For those looking to make their dining experience in Umhlanga truly extraordinary, there’s no better place than this seaside town. Sample various dishes from an impressive array of restaurants covering various cuisines, from African and Asian to classic Italian, seafood, and more. From a quick lunch with friends, a family gathering or a romantic dining experience for two, Umhlanga has something for everyone! But before getting into it, are you reading this in Gauteng? Then discover more places to eat inside the top malls in Johannesburg.
Discover the best restaurants in Umhlanga:
1. The Chef’s Table
Located in the heart of Umhlanga village, The Chef’s Table has earned its place to be known as one of the best dining experiences. The restaurant presents a modern, seasonal menu inspired by the best fresh, seasonal ingredients that Kwa-Zulu Natal has to offer. The open-plan kitchen is at the heart of the restaurant, allowing diners to watch the chefs at work and feel the connection to the food and the beautifully plated dishes being prepared. Indulge in a variety of seafood and grills or a pick from their vegan and vegetarian menu.
Services: Dine-in, No delivery
Operating times: Monday, 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm, 6:00 pm – 9:30 pm; Tuesday – Saturday, 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm, 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Address: 23 & 24 First Floor, Protea Mall, Chartwell Drive, Umhlanga Rocks, South Africa
Contact: 031 001 0200
2. The Ocean Terrace & The Grill Room at The Oyster Box
The Ocean Terrace and Grill Room has become a firm favourite with both in-house guests and local visitors, who return time and again to enjoy family-friendly al fresco dining in sunny Umhlanga. The extensive menu offers something for every palate, with a well-priced selection of dishes inspired by both the freshest local produce and South Africa’s diverse culinary heritage. Seafood is a particular speciality, while wood-fired pizzas and the famous Curry Buffet add even more choices for diners.
Services: Dine-in, No delivery
Operating times: Monday – Sunday, 7 am – 10:30 pm
Address: 2 Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga, 4319
Contact: 031 514 5000
3. Little Havana
A smart dining experience, expect a splash of Cuba, a dash of plantations, and a slice of KwaZulu-Natal old school at Little Havana. The restaurant offers a variety of fresh line fish and dry-aged meats. Diners can expect world-class grills and seafood served with the very best of local and international South African wines. Their in-house blockman will cut your free-range, hormone-free, dry-aged meats to your preferences.
Services: Dine-in, Takeaway, No delivery
Operating times: Tuesday – Saturday, 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm; 5:30 pm – 10: 00 pm
Address: Granada Square, 16 Chartwell Dr, Umhlanga Rocks, 4319
Contact: 081 393 8205
4. Butcher Boys Grill
At Butcher Boys, they understand that the presentation of their dishes is just as important as the flavour and texture. Their chefs take extra care to ensure each dish looks aesthetically pleasing when served. Whether you’re looking for a classic steak or a lighter option, such as an entree salad, there is always a delicious choice.
Hearty burgers, shareable snacks, sandwiches, and seafood platters are all part of the diverse selection. All meals are cooked with finesse and served with style in order to achieve an exceptional dining experience.
Services: Dine-in , Takeaway and Delivery
Operating times: Sunday – Monday, 11:00 am – 9:00 pm; Tuesday – Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Address: Shop 1, Lighthouse Mall Lighthouse Road Umhlanga Rocks, Durban, 431
Contact: 031 561 4106
5. Lupa Osteria Umhlanga
Lupa Umhlanga is a neighbourhood Osteria where one feels comfortable enjoying a casual affordable family dinner of pizza or pasta with a carafe of house wine or dining on shellfish, fresh fish & veal. The experience at Lupa is not limited to modern Italian food indulgences, diners can choose from their extensive menu offering seafood and grills. With a warm and energetic vibe, their inviting bar is a great place for pre or post-dinner cocktails or a pizza & a craft beer.
Services: Dine-in, Kerbside pickup and no-contact delivery
Operating times: Sunday – Monday, 11:00 am – 9:00 pm; Tuesday – Saturday, 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Address: Lighthouse Mall, 14 Chartwell Dr, Umhlanga Rocks, 4320
Contact: 031 940 6689
Read more: A foodie’s guide to Durban: 7 restaurants and cafes to visit
6. Olive & Oil
Olive & Oil is renowned for its contemporary dining experience, dishes bursting with Mediterranean flavours, made exceptionally well and its welcoming atmosphere. This modern, elegant restaurant provides an intimate yet lively dining experience, making it the go-to spot for Umhlanga’s locals, tourists, business-people and families. Diners are spoilt for choice with a variety of tapas, open sandwiches, pizza, pasta, gourmet grills, seafood and more!
Services: Dine-in, Takeaway and delivery
Operating times: Monday – Thursday, 9:00 am – 9:00 pm, Friday – Saturday, 9:00 am – 10:00 pm; Sunday, 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Address: Oceans Mall, Lagoon Drive, Umhlanga Rocks, 4319
Contact: 031 561 2618
7. Joita’s Portuguese Foods
A Portuguese cuisine lover’s paradise! Joita’s provides diners with delicious meals that are made from fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection, offering customers an authentic taste of Portuguese cuisine with a Mozambican flair.
The menu at Joita’s is small but carefully crafted. Their chargrilled seafood combo of prawns and calamari basted in your choice of peri-peri or garlic butter, as well as their chargrilled peri-peri baby chicken, are original and firm favourites.
Joita’s also offers other typical dishes of Portugal, such as Bacalhau, Portuguese sardines and Caldo Verde. All these dishes have been very well received by patrons who come to enjoy a unique dining experience. But that’s not all; Joita’s also offers daily specials that feature traditional recipes from Angola and South Africa. So you’ll be sure to find something new each time you visit!
Services: Dine-in and Takeaway
Operating times: Monday – Saturday, 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Address: Shop 52 Lighthouse Rd, Umhlanga, 4320
Contact: 031 561 3577
8. Steak & Ale
Are you looking for a great spot to hang out with friends or family? Or maybe you’re just looking for a place to watch the latest sports match on one of Steak & Ale’s many big-screen TVs. Whatever your reason for visiting, Steak & Ale in Umhlanga is the perfect spot for you. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff will ensure you have an unforgettable experience.
You will be greeted by smiling faces and a welcoming atmosphere when you walk through their doors. Steak & Ale’s menu comprises simple yet delicious meals made with only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. They’re most renowned for their steaks, and they take pride in preparing them perfectly every single time.
Services: Dine-in , Takeaway, No delivery
Operating times: Monday – Sunday, 9:00 am – 12:00 am
Address: 15 Chartwell Dr, Umhlanga, Durban, 4319
Contact: 031 561 7234
9. The Village Table
This restaurant offers a modern and cosmopolitan ambience that is perfect for intimate dinners and group gatherings. They fuse cuisine, cocktails, and culture in a fashionable setting to create an unforgettable experience.
The menu at The Village Table includes Afro-Portuguese, Mediterranean, and continental dishes that are bursting with flavour. Every dish is made with fresh ingredients from their own backyard – The Village Market – to guarantee the best taste possible. And when it comes to drinks, they have everything from craft beers to signature cocktails to choose from!
Services: Dine-in and delivery
Operating times: Monday – Thursday, 9:00 am – 10:00 pm; Friday – Saturday, 9:00 am – 11:00 pm; Sunday, 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Address: 6 Lagoon Dr, Umhlanga, Durban, 4320
Contact: 087 288 4235
10. Big Fish
Are you in the mood for a unique dining experience? If so, then head over to Big Fish Umhlanga! The menu consists of Asian-inspired dishes that their well-renowned chef skillfully prepares. Some of their signature dishes include nicely cooked salmon, fried prawns, tempura rolls and much more. Those who are not fans of seafood also have options such as steak or chicken. All the dishes are freshly made and beautifully presented. You can pair your meal with a selection of wines that will be sure to complement your meal perfectly.
Services: Dine-in, Kerbside pickup and delivery
Operating times: Monday – Sunday, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
Address: Shop 7, Lighthouse Mall, 14 Chartwell Dr, Umhlanga, 4320
Contact: 031 561 2303
ALSO SEE: A culinary guide to South Africa’s top restaurants
Written by Maegan-Leigh Jacobs
Feature Image: Pexels
