Must-Try Food in South Africa

South African cuisine (BEST THINGS TO DO IN JOHANNESBURG) blends local traditions with global flavours. Popular dishes like braai, bobotie, pap, and biltong are found in eateries that serve traditional food or at local street stalls. Don’t hesitate to ask what’s on your plate, it’s the best way to learn and enjoy. You’ll also find a wide range of Indian, Chinese, Western, and South African fusion food, making food a key part of your travel experience. When in South Africa, its about what to eat and where to find it (CAPE TOWN SOUTH AFRICA THINGS TO DO).

Hotel Buffet Breakfast

High-end hotels in South Africa offer large buffet spreads. You’ll find everything from local dishes to fusion and Western options. There’s something for vegetarians, vegans, and even those watching their diet. Individual salad plates are part of it: featuring fresh vegetables, cheese, sliced meats, or salmon, with different dressings. Roasted meats are also served at breakfast. The buffet is so filling, it could last you until dinner. And of course, eggs cooked in different styles are always available (SAPPORO JAPAN SIGHTSEEING).

Modern Cafes
Modern cafes usually serve Western-style meals in cosy settings. Think fish and chips, roast chicken, beef, or lamb, served with fries, salads, and sauces. Such cafes also offer beer during lunch. The meals are generous, so you might want to share or add a small starter to complete your order.

South African Traditional Eateries
Traditional eateries often have a garden setting with wooden decor, giving a natural and relaxed feel. Meals can be ordered as à la carte or set menus. Portions are large, with options like grilled or roasted chicken, beef, lamb, or seafood, often paired with fresh salads. If you prefer something lighter, try their cheesy salads with toast, simple but full of flavour.

Indian Food
South Africa has places serving Indian food, from South Indian fusion to classic North Indian dishes. You can enjoy biryani, mutton and chicken curries, crab masala, and vegetable dishes served with white rice. Some restaurants serve starters like fried crackers with mint chutney or spicy dips. At high-end spots, expect a beautiful Indian-themed setting with soft music.

Chinese Food
Chinese restaurants in South Africa serve more than just the basics. They offer a mix of traditional dishes, modern twists, and fusion creations. You’ll find dishes like tofu stir-fries, squid with vegetables, crispy fried fish, claypot seafood, stir-fried salad leaves with salted egg and century egg, baked or grilled scallops, and butterfly prawns. Some even serve roast duck with spicy chilli dip.

Coffee Outlets
Coffee lovers won’t miss out. Coffee outlets are easy to spot in shopping malls, often near entrances. You can enjoy a cuppa of coffee, whether hot or cold, served in glass with milk or cream. They’re perfect for a short break while relaxing or shopping.

Exotic Meat Restaurants
Trying exotic meats is a unique part of South African food culture. These restaurants offer meats like ostrich, kudu, springbok, crocodile, warthog and the list goes on. You can get them as steaks, burgers, sausages, or curries. Some places serve them on grilled skewers, slicing it fresh onto your plate. Meals come with salads and dipping sauces. The taste may not suit everyone, but it’s a popular choice among adventurous travellers. For those less adventures, there are also chicken, lamb and even beef.

South African Desserts
South African desserts are rich and full of flavour. Common ones include malva pudding, melktert (milk tart), koeksisters, and peppermint crisp tart. You’ll find them in buffets, restaurants, and cafes. Some places also serve modern fusion desserts, or you can keep it simple with vanilla ice cream topped with melted chocolate.