Pigalle, a beloved dining institution in Sandton, Johannesburg, has reopened its doors as Pigalle by Villamoura under new ownership on Friday, 1st November. Now fully Halaal certified by NIHT (National Independent Halaal Trust), Pigalle is ushering in a new era of dining with a focus on premium cuisine, offering a revitalized experience while maintaining the high standards of food and service it has long been known for.
To celebrate its grand reopening, Pigalle hosted an exclusive 'Dining with the Stars' weekend from Friday, 1st November to Saturday, 2nd November. This event featured special appearances by Netflix Dubai Bling personalities, Kris Fade and Ebraheem Alsamadi (aka The Blooming Man), both hailing from Dubai as well as Abdu Rozik, a Tajikistani playback singer, boxer and social media influencer.
Sushi
Pigalle’s revamped offerings will now include a brand-new sushi bar, providing guests with a fresh and innovative take on the Japanese culinary tradition. Additionally, a stylish shisha & cigar lounge has been added, giving patrons a new way to relax and unwind while enjoying the restaurant’s renowned cuisine. The menu will continue to showcase Pigalle’s famous Mediterranean and seafood fusion dishes, ensuring that long-time patrons will find the quality they have always loved, now with an expanded offering and a more modern twist.
Dubai-inspired spicy dishes
At the helm of this transformation is Shanna Gani, the new owner who aims to elevate the Pigalle experience while staying true to the restaurant's roots. In speaking about the reopening, Gani shares: “The era of a new Pigalle by Villamoura is upon us with specific attention towards the magnificent food and the individual flavours. We’re working towards upholding the standard and immaculate quality that Pigalle has always offered but with a more elevated experience.”
This reopening marks a significant milestone for Pigalle, as it aligns with the needs of a diverse and evolving clientele while offering an elevated, Halaal dining experience that maintains its status as a destination for food lovers, business professionals, and international visitors. It is poised to become the most upmarket halaal restaurant in Johannesburg.
Lemon butter prawns at Pigalle by Villamoura
The expertly crafted menu showcases local ingredients, international techniques and signature dishes, such as:
We were invited for the VIP launch prior to the official opening, and were treated to spicy new dishes like the Chooza Chicken, old favourites like Pigalles's famous lemon-butter prawns and oven-baked fillet steak, sushi and delicious desserts. We were also given Dubai chocolates from Forever Rose Cafe in Dubai which is owned by Ebraheem Alsamadi.
Key staff, such as General Manager Johnny Miranda, have stayed on to ensure that the restaurant maintains its high standards.
For further information, visit Pigalle’s official website or follow them on social media for updates.
Find them at UO9, Michelangelo Towers, Maude St, Sandton.
Fun fact: Pigalle derives its name from a tourist district in Paris, France, which is named after sculptor Jean-Baptiste Pigalle (1714–1785).
Patrons can make reservations by calling 011 889 8866.
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Oven-baked fillet steak
Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 50 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.
