1947
Experience upscale South African dining on historic Vilakazi Street, Soweto. Known for its elegant ambiance and flavorful traditional dishes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere
1947
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience upscale South African dining on historic Vilakazi Street, Soweto. Known for its elegant ambiance and flavorful traditional dishes.
"The food was absolutely phenomenal, and the atmosphere made the day feel extra special."
🎯 Reserve Your Table
It gets busy, especially on weekends! Booking ahead is a must to guarantee your spot.
🍽️ Explore the Menu
Don't hesitate to ask for menu explanations; some dishes are unique and worth understanding.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vilakazi Street Ambiance
Vilakazi Street, Orlando West, Soweto
Immerse yourself in the historic and vibrant atmosphere of Vilakazi Street, a hub of culture and heritage.
Traditional South African Flavors
Restaurant Menu
Savor authentic South African dishes, from hearty mogodu to delicious lamb chops and flavorful burgers.
Elegant Dining Experience
Restaurant Interior
Enjoy a sophisticated and aesthetically pleasing dining environment, perfect for special occasions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Vilakazi Street
Embrace the Soweto Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Reserve Your Table
It gets busy, especially on weekends! Booking ahead is a must to guarantee your spot.
🍽️ Explore the Menu
Don't hesitate to ask for menu explanations; some dishes are unique and worth understanding.
📸 Capture the Ambiance
The restaurant and Vilakazi Street offer great photo opportunities. +1
🚗 Consider Transport
Plan your transport to Soweto, especially if dining late.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Reserve Your Table
It gets busy, especially on weekends! Booking ahead is a must to guarantee your spot.
🍽️ Explore the Menu
Don't hesitate to ask for menu explanations; some dishes are unique and worth understanding.
📸 Capture the Ambiance
The restaurant and Vilakazi Street offer great photo opportunities. +1
🚗 Consider Transport
Plan your transport to Soweto, especially if dining late.
🍰 Don't Skip Dessert
The carrot cake dessert is a standout for many!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
1947 on Vilakazi Street is lauded for its elegant ambiance and delicious traditional South African cuisine, with many praising dishes like lamb chops and mogodu. However, some visitors have reported inconsistent service experiences, which can detract from an otherwise beautiful setting. Despite this, the restaurant remains a popular choice for celebrations and a taste of Soweto's vibrant culture.
"To say I was disappointed would be an understatement, especially because I spent 2 years planning to go there for my birthday because I love the aesthetics of the establishment. The service we got from our waiter was the worst, he was absent minded and looked like he didn't even want to serve us. No introduction or explanation of the menu and it's content, we had to figure on our own what was on the menu and what it could possibly be, we even resorted to using Google because he looked bored when we asked him questions... Worst service of my life... The food was just alright, I only enjoyed the lamb chops and the cocktails.. The rest was just Bland and lacked flavour. There's great potential for the establishment to grow if the staff can change their attitude and focus on giving customers a great service... Otherwise the place is gorgeous. Left a huge lump on my throat and ruined my birthday but hey.... There might be a better experience next time."
tebogo mabusela
"Table service was superb. Menu was accommodating to diet restrictions. Very chill vibes yet has an upmarket atmosphere. Perfect for a date or a company dinner. Definitely worth the visit."
Laetitia Rossouw Tshwaane
"The food is amazing and the service is exceptional from the waiters, to the manager and especially the security guard. I will be going there again."
Margo Tshivhase
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
1947 is located on the famous Vilakazi Street in Soweto. You can reach it by car, taxi, or ride-sharing services. Many visitors use Uber or Bolt. If you're exploring Soweto, it's often part of a broader tour. +1
Parking can be challenging on Vilakazi Street due to its popularity. It's advisable to arrive early or consider using ride-sharing services for convenience.
Vilakazi Street is a historic area. You can visit nearby attractions like the Mandela House Museum before or after your meal to soak in the local history.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, booking a table is highly recommended, especially for weekends and evenings, as the restaurant is very popular and can get full quickly.
Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open for lunch and dinner. It's best to check their official social media or website for the most up-to-date hours.
There is no entrance fee to walk along Vilakazi Street itself. However, attractions like the Mandela House Museum have their own admission fees.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
1947 specializes in traditional South African cuisine, offering a range of upscale and authentic dishes. They also serve cocktails and desserts. +1
The menu is accommodating to dietary restrictions, and while specific vegetarian/vegan options aren't always highlighted, it's worth inquiring with your server.
Popular choices include the lamb chops, mogodu with dombolo, and the burgers. The chips are also frequently praised, and the carrot cake dessert is a hit.
Prices are generally considered reasonable for the quality and experience, with generous portions making it feel worth the cost.
The cocktails are a highlight for many visitors, offering unique flavors. Some can be a bit sweet, but they are generally well-received.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The restaurant boasts an elegant and aesthetically pleasing interior, and Vilakazi Street itself offers a rich backdrop for photos. +2
Look for the stylish decor, the well-presented dishes, and the overall ambiance. The exterior of the restaurant and the street itself are also great for shots. +1
Yes, it's perfectly fine to take photos of your food and the restaurant's interior. Many visitors share their dining experiences online. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to book in advance, especially if you're visiting with a larger group. Consider visiting during lunch hours or earlier in the evening to ensure a more relaxed experience for children. While the focus is on upscale dining, the vibrant location on Vilakazi Street can also be an educational experience for kids interested in history.
💖 Couples and Date Nights
Booking a table in advance is crucial to ensure a prime spot. Opt for an evening reservation to fully appreciate the restaurant's sophisticated atmosphere. The attentive service, when experienced, further enhances the romantic appeal, making it a memorable outing for couples.
✈️ Tourists Exploring Soweto
Combine your visit to 1947 with explorations of nearby heritage sites like the Mandela House Museum. This allows for a comprehensive Soweto experience. Remember to book your table in advance, as it's a popular spot for both locals and international visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vilakazi Street Experience
Today, Vilakazi Street is a vibrant hub, blending historical significance with modern attractions. You'll find heritage sites like the Mandela House Museum, alongside bustling restaurants, cafes, and shops. The street buzzes with activity, especially on weekends, offering visitors a chance to experience the local culture, enjoy delicious food, and soak in the unique atmosphere.
For visitors, exploring Vilakazi Street is an essential part of understanding Soweto's narrative. It's a place where history is palpable, and the spirit of resilience and celebration is evident in every corner. Whether you're dining at a renowned restaurant like 1947 or simply strolling through, the street offers a profound and memorable experience.
Culinary Delights at 1947
Standout dishes frequently mentioned include the mogodu with dombolo, a traditional tripe dish served with dumplings, praised for its tenderness and rich flavor. The lamb chops are another popular choice, often described as succulent and perfectly cooked. Even simpler items like the chips receive high marks, with some diners calling them the best they've ever tasted. For those with a sweet tooth, the carrot cake dessert is a highly recommended finale.
Beyond the food, the cocktails at 1947 are a significant draw. They offer a creative selection of drinks that complement the meal. While some might find them a bit sweet, they are generally well-crafted and add to the celebratory atmosphere of the dining experience. The overall value is considered excellent, with generous portions and a memorable culinary journey.
Service and Atmosphere: A Mixed Bag
However, service experiences can be varied. While many patrons report exceptional service from attentive and friendly staff, including managers and security, a significant number of reviews highlight instances of poor service. This includes absent-minded waiters, lack of menu explanations, and a general disinterest from some staff members, which can detract from the overall experience.
Despite these inconsistencies, the positive aspects of the atmosphere and the potential for great service mean that many visitors still find 1947 to be a worthwhile destination. The key seems to be managing expectations and, for some, hoping for a fortunate service experience on their visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit