Back Menu
Joburg's best first date restaurants

Joburg's best first date restaurants

Private Property South Africa
Lucy Sarah Heaney

Here are a few popular places to enjoy a first date at.

First dates are awkward – there’s no denying that. The concept of spending a few hours with a complete (or almost complete) stranger can be scary, and it’s definitely not something that many of us look forward to. But if you want to start dating someone, the first date is an unavoidable reality. In an effort to help improve this experience, we’ve put together a few of our favourite places in Joburg to take that guy or gal that you’ve had your eye on.

The Artisan

Enter Alt Tag Here

Since opening last year, The Artisan has become a popular favourite along the Greenside strip. With incredible artworks chiselled into the walls, a focus on artisanal brilliance, and one-of-a-kind decor, you and your date will have endless things to talk about. Order from the impressive beer list, grab some tasty cocktails (the Sidecar to Work is a favourite) and if things are going well, let drinks turn into dinner and pick something from the food menu – what’s more romantic than sharing a plate of tasty nachos?

Social on Main

Enter Alt Tag Here

The vibrant atmosphere at Social on Main in Bryanston is perfect for taking the pressure off on a first date. If the conversation is flowing, grab a couple of drinks and head outside to the deck where it’s a little quieter. If you’re struggling a bit, hang out by the bar together, where the chatter and music will help you out by filling in the awkward pauses. Like The Artisan, Social on Main boasts an impressive food menu too, so don’t be afraid to sit down and order some dinner if the drinks are going well and you’re looking to extend the date.

Craft

Enter Alt Tag Here

Craft is a great spot for a first date at any time of day. The coffee, beers, tasty breakfasts, lunches, and dinners mean that you can’t go wrong with this spot, no matter what kind of date you’re after. Visit for a casual afternoon coffee with the potential to turn into evening cocktails, and you’ll be able to seat yourself in either the bustling restaurant or the busy bar.

See for yourself:

The Artisan

011 027 3707

theartisan.joburg/wp/

Social on Main

011 706 7115

socialonmain.co.za

Craft

011 788 7111

facebook.com/craftrestaurant

This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.

Found this content useful?

Get the best of Private Property's latest news and advice delivered straight to your inbox each week

Related Articles

South Africa's most sought after foodie destinations
Fancy going on a culinary journey through South Africa? Check out these marvellous travel destinations that boast the best foodie spots worth travelling the country for.
Tokara Estate, Stellenbosch: a Helshoogte Pass highlight
Tokara restaurant is a smart yet unpretentious space.
Taste adventures at Openwine and The Mess
Enjoy informal plates of good food, excellent wine and a welcoming atmosphere at two new Cape Town hot spots

Explore neighbourhoods mentioned in this article

Northcliff
Genteel Tranquility
Northcliff is one of the older, more established areas in Johannesburg. It is highly sought-after by those looking for a tranquil and exclusive lifestyle. The properties on Northcliff Hill have large grounds with well established park-like gardens. Newer developments in the extensions to the West cater to the younger generation with a taste for modern architecture. There is a distinct lack of industry and commercial blocks. For those who seek the sparkle of entertainment or the outdoors, it is less than half an hour from top spots like the Lion Park, the Cradle of Humankind and the buzz and dazzle of Monte Casino and Silverstar Casino.
Sandton
Work hard, play hard...then relax
Sandton is a vibrant, modern neighbourhood that contains the richest square mile in Africa. It is the business gateway into Africa for many large corporations and attracts thousands of ambitious people seeking their fortunes. But Sandton is not just about big business, residents find plenty of time for leisure too. World class shopping centres, and a buzzing social scene are a huge hit with the young and young at heart. Perhaps surprisingly, there is a huge amount of green space in the area that residents take advantage of to exercise or just take a breather.