Durban, with its hotpot of cultures, has the best mix of foods full of character and flavors. Thanks to the rich Indian heritage and influence, you will get foods ranging from curry dishes from the round-the-corner eatery to fine dining options in 5 star restaurants. Read along as we sample some of the best places to eat in Durban.
Below are Where To Eat In Durban South Africa
Local eateries
Local dishes are always the best option to experience food while traveling, and what better way to try them than by visiting the following local eateries:
Nembula’s in Empangeni
Enjoy a local delicacy known as shisa nyama, which loosely translates to “burn the meat” or basically barbecuing.
The South African term for barbecuing is braaing and boy do they braai! The meat will be falling apart in your mouth and hands as you lick your fingers.
If they are not braaing at a home party, you can go to a township shisa nyama where you will get to choose the sausage (known as boerowors), chops, steak and chicken pieces you want and take it outside to put on the braaing stand. One such shisa nyama is Nembula’s where you can get tender meat, a cold beer, great music and a carwash, all in one place.
Goundens Restaurant and Take Away
Famous for their hot street food, when you enter this restaurant and order their bunny chow, remember to ask for a cold beer to go with it.
You will understand why after taking that first hearty bite and your mouth is on fire. This dish is made out of a half loaf of bread whose middle is taken out and the filled in with spicy curry which can be prawn, vegetarian, chicken or lamb.
This is not food you eat on a date, as it is messy and clumsy. Use the beer to cool your tongue down before taking your next bite.
Govinda’s Pure Vegetarian Restaurant
Govinda’s is renowned for its Indian vegetarian food, which you can enjoy in the restaurant or you can opt to have as take away.
This restaurant is located at the Sri Sri Radhanath Temple of Understanding, which is the largest Hare Krishna temple in Africa.
There is not much to write home about its décor, as it is plain and simple, but they still manage to have people lining up for their vegetarian dishes which include biryani, butterbean curry, potato curry, rotis, chilli bites and samosas.
Bamboo Sushi Lounge
This restaurant was started with the people in mind as it sets out to satisfy by serving sushi in a friendly environment and a chilled out vibe.
They have a sushi buffet or you can sample a dish from their a la carte menu. Best thing is you can get sushi take away at half price.
What food is Durban famous for?
Bunny chow is Durban’s most celebrated snack, but don’t let your gastronomical tour of the city’s Indian cuisine stop there.
From casual curry dens to palatial waterfront restaurants, and from North Indian tandoori to Goan seafood specialties, there’s an Indian menu to fit every palate and price point.