Nestled in the heart of Rosebank, Johannesburg, The Shortmarket Club offers an exceptional dining experience that blends innovation with refined culinary techniques. We recently had the pleasure of indulging in their tasting menu, a carefully curated journey through vibrant, flavour-packed dishes that showcase both creativity and craftsmanship.
From the fresh and delicate Thai Sashimi to the indulgent Lobster Dish, each course was thoughtfully composed and paired with cocktails and wines that enhanced every bite. Whether you’re savouring the rich shellfish bisque, delighting in a South African Malva Pudding, or sipping on expertly crafted drinks, The Shortmarket Club offers a memorable culinary experience that’s perfect for those seeking sophistication with a twist. Here’s a closer look at our unforgettable meal.
We kicked off the tasting menu with the Thai Sashimi, a beautifully plated dish that immediately captured our attention with its vibrant colours. The sashimi itself was fresh and delicate, with the pad Thai dressing adding an unexpected, tangy kick that complemented the fish perfectly. The coconut yoghurt brought a cool, creamy element, balancing out the heat from the dressing, while the Nuac Chom dressing offered a tangy, umami depth. Every bite was an exciting fusion of flavours, and the dish was wonderfully light yet satisfying.
Although we had cocktails of our choices, the dish can be paired with the Groote Post ‘Seasalter’ Sauvignon Blanc, Darling, the Framingham Nobody’s Hero which has a zesty citrus finish, or even the Symphony Cocktail – a vibrant mix of Silverthon ‘The Green Man’ gin, pineapple, and ginger. The cocktail’s sweetness and spice can play beautifully with the bright, fresh flavours of the sashimi.
Next, we were presented with the Beef Tartare, which was a delicate balance of fresh, clean flavours. The finely chopped beef was tender and perfectly seasoned, with the rocket and chive dressing adding a sharp, herbaceous lift. The soy mayo brought a subtle umami richness that paired wonderfully with the beef, while the parmesan puff pastry added a delightful crunch and depth of flavour to the dish. The textures were beautifully contrasted, making each bite a pleasure.
This can be paired with a choice between the Foundry Grenache Blanc, with its crisp acidity, Voor-Paardeberg, the Pascal Jolivet Blanc Fumé which can bring a subtle minerality to the table, or Loire Valley. The Rocket Man can be another perfect pairing choice of cocktail, with its refreshing mix of rum, rocket, and lime. This can mirror the dish’s herbaceous notes and offer a unique twist that can improve the overall experience.
The main course, Lobster Dish, was nothing short of indulgent. The rich shellfish bisque was velvety and full of deep, savoury flavour, perfectly complementing the tender lobster meat. The caviar added a touch of luxury, while the prawn tortellini was delicate and packed with flavour. The leek salad provided a refreshing crunch that balanced out the richness of the bisque and the seafood. It was a dish that celebrated the depth of the ocean’s flavours, with each element coming together in a harmonious way.
For the wine pairing, we could have gone with the Bouchard Finlayson Missionvale Chardonnay which isa full-bodied white with a lovely minerality, Hemel-en-Aarde, the Edouard Dulaunay September Chardonnay which could add a soft elegance, or Bourgogne. The Thyme Screwdriver, a cocktail made with vodka, thyme, and orange is another alternative. The herbal notes from the thyme in the cocktail could beautifully complement the seafood, creating a fresh and refreshing contrast to the richness of the bisque.
To end the meal, we enjoyed the Malva Pudding, a South African classic that was elevated to perfection. The pudding itself was soft, warm, and decadently sweet, while the Amarula anglaise added a creamy richness with the familiar, subtle warmth of Amarula liqueur. The honeycomb gave a delightful crunch, and the apricot puree brought a tangy, fruity contrast that cut through the sweetness of the pudding, balancing the dessert beautifully. It was the perfect way to end a memorable meal.
Throughout the night, we thoroughly enjoyed the creative and refreshing cocktails too. The Shortmarket Club, featuring Malfy Originale and expertly mixed with Dry Vermouth, raspberry, lime, and egg white, was a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavours. The Brazilian Elder, starring Monkey 47, elderflower, muddled basil, and cucumber, offered a refreshing and aromatic experience. The Saladito, with Avion Resposado, roasted jalapeno, pineapple cordial, and lime juice, provided a perfect balance of smoky and sweet notes. Lastly, the Thai Green Curry cocktail, combining Absolut Vodka, litchi, chili, coconut syrup, and lemongrass, was an innovative and exotic delight that truly stood out. Each cocktail was a testament to the bar’s commitment to unique and high-quality drinks.
We left The Shortmarket Club feeling thoroughly satisfied and impressed. The tasting menu was a journey through innovative flavours, with each dish offering something exciting and unique. The cocktail pairings were thoughtfully chosen, enhancing the experience and adding another layer of enjoyment to the meal. Whether you’re a fan of seafood, bold Asian-inspired flavours, or indulgent desserts, The Shortmarket Club offers something for everyone, executed with finesse and creativity.
If you’re looking for a refined yet approachable dining experience in Johannesburg, The Shortmarket Club’s tasting menu is a must-try. The flexibility of both the tasting menu and à la carte options ensures that there is something for everyone. You can read our review of the à la carte menu [here].
We highly recommend the restaurant for anyone seeking an exceptional culinary journey in a stylish, welcoming atmosphere.