
Our annual Top 5 Halaal Restaurants list is an exciting time for our readers to have their say and our Restaurant Industry to find out who the people’s favourites are in their region. The votes are in and we are ready to announce the Readers Choice Favourite Halaal Restaurants in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban for 2023 as voted for by our followers.
Tomorrow we will announce the Critics Choice Top 5 as voted by a select group of well known halaal foodies in South Africa. Look out for it in your inbox and on our socials!
For casting your vote in our competition, we congratulate The Lunchbox Lady (from Instagram) who has won an 8L Instant Pot Duo worth R3500!
Thank you to Instant Pot who sponsored this amazing prize. Visit them at www.instantbrands.co.za
We reserve the right to re-draw a new winner if there is no response within 24 hours of contacting the winner.


Top 5 Cape Town 2023
5th
Serendipity Creamery
A Uniquely Decadent dessertery offering artisanal ice cream , decadent waffles, desserts, freshly brewed coffee & Bagels.
4th
Bo Kaap Deli
A relaxed and eclectic space in the Bo Kaap. With the cobbled streets outside and the hum of the Cape Town vibe passing by you can take them away from the office in body and mind.
3rd
Conscious Carnivores
For one of the best steaks you will have in Cape Town this casual eatery at the V&A Waterfront specialises in Wagyu Burgers and all things steak. Having started out as a weekend pop-up they have evolved to one of Cape Town’s favourites with their own space at the V&A Waterfront’s Makers Landing. You can buy your special cuts at their butchery at Makers Landing or enjoy their menu on-site at the eatery.
2nd
Saray
With a stunning location and great views at the Clocktower precinct at the V&A Waterfront, Turkish cuisine lovers will find an authentic experience at Saray. They have an outside area for shisha lovers and a stylish upmarket interior. They also have a kids menu and a play area alongside the restaurant.
No.1!
Damascus Restaurant
Having opened in mid 2020 Damascus has had a swift rise to fame with Liakat & Zaibun Sonday and Syrian born chef, Muhammad Modrek at it’s heart. The food he prepares pays homage to his roots in the city of Damascus. Renowned for making high quality traditional Syrian cuisine, their food will definitely not disappoint. Give their Chocolate Brownie Belgian waffle a try if you dare!
Top 5 Johannesburg 2023
5th
Calistos, Rosebank
Launched in 1992, Calisto’s is a Portuguese sit down restaurant offering flamed grilled Portuguese chicken, seafood and meat, with meals that are freshly prepared in the traditional Portuguese way using only the freshest, finest ingredients available. It is family friendly and is good for group celebrations.
4th
MiHa
MiHa is the coming together of a casual café and classic dining experience. From a quick grab-and-go to a decadent celebratory feast, MiHa brings together the simple and the sumptuous. They serve international cuisine and have curated some of the best flavours around with their own South African touch.
3rd
Chai & Chow
Having started from humble beginnings at the pop up markets in Johannesburg Chai & Chow is now n casual and cosy cafe in Boksburg serving up modern Indian style dishes. Well known for their Chai Bomb it is one of the best karak teas in Jozi!
2nd
Mo-ez Fusion
Having opened in 2022, MO-EZ fusion has fast become a popular eatery amongst Johannesburg foodies. They offer an upscale menu and dining experience in the heart of Lenasia. The menu is a fusion of middle eastern, coal grills and South African dishes.
No.1!
Le Kreamery, Illovo
Our new number 1! Le Kreamery is a casually intimate and stylish venue with elegant finishes. As the new flagship store of the group it is even more stunning than the previous two. The menu includes beautiful entremets, decadent milkshakes and a fusion menu of Indian, Middle Eastern and South African dishes. Look out for the Gelato bar serving up delicious scoops.
Top 5 Durban 2023
5th
Ironman Rare Steaks
A popular family style restaurant for those who want a lot of meat on their plate.
4th
Jack’s Grill & Co.
An elegant seafood and grill restaurant. Known for exceptional food and great service. Special mention for the sushi.
3rd
Jimmy’s Killer Prawns Gateway
Jimmy’s Killer Prawns has been a South African favourite for many years offering sit-down and takeaway franchise restaurants. The Gateway branch is a family style dining restaurant and offers a superior experience.
2nd
Vapour Café
A well loved hookah lounge and restaurant with an American Diner aesthetic. They are known for their amazing prawns and chilled lounge vibes.
No.1!
Empire Steak
Florida road is known for great halaal food spots and the Empire Steak has been a long time favourite as evidenced by taking the top spot in Durban for the second year in a row. It’s a laid back family restaurant where you can just chill in a friendly environment. With a passion for great steak as the name implies, the Empire Steak can’t not do steak just right. They have an ever-changing menu and there’s something for all ages and all tastes.
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