South Africa is as diverse as it is beautiful; offering an abundance of quirky eateries to suit all needs and budgets, from dining in an aquarium to an observatory! So if you’re after an adventurous meal out with family and friends, be sure to tick the following quirky restaurants off your bucket list:

Gauteng:

Goblin’s Cove Fantasy Restaurant, Magaliesburg

The Goblin’s Cove Fantasy Restaurant in the Magaliesburg offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Enjoy your meal inside the cosy Goblin’s Cove or outdoors in the Fairy Grove, surrounded by a wonderland of majestic fairy sculptures nestled in every nook and cranny. The menu offers everything from ostrich steaks to Malaysian curry, and there are set menus available during the week. Kids are accommodated with an exciting kiddies’ menu. Contact +27 (0)14 576 2143.

The Observatory Restaurant, Johannesburg

The Observatory Restaurant at the Aloe Ridge Hotel in Johannesburg offers a chance to literally dine under the stars in a feast of “Astronomy with Gastronomy”. Look through the largest privately owned telescope in the southern hemisphere which projects mind boggling images onto the screen for all to see as you dine in style. Keep an eye out for comets and supernovas while you eat. The restaurant was even mentioned in “Extreme Restaurants of the World” by Birgit Krols in 2008. Contact +27 (0)11 957 2070.

Carnivores, Johannesburg

Carnivores in Muldersdrift offers “Africa’s Greatest Eating Experience” in their all-you-can-eat banquet styled restaurant. Diners are served 15 types of meat, including 5 game meats, which are carved off by Massai spears at your table.  Contact +27 (0)11 950 6000.

The Cube Tasting Kitchen, Johannesburg

The Cube Tasting Kitchen offers an intimate 40-seater tasting kitchen where food, rather than space, is the focus.  You’re encouraged to break free from conventional eating and enjoy 10 courses with a quirky blend of African and Japanese cuisine. Make sure you try the biltong sushi! Booking is essential. Contact +27 (0)82 422 8158.

KwaZulu-Natal

Freedom Café, Durban

Freedom Café, situated in Morningside, is located in a tomato-red shipping container with wall to ceiling glass walls and doors. Explore the gardens to find hanging lanterns, quirky plants, and unusual furniture that will have you feeling as though you are relaxing in an abstract wonderland. Contact +27 (0)31 309 4453/4434.

The Cargo Hold Restaurant at uShaka Marine World, Durban

What could be more thrilling than dining with sharks at The Cargo Hold Restaurant at uShaka Marine World? Nestled in the stern of the Phantom Ship, the quirky restaurant overlooks a shark tank so you can enjoy a tasty meal as the predators glide past and eye you. The menu offers foods from all over the world, including spicy, fruity, and exotic flavours, combined with the freshest of KwaZulu-Natal’s local produce. Be aware there is a smart casual dress code (no flip flops or shorts for dinner). Contact +27 (0)31 328 8065.

Roma Revolving Restaurant, Durban

If there is one way to enjoy the sights and sounds of Durban, it’s at the Roma Revolving Restaurant, which offers 360˚ views of the city and ocean as you dine on fine cuisine. This exclusive restaurant is the only genuine revolving restaurant in the southern hemisphere and the 3rd of its kind in the world, with both a revolving window and floor area. The restaurant specialises in Italian cuisine, but offers delicacies like continental dishes, seafood, and fresh game to suit all tastes. Contact +27 (0)31 337 6707.

Eastern Cape

The Sandbar Floating Restaurant, Kenton on Sea

The Sandbar Floating Restaurant operates from a barge permanently anchored in the tranquil Bushman’s River. A popular local watering hole, this restaurant serves pub fare, light meals, seafood, and grills – and you can even cook your own fish off the deck. The restaurant is licensed, has wheelchair access, and is child friendly. Booking is essential. Contact +27 (0)46 648 2450.

The Treehouse Restaurant, Port Elizabeth

The Treehouse Restaurant is built on a wooden deck around the trunk of a giant yellowwood. Enjoy your meal with awe-inspiring views over the Colleen Glen valley. The restaurant is open for large group bookings. Sunday lunches consist of potjies and roasts under the quiet canopy of trees. Please note there are no credit card facilities available. Booking is essential. Contact +27 (0)83 244 9191.

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