Chaf Pozi

Chaf Pozi is a shisa nyama, the township tradition of buying meat and having it grilled on the spot, set at the base of the painted Orlando cooling towers in Soweto. The owners say they created it as an open shisa nyama where people can eat local food, drink cold beer and listen to township music. It has become one of the best-known places in Soweto to experience this side of Johannesburg's social life.

The process is simple. You choose your own meat, and the braai masters cook it over the coals for you. Expect beef, boerewors sausage, chicken and lamb, typically served with traditional sides such as pap, chakalaka and salads. Portions are generous and best shared, so it is a good idea to come with a group and order a mix. The well-stocked bar ranges from local beers in quart bottles to premium whisky.

This is a sociable, casual place rather than a quiet dinner spot. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays it fills with locals and visitors, often with music playing, and the atmosphere builds through the afternoon and evening. It suits groups of friends, people on a Soweto tour and anyone wanting a relaxed afternoon of food and drink.

Chaf Pozi is open from Wednesday to Thursday from 11:00 to 18:00, on Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00 until 02:00, and on Sundays from 11:00 to 22:00. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. For groups and events, contact the owner by phone or email the bookings address. Prices are modest, which makes it one of the better-value meals in the city.

Weekend afternoons have the most atmosphere, so plan to arrive in the early afternoon if you want to see it at its liveliest, or come on a Wednesday or Thursday for a calmer lunch.

The restaurant is on the corner of Chris Hani Road and Nicholas Street in Orlando East, right next to Soweto Towers, where you can bungee jump, zipline or simply look up at the murals before or after eating. It is about 20 minutes by car from the city centre. Use a ride-hailing app or a Soweto tour rather than driving yourself if you plan to drink, and arrange your ride home in advance late at night.