Inside scoop: New restaurant set to open in Sandton

There is nothing quite as exciting as hearing that a new restaurant is on the way. For Joburg foodies, that kind of news spreads fast.

So, there I was, minding my own business and enjoying a meal at Ukkō Restaurant in Sandton, when I happened to strike up a conversation with the manager, Percy Nyama.

Now, the journalist in me could not let an opportunity like that slide. Moments with management don't come around every day, so naturally, I had to ask whether there was anything exciting in the pipeline.

To my surprise, Percy revealed that foodies are in for a serious treat, as the restaurant is preparing to expand with the opening of a brand-new dining spot in just a few weeks’ time.

The new restaurant, Vlamo by Ukkō, will also be based in Sandton, this time at the newly opened Sandton Gate Central. And from the sounds of it, this is not going to be just another extension of the brand.

“It’s going to be bigger than this,” Percy said when asked about the size of the new space.

He also hinted at a fresh menu offering, although loyal diners can still expect some of the signature flavours that have made Ukkō one of Sandton’s favourite dining destinations.

“So, with the menu, we’re going to deviate a little bit. It’s not going to be the same concept, but it’s going to be our sister company,” he explained.

When asked when Joburgers can officially start making reservations, Percy kept things mysterious, saying, “It shall be confirmed in a few weeks’ time,” while encouraging food lovers to keep an eye on their socials for updates.

And if that was not enough to get people talking, he also teased an official launch event for the new restaurant. Safe to say, the countdown to Vlamo by Ukkō has officially begun - and as Time Out, we cannot wait to experience it and tell you all about it.