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Let me start with a disclaimer: I am a big meat-eater. So, exploring vegan cuisine was never really high on my bucket list, but when I got the opportunity to visit The Vegan Chef in Sandton, I was excited to stretch myself and experience something outside my usual comfort zone.
The drive to Sandton was easy, and once I arrived at the shopping centre where the restaurant is located, finding it was effortless. I simply asked around and was immediately pointed in the right direction. The area itself was beautiful, and because I went in the early afternoon, it wasn’t too busy-making for a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere.
The vibe
When I first walked into the restaurant, my immediate thought was how intimate the space felt. It isn’t a massive venue, but that adds to its charm.
I was greeted by friendly staff, and the owner herself, Sue Gajathar, was seated inside at the time. The staff paid close attention to detail, the seating was comfortable, the tables were well arranged, and everything felt thoughtfully put together. The restaurant was neat and felt cosy, chilled, and welcoming.
On the day I visited, I even spotted proudly South African celebrity chef Lorna Maseko enjoying her meal, which spoke volumes about the restaurant’s appeal.
The vibe was instantly good. There was a couple dining nearby, clearly enjoying their meal, and the gentleman, who happened to be American and now living in South Africa, couldn’t stop raving about the restaurant. He told me The Vegan Chef is his go-to spot and praised almost everything on the menu. Watching them enjoy their food while I waited only heightened my anticipation.
What also stood out was that this isn’t just a place to grab a bite; it doubles as a vegan grocery stop. Shelves were stocked with beautifully packaged treats: cookies, cakes, desserts, and other vegan goodies. The cakes in particular caught my eye, and I still regret not buying one to take home. That’s definitely something I’ll be correcting on my next visit.
The food
The food didn't take long to arrive. The first item I tried on the menu was the chocolate milkshake. From the first sip, I was impressed. The chocolate milkshake was rich, creamy, and absolutely divine. I could hardly believe there was no dairy involved.
Next came the chicken and fries. Let me tell you, I genuinely felt like I was eating real chicken. The texture and flavour felt meaty, and the fries were perfectly done. Then came the vegan oxtail, which deserves an entire article of its own (and I’ve already written one!). It was simply so good.
I also ordered the Blueberry Dream Smoothie. It also tasted rich, refreshing, and packed with flavour.
In a nutshell, every single item impressed me. The overall experience absolutely lived up to the hype I’d seen on social media. The food deserves a solid 10 out of 10. In fact, the meal almost made me want to go vegan, that’s how convincing the flavours were.
Time Out Tip:
If you’re considering changing your lifestyle or simply want to explore vegan cuisine, this should be your first stop in Johannesburg. It’s no surprise they’ve won Best of Joburg several years in a row. After being there, it all makes perfect sense.
Would I recommend The Vegan Chef? Absolutely. Whether you’re vegan or not, this is a must-visit spot. The owner is warm and people-oriented, taking time to engage with guests and hear their stories. It’s the perfect place for anyone seeking good food, community, and a calm, welcoming environment without the chaos of an overcrowded restaurant.
From generous portions and rich flavours to beautifully plated dishes that practically say eat me, The Vegan Chef delivers on every level.
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