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Introduction: Durban, South Africa, is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich culinary heritage. From flavorful Indian curries to fresh seafood and iconic street food, Durban offers a gastronomic adventure for every foodie. In this guide, we’ll explore the best restaurants and street eats that capture the essence of Durban’s diverse cuisine.
Top Restaurants in Durban:
- The Oyster Box’s Ocean Terrace
- Cuisine: Seafood and Indian-inspired dishes.
- Why Visit: Located at the iconic Oyster Box Hotel, this restaurant offers stunning ocean views and a luxurious dining experience. Don’t miss their famous curry buffet.
- 9th Avenue Waterside
- Cuisine: Modern European and South African fusion.
- Why Visit: Situated along Durban’s harbor, 9th Avenue Waterside is perfect for a romantic dinner with expertly crafted dishes using locally sourced ingredients.
- Big Easy Durban by Ernie Els
- Cuisine: Steakhouse and contemporary South African.
- Why Visit: Created by golf legend Ernie Els, this upscale restaurant is a must-visit for its hearty meals and extensive wine list.
- Mali’s Indian Restaurant
- Cuisine: Authentic Indian.
- Why Visit: Durban’s Indian influence shines at Mali’s with its rich curries and freshly baked naan. The butter chicken and lamb vindaloo are crowd favorites.
- The Chefs’ Table
- Cuisine: Gourmet South African.
- Why Visit: Known for its open kitchen concept, The Chefs’ Table serves dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious, with an ever-changing seasonal menu.
Must-Try Street Eats in Durban:
- Bunny Chow
- Where to Find: Try Gounden’s or CaneCutters for the best Bunny Chow.
- Why It’s Famous: This iconic dish features a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with spicy curry. It’s a must-try for visitors.
- Durban-Style Samosas
- Where to Find: Street vendors and local markets like Victoria Street Market.
- Why It’s Famous: Crispy, golden, and filled with spiced potatoes, meat, or vegetables, these samosas are a staple snack.
- Shisa Nyama (Barbecue)
- Where to Find: Visit Max’s Lifestyle in Umlazi for an authentic experience.
- Why It’s Famous: This traditional South African barbecue involves perfectly grilled meat served with pap and chakalaka.
- Fresh Seafood
- Where to Find: Wilson’s Wharf or beachfront food stalls.
- Why It’s Famous: Enjoy freshly caught fish, prawns, and calamari straight from the Indian Ocean.
- Sugarcane Juice
- Where to Find: Local markets and beachfront vendors.
- Why It’s Famous: This refreshing drink is perfect for cooling down after a day of exploring.
Culinary Tours and Markets:
- Victoria Street Market: A bustling market offering spices, fresh produce, and unique street food.
- Durban Culinary Tours: Guided tours that take you through the city’s best foodie spots, from hidden gems to iconic eateries.
Conclusion: Durban’s food scene is a true reflection of its diverse cultural heritage. Whether you’re indulging in fine dining or savoring street food, every bite tells a story. So pack your appetite and explore the culinary delights of Durban. Share your foodie adventures in the comments below!
