Traveling to South Africa as an Indian brings with it a sense of adventure, culture, and curiosity especially when it comes to food. While South Africa boasts a vibrant culinary scene rooted in African, Dutch, British, and Malaysian influences, it’s also home to a significant Indian community, particularly in cities like Durban and Johannesburg. This makes it one of the few African countries where Indian cuisine not only thrives but has uniquely evolved into local favorites such as bunny chow and Durban curry. However, for many Indians especially those who follow vegetarian, Jain, or Halal dietary preferences navigating the local food scene can require a little planning and awareness.
Food Dos
South Africa offers many opportunities for Indians to enjoy familiar and new flavors if you know where and how to look.
1. Explore South Africa’s Unique Indian Cuisine
Durban has a proud legacy of Indian cuisine, thanks to the early Indian diaspora that arrived over a century ago. Must-try local Indian-inspired dishes include:
Bunny Chow – curry served in hollowed-out bread
Durban Curry – fiery, rich, and flavorful
These dishes are widely available in Indian neighborhoods and offer a spicy reminder of home.
2. Try Local Dishes — But Ask First
South African traditional dishes like pap, chakalaka, and samp and beans are often vegetarian and can be great cultural experiences. Just remember to ask about ingredients, as some may include meat-based sauces or stocks.
3. Shop Smart at Indian & Local Grocery Stores
You’ll find many Indian and Asian stores in big cities that sell masalas, dals, ready meals, and more. Chains like:
Spice Emporium (Durban)
Patel’s Cash & Carry
Local supermarkets like Pick n Pay, Checkers, and Woolworths
also stock Indian pantry staples and fresh vegetables.
4. Cook Your Own Food (Longer Stays)
If you’re visiting for several weeks or staying for work/study, opt for a self-catering apartment or Airbnb. You’ll find all the groceries you need to whip up Indian meals and control dietary restrictions with ease.
5. Read Labels Carefully
Food packaging in South Africa is generally reliable. Look for:
“Suitable for Vegetarians/Vegans”
“Halaal Certified”
Allergen and ingredient information. This helps avoid accidental consumption of animal-based ingredients.
Food Don’ts
Being cautious can help you avoid unpleasant surprises, especially when trying unfamiliar foods or eating out.
1. Don’t Assume “Vegetarian” Means Indian Vegetarian
Locally, “vegetarian” may include egg or even fish. To be safe, say:
“I am a strict vegetarian – no meat, no chicken, no fish, and no egg.”
2. Avoid Unfamiliar Street Food Without Checking
While South Africa has a tasty street food culture, not all vendors maintain the best hygiene. Stick to well-known or busy stalls and avoid raw or uncooked dishes.
3. Don’t Rely on Tap Water in Remote Areas
While city tap water is usually clean and safe, it’s better to use bottled or filtered water in rural or remote regions.
4. Jain/Vegan Food May Be Hard to Find
Jain options are almost non-existent in restaurants, and even vegan options require ingredient checks (e.g., sauces, cheese, stocks). In such cases, self-cooking or temple kitchens may be the best choice.
5. Don’t Carry Prohibited Food from India
South African customs prohibit the import of fresh produce, dairy, or meat products. However, you can safely carry:
Ready-to-eat meals (MTR, Gits)
Packaged snacks (khakhra, namkeen, thepla)
Masalas & dry spices
Avoid open packets, milk, ghee, or perishables
Indian Food Hubs in Major Cities
Durban
Home to the largest Indian population in South Africa. You’ll find:
Restaurants: Capsicum, Gounden’s, Little India
Markets: Victoria Street Market, Spice Emporium
Johannesburg
Indian communities thrive in Fordsburg and Lenasia:
Must-visit restaurants: Thava, Delhi Palace, The Raj
Great options for vegetarians and Halal eaters
Cape Town
Smaller Indian community, but growing variety of options:
Top restaurants: Bukhara, Vintage India, Maharajah
Bonus: Cape Town has many fusion cafes and vegan spots
Indian Grocery Stores to Bookmark
Useful Local Phrases to Remember
“Is this vegetarian?”
“Does it contain egg, meat, or fish?”
“I follow a special diet — could you help me choose something suitable?”
“Is this certified Halaal?”
South Africa is an exciting, culturally rich destination that welcomes diversity.including when it comes to food. While navigating a new country’s cuisine can feel intimidating, being prepared goes a long way. With Indian food widely available in cities and the comfort of familiar ingredients in local grocery stores, you won’t have to give up your taste of home.
