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Cilantros Johannesburg: A Luxe Feast for the Senses in Nelson Mandela Square

Published

2 months ago

July 21, 2025

Chiraag

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A Culinary Hideaway with Mediterranean Soul

If you know, you know. Cilantros is not one of those places that scream for attention. It whispers luxury from the corner of Nelson Mandela Square, drawing in the city’s most seasoned food lovers with the promise of grilled perfection, seafood mastery, and plates that feel both modern and nostalgic.

Part of the DASY Group and the proud younger sibling of the legendary Vilamoura restaurant, Cilantros offers an upscale, soulful take on Mediterranean-inspired dining that celebrates both comfort and flair.

Also read: Ribs & Burgers The Marc: Sandton’s Juiciest Fast Casual Revelation

From Tapas to Tomahawk

The menu is generous without being overwhelming. Think chargrilled steaks with signature rubs, fresh seafood kissed by lemon butter, creamy pasta that plays with both land and sea, as well as tapas made for lingering.

Standouts include the seafood paella made with prawns, calamari, chorizo, and mussels; the prawn curry served with sambals and poppadoms; and the showstopper shellfish platter, which could easily feed a table of two or one unapologetically hungry seafood enthusiast.

Meat lovers are just as spoiled. The tomahawk, T-bone, and lamb chops arrive flame-grilled and custom-basted, with sides like creamed spinach, sweet potato, or roasted butternut. Vegetarians and plant-based diners are not forgotten either, with flatbreads such as the Clean Green and pasta dishes including the Spinach and Ricotta Nests.

The Vilamoura Legacy Lives On

There’s something special about Cilantros’ culinary DNA. Many of the chefs and staff bring with them time-honoured techniques and recipes from Vilamoura, one of South Africa’s most respected seafood institutions. That legacy shows up in the precision of the grilled prawns, the balance of sauces, and the quiet confidence that comes from decades of doing it right.

This is a place that knows what it’s doing and does not need gimmicks to prove it.

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Image 1: Facebook/Cilantros

Wine, Vibe, and That Sandton Energy

The wine list is curated for pairing, spanning robust reds to crisp whites that match the spice and citrus of the food. A dedicated bar serves up classic and signature cocktails, perfect for those late Sandton lunches that turn into long dinners.

While the square outside buzzes with city energy, Cilantros has mastered the art of feeling tucked away. The interiors are plush but relaxed, polished but not pretentious. You’re just as likely to see business meetings over fillet carpaccio as you are a family birthday with baklava and espresso martinis.

Locals Say: Worth Every Bite

Scroll through social posts, and the reviews follow a theme: “Elegant but welcoming,” “The best prawns I’ve had in Joburg,” and “Felt like we were in Europe for a moment.” Diners are drawn to the consistency and comfort that Cilantros delivers, whether for a quick lunch or an all-out celebration.

A Sandton Gem You’ll Keep Coming Back To

Cilantros is not trendy. It is timeless. It does not chase food fads or flash for social media. Instead, it focuses on the simple things: quality ingredients, heartfelt preparation, and a warm space to eat, drink, and be human.

If you’ve been looking for a new regular spot in Sandton, one where the food speaks louder than the Instagram filter, this might just be it.