Every year our readers get to have their say and VOTE for their favourite restaurants of the year 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 2025 as voted for by avid supporters of halaal restaurants in South Africa.

Next week we will also 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!

Top 5 Cape Town 2025

5th

The Happy Uncles
Led by chef Anwar Abdullatief, this chic open-plan restaurant set in the urban renewal district in industrial Salt River Cape Town offers un-pretencious but true fine-dining. Expect an experience of pure culinary theatre.

4th

District Cafe
This family run eatery in Woodstock has garnered a loyal following and is known for great steaks and over the top burgers. They do a mean steak burger and offer superb meat cuts from their on-site dry-age cabinets.

3rd

The Butcher’s Wife
This small but hugely popular eatery in the heart of Athlone on Belgravia Road is reclaiming their No.1 spot on our list. This family business has perfected their menu of craft pizzas, delicious pastas and finger licking steaks and grills.

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!

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 located at the V&A Waterfront’s Dock Road.

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Top 5 Johannesburg 2025

5th

It’s a tie!
Le Kreamery, Illovo and Istanbul Kebab
Le Kreamery is a casually intimate and stylish venue with elegant finishes. The menu includes beautiful entremets, decadent milkshakes and a fusion menu of Indian, Middle Eastern and South African dishes.
Location is everything and Istanbul Kebab has the perfect spot in Melrose Arch. This vibey and trendy district is a hotspot in Jozi. Since opening they are always fully booked at peak times. Food and service are consistently good.

4th

Del Forno, Killarney
A date night favourite. The service is consistently good and the menu offers lots of choice. Serving authentic Italian dishes in a relaxed and upmarket setting, Del Forno, Killarney is popular for always innovating their menu.

3rd

Pigalle by Villamoura
This well known and elegant venue exudes old world luxury with a modern twist. Pigalle offers an International, Mediterranean and Seafood menu along with some new spicy Dubai inspired dishes from their Chooza menu. The new offerings also include a sushi bar and stylish shisha & cigar lounge.

2nd

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.

No.1!

Mo-ez Fusion
MO-EZ fusion is a consistent choice amongst Johannesburg foodies. They offer an upscale menu and a relaxed dining experience in the heart of Lenasia. The menu is a fusion of middle eastern, coal grills and South African dishes.

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Top 5 Durban 2025

5th

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 a great choice for group events.

4th

Steakout Teppanyaki & Grill
East meets West combining the boldness of a modern steakhouse with the energy of Japanese teppanyaki. Whether you’re drawn to the rich, smoky perfection of a flame-grilled ribeye or the artistry of teppanyaki chefs cooking right before your eyes you’re in for a dining experience.

3rd

The Address
A popular spot serving authentic wood fired pizzas, delicious grills and fusion cuisine. With a predominantly Indian menu, they have a range of steak options to get meat eaters excited.

2nd

Vapor 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
The Empire Steak is a firm favourite taking the top spot in Durban once again. It’s a laid back family restaurant where you can relax in a friendly environment. With a passion for great steak and ribs it’s a carnivore’s dream. They have an ever-changing menu and there’s something for all ages and tastes.