Johannesburg’s dining scene has once again stepped into the spotlight. The South African Restaurant Awards have announced its 2026 nominees, and Joburg restaurants are well represented across categories that celebrate culinary excellence, hospitality, and innovation.

Now in its third edition, the awards have quickly become a respected platform for recognising the country’s talent, from fine dining to family‑friendly favourites.

Best Restaurant in Gauteng Nominees

Nine Johannesburg establishments are in the running for Best Restaurant in Gauteng 2026. The list includes Flames Restaurant in Westcliff, Trumps Grillhouse and Butchery in Sandton, Signature Restaurant in Sandton, Solo Sandton, Artistry Johannesburg in Sandown, AURUM Restaurant in Sandown, AKTI Restaurant in Rosebank, Qunu Restaurant at The Saxon Hotel in Sandhurst, and Saint Restaurant in Rivonia.

Adding to the Gauteng line‑up is The Terrace at GROUND in Muldersdrift, rounding out a strong showing for the province.

Culinary Experience and Hospitality

For Best Culinary Experience 2026, Sandton dominates with TANG Asian Luxury Restaurant and Bar, Tempo Luxury Restaurant, and AMAN Restaurant all nominated.

In the Best Hospitality category, the spotlight falls on MAMASAMBA in Rosebank, Trumps Grillhouse and Butchery, Flames Restaurant, Tashas Sandton, and Roar Bistro and Bar, each recognised for creating welcoming spaces that keep diners coming back.

Newcomers and Family Favourites

Fresh names are also making waves. Best New Restaurant 2026 nominees include S!gns in Sandton, La Salud in Sandton, The SALT Road Houghton, The Naked Woolf in Rosebank, Nine Lives Supper Club in Rosebank, and Zuney.

For families, The Green Room in Greenside has earned a nomination in the Best Family‑Friendly Restaurant category, showing that Joburg’s dining scene caters to all ages.

What Happens Next

Public voting is open until 20 May 2026, giving diners a chance to support their favourites. The awards ceremony will take place on 25 May 2026 at Hotel Sky Sandton.

Sarah Kensington, partnership director of the awards, says the third edition marks a milestone: “The growth of the awards reflects the sector’s strength and resilience, as well as its increasing global relevance.”