal we ordered 2 Tom Collins cocktails, when it arrived at the table, both looked different in color, I had to send it back twice. I had hope that dessert would save the day but that too contained melted ice cream and sorbet, it just completely failed. The table clothes were frayed, which kinda looked like something you'd find in Fordsburg. The best thing about the meal was the glass of champagne served at the beginning. The manager didn't even know how to handle the complaints and just ended up doing nothing so he tried to avoid eye contact. Overall this was a serevely underwhelming experience, at the price point that they have set themselves, they just can't keep up. The flavors of the food and cocktails are terribly unbalanced and I can only assume that the chef is either very inexperienced or just doesn't know what he's doing. The look of the restaurant is really beautiful but everything else fails to keep up, the devil is in the detail and they've completely missed that mark. I really hope you guys can get it together but I'm not going to willing return to this restaurant in a hurry. Being set in a 5 star hotel really begs the question of appearance vs reality and those two are worlds apart in this case. The cherry on top was when the manager told me that my palate is much too sensitive and he's not sure how to help me, perhaps that was his excuse for doing nothing?
Shrimay Balkissoon
A great experience of fine dining, beautiful ambiance and very friendly waiters. If you want 5star and an elite experience as girls night out or couple's night out. I'd go back again.
Thando Maps
1 Melrose Blvd, Melrose, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa
Nice on 4th
4.4
(1376)
Reviews:
One of the very best Coffee Shops in the world! The atmosphere transports me to a little coffee shop somewhere in Europe. They are famous for their Egg baskets and Crumpets. I suggest trying the Half and Half Egg Benedict Basket with Crumpets. Their freshly baked cakes and treats are out of this world. My favourite coffee shop and bakery ❤️
Ludwig Ehrke
Literally my favorite place on 4th Avenue, no wonder they’re always packed. Large and variate food menu, with lots of sweet and sour sour options, vegetarian and vegan options. Good portions too. Can’t wait to be back.
C. Martín Ramos
Came here for a late breakfast with my wife. We were seated outside, where the quality of tables and chairs is on the low side. Very uncomfortable. Tables also look to be very messy, not sure if it's actual mess or stain. Food quality was good, but I wasn't wowed in anyway. It was just "Nice". Service overall was good.
Ismail R
Absolutely great food and great service. The wait was short and the price was right. Came here after leaving another restaurant that had horrible service and this restaurant made up for our bad experience at the other restaurant. Thank you.
Kim Joy
Food is typical cafe style but we find the spicy bacon penne with avocado an interesting dish. Didn't really gel taste-wise but the spicy sauce alone was really good though! Their bread basket is essentially bread made into a basket shape and grilled/toasted. Nothing mindblowing tbh. Service is friendly without being intrusive and the interior is charming!
Irene Arieputri
37 4th Ave, Parkhurst, Sandton, 2193, South Africa
Arbour café & courtyard
4.3
(415)
Reviews:
From the moment we stepped into Arbour Café & Courtyard, we were immediately embraced by the warm and welcoming atmosphere that this hidden gem provides. The inviting courtyard setting served as the perfect backdrop for a breakfast experience that was simply unparalleled. The staff were not only friendly and attentive, but they also displayed a level of professionalism that added to the overall high-quality experience. The highlight of our visit, however, was without a doubt the breakfast. Every dish we tried was a testament to the culinary expertise at Arbour Café. The blend of flavors was an absolute delight, each bite revealing a new layer of complexity that left us yearning for more. The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients was clear, adding an extra dimension of enjoyment to our meal. This breakfast experience at Arbour Café & Courtyard has set a new standard for us, one that will be hard to beat. Five stars well deserved!
Amir Friedman
Hidden in a courtyard, this establishment is visited by a trendy crowd. We weren't wowed by our food, but we still enjoyed the experience. Must book for groups bigger than 4.
Jane Schultz (JaneyPaney)
It's definitely a cute spot for the folks that like bottomless mimosas. It's also cute for those that just like having Sunday brunch at hidden cafes. My only thing is the courtyard needs to have proper umbrellas to shield the patrons from the relentless Joburg sun. Definitely coming back!
Lefa Nkadimeng
Went for bfast to enjoy the bottomless mimosas. Did not disappoint, food was amazing , service impeccably and the courtyard was gorgeous. Will definitely be going back .
Thiasha Govender
All day breakfast which is always a plus. The atmosphere is calm and bright which is great for a little brunch outing. Lovely and efficient service. Very accommodating environment
Lisha Ramsook
Shop 6 Wrenrose Court, 64 St Andrew St, Birdhaven, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa
Thorn restaurant
4.1
(8)
Reviews:
Had the most scrumptious burger I've ever had! Ordered another one to go which was still yummy after being reheated. We also ordered some wings which were really good. Lovely decor and ambience.
Nicole Kudzai Chatiza
We had breakfast and dinner there and the food was really good. I can especially recommend the Beef burger and the avocado toast. The only problem we had is that the food takes around 45min to arrive and some dishes were cold (e.g.pesto pasta)
Timi Sanchez
I wasn't expecting much but they blew my mind. The waiter was amazing. It's not possible to overstate him. He's very good. The place is inside Hallmark building so there's ample parking. The food was great, the place is beautiful and comfortable, the music is just right. You can host your events here, just book. They have stunning artworks for sale. You can also work from here. Please visit them.
NOMHLE NHLAPHO
lovechildcole
Jennifer Yeomelakis
Maboneng Precinct, 54 Siemert Rd, Doornfontein, Johannesburg, 2094, South Africa
La vie en rose
4.4
(1183)
Breakfast, sandwiches, burgers and globally inspired dishes served in a tranquil garden restaurant.
Reviews:
I went to La vie en rose for lunch with a friend and we enjoyed ourselves thoroughly. The outdoor seating area was tranquil and refreshing. The food was delicious and the service was great. Will definitely be coming back after a game of padel.
Grace
Beautiful part of Joburg. Situated within the Killarney Country Club property. Relaxed atmospher. Was glad to see no bacon on the menu but you can add it to a dish. Breakfast was an unusual menu but really good. They even recommended we order from the main menu.
Vimala Ally
The High tea option did not meet my expectations. They had ordinary tea like 5 roses and roiboss which I do not drink. They did not have twinning at all. The sweet and savory snacks were plain and ordinary except the tiramiso and carrot cake were very nice. They preselected. We could not select. It was not worth the price. Service and venue were good.
Antonia Ilieva
La Vie en Rose is pure culinary magic! The charming French ambiance sweeps you away to a romantic Parisian bistro. The menu is a gastronomic delight with exquisite dishes that burst with authentic French flavors. The attentive staff and impeccable service elevate the dining experience. Whether it's a special occasion or a cozy dinner for two, La Vie en Rose delivers a memorable, exquisite meal. It's a true culinary gem that captures the essence of France, leaving you longing to return.
Greg Brink
The service is superb. The servers are attentive so there are no missed order notes. The food is also delicious and the portions are filling. I have attached a photo of a pasta dish, 'Old Country Road'. It's good but I would not recommend if you do not like tomatoes as it is tomato based. 4.5 stars
Olwethu Mthombeni
60 5th St, Houghton Estate, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa