Flavour Faves

Smoky Sushi and Sandton Cool: Why The Big Mouth Still Has Johannesburg Talking

Published

3 months ago

June 12, 2025

Chiraag

Sushi platter with salmon and tuna, gourmet burgers in Sandton, Josper-grilled seafood dishes, chic restaurant interior at Nelson Mandela Square, bold blue seating, marble sushi bar, Johannesburg fine dining, global-inspired food in Joburg, Sandton restaurant lifestyle, signature dishes at The Big Mouth, South African braai flavour, sushi bar Johannesburg, Josper grill cooking, contemporary restaurant design, food photography in Sandton, Joburg ETC

In a city where new restaurants pop up faster than afternoon thunderstorms, it’s rare for a spot to stay relevant, let alone iconic. But The Big Mouth in Sandton? It’s been turning heads and filling tables since 2015 – and in 2025, it’s still the place to be if you’re craving world-class sushi, flame-kissed seafood, or just that unmistakable Joburg energy with a global twist.

Also read: Why Moo Moo Pineslopes Is Joburg’s Most Fun Steakhouse

A Taste of Tokyo, a Hit of LA, and The Soul of Joburg

Tucked into the heart of Nelson Mandela Square, The Big Mouth brings international polish to Johannesburg’s dining scene without losing that unmistakable local flavour. One look at the space – sleek black steel, bold blue velvet, white marble, and brass finishes – and it’s clear this isn’t your average mall-side eatery. It’s got the effortless style of a downtown Manhattan brasserie, but the heart of it? 100% South African.

And while tourists love its prime location, it’s the locals who’ve made it part of their lifestyle – from business lunches and birthday sushi spreads to vibey Friday night date nights.

Sushi, Seafood, and That Famous Smoky Grill

Let’s talk about the food – because that’s what keeps people coming back. The menu doesn’t just dabble in trends; it owns them. Think sashimi platters that are almost too pretty to eat, crispy tempura that never feels heavy, and sushi rolls that land somewhere between traditional Tokyo craft and bold California attitude.

But the real game-changer? The Josper Grill. Imported from Spain and loved by chefs around the world, this charcoal oven gives the seafood, steaks, and gourmet burgers that deep, smoky, almost “braai’d” flavour Joburgers know and love. It’s where fire meets finesse – and it’s one of the reasons even non-sushi lovers swear by this place.

Seafood restaurant Sandton, stylish dining in Johannesburg, charcoal-grilled prawns, sushi and sashimi board, modern South African cuisine, Josper oven flavour, urban eatery Nelson Mandela Square, trendy Johannesburg restaurant, elegant food presentation, sushi in the city, popular Sandton food spot, international fusion menu, contemporary Joburg dining, destination restaurant Johannesburg, culinary hotspot Sandton, Joburg ETC

Image 1: Facebook/The Big Mouth

10 Years Later, Still Leading the Pack

Nearly a decade in, The Big Mouth has managed to avoid the fate of many trendy restaurants that fizzle out after the hype fades. It’s kept its cool without chasing gimmicks. The menu evolves but stays true to its core. The service remains sharp. And the vibe? Still magnetic.

Scroll through social media and you’ll spot it: stylish groups clinking cocktails by the sushi bar, mid-week lunchers capturing plates before tucking in, and golden-hour snaps with the Madiba statue in the background. It’s the kind of restaurant that doesn’t need to shout to stand out – it just delivers.

More Than Just a Meal

At its core, The Big Mouth is about experience. It’s where flavour, design, and energy come together in a way that feels effortless. It’s not trying to be New York, LA, or Tokyo – it’s Joburg, but with a passport. Confident. Cosmopolitan. Charcoal-grilled and served with style.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a long-time regular, one thing’s for sure: The Big Mouth hasn’t lost its bite.