Signature Restaurant Review: A Culinary Experience You Can’t Miss

Elevating fine dining in Sandton – Signature Restaurant’s menu, atmosphere, and wine pairings under the spotlight.

Since its establishment in the early 2000s, Signature Restaurant by Desmond Mabuza has grown into one of Johannesburg’s top fine dining destinations, where bold flavours meet elegant design in perfect harmony.

Menu Highlights

With a well-rounded mix of classic and contemporary dishes, Signature delivers something for everyone:

• Starters:
  Wild mushroom risotto (a creamy, truffle-laced treat) and the show-stopping Duck Trio featuring marinated breast, homemade sausage, and mousse.
• Mains:
  Beef Tornado (charred fillet with pomme dauphine and béarnaise), 21-day wet-aged Fillet, Curry Lamb Shank, Oxtail, and seafood dishes ranging from Kingklip fillet to Salmon Maki sushi platters.
• Shellfish & Sushi:
  Exceptional Lobster Thermidor and intricate sushi assortments—Signature, Royal, and Salmon Platters—ideal for sharing and indulgence.
• Desserts:
  Classics like luscious chocolate cake with pistachio ice cream round out the meal beautifully.

Paired with an expansive wine list featuring local and international labels—and complemented by regular rare wine pairing events—this is a drink-lover’s haven.

Setting & Aesthetics

The interior is crisp and contemporary: floor-to-ceiling windows provide jaw-dropping sunset views. A grand piano sets the tone for nightly live blues/jazz. Tables are thoughtfully spaced for intimacy, with chic décor that balances exclusivity and warmth.

Service & Atmosphere

Service here consistently earns top marks. From the hostess greeting to sommeliers sharing wine stories, the team excels at attentive yet unobtrusive hospitality. Regulars reportedly have personalised cutlery—engraved with their names.

Ambience is just as impressive. It’s vibrant on weekends, yet comfortably polished for mid-week meals. It caters well for celebrations, business dinners, romantic evenings, or simply the urge to treat yourself.

Budget Expectations

Expect premium fine-dining pricing. Starters fall between R275–R375; mains range R395–R535; shellfish pounds even higher. A complete three-course dinner plus a bottle for two could land between R1,600–R2,500.

• For 2: R1,200–R1,800
• For 4: R2,400–R3,600
• For 6: R3,600–R5,400

Fine wine pairings and shellfish options can increase the spend.

Attire Recommendations

Dress smart casual: men in collared shirts and smart trousers, ladies in dresses or polished separates. Leave your sneakers or beachwear at home—this is a space built for elegance.

Location & Operating Hours

• Address: Shop U13, Morningside Shopping Centre, Cnr Rivonia & Outspan Roads, Sandton, Johannesburg
• Hours:
  • Mon–Sat: 12:00–24:00
  • Sun: 12:00–22:00
• Contact: +27 11 884 8888 | [email protected]
• Website / Reservations: available via Signature’s official site

Verdict

Signature Restaurant delivers a polished, multi‑sensory fine dining experience—expertly marrying rich, shareable flavours, exquisite wine pairings, attentive service, and elegant surroundings. It’s a memorable venue for celebrations, date nights, business gatherings, or any time you want to feel treated. Sure, it’s a splurge—but one that makes every rand count.

Read: Houghton Hotel Review: Luxury and Comfort in Johannesburg’s Prestigious Area