Durban and KwaZulu-Natal Restaurants
We’ve compiled the best of the best in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal - browse our top choices for Restaurants during your stay.
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19 Recommendations
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1. The LivingRoom @ Summerhill Estate Culinary Retreat
$$$$ | |Don’t let the relaxed homey feel fool you; this is the most exciting meal you can have in the Durban area right now. Each course...
Don’t let the relaxed homey feel fool you; this is the most exciting meal you can have in the Durban area right now. Each course of the sustainable nose-to-tail menu is bold, flavorful, and carries a Kwa-Zulu Natal story, told by the head chef, German-born, Durban-raised Johannes Richter, who incorporates the property's fresh produce with handcrafted items like fish sauce made by fermented specimens caught on the annual sardine run and homemade sourdough served with lashings of spiced masala butter, as well as local ingredients such as maas (traditional milk) and amaranth (a protein-packed grain). Come hungry and take your time.
9 Belvedale Rd., Durban, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa063-529–1966Known For
- Exciting fine dining
- Creative vegetarian options
- A great spot for date night
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: 7 courses R730 / including wine pairing R1,255 -
2. Barbacoa
$$ | | South AmericanThis is an Argentinian-styled mecca for red-meat lovers where steaks are cooked on an open charcoal fire and South American music dictates the...
This is an Argentinian-styled mecca for red-meat lovers where steaks are cooked on an open charcoal fire and South American music dictates the atmosphere. There's also an on-site butchery where local grain-fed beef is aged and cut to size to suit all appetites. Cuts are served with a choice of sauces (mushroom and red wine, cheese, or garlic to name a few) and vegetable sides. Alternates include deboned chicken and freshly seared tuna. Their exclusive Malbec is an obvious wine choice, with a range of other high and low vintage reds and whites to choose from.
Lighthouse Mall, Chartwell Dr., Umhlanga, KwaZulu Natal, 4320, South Africa031-561–4106 -
3. Bel Punto
$$$ | | ItalianFollow your stomach 15 minutes north of Umhlanga to Umdloti where you'll dine on Italian fare with a contemporary twist. The seafood is outstanding...
Follow your stomach 15 minutes north of Umhlanga to Umdloti where you'll dine on Italian fare with a contemporary twist. The seafood is outstanding—think line fish baked in the wood-fired pizza oven and perfectly cooked calamari or prawns done in a garlic, white wine, tomato, cream, and chili sauce. Italian staples like pastas, pizzas, and risotto also hit the spot. The wine list is noteworthy and waiters are knowledgeable, although there are sometimes delays with food when the restaurant is busy. To make the most of the gorgeous sea views, book for lunch or an early dinner.
Umdloti Centre, 1 South Beach Rd., Umhlanga, KwaZulu Natal, 4319, South Africa031-568–2407Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. No lunch Tues. -
4. Dockside Shack
$ | | SeafoodYou'll dine on wooden picnic tables at this rustic no-frills seafood shack near (but not on) the bay, where the food is fresh, plentiful, and...
You'll dine on wooden picnic tables at this rustic no-frills seafood shack near (but not on) the bay, where the food is fresh, plentiful, and unfussy—fresh lobster, prawns, whole grilled fish, and a range of salads. Cocktails are taken seriously, and you'll find a surfeit of colorful frozen drinks plus wine and beer. There's entertainment on weekends.
Pioneer Rd., Richards Bay, KwaZulu Natal, 3900, South Africa35-788–0320 -
5. Elephant & I
$$ | |The question is what won't you find to eat at this popular restaurant in the Boardwalk Inkwazi shopping center. You name it, they've got it:...
The question is what won't you find to eat at this popular restaurant in the Boardwalk Inkwazi shopping center. You name it, they've got it: from burgers, wraps, salads, bagel sandwiches, and paninis, to a jumble of international dinner dishes, like moussaka, lasagna, quiche, shepherd's pie, or stir-fry, topped off with dessert. Early opening hours are a big bonus, all the better to enjoy an extensive menu of breakfast classics or a muffin and a great selection of coffee drinks. If you want to come for dinner, be aware that they close early evening (3 pm on Sunday), so call to check. Wi-Fi is offered here—a big draw card.
Shop L26, Boardwalk Centre, Richards Bay, KwaZulu Natal, 3900, South Africa035-789–7269Known For
- Variety
- Breakfasts
- Burgers and salads
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Reservations not accepted -
Recommended Fodor’s Video
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6. Gigi's
$$$$ | | EclecticAlthough it's on the Hotel iZulu property, you don't have to be a guest to eat at this excellent restaurant. Only the finest ingredients are...
Although it's on the Hotel iZulu property, you don't have to be a guest to eat at this excellent restaurant. Only the finest ingredients are used, and they are locally sourced whenever possible, like South African cheeses, lamb from the KZN Midlands, venison, and fresh seafood. Try the Hotel Izulu curry of the day—always delicious. Dining is fairly formal but lunch is best enjoyed poolside. There's an excellent wine cellar, so take the opportunity to sample some of the best South African wines.
Hotel iZulu, 3 Rey's Place, Ballito, KwaZulu Natal, 4399, South Africa032-946–3444 -
7. Kashmir
$$ | | IndianThe menu features mainly North Indian dishes that are so large and filling that—take our word for it—appetizers are not needed. Standout curries...
The menu features mainly North Indian dishes that are so large and filling that—take our word for it—appetizers are not needed. Standout curries include butter chicken, lamb gosht pasanda (done in an almond-and-cream sauce with saffron), and the navratan korma (mixed vegetables cooked in cashew gravy with fruit). The interior provides a sophisticated dining experience, which continues onto an enclosed terrace. There's a good, reasonably priced buffet on Friday and Saturday nights and a carvery for Sunday lunch.
11 McCausland Crescent, Umhlanga, KwaZulu Natal, 4317, South Africa031-561–7486 -
8. La Spiaggia
$ | |As close to the Indian Ocean as you can get, this restaurant overlooking the main bathing beach has outside tables that are always packed with...
As close to the Indian Ocean as you can get, this restaurant overlooking the main bathing beach has outside tables that are always packed with families sipping milk shakes or friends sharing a bottle of wine and having a bite to eat off a menu with broad appeal. Not the best food on offer in the area, but an unbeatable location.
O'Connor Promenade, Umhlanga, KwaZulu Natal, 4321, South Africa031-561–4388Known For
- Kahlúa coffee milkshake
- Sea views
- Pizza
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9. Miners' Rest Tea Shop
$$ | |In a delightfully restored pre-1913 miner's cottage at the Talana Museum, the tea shop serves light refreshments as well as more substantial home-cooked meals. The...
In a delightfully restored pre-1913 miner's cottage at the Talana Museum, the tea shop serves light refreshments as well as more substantial home-cooked meals. The food is excellent and the atmosphere most welcoming. Destroyed by a fire in 2010, it's been reconstructed to its former glory. You can also take advantage of the braai and picnic sites on the museum grounds, and the Sunday buffet is very popular. You'll need to book ahead for this.
Dundee, KwaZulu Natal, 3000, South Africa034-212–1704Known For
- Sunday buffet
- Quality meals
- Friendly service
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10. Mozambik
$$$ | |Sample the authentic tastes of Mozambique without ever crossing the border at this funky, vibrant restaurant. The eatery's rustic charm extends from the interior design...
Sample the authentic tastes of Mozambique without ever crossing the border at this funky, vibrant restaurant. The eatery's rustic charm extends from the interior design to the service to the food, which has Portuguese, Arab, Indian, and Goan influences. Seafood and chicken are specialties and appear in some irresistible combinations—try the specialty seafood platter—and you can enjoy a cocktail while the kids are entertained in their own section. Dining here is definitely a case of eat, mess, and be merry. It's usually busy, so not ideal for a quiet rendezvous, but this diner has been so successful over the past decade that several franchise stores have since opened across the country.
12 Library Lane, Ballito, KwaZulu Natal, 4399, South Africa066-242–2973Known For
- Kids' area
- Specialty seafood dishes
- Lively atmosphere
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11. Olive & Oil
$$ | |You can't go wrong with the fantastic and well-priced Mediterranean-inspired fare here. The best way to start your meal is with a meze platter to...
You can't go wrong with the fantastic and well-priced Mediterranean-inspired fare here. The best way to start your meal is with a meze platter to share before moving on to main courses like calamari, steaks, pastas with Sicilian and Moroccan flavors, and the easy-on-the-budget pizzas. The large restaurant is not suitable for a romantic night out, but it's great for families and offers consistently good food and service. If the weather's warm, try for a table on the verandah.
15 Chartwell Dr., Umhlanga, KwaZulu Natal, 4319, South Africa031-561–2618Known For
- Outdoor seating
- Family-friendly setting
- Excellent value
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Reservations essential -
12. Roma Revolving
$$$ | City Centre |In business since 1973, this slowly revolving restaurant, which takes about an hour to do one full rotation, offers what has to be the most...
In business since 1973, this slowly revolving restaurant, which takes about an hour to do one full rotation, offers what has to be the most spectacular views of the city, especially the harbor. It's run by the original Italian owners, and the extensive menu runs the gamut from pasta to seafood. From old-school waiters to the hard-to-resist dessert trolley, there's something pleasingly old-fashioned about the place. The restaurant perched atop a high-rise building has been renovated, though it maintains the kitsch carpeted walls, red leather interior, and Italian statues and frescos at the entrance. It's a popular choice for birthdays and weekend dinners.
Margaret Mncadi Ave., Durban, KwaZulu Natal, 4001, South Africa031-337–6707Known For
- Kitschy setting
- Old-school vibe
- Special-occasion dinners
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues. No lunch Mon.–Thurs. No dinner Sun., Reservations essential -
13. Royal Coffee Shoppe
$ | City Centre |This is a popular, if old-school meeting place for daytime breaks and for pre- and post-theater crowds. Crystal chandeliers, etched glass, formally dressed staff, and...
This is a popular, if old-school meeting place for daytime breaks and for pre- and post-theater crowds. Crystal chandeliers, etched glass, formally dressed staff, and live piano music in the nearby lounge at lunchtime create a rich atmosphere of old-time colonial Durban. The café serves light breakfasts and lunches as well as coffees, teas, cakes, quiches, salads, and sandwiches.
267 Anton Lembede [Smith] St., Durban, KwaZulu Natal, 4001, South Africa031-333–6000Known For
- Tea and scones
- Affordable toasted sandwiches
- Iced coffee
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14. The Hot Spot Food Fusion
$ | | IndianA welcome change from the soulless chain restaurants that dominate the wharf, this humble mom-and-pop restaurant (opposite the parking area...
A welcome change from the soulless chain restaurants that dominate the wharf, this humble mom-and-pop restaurant (opposite the parking area, not the waterfront) serves up its own delightful mix of Italian-Indian cuisine. Portions are large and you can choose from a variety of Indian dishes, like spicy lamb curry, butter chicken, and traditional garlic naan, along with burgers and fish and chips. Everything is served fresh and with a friendly smile.
6 Newark Rd., Richards Bay, KwaZulu Natal, 3900, South Africa35-788–0563Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. -
15. Ile Maurice
$$$ | |Closed PermanentlyThis restaurant is one of Umhlanga's culinary gems, with a soft-hued interior and pretty veranda that overlooks the Umhlanga beach. On the menu you'll find...
This restaurant is one of Umhlanga's culinary gems, with a soft-hued interior and pretty veranda that overlooks the Umhlanga beach. On the menu you'll find classic French Mauritian fare such as soupe de poisson à la Mauricienne and Creole-style octopus curry. Although seafood is a specialty, meat-lovers have plenty to choose from, with filet de chateau a popular option. A well-considered wine list complements the menu.
9 McCausland Crescent, Umhlanga, KwaZulu Natal, 4319, South Africa031-561–7609Known For
- Excellent wine list
- Fresh seafood
- French-inspired island cuisine
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. (but open Mon. in Dec.), Reservations essential, Jacket required -
16. Bangkok Wok
$ | | ThaiClosed PermanentlySeafood has a strong presence here—think crispy calamari or steamed fish with lemongrass—and the duck dishes are particularly good. From the...
Seafood has a strong presence here—think crispy calamari or steamed fish with lemongrass—and the duck dishes are particularly good. From the Puu Cha (prawn and crab donuts) to Chu Chee Duck (crispy duck served on a bed of spinach, topped with red curry paste, coconut milk, lime leaf, basil and chilli) or the Bangkok duck, which is roasted, wrapped in a crepe, and comes with a variety of sauces. Noodle and egg-fried rice dishes are filling and budget-friendly.
Lighthouse Mall, shop 13, Chartwell Dr., Umhlanga, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa031-561–2050 -
17. Barrio
$ | | GreekClosed PermanentlyCrisp white furnishings accented by striking shades of blue provide the perfect background for outstanding Greek fare. Start by ordering lots...
Crisp white furnishings accented by striking shades of blue provide the perfect background for outstanding Greek fare. Start by ordering lots of appetizers like pita with hummus, grilled baby octopus, or sheftalia (a spicy sausage from Cyprus). Main course recommendations include traditional dishes such as kleftico (lamb shank slow roasted on the bone) and moussaka (an eggplant and ground meat dish), although the pasta options, Lebanese specialities and paellas won't disappoint either. Efficient service and a notable wine list round out a great experience.
Gateway shopping center, 7 Palm Blvd., Umhlanga, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa031-566–7456 -
18. So! Sushi
$ | | JapaneseClosed PermanentlyThe owners of So! Sushi were so intent on providing the freshest ingredients possible that they decided to open their own fish shop. Sushi is...
The owners of So! Sushi were so intent on providing the freshest ingredients possible that they decided to open their own fish shop. Sushi is the star here, though there are some supplemental Eastern-inspired dishes available as well. You can sit at a conveyor belt and simply pluck off what you like, though you may want to order directly from the kitchen if it's a hot day. In warm weather, the small shop space is expanded with pavement tables that allow you to soak up the village vibe.
3 Lighthouse Mall, Chartwell Dr., Umhlanga, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa031-561–5393 -
19. Zara's
$ | | CaféClosed PermanentlyA daytime-only eatery that, despite having a definite Mediterranean influence, successfully manages to be all things to all people. The pavement...
A daytime-only eatery that, despite having a definite Mediterranean influence, successfully manages to be all things to all people. The pavement is prime real estate as tables are clustered under a large awning, and a young, friendly team delivers everything with a smile. Pop in for a cappuccino and cake (the carrot cake is inspirational), start the day off right with a number of creative breakfast options, or simply settle in at lunchtime over a salad or pasta and a glass of wine.
4 Lagoon Dr., Umhlanga, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa031-561–2511Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No dinner.
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