We stepped into Alma restaurant at The Woods Shopping Centre on Jan Smuts Avenue in Craighall Park, Randburg, with a mix of curiosity and hunger. The open-air charm of this revamped village centre, once known as The Colony, set a relaxed tone. Nestled among boutique stores and wellness spots, Alma promised a modern twist on meat-focused dining, and we were eager to see if it lived up to the buzz. The evening air was warm, and the restaurant’s sleek yet welcoming vibe drew us in. It felt like a place where guests could unwind and geek out over bold flavours.
Our table was ready promptly, and the staff greeted us with genuine warmth, a hallmark of Jozi hospitality when it’s done right. The menu was a curated affair, leaning heavily into contemporary dishes with global influences.
We decided to start with two starters that caught our eye: the beef carpaccio and the hibachi grilled chicken wing skewers. The carpaccio arrived as a work of art—thinly sliced fillet tataki, kissed by ponzu sauce, with crisp potato shards, a dollop of wasabi mayo, and a sprinkle of spring onion. Each bite was a balance of zesty, creamy, and subtly spicy notes, the wasabi adding just enough kick without overpowering the tender beef. It was the kind of dish that makes you pause and nod appreciatively at your dining partner.
The hibachi grilled chicken wings skewers were equally impressive – they arrived glistening with a honey chipotle glaze that delivered a sweet-smoky punch. The coriander yoghurt was a cooling counterpoint, and a squeeze of lemon brightened the whole affair. We found ourselves scraping the plate for every last bit of sauce, the kind of unpretentious yet flavour-packed starter that sets high expectations for the rest of the meal. The portion was generous enough to share, but we were secretly glad we didn’t have to divide it too thinly.
For mains, we opted for the lamb chops and the wood-fired prawns, both of which sounded like they’d showcase Alma’s knack for bold, fire-kissed cooking. The lamb chops were a triumph. Perfectly grilled to a rosy medium, they sat atop a silky hummus bed, with a fire-roasted salsa adding a charred depth and minted chimichurri bringing a fresh, herbaceous lift. The fries on the side were golden and crisp, though we barely noticed them, so engrossed were we in the tender, flavourful chops. It was a dish that felt both comforting and elevated, the kind of plate you’d rave about to friends planning a trip to the area.
The wood-fired prawns were no less captivating. Plump and succulent, they arrived with a glossy gochujang sauce that packed a spicy-sweet punch, tempered by the nutty green beans and fragrant lime rice on the side. The lime rice was a revelation—fluffy, zesty, and the perfect foil to the bold sauce. We couldn’t help but marvel at how Alma managed to make each component shine while creating a cohesive plate. It was the kind of dish that travellers might stumble upon and remember long after their trip.
Of course, no meal is complete without dessert, and Alma’s chocolate mousse beckoned. Served in a rustic-looking bowl, it was deceptively humble—until we took our first spoonful. The mousse was rich yet airy, with a deep cocoa intensity that didn’t overwhelm. We savoured it slowly, letting the velvety texture linger, and agreed it was the perfect full stop to our meal.
The service throughout was a highlight. Our waiter was attentive without hovering, offering recommendations with a quiet confidence that spoke to a deep knowledge of the menu. Plates arrived promptly, and empty glasses didn’t linger long. The atmosphere buzzed with locals catching up and soaking in the vibe, all underscored by a playlist that was upbeat but never intrusive.
Reflecting on our evening, Alma stood out as a gem for both travellers and foodies. The food was bold yet approachable, the cocktails were a masterclass in creativity, and the setting was just right for a memorable night out. Whether you’re a visitor exploring Johannesburg’s culinary scene or a local hunting for your next favourite spot, Alma delivers. We left with full bellies and a mental note to return, already dreaming of that carpaccio and those prawns. Next time, we’ll bring friends—because a place this good deserves to be shared.