A Taste of the Aegean at Joburg’s Ikara Restaurant

Johannesburg has no shortage of familiar Greek favourites, but Ikara takes a more contemporary approach.

Situated at The Verge Shopping Centre in Dowerglen, the restaurant draws inspiration from Ikaria, a Greek island known for its unhurried pace of life and strong food culture.

The idea is simple: good ingredients, uncomplicated cooking and enough time to enjoy the meal properly.

Greek food made for sharing

Ikara’s menu focuses on seasonal produce, seafood, locally sourced meat, wild herbs and olive oil.

Rather than ordering one dish each, diners can begin with several dips and small plates for the table. Options may include tzatziki, taramosalata, charred aubergine dip, whipped feta, grilled halloumi, lamb ribs, calamari and grilled prawns. 

The communal style makes Ikara a good option for a leisurely weekend lunch with family or friends. It also lets first-time visitors taste several dishes instead of committing to just one.

What to try

Diners looking for something familiar can choose traditional moussaka, made with aubergine, beef mince, béchamel, and cheese.

Other noteworthy dishes include lamb shank served with trahana pasta, cheese ravioli accompanied by braised oxtail, and prawn pasta with tomato, chilli, ouzo and aged feta.

Vegetarian options include zucchini fritters, Greek salads, mixed vegetables and a meat-free moussaka with lentil ragù.

For dessert, consider the bougatsa, a Greek pastry filled with crème pâtissière and finished with cinnamon and icing sugar. The menu may change according to season and availability, so current dishes and prices should be confirmed when booking. 

Why visit?

Ikara is not designed as a rushed meal between other plans. Its shared plates and calm, modern setting encourage diners to slow down and spend time around the table.

The restaurant has also received independent recognition for its modern interpretation of Greek cuisine and its focus on seasonal ingredients. 

Restaurant details

• Restaurant: Ikara
• Cuisine: Modern Greek and Mediterranean
• Address: The Verge Shopping Centre, 100 Linksfield Road, Dowerglen
• Tuesday to Saturday: 12:00 to 21:30
• Sunday: 12:00 to approximately 16:00
• Monday: Closed
• Bookings: 010 215 0385
• Website: ikararestaurant.co.za

Trading hours and menu availability should be confirmed directly with the restaurant before visiting. 

The Bottom Line

Ikara offers something slightly different from the standard weekend restaurant visit. Order a selection for the table, try a dish you have not eaten before and allow enough time to enjoy the meal at the slower pace that inspired it.