Tucked inside The Maslow Hotel in Sandton, La Cuna Bistro offers a calm, contemporary escape from the fast-paced business district outside its doors. With its glass-lined dining room overlooking the hotel’s manicured gardens and pool, it’s the kind of spot where you can shift gears effortlessly, from boardroom mode to a relaxed, quietly indulgent meal. Whether you’re staying at the hotel or simply looking for a refined dining experience in the heart of Sandton, La Cuna proves there’s more to this business-focused address than meets the eye.
The Vibe
By day, La Cuna Bistro is a relaxed space that readily welcomes family breakfasts at the buffet, the business crowd for lunch, and afternoon drinks with the girls. By night (and on Fridays in particular), it transforms into a moody space that effortlessly welcomes couples (or even friends) seeking a refined night out.
With the lights low and a lounge singer crooning soothing tunes in the background, the atmosphere fosters an intimate ambience.
The Food
The menu at La Cuna is a fusion of Mediterranean-style dishes rooted in South African culinary heritage. It was recently reimagined and updated, and is a tight collection of both comfort food and speciality dishes.
During our visit, we indulged in the restaurant’s limited-edition Fivefold Indulgence menu, a lavish five-course offering. Our meal began with a golden prawn arancini amuse-bouche, served with marinara aioli, a crisp and flavourful start. Starters followed, and we opted for the creamy mussel hot pot, brightened by salsa verde, accompanied by toasted ciabatta, and a beef steak tartare perfectly seasoned with capers, gherkins, truffle aioli, and egg yolk.
A refreshing lemon sorbet with grilled pineapple and rum salsa cleansed the palate before the mains: the surf & turf, featuring a tender beef fillet with tiger prawns, potato pavé, carrot purée, and garlic jus, and the salmon teriyaki with bok choy, edamame, and mashed potato. I think it’s safe to say the salmon teriyaki may have been the best I’ve had in a hotel restaurant thus far.
For dessert, we indulged in the warm malva pudding with rooibos-infused custard, as well as the baked milk tart with a cinnamon-scented custard and crisp pastry. From start to finish, La Cuna impresses with its confident flavours, refined presentation, and thoughtful nods to local culinary heritage.
The Drinks
The Lacuna Bar is an integral part of the Lacuna Bistro & Bar experience. It’s known for its delicious cocktails and sophisticated ambience. The bar menu is extensive and covers everything you would imagine a hotel bar in a bustling business hotel in the heart of Johannesburg’s most sophisticated suburb would have.
Beyond its beverage selection, Lacuna Bar also offers a variety of snacks, finger foods, sandwiches, and even cigars. The overall atmosphere is sophisticated but inviting, making it an excellent spot for both pre- and post-dinner drinks and a lighter, upscale meal.
Time Out Tip
La Cuna Bistro often offers limited-edition menus, lunch and dining experiences (like the Fivefold Indulgence menu), which provide excellent value for money. If you’re looking to try something new or spoil yourself or a loved one, keep an eye on their social media.