Cyra at The Houghton Hotel

Name: Cyra at The Houghton Hotel
Address: The Houghton Hotel, Lloys Ellis Ave, Houghton Estate, Johannesburg, ZA
Telephone: +27 11 11 032 5535

The Houghton Hotel, Lloys Ellis Ave, Houghton Estate +27 11 11 032 5535 31 Mar 2025

Delicate dishes at Cyra at The Houghton Hotel. Photo: Supplied.

The elegant interior of Cyra at The Houghton Hotel. Photo: Supplied.

Cheese and biscuits, Cyra-style. Photo: Supplied.

Tucked inside The Houghton Hotel, Cyra is Chef Candice Philip’s latest fine dining venture — and it’s nothing short of exceptional. Named for a star, Cyra offers one of Joburg’s most enchanting sunset views, with warm pastel interiors and vistas across the Houghton Golf Course that set the stage for a sublime dining experience. The restaurant opened in October 2024 and has already earned top honours at the 2025 Luxe Awards: Chef of the Year for Philip, and Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year for Cyra.

Philip’s culinary artistry — honed at Grei at the Saxon and Basalt at The Peech — is on full display here. Her signature style is a masterclass in balance, texture and visual elegance. Each course is plated to perfection, blending global flavours with modern finesse. The multi-course menu begins with a delicate amuse-bouche and progresses through a variety of standout dishes that play with tastes and textures. Philip's take on meat and potatoes, among other dishes, is a thing of beauty – a showstopping beef fillet with truffle jus and layered potato pavé. Dessert and cheese dishes close the evening on a high, both as inventive as they are beautiful.

Much awarded Chef Candice Philip of Cyra at The Houghton. Photo: Supplied.

The wine pairing, curated by sommelier Solly Mmethi, adds another layer of creativity. With his deep knowledge and lighthearted delivery, Mmethi brings both contrast and harmony to each dish, making the experience even more engaging.

Cyra’s ambience is elegant yet relaxed, its service warm and personalised. From the beautifully folded napkins to the quietly intuitive staff, every detail is considered. If you are looking for a superb, romantic dinner option in Joburg, you've found it. Arrive before sunset and savour a cocktail as the sun dips. This is definitely one of the most beautiful restaurant views that Joburg has to offer, with the immaculate greens of the Houghton Golf Course stretching as far as the eye can see.

Dinner ends with a table stop-by from Chef Philip, a reminder that this isn’t just a meal — it’s an experience crafted with heart and artistry. Read the full review here.