Amid the hustle and bustle of Joburg life, you might find yourself craving something slow, soulful, and comforting, especially during colder months. No fancy five-course menus or month-long waits for a table.
Just plain old homely food packed with lip-smacking flavour.
We’ve rounded up five cosy restaurants in Joburg where you can satisfy your comfort food cravings.
Where to eat homely food in Joburg
1. Njam Eatery, Linden
Fresh, cosy South African-style breakfasts and lunches served in a relaxed bistro vibe. Expect flavourful seasonal menus with vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes.
- Must-try dish: Rib-eye salad and their brownies are to die for
- Where: Shop 7a. Linden Lanes, Cor 3rd Ave & 6th St Linden, Johannesburg 2195 South Africa
- Opening times: Monday to Saturday: 7 AM to 6 PM; Sunday: 8 AM to 3 PM
- Contact details: 010 157 2810
2. People’s Republic of Noodles (Pron), Linden
Fuss-free Chinese restaurant that serves traditional Tawainese meals family-style. They make everything in-house, with special focus on their thick egg noodles. Think xiao cai, dumplings, and steaming bowls of Taiwanese-style broth, all served in a bold, neon-lit setting.
- Must-try dish: Beef flank soup
- Where: 69 7th St, Linden, Randburg, 2104
- Opening times: Tuesday to Sunday: 12 PM to 9 PM (Closed Mondays)
- Contact details: 060 633 9013, website
3. Thunder Gun, Northcliff
A nostalgic Northcliff institution that’s been around for decades. Locals love it for its no-fuss carvery, legendary ribs, and flame-grilled steaks—all served in old-school pub-style comfort.
- Must-try dish: Their famous ribs, or any choice of grilled steak
- Where: 241 Beyers Naude Drive, Blackheath, Randburg
- Opening times: Monday: 11:30 AM to 8:30 PM, Tuesday to Thursday: 11:30 AM to 9 PM, Friday and Saturday: 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM, Sunday: 11:30 AM to 7:30 PM
- Contact details: 0116787224; website
4. Franco’s Pizzeria, Parkview
Italian classics are served in this warm and cosy setting, nestled in the relaxed suburb of Parkview. A family-owned and run restaurant, you’ll no doubt get your homely Italian craving fixed.
- Must-try dish: Their wood-fired pizzas are a must, alongside their classic pasta dishes (give the gnocchi a try)
- Where: 54 Tyrone Avenue, Parkview, Johannesburg
- Opening times: Monday: Closed, Tuesday to Saturday: 12 PM to 2 PM then 6 PM to 9:30 PM, Sunday: 12 PM to 2 PM then 6 PM to 9 PM
- Contact details: 0116465449, website
5. Paputzi’s, Linden
Nestled in the centre of the bustling suburb of Linden, Paputzi’s has been serving up homely classics since 1997. Their house-turned-restaurant provides the ultimate cosy atmosphere, and they’ve adorned their walls with trinkets and artwork from local artists (for sale too). Find a spot next to their roaring fire, sit back and relax, you’ll be taken care of!
- Must-try dish: Bakery delights and burgers
- Where: 69 4th Avenue, Linden, Randburg
- Opening times: Monday to Saturday: 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM, Sunday: 8:30 Am to 4 Pm
- Contact details: +27117829393, website
Compiled by: Annemieke van Nieuwkerk
First published on Food & Home
Also see: Where to travel if you’re into history but not museums
