By Shai Rama
Johannesburg’s dining scene has always thrived on coalescing global influences with local flair. Recently, three names have emerged to capture the city’s imagination: Ocaso, Cyra and Naan Sense, each representing a different facet of Johannesburg’s gastronomic evolution. Together, these restaurants are redefining what it means to dine out in Joburg, proving that food is never just about sustenance; it’s about unforgettable experiences.
Fine dining elegance at the Houghton Hotel
This fine dining jewel, located inside the luxurious Houghton Hotel, delivers a refined, multicourse experience that celebrates both local ingredients and global techniques. Helmed by the award winning Chef Candice, diners can expect exquisitely plated dishes that look like modern art, paired with curated wines and exceptional service. ‘We have a seasonal menu that changes around every three months,’ says Chef Candice. ‘I draw a lot of inspiration from my travels and I’m constantly guided by seasons or colour.
I love unexpected pairings, like vintage gruyère cheese with celery marmalade, that take people on a flavour journey they haven’t experienced before.’ The minimalist, sophisticated interior echoes the restaurant’s approach, where every detail is meticulously considered. Soft ambient lighting, a pared-back colour palette and warm textures — from leather tablecloths to wooden accents — add depth and tactile richness to the space. Together, these elements create an atmosphere of refined luxury, inviting diners to fully immerse themselves in the artful presentations of each dish.
Where smooth sounds and golden hours collide
Having opened its doors in July this year, Ocaso brings a luxurious take on modern Mexican cuisine to Oxford Parks, Rosebank. The newly opened restaurant had big shoes to fill, taking over the space formerly occupied by the esteemed Shortmarket Club, yet Ocaso rose to the challenge, offering an elevated menu with Mexican flavours within a space that blends coastal bohemian with Jozi glam.
The space exudes a breezy, beach-house atmosphere, featuring natural materials, textured tasselled light fittings and warm wooden details. Lush greenery spills throughout, complemented by undulating wooden sconces that add depth and movement to the room. Acapulco-style chairs complete the look, infusing the space with a touch of relaxed coastal charm. Ocaso’s modern interior serves as the perfect neutral canvas, allowing its colourful dishes to take centre stage. Enjoy bursting flavours through dishes such as birria tacos and ceviche to the showstopping tomahawk steak, all paired with inventive, Mexican-inspired cocktails that instantly transport you straight to a sunset in Oaxaca.
Edible performance art comes to Johannesburg
This August, Johannesburg’s fine dining world witnessed the arrival of the new kid on the block: Naan Sense, a dining experience that blurs the lines between cuisine and performance art. Located at the enchanting Shepstone Gardens, Naan Sense reimagines Durban Indian cuisine through the lens of luxury fine dining and molecular gastronomy, offering guests an immersive experience designed as an ‘orchestra on the palate.’ Diners are invited to explore seven ‘acts’, where each interactive course is paired with a synchronised live orchestra and complemented by artisanal beverages.
The Jungle Garden delivers a vegetarian experience, bursting with earthy flavours and botanical artistry, while The Beach Front focuses on ocean-inspired dishes. With the aim of breaking convention, one course is even served blindfolded and in pure silence. In the weeks since its debut, Naan Sense has quickly become the talk of Johannesburg’s culinary scene, establishing itself as a destination for those seeking a sensory experience where cuisine deconstructs complex flavours and transforms familiar ingredients into surprising creations. Naan Sense isn’t just fine dining — it is, as promised, edible performance art.
Credits
Written by Shai Rama
This article was originally published in the House & Garden September/October issue
