Embarc

Embarc stands on the corner of 13th Street and 4th Avenue in Parkhurst, the leafy suburb whose main street is lined with restaurants, cafés and small shops. It opened as a concept by chef Darren O'Donovan and quickly made its name, winning New Restaurant of the Year at the Luxe Restaurant Awards in 2021. At the 2026 awards it was named Contemporary Restaurant of the Year, which shows how well it has held its place on a crowded street.

The restaurant describes its cooking as international standard with contemporary European flair. Head chef Aren Pollack joined in 2025, and his cooking focuses on bold, clean flavours, sustainability and seasonal ingredients, so the menu changes through the year. Past favourites have included kataifi-wrapped prawns with tom yum and coconut, slow-cooked pork belly, dukkah-spiced ostrich and a playful take on the classic South African malva pudding, which gives an idea of the style: polished cooking with local references and a sense of fun. Check the current menu on the website before you go.

Embarc suits couples, friends celebrating and food lovers who want fine dining quality without formality. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, and it is a good place for a long weekend lunch. Prices are at the upper end of mid-range for the city.

The restaurant is closed on Mondays. It opens for dinner only on Tuesdays, from 17:00 to 22:00; for lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Saturday, from 12:00 to 22:00; and for Sunday lunch from 12:00 to 15:00. Walk-ins are welcome, but booking through the online reservation link is recommended to avoid waiting, especially at weekends. Embarc can also host events and private functions for up to 40 guests.

Parkhurst is a few minutes by car from Rosebank and Melrose, and 4th Avenue is pleasant for a stroll before or after your meal, with plenty of bars and cafés for a drink. Parking on the street can be tight at peak times, so allow extra time or use a ride-hailing app. Combining lunch at Embarc with a morning walk in the Johannesburg Botanical Garden at Emmarentia, a short drive west, makes a relaxed day.