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From Messi to Mokoena: Joburg restaurants serving World Cup stars a taste of home

Guys! We're dialling up the gees after that goal...

Selene Brophy
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Finally! The nation has heaved a collective Halala with the backing of Mokoena in the in-goal area - taking Bafana Bafana to a draw in their second group stage match against Czechia.  

We're behind the next match happening on 25 June: Bafana Bafana vs South Korea! Yes, we have seen South Korea's trending training videos. Still, Jozi, you need to bring the gees to one of these venues near you.

Curious to know Bafana Bafana's chances? We read the tea leaves of the performance analysis here. 

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And to dial up the gees even more, we've rounded up where the world’s biggest football stars would book a table if they had to swap the stadium tunnel for Joburg’s restaurant scene. Think flame-grilled feasts, discreet five-star dining rooms, celebrity hotspots and restaurants designed for long lunches that turn into celebrations, providing just the right kind of World Cup swagger.  

Where to find World Cup flavours in Johannesburg?

Lionel Messi, Argentina - a post-match steak at Che Argentine Grill

Che Argentine Grill: Address: 128 Jan Smuts Avenue, Parkwood, Johannesburg, 2193

Messi’s hat-trick against Algeria would deserve an equally iconic Argentine feast. Think perfectly grilled steaks, empanadas and the kind of open-fire cooking that feels straight out of Buenos Aires.

Teboho Mokoena, South Africa - a home-style feast at Sakhumzi

Sakhumzi Restaurant: Address: 6980 Vilakazi Street, Orlando West, Soweto

After stepping up under pressure with his late penalty against Czechia, Mokoena would return to the flavours of home: chakalaka, samp, mogodu and traditional South African dishes in one of Soweto’s most famous dining rooms. 

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Kylian Mbappé, France - French comfort at Le petit bistro

Le petit bistro: Address: 71 7th Street, Linden, Johannesburg

Landing the ball at the back of the net against Senegal, Mbappé is known for his pace and striking precision. And he deserves a plate to match. Expect Parisian-style bistro classics, rich sauces and slow-cooked French favourites.

Harry Kane, England - pub classics at Colony Arms

Colony Arms Address: 345 Jan Smuts Avenue, Craighall, Randburg

After another clinical World Cup performance against Croatia, Kane could swap the captain’s armband for a pint and a proper British-style meal - think pies, bangers and mash, and all the comfort food of home. 

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Erling Haaland, Norway - Scandinavian-inspired simplicity at De Molen

De Molen: Address: 47 Van Riebeeck Avenue, Edenvale

Joburg doesn’t have a dedicated Norwegian restaurant (or at least that we know of) but De Molen’s European café culture, artisanal breads and wholesome dishes would suit the Norwegian striker’s understated style.

Kai Havertz, Germany - a taste of Bavaria at Die Kneipe German Pub

Die Kneipe German Pub: Address: 139 Queen Street, South Kensington, Johannesburg  

After finding the net for Germany against Curaçao, Havertz should celebrate with German beer, sausages and hearty European comfort food at this old-school favourite. 

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Folarin Balogun, USA - burgers and shakes at Hudsons

Hudsons - The Burger Joint: Address: 4th Avenue, Parkhurst, Randburg, 2193

Balogun’s explosive tournament form with two opening-match goals against Paraguya calls for an equally indulgent American classic: a towering burger, fries and a thick shake. Bring it on! 

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