The 15 best restaurants in Durban

You can’t miss the inviting pink neon signage in the heart of Glenwood. Poké Box has a “hard to choose from”, vibrant menu of Asian-fusion-inspired meals. Founder and owner Tom brings his well-travelled umami flavour wisdom, nutritious approach and sustainable awareness to each dish. His fun fusion creative twist (much like his personality) produces poké bowls packed with fresh ingredients and colourful delight. A few stand-out items include the Sprout Bowl, Classic Salmon and Classic Tofu. I loved the Beetfu. It is bursting with colour, texture and goodness. In the mood for Noodle Soup? Yip, Ramen and Tom Yum will soothe your comfort craving.  This casual-meets-community dining experience includes dietary options across the board. From vegan and meat to gluten-free and low-carb. Either way, this establishment is one of Durban’s conscious cuisine hotspots.

394 Esther Roberts Road, Glenwood, Durban, 4001

Dukkah is a true flavour testament to the unique blend of cultures, cuisine and music vibes that make Durban so special. While your eyes are immediately drawn to the award-winning architectural design, the exceptional food holds the Oscar. Chef extraordinaire Peter Goffe-Wood drew inspiration from the Maasai Market in Nairobi and Stone Town in Zanzibar, as well as all along the Spice Route. He designed a menu rich in ingredient diversity infused with vibrant, aromatic African spices. The cuisine focuses on meat, seafood and poultry, with a few scrumptious vegetarian options. Dishes not to miss include the Dukkah Mezze; I loved the roasted carrot and coriander hummus, Mozambican Prawns and Pistachio Crusted Rack of Lamb, to name a few. The attention to culinary detail woos your eyes, and every bite is “mmm” followed by “wow”. So, indulge your Spice Route curiosity and discover modern fine-dining brilliance in the heart of the Morningside foodie hub.

59 Florida Road, Morningside, Durban, 4001

Chef Charlie Larkin brings his Michelin Rising Star abroad recognition to the Western suburbs. Meraki is a quaint and intimate fine-dining restaurant with only 27 seats. Chef Larkin’s cuisine blends French-classical techniques with Farmhouse British flavours. Sound unique and delicious? It truly is. He is passionate about seasonal ingredients and is renowned for foraging in and around Hillcrest. The area has a variety of wild, fresh and delicious ingredients that make his offerings exceptional.  The menu changes weekly depending on what Chef discovers during his wanderings. Choose between a 5-course tasting dinner menu and a full 5-course or 3-course lunch menu. Also, Chef sneaks in a few special “surprise” courses too while you relax with family and friends. Booking is essential.

7 Builders Way, Hillcrest, 3650

In the heart of Hillcrest’s foodie district is the neighbourhood brasserie, The Black Rabbit. Established by esteemed restaurateur and chef, Chris Black, this restaurant serves a delicious seasonal menu and a set lunch menu that changes weekly. Incorporating Italian, Asian and South African flavours, Durbanites and visitors have enjoyed his culinary adventures and flawless service for several years. The warm and inviting atmosphere leaves you no choice but to relax and indulge in various tantalising starters and mains. Stand-out dishes include the Triple Roasted Crispy Duck and Calamari with Nahm Jim Dressing. The desserts change daily, so you never know what sweet surprise the kitchen team has up their sleeves, but you can inquire before arrival. For fine wine lovers, choose from the elegantly displayed cellar to complete your dining experience.  Booking is advised over weekends and holiday periods.

Lillies Quarter, 14 Old Main Road, Hillcrest, 3650

Tucked away in the lush Assagay valley, Spoon Eatery’s open-air and homey atmosphere is one of a kind. Owner and chef Jenna Hayes travelled and cooked on yachts around the world. She brings her global culinary experience and passion with a contemporary-eclectic mix of Mediterranean, Asian, Italian and comfort food to your table. From enticing tapas and fire-baked pizza to juicy burgers, mouthwatering mains and decadent desserts, there is a meal to satisfy everyone’s desires. Some popular choices include The Diablo Pizza, Pulled Lamb Shoulder Roulade, and Asian Seared Beef Fillet. There is a generous assortment of vegetarian and vegan options, and Chef includes fresh produce from the onsite veggie patch. There is no hurry when you dine at Spoon. I love sitting under the trees, catching up with friends, or sipping red wine next to the fireplace on chilly days. Booking is recommended.

4 Castle Road, Assagay, Outer West Durban, 3624

Chef Johannes Richter brings his Michelin-star training from abroad and passion for sustainable dining to the renowned Summerhill Guest Estate. Together with his wife, Johanna, sommelier and front-of-house manager, they blend unique South African flavours and exceptional fine wine, creating an all-around perfect pairing. This restaurant serves an a la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner to hotel guests, as well as six or eight-course dinner menus to in-house guests and outside visitors. The dinner menu changes every two months, incorporating the freshest seasonal ingredients from the onsite gardens and local suppliers. Chef Johannes works his culinary genius, presenting artistic masterpieces with exquisite local flavours. From the lush Cowies Hill setting to the superb service and out-of-this-world dining, The LivingRoom is a culinary journey from start to finish. Booking is essential.

9 Belvedale Road, Cowies Hill, Pinetown, 3610

Twin chefs Clare and Fiona Ras have served conscious cuisine for almost 30 years. The phrase “you are what you eat” has never left their approach to local, fresh and healthy meals. Sprigs focuses on a seasonal menu that shifts every three weeks or so. You never know what delicious meals could be coming up - perfect for curious foodies! The atmosphere is always friendly and inviting, and the Chefs know several regulars by name and happily interact with the customers. The space is open and breezy with a Mediterranean décor touch, much like some of their dishes. I love that the tables are not too close to each other, making it an excellent spot for an intimate chat. This casual meets upscale dining establishment is open for breakfast and lunch. Walk-ins are welcome, but booking for larger parties is advised.

Fields Shopping Centre, 13 Old Main Road, Kloof, 3610

Ten years ago, passionate restaurateurs, chef Paul Sheppard and epicurean Billy Franks, joined forces with chef Ray Friedman. Combining their culinary expertise, they opened Ray’s Kitchen in the esteemed Dunkirk Estate in Salt Rock. With a focus on upscale dining, they designed a delectable menu that has secured returning patrons. Their adventure continued, and in 2019, a second establishment excited residents in the pristine Emberton Estate in Hillcrest. While the menus vary slightly, one thing is certain – every bite is divine. Favourites include the Deboned ½ Piri Piri Chicken, Tuna Lollipops (such fun), Tikka Chicken Pizza, and the Health Bowl. The philosophy behind Ray’s Kitchen is to create a safe and secure dining environment for the community and outside visitors. All you need to do is take time out with family and friends while sipping wine and enjoying delicious cuisine. It’s a win-win!  Booking is essential.

Emberton Estate: 90 Ashley Drive, Everton, 3610

Dunkirk Estate: Sameja Drive, Salt Rock, 4420

Café 1999 returns! In 2020, Chef Marcelle Roberts and her husband, Sean, decided to close the doors to their Musgrave establishment. After a beloved 21 years, it was a sad reality for all. But in November 2024, together with restaurateur Marco Conte, their new location in Umhlanga brings their delicious modern Mediterranean cuisine and fine wine selection back to ecstatic Durban residents. Chef Marcelle continues her Mediterranean flare with nostalgic favourites, such as Rack of Lamb, Pork Belly, Chargrilled Sirloin, and Pan-Fried Duck Sare. Each meal is perfectly paired with a curated wine list to savour every bite and sip. The creative cocktail menu is a delight - a hit for a lady’s night out. This renowned Durban café has successfully reinvented itself for the old and new foodie fans to enjoy mouthwatering cuisine, extraordinary wine and sparking conversation. Booking is advised.

51 Lighthouse Road, uMhlanga, 4319

For almost 80 years, the award-winning Oyster Box stands tall overlooking the iconic Umhlanga lighthouse. During this time, the restaurant’s reputation for exceptional cuisine has never swayed. Executive chef Daniel Payne and senior executive sous chef Larry Ramadhin continue the culinary legacy. The dining varies from upscale casual and high tea, to fine dining and intimate. I love the Ocean Terrace. Why, you ask? The Curry Buffet. Durban has a diverse curry culture, and every day, the buffet offers a generous selection of meat, fish and vegetarian curries, embracing Beef Vindaloo, Singapore Fish Curry, and Vegetable Korma. A must-try is The Oyster Box’s famous Lamb Curry. Whichever dining you desire, the tantalising menus, exquisite setting and flawless service are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Booking is essential.

2 Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga, 4319

Tightline Salta is a seafood lover’s dream! This sophisticated yet Durbs-vibe-relaxed restaurant understands that “the fresher, the better” produces top-quality dishes bursting with goodness and extraordinary flavour.  The team truly comes to the party for their patrons. From making a booking to being seated and served, every step is efficient and flawless. Chef Tyne and her kitchen crew work their culinary magic to prepare each meal meticulously. Oh so pleasing to the eye and even better to eat. The menu has a generous selection of seafood and a few meat and vegetarian options. Favourites include the Linefish Ceviche and Chilli Prawn Aglio Olio. For dessert, who can resist a malva pudding smothered in smooth vanilla bean custard – I certainly can’t! The atmosphere is vibrant and sizzling, and with a playground an arm’s length away, you can enjoy your meal with the children close by.

Marine Walk Shopping Centre, Salta Boulevard, Jabu Ncobo Drive, uMdloti, 4319

Conveniently located on the uMdloti beachfront, you will find one of Durban’s vibrant hot spots. Sandbar’s philosophy is to sit back, relax and indulge in delicious international cuisine. Owners and couple Leonard and Davina Staples are well-travelled and passionate epicures. Together, they bring a unique twist to dishes they loved while global trotting. The menu has a generous selection of starters, mains, sushi, as well as vegan and vegetarian options. Honestly, it is not an easy decision to make! So, you will need to tune into what your taste buds desire. But, if you need assistance, opt for the Seared Sesame-Encrusted Tuna or the House Specialty - Pork Loin Ribs. Finish your meal with creamy Gelato, and hop across the road to laze on the beach. I loved the super comfy coastal style décor. After a refreshing cocktail and delicious meal, it’s rather hard to leave. Booking is essential.

32 North Beach Road, uMdloti, 4319

Donna Modern Italian celebrates the rich flavours of Italy with a touch of chic simplicity. Esteemed restaurateur twin brothers, Andile and Ayanda Ngidi, bring a delicious variety of Italian classics with a personal, modern flair. Their passion for the culinary arts is clear from the moment you arrive. Every meal is bursting with vibrant colour and is a creative masterpiece. The Burrata Salad, Chicken Masala Pasta, and Steak Pizza have patrons returning for more. On the dessert side, indulge in Traditional Italian Doughnuts with a rich custard or chocolate filling or a decadent traditional Tiramisu. This upscale family restaurant has a supervised playground for the children while you enjoy the inviting and sophisticated atmosphere. A little piece of the Mediterranean in Salt Rock, it is the perfect choice for relaxed and memorable celebrations along Durban’s northern coastline.

New Salt Rock Centre, 1 New Salt Rock Road, Salt Rock, 4390

This trendy and stylish restaurant is one of Ballito’s gems. The setting is incredible! Open and breezy, right on the beach with endless ocean views. Co-owners and restaurateurs Claudia and Ryan Blom bring their passion for healthy living to their colourful “Beach Couture Style” dishes. The menu incorporates a variety of traditional South African breakfasts and lunches, as well as Mediterranean, Asian and local infused flavours. I loved the Street Food selection of wraps and omelettes. The Surfers Pocket Wrap is a tasty win. For lunch, the Build Your Own Tapas Beach Plates are a fun and exciting choice to fulfil whatever your appetite desires. A perfect lunch date meal. Fresh and wholesome is the name of the culinary game at Kuta Kola, including vegetarian and vegan options. So, pop in after a beach walk, relax, and feed your body and soul.

17 Compensation Drive, Ballito, 4420

Take a leisurely drive down the south coast and pull into the renowned Waffle House in Ramsgate. Nestled in a subtropical coastal paradise, this restaurant was opened in 1991 by owners John and Doreen Gaze. To this day, the only waffling around is a menu you must come hungry for. The team has mastered the art of golden sugar-free Belgian waffles, topped with spoilt-for-choice savoury and sweet options. I love the Lemon Meringue, which followed the Lite Breakfast (I had to save space to appease my sweet tooth). Organically grown fresh produce, free-range and sustainability take priority.  Vegan or Vegetarian? Plenty to choose from. Plus, gluten, egg and dairy-free options bring sweet smiles to those with allergies. Seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis, but you can stroll around the lush surroundings and walk on the beach to build up your appetite or explore the deli while you wait.

Lot 839 Marine Drive, Ramsgate, 4285