It’s no secret that South Africa’s restaurant scene is buzzing – and it’s not just about what’s on the plate, but who’s posting about it. The Dineplan Social Plate is our new series where we follow local food bloggers and creators as they experience what the dining scene has to offer.
For this round, we asked three Joburg-based creators to find restaurants on the Dineplan app, using the availability function, and grab the best table – on their schedule.
Artistry Experiences
(Sandton, Johannesburg)
Taking to the streets of Sandton, Serge (@badmanserge) booked in for a late lunch at Artistry Experiences – a three-leveled space redefining the dining scene through its blend of food, music, and the arts.
The rooftop restaurant sets the stage with views of Jozi and a soundtrack of clinking glasses and curated beats. Below, the second floor is alive with live entertainment, comedy shows and theatre while, on the street-level a vibey lounge-bar, is great for a cheeky pit-stop for after work drinks, or long catch-up with mates.
Digging into lunch, Serge ordered fluffy bao buns, golden crispy squid heads with aioli, and a fresh house salad – all washed down with a chilled glass of wine.
Sunset views, a vibey atmosphere, and a menu worth shouting about. – Serge
Post-bite, he wandered through the gallery, and immersed himself in art – rounding off the experience with a dose of culture that’s as considered as the menu upstairs.
Aurum 
(Sandton, Johannesburg)
Romance was on the cards, and a booking at Aurum was a no-brainer for Busi (@busimanuga), “Aurum is one of my favourite restaurants,” she says, “I’m always keen to go back!” And, there’s a good reason why. Set inside one of Jozi’s most iconic addresses, The Leonardo Hotel, the space is refined and modern – think high ceilings, moody, yet warm lighting, and décor that floats above you effortlessly.
Busi arrived dressed to the nines, her partner in tow, ready for a romantic evening. They joined the team for Aurum’s weekly date night menu – a 2-course menu paired with curated wines which they thoroughly enjoyed.
Aurum’s perfect atmosphere, immaculate food paired with an extraordinary wine selection, made it an unforgettable evening. – Busi
The pair lingered a little longer, finishing the night up by the rooftop pool for city views – before heading home with that unmistakable post-date-night glow, and plans to come back again. “What a beautiful restaurant,” Busi told us, “I can’t wait for him to book it again.”
Alma
(Randburg, Johannesburg)
When it comes to rewriting the rules of a typical dining experience, Alma leads the way. Known for their open-flame cooking style, the space is dark, and moody with pops of red from the flames in the kitchen, perfect for an intimate dinner or over-the-top lunch.
I recently secured a booking at Alma known for their unique take on redefining the traditional meat experience. – Ayanda
Catching Ayanda’s (@ayandaadams_) eye on the Dineplan app, she booked her table for dinner. Ayanda started off with an order of cocktails, but one stood out and stole her heart. “The Alma sour was my favourite,” she told us. She then dived into a spread of starters: crispy chicken wings, tuna tacos, and the standout chicken pizzetta – topped with pulled chicken, peppadew, whipped feta and thyme which she described as “delightful”!
For mains, the focus shifted to expertly cooked cuts – flame-grilled, full of flavour, and anything but ordinary. A sweet finish sealed the deal, which perfectly rounded off her dining experience.
Whether it’s a romantic night out, a unique dining experience, or a vibey catch-up with friends, these creators reminded us what dining out is really about – good food, great company, and trying somewhere new in your area.
Where do you want to hear about next? Let us know in the comments and stay tuned for more food-fuelled stories, served straight from South Africa’s most talked-about tables every month.
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