Shisa nyamas – the place to see and be seen!
Since the OG of it’s time, Mzoli’s in Gugulethu, the shisa nyama kasi culture, has begun to gain steadfast momentum.
What was once a way for butchers to promote and sell their meat, shisa nyama’s have fast become the gathering place for up-and-coming urban professionals, tourists and local township residents looking to eat braai’d meat, have their car washed and either sip a fine single malt or knock down a Red Bull before hitting the dance floor.
Though all shisa nyamas may serve meat, no two are the same. We’ve narrowed down some of the finest in SA.
CAPE TOWN
Gqudu Butchery 110 in Gugulethu
Affectionately referred to as GQ by the locals, it’s the new kid on the block and is the younger sibling of Gqudu Lounge. When they are not hosting events, Gqudu butchery is ideal for a quick lunch while getting your car washed by the gents on the corner.
Opening hours and contact details: Tuesday to Friday: 9am – 7pm, Saturday to Monday: 9am – 10pm. +27 (0)61 783 1922. Address: No.4, NY110, Gugulethu.
50 on Gux in Gugulethu
A butchery by day and the place to be on a sunny Sunday afternoon. You can buy and braai succulent red meat, or just lounge around with your friends over a couple of beers.
Opening hours and contact details: Weekdays: 9 am -7 pm, Weekend: 9 am – 11 pm. +27 (0)82 553 3599. Address No. 90, NY 50, Gugulethu.
Rands Cape Town in Khayelitsha
Opened in 2015, this shisa nyama has grown bigger and better, and the food has stayed as delicious. Rands also hosts some of the biggest parties in the Mother City; AKA, Cassper Nyovest, Lulo Cafe and gqom royalty Distruction Boyz have performed there.
Opening hours and contact details: Weekdays: 10am – 7pm, Weekends: 10am – 11pm. +27 (0)61 856 2492. Address: Shop 6, Khaya Bazaar, Makabeni, Khayelitsha
Mzoli’s in Gugulethu
Mzoli’s, in the heart of Gugulethu, in a Cape Town institution and Mzoli Ngcauzele is the godfather of shisa nyama. Popular for being packed with patrons over the weekends, it is advised you come early if you want to order and still have a table.
Opening hours and contact details: Open daily: 9am – 6pm. +27 (0)21 638 1355. Address: NY 115 Gugulethu.
JOHANNESBURG
PDL
PDL Car Wash puts an entirely new spin on getting your wheels clean, with a buy and braai you can fill up while you give your ride some love.
Contact details: Address: 11666 Corner Moduba and Modjadji Street Pimville +272 314 4941.
Moja Café
Food. Carwash. Vibe. Enjoy deliciously braai meat while your car gets washed. The whole family is welcome.
Opening hours and contact details: Open daily from 10 am. +2773 082 4100 Address: 5976 Skota St, Orlando East, Soweto, 1804
Kwa Lichaba
Located on the edge of the most famous street in South Africa (Vilakazi Street), Kwa Lichaba offers an authentic shisa nyama experience in a chilled and relaxed environment
Opening hours and contact details: Open Thur-Sun 8pm to late. +274 714 4439 Address: Vilakazi St, Orlando West, Soweto, 1804
Bafokeng Corner
Bafokeng Corner is a venue in Soweto that acts as a carwash, butchery, shisa nyama, bakery and when the sun goes down it’s a super trendy and classy lounge that hosts some of the best events in Joburg.
Opening hours and contact details: Daily 8am – to late +27845058318 Address: 00333 Sagila St, Phiri, Soweto, 1818
DURBAN
Max’s lifestyle
Known by the locals say KwaMax, this is a well known and popular establishment among locals and visitors alike. Situated just off the main road, the vibe and atmosphere is palpable and the party starts from the moment you park your car.
Open 7 days a week from 7am-8pm, Address: Durban, 328 Mbe Rd, Umlazi, 4031
Eyadini – Shisa Nyama & Car Wash (Umlazi)
Eyadini Lounge is your no1 Ekasi shisa nyama Experience located in the heart of Umlazi Township. A dream that came to life in 2008, Eyadini is a highly sought out shisa nyama restaurant and premium event venue popularly known for its “Eyadini walk”.
Address: 3 Peace Rd, Umlazi, Durban, 4001
Mojos Carwash & Shisanyama
The best carwash in the area with the juiciest meat, wors and tripe dishes.
Address: 77 Hemsley Groove Mayville, 4091 Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
