Truffles on the Park is a breath of fresh air located in Sandton Central’s Mushroom Farm Park. This casual bistro with its wraparound patio, copper bar and wooden interior with masses of greenery is a surprising and welcoming venue in the heart of Sandton’s busy commercial and financial district.

The name Truffles on the Park is a play on the restaurant’s location in Mushroom Farm Park, an extraordinary green lung tucked away among the suburb’s many high-rise buildings, that has long been a popular spot for weekend visits by picknickers, joggers and dog-walkers. For years it has been easily identifiable only because of the hot air balloon (formerly sponsored by Hyundai) that sailed up above the park, with most people referring to Mushroom Farm Park as the Hyundai Park.

Opened in February 2019 Truffles on the Park restaurant is suspended on stilts above the park and offers impressive vistas of the sloping greenery below. Inside the many wood textures and botanical motifs add to the feel of a day in the park – only this park has a wide-ranging and versatile menu of small plates and a beautiful copper bar at which to sample an exciting range of cocktails. 

Because of its setting this is an ideal lunch or sundowners spot, especially lovely for lazy weekend meals. Families will love the space beyond the front door and for those with small children, the play area just next to the restaurant.

The menu has plenty on offer for just about any tastes and portions are generous and made for sharing. Try the Dukkah rubbed lamb cutlets, the salmon, or our top pick, the miso-glazed short rib. Octopus fans will enjoy the showstopper dish.

Vegans too will rejoice, as there are plenty of options. Order the warm Moroccan chickpea and roasted tomato salad or the grilled mushroom burger. The food is richly flavourful and Chef Lance Louise is a fan of using organic and sustainable ingredients with plenty of fresh herbs.Of course you’ll need to celebrate the restaurant's name by ordering the excellent crispy fries with truffle shavings.

The botanical bar is also a treat with inspired cocktails that taste as fresh as the setting. The bar boasts more than 40 clear spirits with which to mix floral, herby and fruity notes of lavender, hibiscus, elderflower, or raspberry and litchi, to mention a few.

A recommended spot whether you’re looking for a romantic night out, a long table dinner for family lunch or place to host business guests (one section of the restaurant was designed to be easily separated off for more private occasions).

GET THERE WITH GAUTRAIN