Gauteng’s halaal food scene is thriving, with everything from fine dining experiences in Sandton and Rosebank to authentic, spice-rich eateries in Fordsburg and Lenasia. As a South African food blogger and someone who eats out often, I am often asked what the best halaal restaurants in Johannesburg are. I have compiled the list below based on restaurants that I have personally experienced and enjoyed with my family. If it seems as though there are several Turkish restaurants on this list, it's because they are among the most upmarket halaal restaurants in Johannesburg, making for a better overall experience.
The list is updated often as I find new restaurants to recommend. Of course, everyone may not agree as restaurant reviews are usually based on personal preferences and experiences. However, this is my opinion. Be sure to subscribe to the free newsletter for updates. Contact me if you would like a review of your restaurant.
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Mosso is probably the most stylish, elegant and Instagrammable halaal restaurant in Johannesburg. It's also the biggest by area, making it ideal for functions. Located in the LXX Sandhurst shopping centre in Sandton, the setting matches the menu — sleek, modern, and designed to impress.
Dining here is more than just a meal — it’s an experience. Meals and drinks are served with theatrical flourishes (depending on what you order). For the most Instagram- or TikTok-worthy options, go for the Chef’s Show, where your steak is prepared tableside with dramatic bursts of flame. If you’re not interested in the theatrical elements, the rest of the menu is just as impressive.
The Chef show at Mosso Savour Turkish Luxury
Pigalle, a beloved dining institution in Sandton for decades, has reopened its doors as Pigalle by Villamoura under new ownership and is now halaal-certified. The menu features old favourites and new Dubai-inspired spicy dishes. including exquisite grilled meats and fresh seafood, signature flame-grilled chicken, sushi and artisanal mocktails and decadent desserts. The overall dining experience is exclusive. See our latest meal at Pigalle.
Lemon butter prawns at Pigalle by Villamoura
The East Rand is home to some of the best halaal restaurants in Gauteng these days, and Alta Gracia is definitely one of them. The restaurant is located upstairs at Atlas Junction and has a stylish lounge ambience. It also has balcony seating where you can enjoy shisha. We enjoyed the New York steak served with an onion flower, and a Thai prawn curry served with rice and naan. Desserts were crème brûlée and a delightful Lotus Biscoff creation. The food taste, and presentation were on point. See our meal at Alta Gracia. Find them here.
High Grace
Lokkum brings bold Turkish flavours to Joburg in a lively, welcoming setting. Their Norwood venue is easily accessible, spacious and beautifully designed, and it also has a separate sheesha section. The menu has also been revamped with a mix of Turkish cuisine and popular traditional foods. Expect beautifully presented mezze, succulent kebabs, and indulgent desserts like baklava. It’s ideal for sharing and long, relaxed meals. Find them here.
Shashlik kebab at Lokkum
Located in the ever-popular Melrose Arch precinct, Istanbul Kebab is perfect for a satisfying Turkish meal eaten outdoors. Mains are served with complimentary starters over charcoal warmers. The Iskender Kebab and chocolate baklavas are a must-try. Overall, an enjoyable experience. Find them here. They also have a branch in Sunninghill. See our experience here.
Istanbul Kebab Melrose Arch
This is one of the most upmarket restaurants in Joburg. Located in Rosebank, it has indoor seating as well as outdoor seating in the courtyard under the trees. The menu has a wide selection of innovative starters, main and desserts. The Kung Pao Chicken, Vietnamese Chicken Salad, Chalmar Ribeye Steak, and Salmon Teriyaki with Truffle Fries were all delicious. The setting was pleasant too. See our meal at Ozzy's. Find them here.
Pera Turkish Grill and Shisha Lounge is a stylish halaal dining space where you could easily enjoy an impressive business lunch or dinner - think authentic Turkish cuisine meets contemporary luxury lounge.From grilled meats to traditional sides, everything is packed with flavour. Try the kibbehs and falafels, the Iskender kebab and the Beyti Sarma. See our meal at Pera. Find them here.
Pera Rosebank
Calistos is well-loved for its seafood and steaks. Although they specialise in Portuguese cuisine, the menu is quite diverse and offers delectable seafood, pizzas, pastas, flame-grilled chicken and more. Find them here.
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Doppio Zero is a South African restaurant franchise known for its Italian-inspired menu, and relaxed, family-friendly vibe. There is only one halaal branch in Gauteng, which is based in Lakefield, Benoni. We recommend the Hibachi Steak Bowl, the gochujang peach-glazed flame-grilled ribs, the aged ribeye on the bone and the tira misu. See our meal at Doppio Zero Lakefield. Find them here.
Doppio Zaro Lakefield
Although it is much more simple than most of the other restaurants on this list, Dosa Hut is one of the only halaal restaurants in Johannesburg that specialises in South Indian cuisine and it is incredibly popular. As the name suggests, their specialty is the dosa which it a large ultra-thin crepe with a choice of filling/stuffing. Be sure to try the traditional masala dosa which has a spicy potato filling, and the idlis as well as the mint lemonade and the almond milkshake. They also make great curries (like the Chicken Malli perallan) and whole fried fish.
Masala Dosa
Contact me if you would like a review of your restaurant on sara@inafricaandbeyond.com or saraessop@gmail.com .
The following shopping centres have a lot of halaal options:
For more halaal recommendations, recipes and food pics to drool over, follow Halaal Reviews ZA and @SouthAfricaHalaal on Instagram.
Hyatt House Johannesburg Sandton
Hyatt House Johannesburg Rosebank
Lilian Lofts Fordsburg
Qurtuba Boutique Hotel and Spa
Palm Continental
Monarch Boutique Hotel
Alcazaba Lodge
See more hotels I recommend or find more accommodation in Johannesburg.
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What are your favourite halaal restaurants in Johannesburg?
Which restaurants do you think should be added to this list? Let me know in the comments below.
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Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world on her blog "In Africa and Beyond". Although she has been to 53 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.
My wife best home cook food is my favourite restaurant. In the comfort of your own home.
Galata greenside for turkish food. My diners rosebank or lal qila sandton for Indian. Pizza ghetti or baked on grant for grills and Woodfire pizza
Mikes Kitchen Boksburg
Been to some of the restaurants mentioned trully amazing food and taste
..
Adegas also is a awesome ..
Jimmys killer prawns
Calistos etc the food out there is just .. i have no words to explain
Fordsburg:
Ammaans,Akhalwayas,sollys corner, Kentucky milk bar.
Newtown:
Mochachos
My personal best restaurant
Jimmy's killer grills fordsburg at image lifestyle
Amman restaurant in fordsburg
This is the most useful post I have read. You have a way with words, and I will follow you as I like your posts.
Some really gߋod content on thiѕ website. Thanks for sharing.
Slms
I have a friend that works in centurion and looking for halaal take aways or restaurants.
Jzk
Thanks for the excellent advice. It actually is useful.
Great line up. We'll be linking to this great article on our website.
Keep up the good writing.
This really answered my issue, thank you!
There is a simply Asia in greenside too.
Bahu Cuisine at columbine sqaure in winchester hills