Chefs ready to impress as restaurants reopen

As lockdown restrictions ease and restaurants begin to open their doors, we recap a few of our new favourites opened recently, that you may not have had the opportunity to visit yet.  

Basalt at The Peech Hotel

Critically acclaimed chef Candice Philip resumes her residency at the Melrose Boutique Hotel. She launches with the epically titled new menu, Smoke and Bones (which was due to launch just as the lockdown was implemented). The name, seemingly a departure from Philip’s usually more delicate inspirations, will no doubt see her continue to bring her impeccable technique, beautiful flavours and exquisite plating to the table with a bit of edge.

The multi-course tasting menu includes an array of mouth-watering dishes: from the bread course of charcoal wafer and smoked bone marrow focaccia (served with venison tartare, caramelised onion hummus and a roast garlic Catalan), and the barbecue mussels with cumin creme to the white chocolate, porcini and tobacco dessert, each dish is sure to wow even the most discerning of diners.

Basalt at The Peech is open Thursday-Saturday for dinner. Bookings can be made here or e-mail basalt@thepeech.co.za

Tang

The latest addition to Joburg’s premium dining scene, Tang — situated in prime position on Nelson Mandela Square — was the must-have reservation before lockdown was implemented, and it seems set to remain so as it reopens. With its gorgeous interiors, superb service and absolutely stunning food, it’s no surprise why.

The luxurious Asian-style restaurant draws inspiration from the cuisines of classic Cantonese eateries and contemporary Japanese Izakayas. Start the evening with a glass of bubbles and their insanely delicious shiso truffle oysters before moving onto a selection of their exquisite small plates and sushi for starters, before indulging in their (already signature) Peking duck and miso black cod mains.

Other highlights include their spicy rock shrimp, tuna tataki and a selection of exceptional Wagyu beef dishes. Tang also features a seriously impressive wine cellar, stocked with both local and international gems.

Bookings essential. E-mail: reservations@tanghospitality.com or call 071-379-2161

Proud Mary

The Rosebank eatery and wine bar has quickly become a firm favourite for Joburg diners since opening its doors earlier in 2021. Its mid-century modern design and contemporary conviviality create the perfect backdrop for laid-back, all-day dining.

The team spent the down time during lockdown working on some new dishes, which have been added to the menu.

While many of the favourites, including the divine small plates (sticky pork belly, XO prawns and crispy calamari), remain the same, they are joined by a new lunch plate offering which includes a scrumptious prawn and watercress bun among other lighter style dishes. Those looking for heartier portions can opt for the café plate and grill options, which include the likes of fillet café au lait, champagne and mushroom risotto, oven roasted whole fish and much more. Their wine list changes regularly and is stocked with an impressive array of local, small batch and independent wineries, so definitely take a look through it before gravitating towards your usual.

Walk-ins welcome for reservations call 010-023-3316 or e-mail reservations@proudmary.co.za

The industry needs our support now more than ever. Please be respectful of regulations and mandates when visiting. Wear a mask, practice social distancing and enjoy.