The Scullery Maiden will show you that you don't have to break the bank when breaking bread.
Joburgers - ever find that you're running out of money before the end of the month? Whether it's bad budgeting or unexpected expenses, financial woes shouldn't mean that you have to eat noodles and fish fingers until pay day.
Here is a breakdown of pocket-friendly restaurants that will feed you breakfast, or lunch, or dinner, for R100 or under.
Breakfast
JB's Corner - Melrose Arch
This trendy eatery is a popular post-work watering hole - so keep that in mind - but it's expansive breakfast menu will treat you to a tasty fry-up first thing in the morning. A plate of grilled chicken livers with eggs, grilled onion, chips and toasted ciabatta goes for a surprising R86. A classic serving of eggs on toast (which can come with bacon or avocado) ranges from as little as R41 to R54. Or fuel up on a of filling portion oatmeal for R43 a bowl.
My Bread and Butter - Parkview
Bros and broads who brunch will love this one. The breakfast trifle, which is layered custard, yoghurt, berries and other seasonal fruit, is a steal at R55. A plain croissant costs R40 but you can fill it with sweet and savoury ingredients for a breakfast meal that won't cost you more than R65.
Lunch
Thunder Gun - Randburg
Anything ordered from this steakhouse is packed with flavour. Assuming you only have the hour for lunch, I suggest you go for the restaurant's renowned burgers (of guns as they insist you call them). You won't go wrong if you order the monkey gun for R78.95. The 150g patty is basted with the South African favourite: Monkey Gland sauce. For an extra R20.95 you can add an extra patty to your gun for a truly belly-busting meal. Pick from their offering of 11 other gun options if my favourite isn't for you. They are all served with a portion of fries and cost no more than R86.95 a piece.
Hello Tomato - Bryanston
This proudly South African pizzeria has over 30 mouthwatering flavours to treat your taste buds. Choose from a classic Margherita, which costs R69, or a FAB (feta cheese, avocado and bacon) that goes for R92. A generous bowl of mac 'n cheese is only R69 a portion.
Dinner
BBQ Workshop - Rivonia
This eatery has become a local institution for meat-lovers all over the city. The grill-masters will cook your cut of beef, pork or lamb to perfection, and leave you wanting more. I keep going back for their sliders. The Feta Chilli Twins slider is a personal favourite. For R60 you can enjoy 100% pure beef, minced in-house, served with feta, chilli, tomato and lettuce. Add a side of fries for R18. A Chicken Caesar Salad goes for R65.
Da Vincenzo - Kyalami
When it comes to salads and soups, you'll be spoilt for choice. This picturesque restaurant and venue is the ideal way to end a day dining by candlelight. You can enjoy a pizza that won't cost you more than R96, and pasta dishes range between R83 and R95.
---
Food markets are a personal favourite because they are great ways of trying out different food without breaking the bank. Visit the Fourways Farmers Market this coming Sunday, and you won't be disappointed.
Trade the budget-friendly dining for something more sophisticated by giving Signature Restaurant a try too.