Fodor's Expert Review Parea Taverna

$$ Melrose and Illovo Greek

At this Greek taverna, music floats above the buzz of conversation, a souvlaki spit turns slowly near the door, and a refrigerated case displays an array of meze (small appetizers)—which you can also select as a takeaway, if you're on the go. Start with a meze platter of souvlaki, feta, olives imported from Greece, tzatziki, and dolmades, followed by the line fish, grilled on an open flame with olive oil and lemon, or kleftiko (lamb slow-cooked in a clay oven) and a carafe of wine. On weekend evenings, belly dancers perform between the tables against a backdrop of murals of Santorini, and Greek dancers do the Zorba, while patrons partake in "controlled" plate breaking—all while sipping on a glass of ouzo. The dress is casual and the atmosphere very relaxed. Choose from the set or à la carte menus. In summer, most people sit outside beneath the faux grape vines at the street-side tables.

Greek Lunch Dinner $$ Brunch Quick Bite

Quick Facts

3D Corlett Dr.
Johannesburg, Gauteng  2196, South Africa

011-788–8777

www.parea.co.za

Known For:
  • Unbeatable selection at meze cafe
  • Produce sourced from Greece
  • Chef Jabu, who has been there since it opened in 1993
Restaurant Details:
Rate Includes: Reservations essential

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