Flavour Faves

Flavour, Fire, and Family Feasts at Ghazal: Joburg’s Iconic Indian Eatery

Published

2 months ago

June 30, 2025

Chiraag

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Some restaurants feel like they’ve been part of the city forever, not because they’re flashy or hyped on TikTok, but because they’ve quietly built a legacy of great food and warm memories. That’s Ghazal for you. A trusted name in North Indian cuisine, this Joburg favourite has been firing up its tandoors since 2002, feeding generations of loyal diners from its cosy homes in Bryanston and Melrose Arch.

In 2025, Ghazal remains every bit as relevant, celebrated, and delicious as ever.

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Still Spicing It Right: A Legacy of North Indian Excellence

From the moment you walk into Ghazal, you know you’re not just here for a quick bite. The atmosphere is elegant but comfortable, perfect for a romantic night out, a family gathering, or even a boardroom lunch with a twist. Their signature? North Indian classics done right, with rich, layered gravies, open-flame tandoori meats, and fresh naan breads so soft they practically beg for a dip in butter chicken sauce.

It’s not just curry. It’s craft.

What to Order? Let the Spice Guide You

If you’re new, start with the starters. The Lamb Shish Kebab is juicy and flame-kissed, while the Paneer Tikka is a vegetarian revelation. The Mixed Platter (which comes with samoosas, chicken tikka, kebabs, and more) is ideal for indecisive appetites.

On the mains side, favourites like the Lamb Rogan Josh, Chicken Korma, and Prawn Vindaloo deliver deep, satisfying flavours without overwhelming heat. Each dish has been carefully balanced, a nod to the chefs’ understanding of true North Indian technique.

Vegetarian diners get more than just a side salad. With dishes like Paneer Makhnie, Dal Makhnie, Aloo Gobi Matar, and Vegetable Jal Frezi, Ghazal offers a full-flavoured meat-free experience that doesn’t feel like an afterthought.

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Image 1: Facebook/Ghazal Restaurant

Tandoori Meets Terroir: A Wine List Worth Exploring

One of Ghazal’s most underrated features? Its impressive wine selection. Sourced from both local estates and international cellars, the wine list is carefully curated to complement spicy, aromatic Indian cuisine. Whether you’re pairing a lamb dish with a robust Pinotage or cooling down a fiery Vindaloo with a crisp Chenin Blanc, there’s something to suit every palate.

It’s the kind of detail that elevates a good restaurant into a great one.

Why Ghazal Still Matters in 2025

In a city constantly chasing the next new thing, Ghazal’s staying power says a lot. It’s not just a restaurant. It’s a culinary mainstay where tradition, hospitality and flavour meet. And after two decades of excellence, it’s still a place where Joburgers gather to mark moments, from anniversaries to last-minute lunch plans.

If you haven’t been lately, now’s a good time to return. And if you’ve never been, consider this your sign.