Located in the heart of the creative district of Westdene, this award-winning local eatery not only serves up beautiful handcrafted fare, but also its own unique and welcoming ambience with African boho interiors, comfy seating options and amazing service.

And the fact that they have just won three categories in the Best of Joburg Reader’s Choice Awards 2022 – Best New Restaurant, Best neighbourhood Restaurant and Best Beat the Budget Restaurant – is testament to how hard this young team of local staff is working to bring culinary joy to their community.

Born out of lockdown, Emzini is this brain child of Ziggy Ravuku and Richard Griffin, the creative force behind the inimitable dinner-theatre extravaganza, Madame Zingara.

Looking out over the Westdene Dam, this old home has been totally transformed to embrace and bring together all people of all walks of life and it has quickly become a neighbourhood favourite which is now attracting patrons from far and wide.

Emzini, which means the heart point of a home, was the inspiration for the beautiful space and the eclectic interiors embrace several styles in a variety of seating areas, from classic dining tables and an expansive terrace to comfortable couches and even a swing.

With a full menu, weekly specials and all-day service, there truly is something for everyone.

In the morning, guests enjoy fresh pressed juices and simple yet creative breakfast options ranging from a light snack to a robust start to the day. Dishes include the full house breakfast, Magwinya Eggs Benedict, a Mediterranean Breakfast Platter and Poached Eggs on Rye with cream cheese, avo and caper berries.

Lunch options include Grilled Calamari and Steamed West Coast Mussels, flat based artisanal pizza as well as some classic pastas with family dining options for mains which are available for both lunch and dinner which is when the great sunsets over the dam are best enjoyed.

Specials

Patrons can enjoy a variety of beat-the-budget options including daily specials and Mon to Thursday theme nights at which the kitchen truly excels.

Mondays are burgers and Pizza Tuesdays and Prawnalicious Thursdays are legendary and offer excellent value for money so it’s no surprise that Emzini’s guests are driving from all over Johannesburg to celebrate and enjoy.

4pm to 6pm daily: Half Price Cocktails | SAB Beers R35 for 2 | 2for1 House Wines

They also offer several function menus which are perfect for end-of-year corporate and family gatherings and they are offering an enticing Christmas day menu.

Emzini has dedicated parking and overlooks a beautiful park in which to walk off all this amazing fare.