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Durban's dining public is fickle by nature, and restaurants tend to change hands fairly often. But don't be discouraged—Durban offers some superb dining options, provided you eat to its strengths. Thanks to a huge Indian population, it has some of the best curry restaurants in the country.
Durbanites eat lunch and dinner relatively early because they're early risers, particularly in summer, when it's light soon after 4. They're also generally casual dressers—you'll rarely need a jacket and tie, and jeans are rarely frowned upon.
Though you'll be surrounded by the big screens of Hollywood Bets broadcasting live horse races and games, don't be put off. The air-conditioned restaurant, with a large covered deck and dedicated Bunny Bar for takeout, serves some of the best bunny chow in Durban. The mutton curry is hell-fire hot, and the broad beans (try to get there before noon) bunnies are legendary. Prepare to wait for a table, but you won't have to wait for long.
This beachfront spot serves a solid menu of great breakfasts, burgers, flat hot dogs, freshly pressed juices, and deluxe milkshakes. Try some of their 100% free-range burgers (or the veg options), wood-fired pizzas, or delicious breakfasts, which come in biodegradable cartons, so you can dine at the café or stroll and eat on the promenade.
