Beachfront Restaurants

Joel Cools in situated in the heart of Durban along the golden shores of the Indian Ocean and bustling beachfront. Oozing casual pub dining with breezy shades from the midday heat, patrons can dine and wine on the upper or lower decks at this trendy eatery. From burgers, pizzas to voluptuous sandwiches and baskets, Joe Cools provides the perfect pub dining experience along Durban beachfront for a relaxed lunch and scenic setting.

The Brasserie Restaurant heralds a slice of history and grandeur along the golden shores of Durban’s famous mile. Oozing Victorian opulence pampered by gastronomic delights spilling off the Ala Carte and terrace menu, diners can tempt the taste buds with delicious buffet treats and local dishes using fresh local ingredients. Boasting world-class chefs and contemporary touches infused with global cuisine, The Brasserie Restaurant is an elegant setting perfect for romantic lunches or dinners.

Known as one of the most reputed Indian Restaurant in South Africa boasting several awards and exceptional service, Jewel of India transport the palate on a journey of exotic spices and colours. Experience variety and tastes layered in textures and aromas mopped up with warm buttery naans. The décor wraps around mahogany floors and crisp white linen table clothes heightened by contrasting walls and jewelled artefacts from the shores of India. Catering for all palates with options of Halaal, vegetarian and seafood, patrons can indulge the colourful cuisine and cultural heritage warmed by traditional Indian hospitality.

Daruma is derived from traditional Japanese tumble dolls which represent the “Will to persevere”. Dishes are contrived to accent natural flavours and cuisine that transports the senses to the Japanese Archipelago laden with fresh fish and shellfish prepared and served with selection of rice and sake. An old Japanese saying holds – “If you have the pleasant experience of eating something that you have not tasted before, your life will be lengthened by 75 days!” Daruma would like to believe that through discovering the many pleasures in their menu, life will be prolonged many years!

Soak up the laidback ambience garnished with fresh buffets of International and African specialities set in the exquisite Hilton Hotel. Elegant, casual and enrobed in a traditional Zulu ambience infused with a contemporary setting of stainless steal and glass amidst a feast of plump oysters, prawns or melt in the mouth crayfish. Alongside mouth-watering buffet, diners have a choice of selecting the freshest meals spilling off the Ala Carte with the likes of Indian delights such as Samoosa, Crumbed Mushrooms with Paneer and Chilli Dumplings or Prawn Masala, Rack of Lamb, Oxtail Casserole and a trilogy of curries. Alongside the well-catered menu, there are options to indulge in local seafood, midland veal complimented by an extensive wine list.

For superb authentic Indian cuisine prepared expertly by two talented chefs from Mumbai, Indian Connection is the place to be. A recently updated wine list provides a brilliant selection of wines to perfectly accompany the dishes on offer. For those who prefer a cold beer, there are a variety to choose from, including Indian beers such as Cobra and Kingfisher. The decor combines old with new with clean white walls, traditional stained-glass windows and intricate Indian paintings. For a memorable culinary journey, Indian Connection provides everything you need.

Delight the senses with hearty aromatic spices and subtle 100% Arabica coffee beans complimented by a healthy breakfast for a perfect start to the morning. Housed along the best spot on Durban’s Golden Mile, Café Jiran offers silky high quality coffees and fruity smoothies alongside a 4pm to closing Bistro menu. Voted one of the best cafes in Durban, Café Jiran can be found in the foyer of the Bellaire Suites Hotel. Follow the aromatic aromas of high quality, delicious rich espresso drinks and tantalise the palate with well-presented food with contradictory tastes. Using fresh, local and organic where possible, meals are low in fat and sugar and juices come straight from the pulp, fresh and seasonal. Enjoy a variety of world-selected coffees that are 100% Arabica beans. Café Jiran indulges the senses with languid lunches and elegant dinners in a stylish a chic boutique setting coupled with excellent service and superb coffee.

A historic institution brimming with seafood delight cooled by a fresh nautical setting, The Famous Fish Company is tucked away in the mouth of Durban Harbour looking out onto the bustling harbour channel and lush vegetation of The Bluff. Immerse the palate in succulently cooked seafood served in traditional pans garnished with generous trimmings while the dreamy sea view transports you to a place of relaxation and intoxication. Situated on the dock 17th, The Famous Fish Company captures well-prepared and excellent service for an un-hurried, satisfying and mouth-watering dining experience.

Situated on the 32nd floor 105 metres above sea level is Roma Revolving Restaurant. A mesmerising dining experience enchanted by the setting sun and dimly lit hues of Durban city at night. Boasting superb Italian cuisine and Continental dishes including seafood and game, Roma relaxes the senses with delightful cuisine in an elegant atmosphere that greets and boasts sumptuous Italian food in fantastic 360 degree views. From flawless services to dedicated staff, diners can immerse in comfort and style without intrusion. A wonderful way to watch the setting sun and the bright lights of the city shine.

With a timeless essence wrapped in a mellow old-world setting, The Royal Carvery peruses the palate with sophisticated cuisine capturing the traditional elegance of English gourmet dining. Situated in pulse of Durban central, this grand Hotel offers unsurpassed views of the city and yacht mole lit by the ambient lighting of the city at night and flickering candlelight for intimate experience second to none. Serving traditional English gourmet cuisine, diners can expect a traditional intimate dining experience set in the heart of Durban.

Newly renovated, The Royal Grill retains elegant grandeur reminiscent of the grand old days, refreshed and sophisticated with a modern twist. Adorned with silver and crystal chandeliers lit by a magical ambience and original high ceilings wrapped in dark wood balustrades, stained glass effects and crisp white linen. The Royal Hotel inspires elegant dining partnered with a superior wine list that compliments every dish for an extraordinary dining experience.

Situated onboard the magnificent Phantom ship flanked by the deep blue and interactive open plan setting, The Upper Deck boasts delicious menus and cuisine that will satisfy the most adventurous palate. Located on the upper deck, warmed by dark decking and heavy mast, patrons can indulge on the open seas safe in the warm embrace of the cosy sails and fresh sea breeze. Suited to provide a mystical experience for the whole family partnered with a delicious Ala Carte menu and talented chefs, The Upper Deck is sure to tantalise the senses with their unique setting, delicious cuisine and toe tapping dinner theatre shows.

Situated along the golden shores of the Sun Coast Casino along Durban’s Golden Mile, Havana Grill and Wine Bar boasts magnificent 180 degree views and an attitude that’s all about food, wine, cigars and vibe. Sourcing only South African grain feed beef left to mature for 21 days, alongside aged steaks prepared to perfection and some of the finest seafood selections along the coast, diners can be sure of a memorable dining experience with something to suit even the most discerning palate. Peruse the senses with voluptuous king prawns and seafood platters or chicken smothered in decadent coconut and chilli sauce. If the sight and smells of sizzling prime beef succulently cooked with crispy potatoe wedges takes your fancy then immerse your senses with a grilled perfection. Havana Grill and Wine Bar has something for every occasion with unrivalled service for a truly special Latin dining experience. For those who fancy unwinding with a cigar after dining, there is a selection imported all the way from Cuba. For superb food and drink in a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere, Havana Grill is a must-try.

Right on the beach. Following in the footsteps of another great name in South African history - Zulu King Shaka - moyo marched on to the foreshores of Durban Kwazulu Natal. With its pier, moyo uShaka Pier is the first restaurant 150 metres into the sea and the only place from where you can view the sunset over the Durban City skyline. Moyo Events and moyo Retail are playing a integral part at moyo uShaka Pier to complete this African experience. The main dining area along with moyo Retail has opened recently and construction on the pier will follow shortly. More than just and bunny chow, Moyo is about the senses… The food is designed to appeal to the sophisticated, based on eclectic ranges of African cuisine. The sensory combination of food and wine will appeal to the passion of adventure and transport you into our African fantasy. Let the feast begin.

Dine in the company of sharks at uShaka’s Cargo Hold restaurant. A truly unique dining experience, The Cargo Hold is one of Durban's most stunning settings with captivating views of the ocean and the shark tank. This world class venue is nestled in the stern of the ‘Phantom Ship’ and boasts a uniquely sophisticated ambience that will make your dining experience an extremely memorable one. A decadent menu offering the finest flavours from around the world and using KwaZulu-Natal’s freshest local produce ensures an altogether superb evening at The Cargo Hold.

Surrounded by sharks and the deep blue in one of Durban’s most spectacular settings, The Cargo Hold at uShaka Marine World offers diners a unique sophisticated ambience nestled in the stern of the Phantom Ship with superb views of the ocean and shark tank. Brimming with spicy, fruity and exotic flavours conceived from the freshest KZN produce, The Cargo Hold promises a culinary journey of a lifetime onboard the decks of the infamous Phantom Ship.

With wonderful views and a setting inspired by sailors at sea, Charlie Crofts Dockside Diner warms the palate with a pub atmosphere and salty sea air. Dine alfresco on the large balcony by lingering daylight or romance the night away with the gentle flickering of candlelight and lapping shores. Charlie Crofts Diner captures simple ocean dining in a rustic setting reminiscent of sea faring days.

With focus on simplicity, Spice Restaurant and Bar Lounge draws taste and décor from extensive travels in Europe, Caribbean and New Zealand. Discover tempting and tantalising infusions such as avocado and prawn cocktail, draped in a coriander cream sauce or black mushrooms infused with crushed peppercorns and Cajun spice. For fish lovers, the Dargle Valley trout stuffed with mango, coriander and bacon and the roasted vegetable crepe, with the vegetables roasted in sesame oil and draped in a blue cheese sauce. For something more refreshing, entice the palate with watermelon, Danish feta and olives on a salad bed with a minted yoghurt dressing followed by grills of Florida rack of lamb crusted with crushed black peppercorns, chilli flakes and garlic. Spice Restaurant and Bar Lounge touches a taste of exotic on the palate with focus on simplicity complimented by clean modern lines in a warm and relaxed atmosphere.

Dressed in bold statement colours and vibrant atmosphere warmed by dark wood and clean lines, Green Mango tantalises the palate with delicious fresh sushi and Japanese cuisine. This modern sushi establishment is a popular haunt with locals and is often vibey and bustling. Diners can tickle the taste buds with delectable sushi and Japanese fare indoors or alfresco.

Bean Bag Bohemia is more than just a dining experience. Strong ties with the creative community of Durban has procured a unique social culture at BBB that is unlike anywhere else in Durban. Diners can enjoy the warm weather with al fresco dining in the courtyard area or inside where it is always vibrant and buzzing. Adding to the impressive popularity of Bean Bag Bohemia is the number of TV programs and magazines that have featured them. The menu at BBB proffers exciting and creative dishes that are constantly updated, as is the overall theme, keeping patrons interested and inspired.