Soi
Thai food to match the best. The menu is extensive and has something from every part of Thailand. The food is always fast and fresh and the little decorative touches make it feel very authentic. When they say the chilli is hot, they mean it.

Cnr 7th Street and 3rd Avenue, Melville
011 726 5775

Primmi Piatti
A bright and entertaining place with lively waiters, good food and the best value for money. Serves mainly pizza and pasta but covers almost everything. For a drink, try The Jam Jar – lots of vodka, lots of juice, in an old jam jar.

Outlets nationwide

Ridizio
The epitome of dinner dance venue. Typical Brazilian food served in a very festive atmosphere with a carvery option that lasts as long as you’re still hungry. At about 9pm the dance floor opens and all hell breaks loose. Great place for a birthday dinner.

The Terrace Centre, Rustenberg Road, Victory Park
011 888 7633

Taboo
Three stories of the best-looking club in Joburg. Expect loads of dance floors, an outside balcony bar and an older and very good looking crowd. A classy place that’s well decked out but only open on Saturday nights. Cover charge is steep as are the drinks.

Corner Fredman and Glen, Sandton
011 783 2200

Tiger Tiger
A Durban phenomena brought to the heart of Rivonia. Big and loud with two dance floors and countless bar-ladies. Having sorted the security issues out, Tiger now attracts a full house each week with the great drinks specials. ALL drinks free from 8.30 to 10 with R50 entry.

Cloisters Shopping Centre, Rivonia Boulevard, Rivonia
011 234 0486

Carfax
The #1 venue for big parties in Joburg with no specific crowd – everyone and anyone. Events vary but the world’s best DJs will play here each week. It has a big warehouse vibe with plenty of dance floors and super sound. Look out for flyers to see what’s on before you go.

39 Pim Street, Newtown
011 834 9187

Ratz
Small and cosy, Ratz is a super cool bar with tiny dance floor on busy nights. Really simple on the inside, it’s vibe is really intimate and perfect for starting your night out. Two for one cocktails between 5pm and 7pm on Fridays.

7th Street, Melville
011 726 7852

The Jolly Roger
The classic dirty pub, all roads eventually lead to the Jolly Roger. Packed to the rafters on a Wednesday night – half price pizza – this is a student’s best drinking hole. Cheap beer, lots of mates and a great atmosphere for the not-so-fussy.

10 4th Avenue, Parkhurst
011 442 3954

Rhapsodys
Up-market bar and restaurant where you want to dress well before getting through the door. It’s not cheap but a good place to get the night started. The decor is expensive and the food is excellent, but check out the fountains in the toilet for a really good time.

Leaping Frog Shopping Centre, Fourways
011 465 5311