Best Restaurants In Umhlanga – Where To Eat In Umhlanga

Looking for the best restaurants in Umhlanga? Maybe you are in Umhlanga and are looking to grab a bite, but you have no idea where to start, then you the right place.

Umhlanga, a coastal town in Kwazulu Natal, is not only known for its stunning beaches and luxurious accommodations but also for its vibrant culinary scene.

With an array of dining options to choose from, food enthusiasts are spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring the gastronomic delights that Umhlanga has to offer.

There are several top-notch restaurants that cater to various tastes and preferences, from fine dining establishments offering exquisite seafood and international cuisine to casual eateries serving up delicious local dishes, there is something for everyone.

Must Try Restaurants in Umhlanga

1. Signature Restaurant

Signature Restaurant is the new kid on the block, having just opened recently in late August.

It’s sister branch in Johannesburg’s Sandton is one of the go to restaurants for those looking for a fine dining experience, and no doubt that this branch in Umhlanga is set to establish itself as such, and with good reason.

This is the spot for those who are looking for exclusivity, sophistication and flexibility. Best of all, you can enjoy sumptuous cuisine presented by impeccable service.

As one patron expressed it, “If soft sophisticated style and elegance is what you are looking for ……this is the place. Elegantly appointed in the heart of Umhlanga this established and well known brand never disappoints !
Durban is an old city , one steeped in culture and elegantly edgy ………..loved this experience.”

Dining options: Dine-in · Takeaway · No-contact delivery
Location: 9 Lagoon Dr, Umhlanga, Durban
Hours: Monday – Saturday  12 pm–12 am, Sunday 12–4 pm
Website: www.signatureumhlanga.com

2. The Ocean Terrace at The Oyster Box

The Ocean Terrace Restaurant at the Oyster Box has gorgeous views for days, across the Indian Ocean. It is definitely one of the spots you have to do when you are in Durban, and it never disappoints.

The restaurant is stunning, the ambience is off the charts, with gorgeous views of the ocean and the lighthouse.

Only downside, is the price tag, but many would argue that it’s well worth it.

As one patron said, “A really great restaurant with amazing food and drinks. Gorgeous views of the lighthouse and beach and nice décor. Expensive, but tasty food. The only real downside is the irritating and bold monkeys that raid the tables constantly for food. staff are really great and friendly though and try to chase the monkeys away too. Worth visiting.”

The Chefs’ Table has earned its place as one of the fine dining experiences that you can have in Durban. It is beautifully designed, contemporary and approachable with luxurious detail, qualifying it as one of the best restaurants in Umhlanga.

Their menu is inspired by the freshest, seasonal ingredients in Kwa-Zulu Natal, the open plan kitchen gives one a glimpse of the magic that goes into creating the sumptuous meals that they are known for.

The wines they serve are also great at pairing with their food, and if you a wine lover, you will appreciate the unique, and vintage wines from South Africa, as well as the world ( specifically French and New Zealand wines).

Dining options: Dine-in · No delivery
Location: Protea Mall 1 Chartwell Drive 23-24 First Floor, uMhlanga
Hours: Monday to Sunday 12 pm – 2:30 pm, 6 – 10 pm
Website: thechefstable.co.za

4. Butcher Boys Grill

The Butcher Boys Grill offer a comfortable dining experience for their patrons, and at this restaurant you can expect to be served with great Steaks and great Service.

The best South African beef is sourced from local farmers, grilled to perfection for your enjoyment.

Their food is also paired with a carefully curated selection of local South African wines, as well as an array of vintages.

Dining options: Dine-in · Takeaway · Delivery
Address: Shop 1, Lighthouse Mall Lighthouse Road Umhlanga Rocks, Durban, 4319
Hours: Monday 11am – 9pm, Tuesday to Saturday  11am – 10 pm, Sunday 11 am–9 pm
Website: butcherboysgrill.co.za

5. Little Havana

Little Havana is a chic, white-décor restaurant, their dishes that are Mediterranean-inspired.

This restaurant offers world class grills and seafood, paired with some of the best local and international wines.

This is how one patron described their experience, “Lovely intimate setting, wonderful wait staff paid attention to detail. The food was wonderful, definitely recommend the bang bang prawns as a starter. Mains were hot and just as I asked for, dessert was rich and delightful. Perfect for a partners night out or special intimate occasion.”

Dining options: Dine-in · Takeaway · No delivery
Location: Granada Square at Granada Square, 16 Chartwell Dr, Umhlanga Rocks, uMhlanga, 4319
Website: www.littlehavana.co.za

6. Olive & Oil

Olive & Oil is celebrated for its contemporary dining experience, and for its Mediterranean inspired dishes that are packed with deliciousness and flavours.

In this modern and elegant establishment, the atmosphere is welcoming, which adds to the beautiful and lively dining experience that patrons get to enjoy when they visit the restaurant.

Whether you are a local, or a tourist, Olive & Oil is a great spot to enjoy a meal with a loved one, a friend or even family.

One patron described their experience like this: “Best dining experience in a long time. Delicious food. Great wine. Divine dessert. Excellent service. couldn’t have asked for more.”

Dining options: Dine-in, Takeaway and delivery
Operating times: Monday – Thursday, 9:00 am – 9:00 pm, Friday – Saturday, 9:00 am – 10:00 pm; Sunday, 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Location: Oceans Mall, Lagoon Drive, Umhlanga Rocks
Website: oliveandoil.co.za

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7. Lupa Osteria Umhlanga

Lupa Osteria is a great choice for a restaurant, especially if you love traditional Italian cuisines, as they serve classic, home-style meals. Their pastas are to die for, especially when paired with the great wines that they serve.

Though their Italian cuisines is what draws the crowds, that is not all they are great at.

The vibe at Lupa is both warm and energetic, and who can resist their R99 lunch deals, they are super affordable and delicious.

A diners review summarizes their experience: “Always a pleasant experience dining here! All the staff are incredibly warm and friendly. The lunch special is such good value for money and the food is delicious! Cocktails are to die for!”

Dining options: Dine-in · Kerbside pickup · No-contact delivery
Location: Lighthouse Mall, 14 Chartwell Dr, Umhlanga Rocks, uMhlanga, 4320
Hours: Sunday to Monday 11 am–9 pm, Tuesday to Saturday11 am–10 pm
Website: Lupa Umhlanga

8. The Village Table

The Village Table is much more than just a restaurant – it is a great dining experience, perfect for an intimate dinner with your significant other. Patrons can also enjoy this dining spot with friends.

Their menu is inspired by Afro-Portuguese, Mediterranean and continental cuisine, made even more special by their  personal touch.

Their food is made using only the freshest ingredients, which explains why it is bursting with flavour.

One patron described the experience, “Great food, great service, very welcoming and attentive! Excellent value with the 3 course meal selection for just R189. Includes a choice of selected drinks.”

Dining options: Dine-in · Delivery
Located in: Pearls of Umhlanga, at 6 Lagoon Dr, Umhlanga, Durban, 4320
Hours: Sunday 9 am–10 pm, Monday Closed, Tuesday  to Thursday 9 am–9 pm, Friday & Saturday 9 am–10 pm
Website: The Village Table

9. Big Fish

Big Fish, as the name suggests offer great great seafood that is skillfully prepared, their seafood pasta has captured many hearts and palates since its introduction not too long ago.

This is a great spot to tantalize your taste buds, as they also offer delicious Asian cuisine like sushi, and more.

One of the patrons had this to say about Big Fish: “Ambience and food never disappoints!! Dined for lunch and supper – gets quite busy in peak season. The little fish bowl cocktails are great, Rock Shrimp, Smoked Salmon dim sum + Kingclip thermidor is out of this world delicious just wish they had a franchise in Johannesburg☹️”

Dining options: Dine-in · Kerbside pickup · Delivery
Located in: Lighthouse Quarter at Shop 7, Lighthouse Mall, 14 Chartwell Dr, uMhlanga, 4320
Hours: Monday to Sunday 11 am–11 pm

10. Lord Prawn

This restaurant is a gem when it comes to seafood, it’s a place where they strive to serve the highest quality and the freshest fish and shellfish at reasonable prices. The seafood platters are to die for, and the staff are very friendly.

A diner was so happy with their experience, they had this to say:

“I had the pleasure of dining at Lord Prawn restaurant while on seafood cravings. I’ve never been so happy, the food was dancing on my mouth. The drinks were satisfying, the food, to die for, and the sauces sealed the deal for me. If you’re a seafood lover visiting the Durban, Umhlanga area, don’t miss out coz you’ll never have better.”

Dining options: Dine-in · Kerbside pickup · Delivery
Location: 1 & 2, Umhlanga Plaza, 2 Lagoon Dr, Umhlanga, Durban
Hours: Monday to Saturday 12 to 10 pm, Sunday 12 to 9pm
Website: lordprawnumhlanga.co.za

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11. Old Town Italy

The Old Town Italy restaurant serves authentic Italian food, imagine being transported to Italy, right in Umhlanga.

As revealed by the name, Old Town Italy’s menu is authentically Italian.

They serve authentic Italian dishes, to cuts from their butchery, to fresh salads, panini / piadina and delicious pizza.

One patron put his experience simply, “Lovely surrounds and a fantastic atmosphere good food and excellent service. A must place to dine when in Umhlanga.”

Dining options: Dine-in · Takeaway · Delivery
Location: 39 Meridian Drive Umhlanga Rocks, Durban, 4319
Hours: Sunday 7 am–6 pm, Monday to Saturday 7 am–9 pm
Website: Old Town Italy Umhlanga

12. The Sugar Club

The Sugar Club Restaurant in uMhlanga (at the Beverly Hills) offers a menu that is packed with exceptional dishes, which you can enjoy as you take in the stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

They also have delicious desserts, and famous buffets.

The Sugar Club restaurant in uMhlanga offers a menu of exceptional dishes, stunning views of the Indian Ocean, delicious desserts, and famous buffets.

Whether you are looking for a perfect dinner date with your significant other, or you are just looking for a great dinner with the family, the Sugar Club is a great choice.

From the stylish setting and ocean views to the personalised service, The Sugar Club has everything you need for a fine dining experience.

Dining options: Dine-in · Takeaway · No delivery
Location: Beverly Hills Hotel at 1 Lighthouse Rd, Umhlanga, Durban, 4320
Hours: Monday to Sunday 6:30–10:30 am, 12–5:30 pm, 6:30–10 pm
Website: The Sugar Club

13. Mozambik Gateway

Mozambik is all about Portuguese/African fusion cuisine, and their dushes are packed with flavour.

From their seafood, to their chicken, there’s something about the sauce that turns ordinary food to extraordinary, what’s even more amazing is how great their portions are and how affordable the food it.

“I’ve always heard good things about Mozambique for years… And I finally got to try it..Had a delicious after birthday lunch here forgot to review… Had one of the platters… And it was one of thee most delicious dishes I have tasted in awhile.”

Dining options: Dine-in · Takeaway · Delivery
Location: Shop G328 Gateway Theatre of Shopping, uMhlanga
Website: mozambik.co.za

14. Joita’s Portuguese Foods

Joita’s Portuguese Foods serves delicious meals that are made from fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection. They serve traditional Portuguese food with a Mozambican influence, giving guests a very unique taste experience.

Their chargrilled seafood combo, which includes prawns and calamari cooked in your choice of peri-peri or garlic butter sauce, is to die for.

Here’s a review:

“Excellent Portuguese place with a deceptively simple menu, focused on dishes they do well. Both the spicy calamari, the steak and the calamari salad were excellent, but the fresh prawns sold by kilo were outstanding. Prices are reasonable and service friendly.”

Dining options: Dine-in · Takeaway
Location: Shop 52 Lighthouse Rd, Umhlanga, uMhlanga
Hours: Monday to Saturday 12 – 9 pm, Sunday closed
Website: joitas.co.za

15. Daruma Umhlanga

Daruma is an authentic Japanese and Teppanyaki restaurant located at The Pearls in Umhlanga.

They offer scrumptious and traditional Japanese cuisine that will satisfy all of your demands thanks to their special teppanyaki cooking style.

The location has a welcoming atmosphere, with both indoor and outdoor seating areas conveying a pleasant rustic vibe.

“Wow! what an experience. Service was exceptional and food tasted delicious. The teppenyaki in front of us was something new and exciting. We made a reservation and got a great spot. The chef went the extra mile and made my friends birthday memorable! Definitely recommend this place for birthday dinners, get togethers etc.”

Dining options: Dine-in · Takeaway · Delivery
Located in: The Pearls Of Umhlanga at Shop B8 Level L2, The Pearls Mall, 7 McCausland Cres, Umhlanga, Durban
Hours: Sunday to Monday 12–8:30 pm, Tuesday to Saturday Tuesday 12–9 pm

16. Julio’s Umhlanga

Julio’s Umhlanga, a popular eatery situated in the heart of Umhlanga, is known for its delectable Portuguese cuisine and convenient location, close to the Umhlanga Lighthouse.

With its chic atmosphere, it provides an ideal setting to unwind and enjoy some of their delectable dishes ranging from their grilled prawns to the seafood platters.

“Julios Umhlanga rocks. Absolutely amazing and worth the 5 stars, the chicken perri perri and lemon garlic equally as lovely as the calamari and prawn. Desserts were just as amazing definitely recommend the cream and biscuit layer dessert. Friendly wait staff and quick service.”

Dining options: Dine-in · Kerbside pickup · Delivery
Located in: Umhlanga Plaza, 2 Lagoon Drive Umhlanga, Umhlanga Rocks, Durban, 4320
Hours: Monday to Saturday 11 am–9:30 pm, Sunday 11 am–8:30 pm
Website: juliosperiperi.co.za

17. Butcher Block Restaurant 

Butcher Block is a well-known steakhouse in Durban’s lovely beachfront resort of Umhlanga.

This multi-level restaurant is a great spot for private occasions, wedding receptions even corporate meetings.

It has a diverse menu that includes gourmet cuts of meat, burgers, and scrumptious seafood dishes that are sure to please every taste bud.

This is how patron described their experience: “Absolutely great service and tasty food, I had the lamb shank with a buttery mash and honey glazed carrots, shank could be eaten with a spoon as it was melt in the mouth. My partner had the lamb chops which were tender and well done to perfection, we finished of with a dessert of missippi mudpie to share, this was a perfect finish to the evening.”

Dining options: Dine-in · Takeaway · Delivery
Location: 2 Ncondo Place, Umhlanga, Durban, 4320,, Umhlanga Rocks, 4320, Umhlanga, Durban, 4320
Hours: Sunday to Thursday 12–3 pm, 6–10 pm, Friday to Saturday 12–3 pm, 6–10:30 pm
Website: butcherblock.co.za

18. Doppio Zero, Pearls Umhlanga

Doppio Zero is a continental style café, restaurant and bakery.

From a light early breakfast of oven-fresh croissants to classic clay oven pizzas, vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals, gourmet evenings, and a variety of home & office catering meals and platters for every occasion, they have it all.

“A lovely restaurant. We were greeted with smiles and seated as soon as we arrived. We had a look at the breakfast menu and placed our orders, which to our surprise arrived so fast. It looked and tasted good. Our waiter was very nice and friendly. It was overall a pleasant experience ☺️”

Dining options: Dine-in · Takeaway · Delivery
Location: Pearls of Umhlanga, 7 McCausland Cres, Umhlanga, uMhlanga, 4320
Hours: Monday to Sunday 7 am–10 pm
Website: Doppio Zero Umhlanga

19. Marcos Italian uMhlanga

Marco’s Italian, located in Umhlanga Village, is an excellent choice for people looking for thin wood-fired pizzas and delicious pastas.

This traditional Italian restaurant also serves a variety of wonderful delicacies, Oxtail Gnocchi, Steak strips with grilled calamari, 250g fillet, topped with a creamy garlic calamari sauce and two queen prawns and more.

“We had the tasting menu for two. Fantastic value and really good food. Every dish was tasty and extremely well prepared and plated. Not a huge fan of Durban..lots of mediocre restaurants. This was a,pleasant surprise and we loved our meal. Thank you!”

Dining options: Dine-in · Takeaway
Location: Shop 48 Lighthouse Road , Umhlanga Rocks, Umhlanga Rocks, Durban, 4320
Hours: Monday to Sunday 12–11 pm
Website: marcositalian.co.za

20. Adega Umhlanga

Adega Umhlanga is a laid-back Portuguese chain restaurant with a diverse cuisine that includes sushi, peri-peri chicken, and steaks.

With its Halal accreditation, it distinguishes itself as a one-of-a-kind dining establishment. Since its inception in the late 1990s, this family-owned business has earned a solid reputation for its excellent cuisine, friendly service, and attractive environment.

Patrons can now enjoy an outstanding dining experience thanks to the addition of Adega Lounge and specialty cocktails to their repertoire.

A review: “Enjoyed our late lunch, went in a group ordered a combination of steak and seafood. Everything was good, no complaints.”

Dining options: Dine-in · Kerbside pickup · No-contact delivery
Located in: Gateway, 1 Palm Blvd, Umhlanga Ridge, Durban, 4319
Hours: Sunday to Tuesday 11 am–9 pm, Wednesday to Thursday 11 am–9:30 pm, Friday 11 am–12 pm, 1–10:30 pm, Saturday 11 am–10:30 pm
Website: Adega Umhlanga

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There you have it folks, a list of the best restaurants in Umhlanga, Durban. With many options to choose from, and the view of the ocean for you to enjoy, these restaurants are a must try.