While many local restaurants offer healthier options, why not settle for a regular spot that always keeps your health at top of mind? Here are some of the best health-conscious foodie spots in Johannesburg and Cape Town:
In Johannesburg…
Leafy Greens
Owned by Antonia De Luca – Gary Player’s granddaughter – Leafy Greens is a vegan restaurant nestled on an organic farm on the city’s edge, in Muldersdrift. If you’re looking for a true ‘farm to plate’ experience, this is where you’ll get it. We recommend booking a spot for their organic buffet, which happens every first Sunday of the month. Pay R250 per person for the most delicious vegan buffet…
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Jackson’s Real Food Market and Eatery
Picture your groceries, a yoga class and brunch date all rolled into one afternoon. Jackson’s Real Food Market and Eatery in Bryanston is the place to go. Shop healthy groceries, which include an abundance of delicious and sometimes unusual produce, pantry staples and snacks. Their restaurant is the star of the show, though, with loads of healthy options for health-conscious individuals, a fantastic selection of organic wine, and even a few ‘cheats’ for those who aren’t as fussed about calories. The perfect spot for the whole fam.
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Nice on 4th
Nice on 4th prioritises the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients to craft the most delicious, nutrient dense dishes. Another great spot to bring the whole family, because they don’t only cater for the ‘health nuts’ – there’s a wide variety available for everyone, even for the sweet tooth. If you’re going for healthy options, though, they’ve got a selection of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan dishes. Try the vegetarian crumpets or the green protein smoothie for a kick.
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In Cape Town…
Poke Co.
In the mood for a poke bowl? Your first move is to visit one of the six Poké Café outlets in Cape Town and surrounds. Opt to build your own poke bowl, or pick from the delicious array on the menu. There are also delicious freshly pressed juices, smoothie bowls and coffee. Perfect brekkie pitstop.
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Nourish’d
This plant based café and juice bar offers up a slice of Bali across three locations in the Cape, serving up mouthwatering vegetarian and vegan meals. We love the tofu scramble, avo and fresh veggies on a bagel, or the chocolate flapjacks for a sweet nibble. They’ve got a wide range to pick from – fresh salads, juices, smoothies, and sandwiches.
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The Strangers Club
Looking for the best smoothie bowl in Cape Town? The Nutty Smoothie Bowl from the Strangers Club in Green Point is your destination. If you’re not down for that, try their avocado toast, falafel bowl or their ‘Green Goddess’ breakfast. The spot doubles up as a curio/gift store with all sorts of interesting trinkets waiting to be discovered.
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Compiled by Savannah Douglas
Also see: Trying to build muscle? These are foods you should avoid