Even good restaurants can be affordable – as you will find in Sandton. This is a glittering gem in Johannesburg’s crown— often associated with high-end boutiques, sleek skyscrapers, and elite business lunches. But look past the luxury, and you’ll find a vibrant tapestry of affordable culinary gems that serve up delicious fare without draining your wallet.
Whether you’re a traveler on a budget, a student looking for good eats, or a foodie seeking underrated treasures, this guide takes you through ten affordable restaurants in Sandton that deliver on taste, vibe, and value.
Why Affordable Dining in Sandton Matters
Sandton is famously home to the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, world-class hotels, and luxury shopping malls like Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton City. But not every meal has to be a splurge. Budget-friendly restaurants in the area prove that you can indulge in tasty cuisine without sacrificing ambiance or quality.
From Mediterranean to South African fusion, Asian street food to Latin flame-grilled steaks—these eateries serve up personality, affordability, and a slice of Sandton’s multicultural flavor.
1. San Deck, Bar & Restaurant
Location: Sandton Sun Hotel, 5th Street
Vibe: Rooftop chill with urban elegance
Price: Affordable small plates, mains under R150
San Deck brings fire pits, skyline views, and Afro-chic vibes to the table. Set atop the Sandton Sun Hotel, it’s surprisingly accessible given the location. Popular for sundowners and small plates, their biltong-spiced fries, mini bunny chow, and free-range chicken skewers are local favorites.
Standout dish: Peri-peri chicken wings paired with pineapple salsa
Tip: Visit during golden hour—both the view and prices shine brighter.
2. Kung-Fu Kitchen
Location: Sandton City
Vibe: Casual Asian eatery
Price: Meals from R50–R130
Kung-Fu Kitchen nails the balance between quick service and big flavor. Whether you’re craving sushi, sweet-and-sour chicken, or spicy noodles, this spot packs generous portions and a wide selection of Asian comfort food.
Standout dish: Chicken chow mein, spring rolls combo
Tip: Grab a combo meal for under R100—it’s filling and flavorful.
3. Pronto Italian Restaurant
Location: Craighall Park (near Sandton)
Vibe: Cozy Italian trattoria
Price: Pasta dishes starting at R90
While technically just outside Sandton, Pronto is worth the short drive. Rustic wood interiors, warm lighting, and plates piled high with freshly-made pasta make it a romantic yet budget-friendly choice. Think home-style lasagna, creamy gnocchi, and thin-crust pizza.
Standout dish: Penne Arrabiata with Parmesan shavings
Tip: Their lunch specials offer fantastic deals on multiple courses.
4. Ocean Basket Sandton City
Location: Sandton City
Vibe: Family-friendly seafood franchise
Price: Meals from R65–R180
A beloved South African staple, Ocean Basket makes seafood accessible. From grilled hake to prawn platters, every dish comes with your choice of chips, rice, or salad. The sharing platters are perfect for groups and deliver serious bang for buck.
Standout dish: “Platter for One”—fish, prawns, calamari
Tip: Check for weekday specials and combo deals.
5. Riffs Bar & Grill
Location: Garden Court Sandton
Vibe: Rock ‘n roll casual
Price: Burgers and grills from R85–R160
Riffs combines musical nostalgia with comfort food. Burgers, ribs, and steak sandwiches dominate the menu, and the laid-back vibe makes it ideal for post-work hangouts or weekend chills. Service is fast, portions are hearty, and there’s often live music to sweeten the deal.
Standout dish: Rib burger with onion rings
Tip: Go during happy hour for drink-and-dinner combos.
6. Parea Taverna
Location: Illovo (bordering Sandton)
Vibe: Traditional Greek hospitality
Price: Main courses from R75–R170
For lovers of Mediterranean fare, Parea is a hidden jewel. Blue-and-white décor, bouzouki music, and authentic Greek dishes bring a taste of Athens to Johannesburg. The vibe is intimate, and the portions are generous—perfect for sharing.
Standout dish: Lamb souvlaki with pita and tzatziki
Tip: Order a meze platter to sample a range of dishes for less.
7. Mugg & Bean – Sandton City
Location: Sandton City Mall
Vibe: Warm café-style dining
Price: Hearty breakfasts from R65, mains under R150
Mugg & Bean is comfort food central. Famous for bottomless coffee and oversized muffins, this café is a favorite for students, business lunches, and solo diners seeking a quiet bite. Their all-day breakfast menu is loaded with value.
Standout dish: Mexican eggs benedict
Tip: Breakfast is served all day—order the Early Bird combo even at noon.
8. Don Armando Illovo
Location: Illovo, close to Sandton
Vibe: Rustic Argentinian steakhouse
Price: Grills from R120–R250
A celebration of Latin fire-grilled meats, Don Armando is an affordable restaurant in Sandton that serves Argentinian-style churrasco with flair. The wood-fired grill brings out the smoky depth in steaks, chicken, and ribs. While some premium cuts are pricey, there are affordable options that bring gourmet flavors at good value.
Standout dish: Chicken espetada with chimichurri
Tip: Try the lunch menu for cheaper prices on signature dishes.
9. Simply Asia
Location: Sandton City and various locations
Vibe: Thai-inspired noodle bar
Price: Meals from R60–R140
Fast, fresh, and packed with Thai flavor, Simply Asia is great for a quick bite or casual dinner. Their signature noodle dishes cater to every spice level and come loaded with protein, veggies, and sauce.
Standout dish: Roasted chili noodle with chicken
Tip: Vegetarian options are tasty and often cheaper.
10. Delhi Dharbar
Location: Sandton Central
Vibe: Cozy Indian eatery
Price: Curries from R75–R160
Delhi Dharbar brings North Indian spice and flavor to the heart of Sandton. Naans fresh from the tandoor, creamy butter chicken, and rich biryanis fill the menu. The décor is simple, but the food is bold and satisfying.
Standout dish: Lamb Rogan Josh with garlic naan
Tip: Most portions are shareable—split with a friend to save more.
Tips for Dining on a Budget in Sandton
- Look for lunch specials: Many restaurants offer reduced prices during lunch hours.
- Follow on social media: Some eateries post flash deals and promotions.
- Share meals: Portions in Sandton tend to be generous—splitting saves money.
- Ask about loyalty programs: Certain places give discounts or freebies for repeat visits.
- Consider nearby suburbs: Areas like Illovo and Craighall Park offer slightly lower prices for similar quality.
Wrapping It Up: Flavor Without Financial Fear
Sandton’s reputation for opulence doesn’t mean dining out has to be expensive. The restaurants listed above prove that you can enjoy quality meals, vibrant atmospheres, and global flavors without overspending. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch, entertaining friends, or having a solo food date, these spots provide value, variety, and satisfaction.
So next time you’re navigating the golden avenues of Sandton with a rumbling stomach and a modest budget—know you’re just steps away from a feast.
Related:
- Top 10 Affordable Day Spas in Johannesburg
- Top 10 Affordable Day Spas in Sandton
- Top 10 Clothing Stores In Sandton City
- Top 10 Cinemas In Sandton
- Top 10 Security Companies In Sandton
Conclusion
Sandton is surely the financial and commercial hub of South Africa but make no mistake about it, the city isn’t all about business and commerce alone. Restaurants are also common sights in the city. From upscale restaurants to affordable ones, Sandton has got it all. It might surprise you that international cuisines ranging from Italian to Greek, to Indian, and a host of other cuisines are available in these affordable restaurants.
Hello Tomato, an Italian restaurant ranks as the most affordable restaurant in Sandton swiftly followed by a host of others. I would love to know which of these restaurants you would love to visit. So feel free to drop your comments or opinion in the comment section below. Your reviews are also welcome if you have visited any of them.