Top 10 Vegan Restaurants in Johannesburg (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

Johannesburg, South Africa’s bustling metropolis, has embraced the global vegan movement, offering a vibrant array of plant-based dining options. From cozy cafes to upscale eateries, the city’s vegan restaurants cater to diverse tastes, blending local flavors with international cuisines. Whether you’re a lifelong vegan, exploring plant-based eating, or dining with mixed-diet groups, Johannesburg’s vegan scene delivers delicious, ethical, and sustainable meals. This article highlights the top 10 vegan restaurants in Johannesburg for 2025, selected based on recent reviews, menu creativity, and commitment to quality. Expect fresh, locally sourced ingredients, eco-friendly practices, and welcoming atmospheres in suburbs like Sandton, Greenside, and Melville. Curated with insights from local food blogs and platforms like Tripadvisor and HappyCow, this guide ensures you discover the best vegan dining experiences in the City of Gold. Let’s explore these culinary gems that make Johannesburg a haven for plant-based foodies.

Top 10 Vegan Restaurants in Johannesburg

1. Kaylee’s Eatery

Location: 147 North Reef Rd, Bedfordview, Johannesburg
Price Range: R60–R150 per main course
Kaylee’s Eatery, nestled in Bedfordview’s Comic Book Warehouse, is a vegan hotspot known for its trendy, Instagram-worthy ambiance with pink walls and lush greenery. This fully vegan restaurant offers a versatile menu, from Beyond Meat Burgers to fluffy Belgian waffles topped with gourmet milkshakes. Their Power Bowls and vegan pizzas, like the Margherita (R139), are guest favorites. Kaylee’s also features a vegan supermarket for ready meals and pet-friendly amenities, including a doggie play area. Open Monday to Saturday (9 AM–7 PM) and Sunday (9 AM–4 PM), it’s praised for its friendly staff and inventive dishes.

2. The Fussy Vegan

Location: 3 Gleneagles Rd, Greenside, Johannesburg
Price Range: R65–R110 per main course
The Fussy Vegan in Greenside is a go-to for vegan comfort food, voted Johannesburg’s best vegan restaurant in 2021. Its casual vibe and creative menu feature plant-based burgers, “chicken” nuggets, and Tex Mex bowls like the classic TFV burrito (R65). With branches in Blairgowrie and CityROCK, it caters to dietary needs with clear gluten- and dairy-free labels. Open Monday to Thursday (10 AM–8:30 PM), Friday to Saturday (10 AM–9 PM), and Sunday (10 AM–8 PM), it’s ideal for vegan newbies and seasoned diners. The Fussy Vegan emphasizes ethical eating and sustainability, earning rave reviews on Tripadvisor.

3. Leafy Greens Café

Location: Rocky Ridge Rd, Muldersdrift, Johannesburg
Price Range: R90–R150 per main course
Located on Casalinga Organic Farm, Leafy Greens Café is a serene haven for vegan and vegetarian cuisine. Its farm-to-table approach uses fresh, organic ingredients for dishes like the Farmer’s Breakfast Bowl with tofu scramble and vegan hollandaise. The lunch buffet, featuring salads, hummus, and raw pizzas, is a highlight. Open Monday to Saturday (8 AM–5 PM) and Sunday (8 AM–3 PM), it offers a rustic setting and juice cleanses. Guests love the peaceful ambiance and eco-friendly ethos, making it a top pick for health-conscious diners.

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4. The Vegan Chef

Location: Shop 18A, Benmore Shopping Centre, Sandton, Johannesburg
Price Range: R90–R150 per main course
The Vegan Chef in Sandton elevates vegan dining with gourmet comfort food. Known for its Southern Fried Chickn and sticky ribs, this restaurant pushes culinary boundaries with sustainable practices. Its menu includes poke bowls, vegan nuggets, and curries, served in a chic, eco-friendly setting. Open daily, it’s a favorite brunch spot, with accolades like Best Vegan Restaurant Globally (Abillion, 2021). The Vegan Chef’s four Gauteng branches ensure accessibility, and its classy interiors appeal to diverse diners.

5. Lekker Vegan

Location: Pineslopes Shopping Centre, Witkoppen Rd, Fourways, Johannesburg
Price Range: R60–R110 per main course
Lekker Vegan claims the title of South Africa’s best vegan junk food, offering plant-based burgers, fries, and milkshakes in a vibrant Fourways setting. Its neon sign and casual vibe draw crowds for dishes like the vegan mac ‘n cheese and nachos. Open Monday to Thursday (10 AM–8:30 PM), Friday to Saturday (10 AM–9 PM), and Sunday (10 AM–8 PM), it’s perfect for quick, indulgent meals. Lekker Vegan’s commitment to cruelty-free dining resonates with locals and visitors alike.

6. Fresh Earth Food Store

Location: 74 Hillcrest Ave, Blairgowrie, Johannesburg
Price Range: R80–R130 per main course
Fresh Earth combines a restaurant, café, and health store, offering vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Favorites include the Mexican omelette and chickpea avo wrap, served in a rustic setting. Open Monday to Saturday (8 AM–5 PM) and Sunday (8 AM–3 PM), it’s a staple for health-conscious diners near Emmarentia. The store sells vegan products, and the café’s cortados and protein shakes are hits. Fresh Earth’s focus on organic, sustainable food earns it consistent praise.

7. Beetfresh Café & Restaurant

Location: Melville, Johannesburg
Price Range: R80–R130 per main course
Beetfresh in Melville is a cozy, eco-friendly café serving vegan and vegetarian dishes with a focus on wellness. Its chickpea bowl (R115) and roast veg feast (R130) are popular, alongside detox combos for health-conscious diners. Open daily, it offers generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for unwinding. Beetfresh’s commitment to sustainable trays and healthy eating makes it a standout, with glowing Google reviews for its burrito bowl.

8. Annapurni

Location: Sandton, Johannesburg
Price Range: R70–R120 per main course
Annapurni brings South Indian vegan cuisine to Sandton, with dishes like vegetable pepper masala and akki roti. Its South Indian Bakery and Café offers unique bakes, and desserts like carrot halwa are a must-try. Open daily, it’s a meatless haven with a focus on authentic flavors. Annapurni’s expansion reflects its popularity among locals seeking healthy, flavorful Indian food.

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9. Greenside Café

Location: Gleneagles Rd, Greenside, Johannesburg
Price Range: R70–R140 per main course
Greenside Café, one of Johannesburg’s first vegan restaurants, is a “junk food” haven with an extensive pizza menu, burgers, wraps, and smoothies. Its chill vibe and diverse offerings, like vegan desserts, make it a local favorite. Open daily, it’s ideal for casual dining or lunch breaks. Owner Dimitri Gutjahr’s passion for mindful eating shines through, earning high ratings on HappyCow.

10. Lexi’s Healthy Eatery

Location: 24 Central Centre, 6 Gwen Lane, Sandown, Sandton, Johannesburg
Price Range: R80–R150 per main course
Lexi’s Healthy Eatery in Sandton is a vegan-friendly spot with ethically sourced ingredients. While not fully vegan, its plant-based options, like the Glow Bowl and pumpkin pie smoothie, are standout choices. Its trendy décor and dairy-free milk alternatives make it Instagram-worthy. Open daily, it’s perfect for mixed-diet groups, with a menu that balances health and flavor.

Why Dine at Vegan Restaurants in Johannesburg?

Vegan restaurants in Johannesburg offer more than just meals—they provide ethical, sustainable, and health-conscious dining experiences. Here’s why they’re worth visiting:

  • Diverse Menus: From South Indian to Italian, vegan eateries showcase global flavors, ensuring variety for all palates.

  • Health Benefits: Plant-based meals are rich in nutrients, supporting wellness and dietary needs like gluten-free or diabetic-friendly options.

  • Sustainability: Many restaurants, like Leafy Greens and The Vegan Chef, prioritize organic, farm-fresh ingredients and eco-friendly practices.

  • Inclusivity: Vegan-friendly spots like Lexi’s cater to mixed groups, making dining accessible for everyone.

  • Community Vibes: Cozy settings and passionate owners create welcoming atmospheres, perfect for solo or group dining.

Key Features to Look for in a Vegan Restaurant

When choosing a vegan restaurant, consider these factors to ensure a great experience:

  • Menu Variety: Look for diverse options, from comfort food to gourmet dishes, to suit different cravings.

  • Ingredient Quality: Restaurants using fresh, organic, or locally sourced produce, like Leafy Greens, ensure better taste and ethics.

  • Dietary Accommodations: Clear labels for gluten-free, sugar-free, or banting-friendly options, as seen at The Fussy Vegan, are a plus.

  • Ambiance: A welcoming vibe, whether rustic (Beetfresh) or trendy (Kaylee’s), enhances the dining experience.

  • Reviews: Check Tripadvisor, HappyCow, or Google for recent feedback on service, cleanliness, and food quality.

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Best Suburbs for Vegan Dining in Johannesburg

Johannesburg’s vegan restaurants thrive in vibrant suburbs, each with unique offerings:

  • Sandton: Home to upscale spots like The Vegan Chef and Lexi’s, ideal for trendy, business-friendly dining.

  • Greenside: A hub for casual vegan eateries like The Fussy Vegan and Greenside Café, known for laid-back vibes.

  • Melville: Beetfresh and other cozy cafes offer a bohemian feel, perfect for relaxed meals.

  • Bedfordview: Kaylee’s Eatery shines here, blending accessibility with a family-friendly atmosphere.

  • Muldersdrift: Leafy Greens provides a serene, farm-based escape for nature lovers.

Tips for Booking and Dining at Vegan Restaurants

Maximize your vegan dining experience with these tips:

  • Reserve Ahead: Popular spots like Kaylee’s and The Vegan Chef fill up fast, especially on weekends. Book via their websites or call.

  • Check Hours: Some restaurants, like Leafy Greens, close early on Sundays, so verify operating times.

  • Ask About Specials: Many offer daily specials or seasonal dishes, like Annapurni’s South Indian bakes.

  • Confirm Vegan Status: For vegan-friendly spots like Lexi’s, double-check that dishes are fully plant-based.

  • Explore Reviews: Platforms like HappyCow and Tripadvisor provide insights into menu highlights and service quality.

How to Enjoy a Safe and Memorable Vegan Dining Experience

Safety and comfort are key in Johannesburg’s dining scene. Here’s how to ensure a great visit:

  • Choose Reputable Spots: Opt for well-reviewed restaurants in secure areas like Sandton or Bedfordview.

  • Verify Ingredients: If you have allergies, confirm with staff about ingredients, especially at vegan-friendly (not fully vegan) restaurants.

  • Use Safe Transport: Uber or Gautrain are reliable for traveling to and from restaurants, especially in urban areas.

  • Stay Updated: Follow restaurants on social media for menu updates or special events, like vegan festivals.

  • Tip Generously: Great service, common at places like Kaylee’s, deserves appreciation in Johannesburg’s hospitality culture.

Conclusion

Johannesburg’s vegan restaurant scene in 2025 is a testament to the city’s culinary diversity and commitment to sustainability. From the junk food delights of Lekker Vegan to the farm-fresh elegance of Leafy Greens, these top 10 restaurants offer something for every plant-based diner. Located in vibrant suburbs like Sandton, Greenside, and Melville, they combine fresh ingredients, ethical practices, and welcoming vibes. By booking early, checking reviews, and prioritizing safety, you can enjoy unforgettable vegan meals in the City of Gold. For the latest updates and new openings, follow local food blogs and platforms like HappyCow or Tripadvisor. Dive into Johannesburg’s vegan scene and savor the flavors of compassionate dining.