Durban is not just a seafood city. It is also a serious steak destination, with a steakhouse culture that stretches back decades and a growing collection of grill houses that rival anything in Johannesburg or Cape Town. From family-run institutions that have been perfecting the art of flame-grilling since the early 1990s to modern halaal steakhouses serving premium aged cuts, the city offers a remarkable range of options for carnivores.
What sets Durban’s steak scene apart is its diversity. You can dine at a legendary establishment where the founder still trains the chefs, order a 1.2kg tomahawk at a neighbourhood grill, or enjoy a perfectly cooked fillet at a fully halaal restaurant with no alcohol served. The city’s steak restaurants cater to every occasion, from casual family dinners to romantic date nights and celebratory feasts.
This guide brings together 15 of the best steak restaurants in Durban, covering iconic institutions, halaal-friendly options, and modern grills that have earned loyal followings.
Top 15 Steak Restaurants In Durban
1. Joop’s Place
Joop’s Place is arguably the most famous steakhouse in Durban, a local institution that has been synonymous with the best steaks in town since 1993. Established by Joop and Wendy Mol, the restaurant was built on a simple intention: to share their passion and knowledge of food with all of Durban. The meat is sourced from small, family farms in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, the Karoo, and Free State, and is all organically reared.
The restaurant was completely revamped in 2021, and now features Joop’s chefs and butchers inside the dining area, ready to cut your personally chosen selection of meat and grill it to perfection in front of you. The pepper fillet served in a small copper pan is a legendary dish, and the tomahawk steak is a favourite among regulars. For those seeking a true challenge, the Joop’s Legend 2.5kg T-bone awaits. The atmosphere is cozy and family-run, perfect for both casual outings and romantic dates. Booking ahead is essential due to the restaurant’s popularity.
2. The Hussar Grill Oceans
The Hussar Grill Oceans in uMhlanga is regarded as one of South Africa’s premier grill restaurants, serving only the best steak available alongside a comprehensive wine menu. Located at the Oceans Mall, this restaurant offers a refined dining experience with excellent service. Guests have praised the prompt and attentive service, with one reviewer noting that the food was served fast and tasted like a cherry on top.
The lamb chops and fish with Thermidor sauce are popular choices, though some diners have noted inconsistencies with seasoning and side dishes. The martini at the end of the meal is described as a nice touch. With a price range of R100 to R500, The Hussar Grill offers good value for money in an upscale setting.
3. Butcher Boys Morningside
Butcher Boys in Morningside is one of Durban’s most popular steakhouses, holding a 4.4 rating from over 13,000 reviews. The restaurant delivers impeccably cooked cuts including ribeye, tomahawk, cote de boeuf, and aged rump, accompanied by generous sides and hearty burgers. The menu features dry-aged T-bone, prime rib served on the bone, and filet on the bone, along with a range of sauces including cheese chilli garlic, Roquefort, monkey gland, honey Dijon mustard, Madagascar peppercorn, mushroom and red wine, and spicy chakalaka relish.
Standout starters include biltong, calamari, and wings. Warm, attentive service and an extensive wine and cocktail list complement the relaxed, welcoming surroundings. Desserts impress as well. Reviews describe it as a place where you will be hard-pressed to find a better steakhouse in South Africa.
4. The Empire Steak
The Empire Steak on Florida Road is a fully halaal steakhouse that has earned a strong following, holding a 4.4 rating from nearly 3,000 reviews. The restaurant is Muslim-owned and does not serve alcohol. Guests consistently praise the steaks, with one reviewer calling them the best steaks they have tasted in the country. The 500g T-Bone grilled to perfection, with rich and creamy mushroom sauce, is a standout.
The menu is extensive, offering pasta, chicken dishes, and desserts alongside the steak selection. The jalapeno steak is a favourite among regulars, and the cheesy garlic prawn steak on a bed of mash is described as something different but worth trying. Portion sizes are generous and prices are considered good value. The venue can get busy, so be prepared for a wait during peak times.
5. Grill Jichana at Southern Sun Elangeni
Grill Jichana at the Southern Sun Elangeni Maharani in Durban North features premium cuts of meat that have been matured to perfection before being flame-grilled with their own secret spice mix. The restaurant is celebrated for its bold flavours inspired by the African East Coast, and guests are encouraged to order the famous 20-ingredient Cafe de Paris compound butter.
The menu features select cuts of Karoo lamb, premium Karan steaks, and free-range chicken from the Midlands. The sophisticated atmosphere and oceanfront location make it a strong choice for a refined steak dinner. The restaurant is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 18h00 to 22h00, and closed on Sundays and Mondays.
6. Chippewa Spur Halaal
Chippewa Spur is one of the few fully halaal Spur outlets in Durban, with a halal certificate clearly visible on the premises and no alcohol allowed. This American-style steakhouse has a designated prayer area, parking, and handicap access. The restaurant has relocated to Overport, inside the Overport Centre at 192 Ridge Road.
As a family-friendly chain known for its steaks, burgers, ribs, and wings, Chippewa Spur offers generous portions in a welcoming atmosphere where kids can play while waiting for their meals. The nachos are a must-try dish. While some reviewers have noted inconsistencies with food quality and service, the restaurant remains a popular choice for halaal-conscious families seeking a familiar steakhouse experience.
7. RJ’s Famous Rib Steakhouse
RJ’s Famous Rib Steakhouse on Florida Road is a halaal-certified restaurant that has become synonymous with succulent steaks and mouthwatering ribs. The establishment is authorized halal by an Islamic organization, and all food is certified halal with no alcohol allowed.
Only selected AAA beef cuts which are aged to perfection are used. The menu is value-for-money and family-focused, with generously portioned ribs, steaks, and burgers. Seafood and chicken dishes are also available. The restaurant operates from 08:00 to 22:00 daily, making it convenient for both lunch and dinner.
8. Melt and Grill
Melt and Grill is a steakhouse and barbecue restaurant that has earned a strong reputation in Durban. The menu focuses on grilled meats and barbecue, with vegetarian options available. It is a solid choice for those seeking a quality steak in a relaxed setting.
9. Steak and Ale
Steak and Ale is a steakhouse and cafe that also specializes in barbecue. The restaurant offers a casual dining experience with a focus on quality grilled meats. It is open late, making it a good option for evening dining.
10. Butcher Block Restaurant Umhlanga
Butcher Block Restaurant in Umhlanga is a steakhouse and seafood restaurant with vegetarian options. It is part of a well-regarded group that has built a reputation for quality steaks and attentive service in the Durban area.
11. Adega Umhlanga
Adega Umhlanga is a relaxed Portuguese restaurant chain that offers a diverse menu featuring sushi, peri-peri chicken, and steaks. Its unique Halal accreditation sets it apart as a distinctive dining destination for halaal-conscious diners seeking Portuguese flavours alongside their steak. Established in the late 1990s, this family-owned establishment has built a strong reputation for delicious food, warm service, and inviting ambiance.
12. Al-Nuru Restaurant
Al-Nuru Restaurant is a halaal steak and comfort food restaurant located on Pickering Street in Durban. The establishment serves African cuisine with a focus on steak and comfort food, and is fully halaal. It is a convenient option for those seeking halaal steak in a casual setting.
13. The Address Halaal Dining
The Address Halaal Dining on Innes Road in Morningside is a halaal restaurant that offers steak, chicken, and prawns alongside great starters. The sizzling hot steak cooked perfectly is a highlight for many patrons. The restaurant has a 4.2 rating from over 1,100 reviews and offers ample safe parking on the premises. It is suitable for large family gatherings and private functions, with a designated area for groups. While some reviewers have noted inconsistencies with portion sizes and quality, the welcoming service and hands-on owner contribute to a pleasant dining experience for many.
14. Platinum Belt Lounge
Platinum Belt Lounge in Umhlanga is a fine dining steakhouse that offers tempting options including finest aged prime cuts such as tomahawks, ribeyes, and lamb shanks. The restaurant is known for its upscale atmosphere and cigar offerings, making it a destination for special occasions. It is open from Monday to Thursday from 11:00 to 23:00, and Friday to Sunday from 11:00 to 02:00.
15. The Baron Umhlanga
The Baron in Umhlanga is a steakhouse and barbecue restaurant with a beer bar. It offers a casual dining experience with a focus on grilled meats and a selection of beers. It is a good option for those seeking a relaxed steakhouse experience in the Umhlanga area.
Comparison Table- Durban Steakhouse & Grill Restaurants
| Restaurant | Location | Cuisine | Halaal Status | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joop’s Place | Morningside | Steakhouse, European | Not certified | Medium-High | Signature steaks, special occasions |
| The Hussar Grill Oceans | uMhlanga | Steakhouse, Grill | Not certified | R100–R500 | Upscale dining, steak & wine |
| Butcher Boys Morningside | Morningside | Steakhouse, Seafood | Not certified | Medium-High | Premium cuts, families |
| The Empire Steak | Florida Road | Halaal Steakhouse | Fully Halaal | Medium | Halaal diners, generous portions |
| Grill Jichana | Durban North | Steakhouse, African-inspired | Not certified | Medium-High | Refined steaks, distinctive sides |
| Chippewa Spur Halaal | Overport | Family Steakhouse | Fully Halaal | Medium | Halaal families, children |
| RJ’s Famous Rib Steakhouse | Florida Road | Ribs, Steakhouse | Fully Halaal | Medium | Halaal diners, ribs |
| Melt & Grill | Durban | Steakhouse, Grill | Not certified | Medium | Casual grilled meals |
| Steak & Ale | Durban | Steakhouse, Grill | Not certified | Medium | Casual and late dining |
| Butcher Block Umhlanga | uMhlanga | Steakhouse, Seafood | Not certified | Medium | Steak and seafood, Umhlanga visitors |
| Adega Umhlanga | uMhlanga | Portuguese, Steak | Halaal accredited | Medium | Portuguese cuisine, Halaal diners |
| Al-Nuru Restaurant | Durban | Halaal Steak, Comfort Food | Fully Halaal | Low-Medium | Affordable Halaal meals |
| The Address Halaal Dining | Morningside | Halaal Steak, Grills | Fully Halaal | Medium | Groups and gatherings |
| Platinum Belt Lounge | uMhlanga | Fine Dining, Steakhouse | Not certified | High | Special occasions, upscale dining |
| The Baron Umhlanga | uMhlanga | Steakhouse, Grill | Not certified | Medium | Casual steaks and dining |
Tips For Understanding
1. Joop’s Place Is the Benchmark
Joop’s Place is consistently described as having the best steaks in Durban. The restaurant’s reputation is built on sourcing meat from small family farms, organic rearing practices, and the skill of chefs trained by the founder himself. If you only have time for one steakhouse in Durban, this is the one to choose. Just remember to book ahead.
2. Halaal Options Are Abundant
Durban offers a strong selection of halaal steakhouses, including The Empire Steak, Chippewa Spur, RJ’s Famous Rib Steakhouse, Al-Nuru Restaurant, and The Address Halaal Dining. These establishments do not serve alcohol, making them suitable for halaal-conscious diners. Always verify certification if strict adherence is important.
3. Book Ahead for Popular Spots
Joop’s Place, Butcher Boys, and The Empire Steak all fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Reservations are essential for these establishments. For casual spots, walk-ins are generally accepted but wait times can be long during peak hours.
4. Consider the Cut and the Sauce
Durban’s steakhouses offer a wide range of cuts, from fillet and rump to T-bone, tomahawk, and cote de boeuf. Sauce options are equally diverse, including peppercorn, mushroom, cheese, monkey gland, and Cafe de Paris butter. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from your server.
5. Price Range Varies Widely
Durban’s steak scene spans every budget. Al-Nuru Restaurant offers affordable halaal steak options. The Empire Steak and Chippewa Spur provide mid-range options with generous portions. Joop’s Place, Butcher Boys, and The Hussar Grill represent the higher end of the spectrum. Choose according to your budget and occasion.
6. Location Matters
Most of Durban’s best steakhouses are clustered in Morningside, Florida Road, and uMhlanga. Morningside is home to Joop’s Place, Butcher Boys, and The Address. Florida Road features The Empire Steak and RJ’s Famous Rib Steakhouse. uMhlanga offers The Hussar Grill, Adega, Platinum Belt Lounge, and The Baron.
7. Check Operating Hours
Some steakhouses have limited operating hours. Grill Jichana is only open Tuesday to Saturday from 18h00 to 22h00 and closed on Sundays and Mondays. The Hussar Grill and Butcher Boys have more standard hours but can be busy during peak dining times. Always confirm hours before making plans.
Closing
Durban’s steakhouse scene is as rich and diverse as the city itself. From the legendary Joop’s Place, where the founder’s passion for quality meat has created a dining institution, to the fully halaal Empire Steak on Florida Road, from the refined Grill Jichana at the Southern Sun Elangeni to the family-friendly Chippewa Spur, there is a steak restaurant for every taste, budget, and occasion.
What unites Durban’s best steakhouses is a commitment to quality meat and skilled preparation. The city’s chefs understand that a great steak starts with great sourcing, whether from the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, the Karoo, or the Free State. They respect the ingredient and let the flame do the work, finishing with sauces and sides that complement rather than overwhelm.
Whether you are a local looking for your next favourite spot or a visitor discovering Durban’s carnivorous side for the first time, these 15 restaurants represent the best of what the city’s steak scene has to offer. Book ahead for the popular spots, embrace the halaal options, and always trust the recommendation of your server.