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Walnut Grove Sandton: Iconic Rainbow Cake & Dining Under Crystals

Published

2 months ago

July 1, 2025

Chiraag

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If you’re in Sandton City Mall and spot a glowing tree made of crystals, follow the sparkle; it’ll lead you to Walnut Grove.

This boutique family-owned restaurant isn’t just famous for its towering chandelier or Instagrammable Rainbow Cake. It’s a legacy brand, having served Joburg diners for nearly 50 years [since 1975], and in 2025, it’s still leading the charge with its luxe-yet-welcoming vibe.

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

A chandelier that steals the show

The iconic centrepiece (a giant walnut tree dripping in over 10,000 reclaimed crystals) sets the tone for everything Walnut Grove is about: a mix of elegance, creativity, and warmth. The space is divided into zones that cater to every kind of diner. A pantry corner for casual cappuccinos. A library-style nook for quiet brunches. And a bar that brings in cocktail lovers every Friday for half-price deals.

The Rainbow Cake you’ve seen everywhere

Let’s not kid ourselves, many of us first discovered Walnut Grove through social media. Their Rainbow Cake is a Joburg icon. Priced at R87 a slice or R1,051 for a full cake, it’s layered in bright colours, topped with creamy icing, and usually followed by gasps from nearby tables.

But the sweet side doesn’t stop there. Their patisserie selection includes cupcakes, Nutella croissants, traditional cannoli, and gelato-based milkshakes (try the Chocoholic, a Ferrero meets Nutella dream). And yes, you can still order it all online for collection or delivery.

Menu standouts: Big flavours and comfort favourites

Some featured highlights from the official 2025 offerings:

Green Thai Curry [R183+]: Made with coconut milk, snow peas, baby marrow, and jasmine rice. Available in prawn, chicken, or combo versions.
La Salsa Pasta: While the menu doesn’t list it by this exact name, their Creamy Basil Pesto Pasta and Carbonara Walnut Truffle offer the flavour profiles expected of a “La Salsa”-style dish.
Signature BBQ Burger [R169]: A classic with a smokey glaze and homemade beef patty.
Parmesan Almond Chicken Strips [R118]: Crumbed and served with a three-cheese fondue.
Pasta Scampi [R200]: Queen prawns in napolitana and citrus cream sauce.
Cherry Blossom G&T [R117]: Yes, it’s real, and yes, it’s still the Friday crowd-pleaser.
Craft cocktails include local-inspired mixes like Naughty Naartjie and Midnight Luster that have Joburg flair written all over them.

And for little ones? There’s an entire Kids Menu, featuring Jenga French toast, mini rib baskets, fish fingers, and Retro Milkshakes in flavours like bubblegum and lime.

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Image 1: Facebook/Walnut Grove Sandton City

Legacy meets lifestyle

While Walnut Grove has all the bells and whistles of a modern boutique restaurant, it’s still rooted in tradition. It has hosted brand events for Samsung, IBM, Elle Décor, and more, and its catering team services nearby Mandela Square too.

It’s also refreshingly community-driven. From Youth Day tributes to Father’s Day to cupcake colouring contests for kids, they maintain a local, heartfelt presence, both online and in-store.

The verdict? Still one of Sandton’s best

In a city constantly chasing the next new thing, Walnut Grove keeps proving that longevity isn’t about staying the same; it’s about staying meaningful.

Come for the cake. Stay for the cocktails. Return for the warmth.