Durban is one of South Africa’s most exciting culinary destinations, known for its rich blend of African, Indian, and European influences. From spicy curries to fresh seafood and modern fine dining, the city’s restaurant scene reflects its vibrant cultural mix and love for bold flavors. Whether you’re craving traditional Durban dishes or international cuisine with an ocean view, here are ten of the best restaurants to visit in Durban.

Restaurants in Durban

1. 9th Avenue Waterside

 

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Located along the harbor, 9th Avenue Waterside offers a fine dining experience with panoramic views of the waterfront. The restaurant is known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and creative fusion dishes. Popular menu items include grilled seafood, lamb shank, and their signature chocolate tart.

Address: 2 Maritime Place, Durban Point Waterfront, Durban

2. The Cargo Hold

 

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For a truly unique dining experience, head to The Cargo Hold inside uShaka Marine World. Guests dine beside massive aquarium tanks filled with sharks and tropical fish. The menu features seafood platters, sushi, and gourmet steaks, making it a perfect choice for both families and couples.

Address: uShaka Marine World, 1 King Shaka Ave, Point, Durban

3. Roma Revolving Restaurant

A Durban classic, the Roma Revolving Restaurant is the only revolving restaurant in the Southern Hemisphere. It offers 360-degree views of the city while serving Italian-inspired dishes like pasta, seafood, and steaks. The elegant setting makes it ideal for romantic dinners or special occasions.

Address: John Ross House, 267 Anton Lembede Street, Durban Central

4. The Oyster Box Grill Room

Located in the luxurious Oyster Box Hotel in Umhlanga, this restaurant delivers world-class fine dining with ocean views. Expect impeccable service and exquisite dishes, including oysters, lobster thermidor, and beef fillet. It’s one of Durban’s most upscale dining experiences.

Address: The Oyster Box Hotel, 2 Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga Rocks, Durban

5. The Big Easy Durban

 

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Owned by golfing legend Ernie Els, The Big Easy blends relaxed elegance with gourmet South African cuisine. The restaurant specializes in hearty meat dishes, fresh seafood, and excellent wines. Its warm and inviting atmosphere makes it perfect for both casual and formal dining.

Address: Hilton Durban, 12-14 Walnut Road, Durban

6. Little Gujarat

 

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For authentic Indian vegetarian food, Little Gujarat is a must-visit. This family-run spot has been serving Durban’s Indian community for decades, offering flavorful curries, roti, and samoosas at affordable prices. It’s simple, authentic, and always bustling with locals.

Address: 43 Dr Goonam Street, Durban Central

7. Surf Riders Café

 

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Situated right on the beachfront, Surf Riders Café is a laid-back restaurant perfect for breakfast, brunch, or sundown cocktails. Their menu includes wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers, smoothies, and excellent coffee. It’s also pet-friendly and ideal for a casual seaside meal.

Address: 17 Erskine Terrace, Addington Beach, Durban

8. Butcher Boys Grill

 

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Butcher Boys is Durban’s go-to steakhouse, known for its premium cuts of aged beef and impressive wine selection. The restaurant’s warm, rustic interior and consistently great food make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Address: 170 Florida Road, Morningside, Durban

9. House of Curries on Florida

 

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You can’t visit Durban without trying a proper Bunny Chow, and House of Curries is one of the best places for it. This casual restaurant offers an array of Durban-style curries, biryanis, and grilled dishes. The rooftop bar overlooking Florida Road is a great bonus.

Address: 275 Florida Road, Morningside, Durban

10. Café 1999

 

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A long-time favorite among Durban’s food lovers, Café 1999 serves modern fusion dishes in a chic but relaxed setting. The menu features tapas-style small plates, seafood, and steaks, all crafted with creativity and flair. Their wine list is also one of the best in town.

Address: 163 Florida Road, Morningside, Durban

Frequently Asked Questions About Restaurants in Durban

1. What food is Durban famous for?

Durban is famous for its Bunny Chow, a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with spicy curry. It’s a must-try local dish that reflects the city’s strong Indian culinary influence. Durban is also well-known for its flavorful curries, fresh seafood, and fusion cuisine.

2. Are there vegetarian or vegan restaurants in Durban?

Yes, Durban has plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Little Gujarat, Falafel Fundi, and Earthmother Organic are popular spots for plant-based meals. Many other restaurants also offer vegetarian alternatives on their menus.

3. What is the best area in Durban for dining out?

Florida Road in Morningside is Durban’s top dining hub, packed with trendy restaurants, cafes, and bars. The Umhlanga Rocks area is also known for upscale dining, while the Waterfront and Beachfront areas offer relaxed seaside eateries.

4. Are Durban restaurants expensive?

Durban offers a wide range of dining experiences for every budget. While high-end restaurants like The Oyster Box Grill Room and 9th Avenue Waterside are more expensive, there are plenty of affordable options such as House of Curries and Little Gujarat.

5. Do restaurants in Durban serve alcohol?

Yes, most restaurants in Durban are licensed to serve alcohol, including local wines and craft beers. However, some family-oriented or traditional Indian eateries may not serve alcohol, so it’s best to check ahead.

6. Can I find international cuisine in Durban?

Absolutely. Durban’s food scene is diverse, offering cuisines from around the world including Italian, Thai, Mediterranean, and Asian fusion. Restaurants like Café 1999 and The Big Easy combine local and international flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Durban’s food scene captures the spirit of the city itself, diverse, flavorful, and full of life. From upscale dining along the waterfront to traditional Indian eateries downtown, every restaurant tells a story of the city’s culture and culinary passion.