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Gigi Restaurant: Johannesburg’s Refined Gem of Global Inspiration and Local Heart

Published

3 months ago

June 18, 2025

Chiraag

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Where contemporary South African cuisine meets international flair, and every detail feels deeply personal.

Nestled in the heart of Johannesburg’s Waterfall City precinct, Gigi Restaurant is quietly making waves – not through loud PR campaigns or influencer theatrics, but with soulful hospitality, striking design, and food that tells a local story with global finesse.

Whether you’re enjoying a power breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or cocktails at golden hour, Gigi offers Johannesburg something it always needs more of: sophistication without ego.

Also read: Paradiso Johannesburg: Where Dinner Becomes a Theatrical Experience

At the Helm: Pari Xenophontos and Chef Moses Moloi

The soul of Gigi lies in its people. Co-founder Pari Xenophontos, with her Cypriot heritage and extensive hospitality experience, brings a warmth that’s felt the moment you walk in. Her ethos? True hospitality doesn’t need to be loud – it simply needs to be genuine.

In the kitchen, Chef Moses Moloi guides Gigi’s menu with a vision of thoughtful, contemporary South African cuisine infused with global techniques. Rather than relying on clichés, Chef Moloi’s approach is elegant, grounded, and seasonal – allowing ingredients and textures to take centre stage.

Menus are thoughtfully curated, not cluttered – each plate telling a story without shouting.

Design That Travels, But Feels Like Home

Step inside Gigi, and you’ll immediately sense the hand of award-winning designer Giorgio Tatsakis of Atelier Giorgio. Drawing on his experiences in London and Paris, Tatsakis blends European elegance with African touches.

You’ll find handmade Moroccan travertine tiles, French-imported upholstery, and curated details that never feel overdone. It’s global in influence yet deeply rooted in place – offering the kind of understated luxury Joburg locals instantly appreciate.

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Image 1: Facebook/Gigi Restaurant

A Menu That Respects the Brief

Gigi’s food and drink offerings are modern, elevated, and proudly South African – without ever being overcomplicated.

Breakfast options range from the signature Gigi Breakfast with bacon, sausage, eggs, and toast to shakshuka with harissa, chickpeas, and boerewors. For something lighter, try the corn potato rösti with salmon or the citrusy oat bowl topped with seasonal fruit and toasted coconut.

Lunch and dinner menus offer wholesome bowls, grilled cuts, and comfort-forward mains like lamb shank, beef fillet with truffle mushroom purée, and standout salmon with sorghum-quinoa risotto and coconut grapefruit sauce. Vegetarians are well catered for, with dishes such as butternut gnocchi and coal-grilled aubergine prepared with equal care.

On the cocktail front, Gigi impresses with inventive house creations. Highlights include the Spicy Mango Sunset with Don Julio Blanco and jalapeño syrup, the indulgent Mocha Martini, and the Rose Tea Tonic infused with chamomile. There’s also a vibrant mocktail selection, featuring fresh-pressed blends like Golden Glow and Green Revive.

Wine lovers will appreciate a thoughtfully curated list celebrating South African vineyards, featuring boutique estates and heritage labels alike – from Boschendal and Meerlust to Hamilton Russell and Ghost Corner. Whether you prefer a classic Chardonnay or a bold Stellenbosch red, the focus remains proudly local.

No Gimmicks – Just Great Taste

Gigi isn’t chasing trends or Instagram fame. It’s the kind of place that values return visits over hype – a rare gem in a city often focused on the next big thing.

What keeps regulars coming back is the consistency, craft, and care behind every detail. And in true Joburg style, Gigi welcomes celebrations, business meetings, romantic dinners, or simply a solo lunch with a view.

Whether for a special occasion or a casual meal, discover why Gigi Restaurant Johannesburg is a refined gem worth experiencing.