10 Best Seafood Restaurants in Johannesburg – Where to Find the Freshest Catch in Jozi

From buttery prawns and perfectly grilled kingklip to mouth-watering seafood platters, these are 10 Johannesburg seafood spots worth knowing about.

Who says you need to live by the ocean to enjoy incredible seafood?

Johannesburg might be miles away from the crashing waves of the coast, but when it comes to delicious seafood, the City of Gold certainly knows how to deliver.

Whether you’re craving juicy prawns smothered in garlic butter, a perfectly grilled piece of kingklip, crispy calamari or an impressive seafood platter to share, Jozi has plenty to offer.

And let’s be honest, there’s something special about sitting down to a generous seafood feast, especially when the food is delicious, the atmosphere is just right and you’re surrounded by good company.

From sophisticated Sandton restaurants to relaxed Portuguese favourites, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best seafood restaurants in Johannesburg for your next lunch date, family outing or special celebration.

1. The Codfather – A seafood lover’s paradise

Morningside, Sandton

If you’re serious about seafood, The Codfather deserves a place on your dining list.

This well-known Sandton favourite has built its reputation around fresh fish, beautiful seafood selections and a dining experience that feels a little more special than your average night out.

One of its biggest attractions is the opportunity to choose from the seafood on display, making the experience feel more personal.

Whether you’re in the mood for fresh fish, prawns, sushi or a platter filled with ocean favourites, there’s plenty to tempt your taste buds.

The setting also makes it a lovely choice for romantic dinners, celebrations and those evenings when you feel like treating yourself.

Why we love it: The seafood selection and upmarket dining atmosphere.

Best for: Date nights, celebrations and seafood enthusiasts.

2. Fishmonger Illovo – A Johannesburg seafood classic

Illovo, Johannesburg

Some restaurants become favourites for a reason, and Fishmonger in Illovo is one of those places that seafood lovers keep returning to.

Known for its Mediterranean-inspired seafood, Fishmonger offers everything from fresh fish and calamari to prawns, oysters and seafood platters.

It’s the kind of restaurant where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch that turns into a long afternoon of good food and conversation.

The menu offers plenty of variety, while the relaxed yet polished atmosphere makes it suitable for almost any occasion.

If you’re someone who believes that good seafood doesn’t need to be complicated, this is definitely one to consider.

Why we love it: Classic seafood dishes, variety and a long-standing local reputation.

Best for: Business lunches, family meals and relaxed dinners.

3. The Big Mouth – Sushi, seafood and serious style

Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton

If your idea of a great seafood experience includes beautiful surroundings, delicious sushi and a lively atmosphere, The Big Mouth should be on your radar.

Located in Nelson Mandela Square, this stylish restaurant combines sushi, seafood and grilled dishes with a contemporary dining experience.

It’s particularly appealing for those who enjoy creative sushi selections, sashimi and beautifully presented food.

The atmosphere is fashionable without being overly formal, making it a popular choice for lunch dates, dinner with friends or a special evening in Sandton.

And if you’re dining with someone who isn’t a big seafood fan, there are other options to keep everyone happy.

Why we love it: The sushi selection, stylish interiors and lively Sandton atmosphere.

Best for: Sushi lovers, couples and social dining.

4. Pigalle Sandton – Elegant dining with a Portuguese touch

Sandton, Johannesburg

Sometimes a seafood dinner calls for something a little more sophisticated, and Pigalle certainly fits the occasion.

With its Portuguese-inspired influences and elegant atmosphere, Pigalle is a lovely option when you want to enjoy seafood in a more refined setting.

Think beautifully prepared prawns, fish and indulgent seafood combinations, served in surroundings that make the evening feel like an occasion.

It’s an especially appealing choice for anniversary dinners, romantic evenings or an important celebration.

Why we love it: The sophisticated atmosphere and Portuguese-inspired seafood.

Best for: Romantic dinners, anniversaries and special occasions.

5. Mozambik Linksfield – Big flavour, relaxed vibes

Linksfield, Johannesburg

If there’s one thing South Africans love, it’s a generous helping of prawns with plenty of flavour.

Mozambik brings the vibrant tastes of Mozambican and Portuguese-inspired cooking to Johannesburg, with seafood that celebrates bold seasoning and delicious sauces.

Expect grilled prawns, calamari, fish and platters that are perfect for sharing.

The Linksfield restaurant is particularly popular with families thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and child-friendly facilities.

It’s a great option when you want a satisfying seafood meal without the fuss of formal dining.

Why we love it: The Portuguese-inspired flavours and family-friendly setting.

Best for: Family lunches, casual dinners and group outings.

6. Restaurante Parreirinha – A taste of Portugal in Jozi

Melrose Arch, Johannesburg

If you love traditional Portuguese food, Restaurante Parreirinha is a name worth remembering.

This much-loved restaurant has a long history in Johannesburg’s dining scene and is known for its hearty Portuguese cooking.

Seafood lovers can look forward to delicious prawns, grilled fish and comforting dishes packed with flavour.

What makes Parreirinha special is its traditional approach to food. There’s something wonderfully satisfying about a restaurant that focuses on generous hospitality, familiar flavours and meals meant to be enjoyed.

It’s the perfect place to gather around a table, order your favourites and enjoy a proper meal without feeling rushed.

Why we love it: Traditional Portuguese flavours and its long-standing Johannesburg heritage.

Best for: Portuguese food lovers, family gatherings and leisurely lunches.

7. Calisto’s Gillview – Portuguese comfort food at its best

Gillview, Johannesburg South

There’s nothing quite like the smell of prawns sizzling in a delicious peri-peri or garlic sauce.

Calisto’s is a popular Portuguese restaurant name in Johannesburg, and its Gillview location has become a firm favourite for those who enjoy flavourful seafood and generous meals.

The menu combines Portuguese-style seafood with chicken and meat dishes, making it a practical choice when dining with family or friends who have different tastes.

Whether you’re planning a casual Sunday lunch or a relaxed dinner, Calisto’s offers that familiar, welcoming restaurant experience.

And if you’re a fan of rich sauces and bold Portuguese flavours, you’ll feel right at home.

Why we love it: Hearty Portuguese cooking and a relaxed family atmosphere.

Best for: Family dining, seafood platters and Portuguese favourites.

8. Bellagio Illovo – Mediterranean elegance on a plate

Illovo, Johannesburg

For those who enjoy seafood with a Mediterranean twist, Bellagio is another lovely restaurant to add to your list.

Situated in Illovo, Bellagio offers an elegant dining experience with a menu influenced by Mediterranean flavours.

Seafood forms an important part of its appeal, making it a tempting option for diners who appreciate beautifully prepared fish, prawns and other ocean-inspired dishes.

The atmosphere lends itself to long lunches, intimate dinners and celebrations where good food is part of the occasion.

It’s the kind of place to consider when you want something a little more polished without losing that welcoming restaurant feel.

Why we love it: Mediterranean influences and a refined dining atmosphere.

Best for: Couples, special occasions and relaxed fine dining.

9. 1920 Portuguese Restaurant – A little Portuguese charm

Rosebank, Johannesburg

If authentic Portuguese-inspired cooking is what you’re after, 1920 Portuguese Restaurant is well worth discovering.

This restaurant celebrates the comforting flavours that make Portuguese cuisine so popular in Johannesburg.

Think flavourful seafood, traditional recipes and dishes designed to be enjoyed slowly, preferably with good company.

What makes restaurants like 1920 appealing is that the food takes centre stage. It’s less about following the latest dining trends and more about enjoying a satisfying meal.

If you’re a fan of Portuguese-style prawns and traditional seafood dishes, this is another option worth exploring.

Why we love it: Traditional cooking and its welcoming, unpretentious atmosphere.

Best for: Portuguese seafood enthusiasts and intimate dinners.

10. Ocean Basket Sandton City – A reliable seafood favourite

Sandton City, Sandton

No Johannesburg seafood round-up would feel quite complete without mentioning Ocean Basket.

This proudly South African seafood restaurant chain has become a familiar favourite for families, couples and anyone craving a satisfying seafood meal.

From grilled fish and calamari to prawns, mussels, sushi and seafood platters, Ocean Basket offers plenty of choice.

It’s also a convenient option when you’re out shopping and want to sit down for a relaxed meal.

While it might not offer the same fine-dining atmosphere as some of the restaurants on this list, its approachable menu and casual setting make it a popular choice.

Sometimes all you really want is a generous seafood platter, a little lemon butter and good company.

Why we love it: The variety, casual atmosphere and accessible seafood options.

Best for: Family outings, shopping-day lunches and casual seafood cravings.

Where should you go for your next seafood feast?

With so many fantastic seafood restaurants scattered across Johannesburg, choosing where to eat really comes down to what you’re in the mood for.

If you’re planning a romantic dinner, The Codfather or Pigalle could be just what you’re looking for.

If you love bold Portuguese flavours, Mozambik, Calisto’s and Restaurante Parreirinha are worth adding to your list.

For sushi and a stylish atmosphere, The Big Mouth is a tempting option, while Fishmonger remains a classic choice for seafood lovers.

And when you simply want a relaxed seafood meal with family or friends, Ocean Basket offers a familiar favourite.

One thing is certain: you don’t need an ocean view to enjoy a memorable seafood experience.

Johannesburg has plenty of delicious options waiting to be discovered.

So, which seafood restaurant in Jozi is your favourite? Do you have a hidden gem that deserves a mention? Share your recommendations in the comments. We’d love to hear where you go when those seafood cravings kick in!

Editor’s note: This is an original editorial selection, not a claim of personally visiting or reviewing each restaurant. Restaurant locations, menus and operating details can change, so check before visiting. Research references include Tripadvisor, The Codfather’s official website and local restaurant listings.

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