The African Voyager

Johannesburg, South Africa

Slice of heaven: Johannesburg’s 5 best pizza joints

Southern Africa • Eat & drink • Slice of heaven: Johannesburg’s 5 best pizza joints

The best pizza joints in Johannesburg

Johannesburg has no shortage of pizza places, but finding the truly great ones can be a mission. We’re diving into the city’s must-visit pizza joints, where local ingredients meet time-tested methods. We’ve hand-selected the pizza spots that offer it all – from rustic, wood-fired classics to gourmet creations with unique South African flavours. If you’re a die-hard Margherita fan or adventurous and looking for something new – here’s where to dig into Joburg’s top pizzas.

Café 28

Café 28 is a relaxed neighbourhood pizzeria that everyone needs to experience at least once. It’s unpretentious and welcoming, serving up stone-baked pizzas with crisp yet chewy crusts and toppings that feel carefully chosen rather than just tossed on. Café 28’s menu has plenty of options for classic and creative toppings, so you can stick with a Margherita or try something unique like their spicy salami with honey drizzle. We love the outdoor seating, where the atmosphere is lively – our favourite spot on a sunny afternoon!

Café 28
54 Wierda Rd
Wierda Valley
Sandton
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Café 28

Saint Restaurant

Saint Restaurant takes pizza to another level with its luxe atmosphere and gourmet twist on Italian classics. Located in the trendy district of Sandton, Saint Restaurant combines upscale dining with the comfort of a classic pizzeria. Their wood-fired pizzas are crafted with imported Italian ingredients, here you can expect delicious truffle oil-infused toppings and house-made mozzarella. Saint Restaurant’s sophisticated interior, designed by award-winning architects, complements the elevated menu, creating a dining experience that’s upscale but still warm. While Saint might be on the pricier side, their expertly prepared pizzas and stunning setting make it worth the splurge if you’re in the mood for a more upscale pizza night.

Saint Restaurant
Corner Rivonia & Maude St
Sandton
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Saint Restaurant

Settebello

Settebello is Joburg’s slice of Italy. This family-owned restaurant prides itself on authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas with a soft, airy crust and charred edges, made in their wood-fired oven that’s imported from Naples. Settebello’s Margherita and Diavola are crowd favourites, made with Italian tomato sauce, fior di latte mozzarella and premium imported ingredients. They stick to Neapolitan standards, so expect simple, flavorful pizzas without excessive toppings. The warm, rustic interior and friendly staff make it feel like a local Italian eatery and their pizza-making process – fermenting the dough for 24 hours – sets Settebello apart for those seeking an authentic Italian pizza experience in Joburg.

Settebello
7 Marais Rd
Bedfordview
Germiston
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of SetteBello

Smack Pizza Co.

With multiple locations across Johannesburg, Smack Pizza Co. makes it easy to find a slice of their New York-inspired pizza no matter where you are in the city. Each location keeps the same lively, urban energy, so you can count on a consistent atmosphere at any of their colourful and quirky locations. Known for their crispy, thin-crust pizzas, this spot stands out with its menu that includes everything from classic pepperoni to unconventional but delicious creations like boerewors and chakalaka pizza. Smack Pizza Co. also has a great selection for plant-based eaters, featuring vegan pizzas that don’t skimp on taste.

Smack Pizza Co.
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Smack Pizza Co.

Reflection Pizza Bar

Reflection Pizza Bar focuses on creative combinations and a farm-to-table ethos, using fresh, local ingredients. The dough here is fermented for 48 hours, creating a light, chewy crust that’s easy to enjoy. This is the place to go if you’re tired of the same old toppings! Their inventive menu includes toppings like smoked salmon, avocado and truffle aioli for those looking for something different, alongside the beloved classics. We love the open kitchen setup that lets you watch the action – watching them stretch that dough and arrange each pizza is half the fun.