The 10 Best Vegetarian Restaurants In Johannesburg

The bustling metropolis of Johannesburg, nicknamed Joburg or Jozi, receives a huge influx of visitors each year. It is not always easy to find a vegetarian restaurant here, so we’ve decided to help you by selecting the ten best veggie-friendly venues in and around Johannesburg.

Fresh Earth Food Store

Fresh Earth Food Store was established with the aim of fostering a new understanding of healthy eating and sustainability. Their delicious vegetarian dishes are prepared from scratch and they don’t contain any artificial additives, sweeteners, colorants or preservatives, which makes their meals nutritious and healthy. Not only does Fresh Earth offer tasty vegetarian treats, but you can also shop for healthy groceries, supplements and baby food in their store or online. They also stock cleaning products and kitchen equipment. One added bonus is their collection of detailed vegetarian recipes available for free at the store.
Address & telephone number: Fresh Earth Food Store, 103 Komatie St, Johannesburg, South Africa, +27 11 646 4404

1. The Greenside Café

Cafe, Restaurant, Vegan, Vegetarian, French, Fast Food

Whether you consider yourself a vegan or vegetarian, you must pay a visit to The Greenside Café. Set in a peaceful environment, The Greenside’s mission is to encourage people to go green, be vegan and save the planet. The owner explains that the biggest compliment he has received is when non-vegetarians customers dine at the cafe and express their love for the taste and the freshness of the food. Order from a wide selection of healthy dishes, from salads and pizza to wraps and pastas. Try the new French pizza with mustard, tomato, onion and avocado.

Fruits and Roots Vegetarian Restaurant

Located inside a natural and organic food store on Grosvenor Road is Fruits and Roots Vegetarian Restaurant. Fruits and Roots offers a buffet with the intention to showcase a variety of tasty and healthy foods. Choose from a wide selection of sandwiches, pizzas, hot meals, wraps and burgers served on rye or whole wheat bread, with a side order of crisps. Dine in a light and airy courtyard while catching up on the latest gossip with friends. After your meal you can do a little shopping inside the store, where you will find an extensive variety of supplements, body care products, house cleaning products and gluten-free-foods.

Address & telephone number: Fruits and Roots, Grosvenor Rd., Johannesburg, South Africa, +27 11 463 2928

Aurelie’s Health & Lifestyle Café

Located at Waterfall Country Estate, Aurelie’s Health & Lifestyle Café is a trendy venue with a Mediterranean vibe that caters for vegans and vegetarians. They specialize on holistic health and wellness. Come and experience dishes with tofu, non-dairy cheese, falafel, veggie sausages and burger patties. They also offer a smoothie and veggie juice bar, gluten free baked treats, lunch boxes for children, full-day cleanse packages, health supplements and much more. Don’t leave without tasting their freshly brewed coffee made from the highest quality beans from Origin Coffee Roasting.
Address & telephone number: Aurelie’s Health & Lifestyle Café, Waterfall Country Estate, Midrand, South Africa, +27 10 596 8900

Swaruchi Pure Vegetarian Restaurant

Located in the middle of Fordsburg market is a hidden gem serving some delectable dishes. Swaruchi Pure Vegetarian Restaurant serve a wide variety of northern and southern Indian dishes, including vegan choices. The decor might not be the most appealing, but after sampling one of their truly amazing dishes you’ll want to return with friends to try other specialties. Order one of the many moreish chickpea dishes or try the aloo baigan, a brinjal and potato dish.
Address & telephone number: Swaruchi Pure Vegetarian Restaurant, 45 Central Rd., Fordsburg, Johannesburg, South Africa, +27 11 492 1102

Shayona

If you are a vegetarian on the hunt for some delicious Indian cuisine, make a stop at Shayona. Whether you prefer your food savory or sweet, Shayona knows how to prepare it just right. You have the option to choose from a simple lunch for one, or the deluxe lunch that provides enough food for two. What really makes Shayona a winner (other than its great flavors) is that they use products manufactured by a group of dedicated volunteers who render their services in order to help disadvantaged communities.

Address & telephone number: Shayona, 74 Church St, Johannesburg, South Africa, +27 11 837 2407

Elemental Café

Elemental Café is a 100% vegan and vegetarian restaurant that serves the finest food made from the freshest ingredients. The elegantly styled cafe is noted for their wood fired pizza, delicious meat-free burgers, tasty wraps, mouthwatering sandwiches and divine salads. They also have gluten-free options. Check out their shop, where you can purchase the famous range of NIGIRO teas and glass wear. You can also get hormone free eggs, strawberry jam, and raw honey among other unique items.

Address & telephone number: Elemental Café, Shop 5, Cnr. First Ave. & Standard Dr., Pine Park – Victory Park, Johannesburg, South Africa, +27 11 782 1594

Leafy Greens Café

Leafy Greens is another vegan and vegetarian food cafe and health store in Johannesburg. Leafy Greens Café is conveniently located on an organic farm and shares the premises with the renowned Casalinga Restaurant. Dine in a relaxing environment sampling some mouthwatering dishes which are made using produce straight from the farm. The menu offers a wide range of home-made breakfast and lunch options. You also have the option to try the remarkable buffet available from 11am. Stop by at the shop where you can purchase a variety of vegan health, beauty and food products.

Address & telephone number: Leafy Greens Café, Rocky Ridge Rd., Muldersdrift, Johannesburg, South Africa, +27 10 595 4563

3. Simply Divine Vegetarian

Restaurant, Dessert, Pastries, Fast Food, Vegetarian

Simply Divine is a small restaurant that serves vegetarian dishes from across the globe, with some vegan options also included in the menu. The setting is casual, with outdoor seating and a takeaway option available for those who would prefer to eat at home. Though the interior is simple and rustic, after tasting their divine treats you’ll probably come back for more. Feel free to request a small sample of each dish to help you make a good choice.

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