Photo of Nomvelo Masango

Ukko Restaurant offers a culinary escape with cosy elegance

Good food completes the perfect puzzle to the quintessential city life experience. Located in Bryanston, Ukko Restaurant is a culinary gem that continues to make a splash with its unique Mediterranean-Asian tapas and sushi experience.

Also see: Must-visit restaurants in the Eastern Cape

On an ordinary weeknight, I was transported on a Mediterranean holiday without leaving the City of Gold.

The award-winning restaurant boasts a top notch ambience with warm wood tones, natural stone finishes, and intricate designs adorning the walls, creating a trendy yet relaxed vibe.

Picture: Ukko

In a world where aesthetics seemingly rule, a pleasant surprise is that the menu is as good as the decor. From seafood to steak, and even chicken, foodies are spoilt for choice.

As a meat lover, a plate of sirloin on the bone was a no-brainer. It was succulent and flavoursome, and the portion was quite generous.

Other standout items on the menu include the Caribbean roll sushi, Burrata Caprese salad, and the Tomahawk steak – all bursting with flavour and beautifully plated. The tapas are also a hit, with options like beef riblets and seared salmon. 

Picture: Ukko

If you’re vegetarian, worry not. You’ll also catered for as there are a number of offerings to try.

To wash everything down, the restaurant boasts an extensive wine list and mixology bar, with many of the cocktails looking ready for the perfect Insta-shot.

Picture: Ukko

Always looking to improve, Ukko has refined the preparation and presentation of selected menu items. This is to ensure that patrons are constantly offered nothing but the very best. 

Also see: TikTok chef Onezwa Mbola launches pop up restaurant

To conclude a worthwhile dining experience, the dessert menu offers a portion of paradise for those with a sweet tooth.

I highly recommend their signature cheesecake, although the tiramisu was also quite inviting and has effortlessly secured its spot as my go-to sweet treat for my next visit.

At the end of my culinary escape, I was grateful for the excellent service. For patrons like myself who appreciate the atmosphere just as much as the food, it’s the warm welcome and great service that ensure our return – even though the good food is what initially draws us in.

Whether you’re a foodie seeking to feast, a hopeless romantic seeking a memorable date, or would just simply like an after-work catchup with your friends, Ukko is worth considering for a delightful culinary journey and great vibes.

Picture: Ukko

Also see: Restaurants to feast on authentic SA cuisine

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