Joop's Place

Joop's Place is an iconic steakhouse and cozy bistro located in the city of Durban. This spot enjoys immense popularity among both locals and tourists seeking an authentic gastronomic experience in South Africa. The establishment is famous for its relaxed, homey atmosphere and consistently high-quality meat dishes.

Unlike fashionable fine-dining restaurants, an old-school spirit reigns here: the simplicity of the interior is compensated by the warmth of the staff and the skill of the chefs. It is a classic example of a "meat place" where food is the main hero, not the decor. Joop's Place is perfect for those who want a hearty dinner in a friendly setting.

The significance of this place for the city lies in its stability and reputation. Many believe that this is where some of the best steaks and ribs in Durban are served. A visit to this restaurant allows you to touch upon local food culture and understand why South Africans are so proud of their meat preparation traditions.

If you want to book a table in advance or clarify menu details, it is recommended to use the establishment's official contacts. Joop's Place is located in the Avonmore Centre shopping mall in the Essenwood area.

The main reason people come to Joop's Place is, undoubtedly, gastronomic delight. Visitors should focus on tasting the meat dishes the establishment is famous for. Be sure to try the signature steaks prepared according to a special recipe, or the tender ribs. You can observe the lively atmosphere of the hall, where large groups and families often gather, creating a noisy and joyful background for the meal.

Interaction with the staff is also part of the experience here. Waiters can often recommend the perfect degree of doneness or select a sauce that will best highlight the taste of your chosen dish. It is a great place to relax after a busy day, discuss trip impressions over a glass of South African wine, and feel not just like a tourist, but a welcome guest in the home of old friends.

Furthermore, the location itself in the Essenwood district allows you to combine dinner with a short evening walk around the neighborhood. Although there are no museums or interactive zones inside the restaurant, the atmosphere of "honest food" and watching the kitchen work (in some areas) leaves vivid impressions on all lovers of meat cuisine.

The establishment is located in the Essenwood area at 14, Avonmore Centre, NINTH Avenue. The most convenient and safe way for a tourist to get here is to use official taxi services or popular ride-hailing apps like Uber. A trip from the city center or the waterfront will typically take 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic.

If you are traveling by rental car, look for the Avonmore Centre shopping complex. You can usually find parking spaces in this area, however, in the evening, especially on weekends, it is worth arriving a little early. Using public transport (minibus taxis) can be difficult and less comfortable for tourists, so a private transfer remains the preferred option.

Joop's Place is an establishment with a rich history and soul, which has been an integral part of the city's gastronomic map for many years. The restaurant's founder, Joop Mol, put his passion for quality meat and hospitality into this place. For decades, the restaurant has maintained a reputation as a place serving some of the best steaks in the region, remaining true to its traditions even in the changing world of culinary fashion.

It is interesting that the establishment started as a small meat bistro, where the emphasis was always on product quality rather than pretentious interiors. Over time, Joop's Place has gained regular customers, many of whom have been coming here with their families for the second or third generation. This continuity creates a special, almost homey atmosphere that is hard to find in chain restaurants.

The walls of the establishment could tell many stories about meetings between locals and travelers from all over the world. Despite its popularity, the restaurant has preserved its authenticity and "old school" service, where the owner or head chef often comes out into the dining hall to personally greet guests and ensure the steak is cooked exactly as ordered.

It is recommended to allocate from 1.5 to 2 hours for a visit to Joop's Place. This time will allow you to leisurely study the menu, enjoy drinks, and, most importantly, appreciate the taste of the signature dishes prepared here with special attention without any rush.

Since this is a popular spot for dinners and family gatherings, service can be paced, which encourages long conversations. If you plan to visit with a large group on a Friday or Saturday evening, it might be worth allowing a little more time to fully immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the establishment.

When planning your visit, be sure to consider the establishment's schedule, as it is not open every day. The restaurant is closed on Mondays. From Tuesday to Saturday, Joop's Place welcomes guests from 12:00 to 22:00, making it an excellent choice for both lunch and a late dinner.

On Sundays, operating hours are reduced: the establishment is open only during the day from 12:00 to 15:00. This is the ideal time for a traditional Sunday family lunch, but for an evening visit, you will have to choose another day of the week.

A visit to the restaurant can be perfectly combined with exploring other interesting places in the city. The area is conveniently located enough to go for a walk to nearby attractions after a delicious lunch or before dinner, many of which are just a few kilometers away.

Particular attention should be paid to the coastal zone and museums, which allow you to dive deeper into the culture and nature of the region. Below is a list of nearby objects that might interest you: