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Johannesburg’s Richest Square Mile just got a significant dose of international flair. Last night, TANG Sandton hosted a VIP grand reopening to unveil a meticulously refreshed space that feels less like a local haunt and more like a high-end destination in Dubai or London.
The atmosphere was a masterclass in relaxed luxury. As you step through the entrance, the hustle of Sandton melts away, replaced by a world-class aesthetic that emphasises organic textures and high-end craftsmanship. It’s a design language that mirrors the brand’s Dubai restaurant while remaining firmly rooted in its South African birthplace.
A love letter to Joburg
While founder and CEO Nicky van der Walt couldn't attend in person (his Dubai baby needed attention), his wife, Lee-Ann Liebenberg, was there to hold down the fort, as he shared a heartfelt video message with the room. For van der Walt, this "more than a facelift" renovation is a gift back to the city that started it all.
"We are turning five in May, and I think this is a fitting way to go into our fifth year," van der Walt said. "This is a testament to our investment back into South Africa. Although our brand has expanded internationally, our roots will always firmly remain here. The store is like a first child to me."
He emphasised that while the look has been slightly enhanced, the soul of Tang, its hospitality, remains untouched. In a thoughtful nod to the future, he added, "In the age of AI, hospitality, humans serving human beings, is going to become a lot more relevant."
The food: consistency meets innovation
The relaunch comes on the heels of the Sandton team being recognised in the Top 100 Restaurants of the World for the third consecutive year. That pedigree was on full display with the evening's "little bites."
My undisputed highlight? A daring sea bass topped with peanut butter sauce. It’s the kind of unexpected flavour profile that has become a Tang hallmark, the buttery, delicate fish providing the perfect canvas for the savoury, nutty richness of the topping.
Five years of excellence
As Tang approaches its 5th anniversary this May, it’s clear they aren't just resting on their laurels. As Van der Walt put it, the renovation serves as a "thank you" to the hundreds of thousands of guests who have walked through its doors since 2021.
It’s a bold statement of faith in Johannesburg’s dining scene and a reminder that when it comes to luxury, Joburg doesn't just follow global trends, it sets them.
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