Durban Delights: Top Foodie Destinations to Savor

This vibrant East Coast city is famous for its hearty dishes, from the iconic bunny chow to spicy masala pineapple kebabs. After a night of partying on Florida Road, hitting up a street vendor is practically a rite of passage before heading home.

Durban also boasts an impressive lineup of food trucks that roll up to various festivals and events, ensuring the aromas and flavors keep drawing in hungry crowds. Plus, there’s even a Durban Street Food Festival every September to celebrate this culinary scene.

Here are 10 must-try street food spots in Durban:

  1. Afro’s Chicken Shop
    This quirky yellow container serves delicious chicken and “tjips” (fries) and is a perfect stop for coffee after a jog or bike ride along the promenade. It’s also a great spot to watch surfers at a nearby shipwreck.
  2. The Spice Emporium
    While primarily a spice shop, The Snack Bar in the flagship store offers some of the best vegetarian Indian food in the city. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Indian street food, or ‘chaat,’ it’s a fantastic place to sample before stocking up your spice cabinet.
  3. The Prawn Shak
    Located in Mtunzini, about 140 km from Durban, this rustic gem offers delightful local favorites in a beautiful, unspoiled beach setting. It may be a bit of a drive, but the atmosphere and delicious food make it worthwhile.
  4. Sunrise Chip & Ranch (Johnny’s Rotis)
    The go-to spot after a night out in Durban, this place serves classic street food and even has a branch in Cape Town for those craving a taste of Durban.
  5. Fudart strEATERY
    This food truck is a highlight at big events like the Durban Street Food Festival. Don’t miss their Cajun beef burger topped with cream cheese, sweet corn, and red kidney bean salsa—it’s a crowd favorite!
  6. TurnUp Food Truck
    Known for their grilled dishes layered with melted cheese, TurnUp is a staple at Durban’s foodie events, serving up mouthwatering meals that keep people coming back for more.
  7. CaneCutters
    Ask locals where to find the best bunny chow, and many will direct you to CaneCutters, known for its award-winning versions. With options ranging from classic sugar beans to mutton, chicken, and prawn, there’s a bunny chow for everyone.
  8. Victoria Street Market
    Durban’s oldest market features over 200 vendors, offering a variety of spices and mouthwatering dishes. Just walking through will whet your appetite, and you can even take spices home to recreate those enticing aromas.
  9. Max’s Lifestyle
    For flame-grilled shisa nyama in a lively township atmosphere, head to Umlazi. This vibrant hangout is especially lively on Sundays when DJs keep the energy high.
  10. I Heart Market
    On the first Saturday of every month, this market at The Hay Store near uShaka Marine World brings together a variety of street food vendors. It’s a great place to indulge in local eats while exploring crafts and fashion.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Durban’s street food scene is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed!