5 most expensive restaurants in South Africa

If you’re looking to experience the pinnacle of fine dining in South Africa, these restaurants represent the very best the country has to offer.

From Cape Town’s culinary icons to Johannesburg’s luxury dining rooms, here are five of the most exclusive and expensive restaurants where cuisine becomes art and every meal is an unforgettable experience.

1. La Colombe – Cape Town

Located at Silvermist Wine Estate in Constantia, La Colombe offers a world-class French-Asian fusion tasting menu. Known for its stunning mountain views and whimsical presentation, signature dishes like the Tuna “La Colombe” have become iconic. Expect to spend between R1,500 and R2,000 per person with wine pairing.

2. The Test Kitchen – Cape Town (Closed)

Though now closed, The Test Kitchen set the gold standard for South African fine dining. Located at The Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock, it featured a dual-space experience with a Dark Room and Light Room. Chef Luke Dale-Roberts’s menu pushed boundaries with creativity and precision, with dinners costing upwards of R2,200 per guest.

3. Luke Dale Roberts x The Saxon – Johannesburg

Housed within the prestigious Saxon Hotel, this intimate restaurant continues the chef’s legacy with a refined and seasonal tasting menu. Offering a high-end, tailored experience with global flavors and top-tier ingredients, diners spend between R2,000 and R2,500 per person.

4. Signature Restaurant – Johannesburg

Located in Sandton’s Morningside Shopping Centre, Signature Restaurant blends global cuisine with a glamorous, upscale vibe. It’s a go-to for business elites and celebs, featuring everything from wagyu to seafood platters, with average dining costs between R800 and R1,500 per guest.

5. The Restaurant at Waterkloof – Somerset West

Set on a hilltop wine estate with panoramic views of False Bay, this stunning venue offers a modern French-inspired tasting menu with an emphasis on sustainability and estate-grown ingredients. A full experience with wine pairing costs between R1,200 and R1,800, complemented by award-winning architecture and serene views.