We know it’s nearly impossible to find a child-friendly restaurant with excellent food for adults and that’s why we were delighted to stumble upon this kid-friendly gem. 

The Old Oak executive chef Ransley Pietersen says “Kids are the heroes here and parents just need to bring them along.” The restaurant boasts a massive playground equipped with a climbing wall, dedicated colouring books and pencils, and a special kids menu. 

The Old Oak is hidden along the greens of the Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Club in Linksfield North. This casual fine dining restaurant opened on May 6, 2022 with an extensive menu of Middle Eastern-inspired dishes, salads, Neapolitan pizzas, and curated wine selection.

Chef Ransley trained under Bertus Basson at Overture (Stellenbosch) and Adriaan Maree at Fermier (Lynwood). He explains that his menu pays tribute to the chefs that got him to this point including his signature lamb saddle which he learnt how to prepare during his time at Fermier. 

Chef Ransley’s menu incorporates South African flavours with starters like cauliflower with atchar oil and beef tongue with remoulade, and influences from his own Indian heritage like chicken tikka kebabs with homemade roti. 

The Old Oak is open through December (except public holidays) and booking is essential.