Turn ‘n Tender Says Thank You! We’re Grateful for Your Vote and Support!

Since 1977, Turn ‘n Tender has been a cornerstone of Johannesburg’s culinary scene, starting from humble beginnings in Greenside, where four brothers opened the first restaurant.

With a passion for exceptional steaks, an excellent wine selection, and a welcoming atmosphere, Turn ‘n Tender has grown into one of South Africa’s most beloved dining destinations. Today, it’s not just a place to eat, but a place where memories are made — a true legend in the making.

Where stories become legend

At Turn ‘n Tender, we believe that dining is about more than just the food on your plate. It’s about creating moments, celebrating special occasions, and making lasting memories. Whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary, or simply a weeknight dinner, we’re honoured to be part of the stories that our customers share.

Every meal at Turn ‘n Tender is a chance to create a new chapter in the book of memories. From the laughter shared over a glass of wine to the comfort of a perfectly grilled steak, we pride ourselves on providing an environment where customers feel like family. It’s these moments — the heartfelt conversations, the clinking of glasses, and the joy of savouring every bite — that make dining with us legendary.

What makes a great restaurant experience?

A great restaurant experience goes far beyond just having good food. It’s about creating an atmosphere where every detail is crafted to ensure that guests leave feeling satisfied, appreciated, and ready to return. Here’s what sets Turn ‘n Tender apart:

1. Good service: The heart of hospitality

Good service is the foundation of any great dining experience. At Turn ‘n Tender, we believe that genuine, attentive service is just as important as the quality of the food. Our team is committed to making every guest feel welcome from the moment they step through the door. Whether it’s a quick recommendation on a wine pairing or a smile to brighten your day, we aim to provide a warm and inviting atmosphere where our customers feel like friends. And when things don’t go as planned, we address issues quickly, ensuring that every meal is a pleasant experience.

2. Consistently good food: Always fresh, always delicious

 Of course, no restaurant can succeed without great food. At Turn ‘n Tender, we make it our mission to consistently deliver outstanding meals. Our steaks are always grilled to perfection — juicy, tender, and packed with flavour. Whether you prefer a succulent sirloin or a leaner rump, you’ll find that every cut is cooked to your liking. And it’s not just about the taste. We believe a meal should be a visual experience too. From the way we plate our dishes to the care we take in sourcing the best ingredients, every meal is designed to be as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

3. Striking decor: A feast for the eyes

In the age of social media, the atmosphere of a restaurant has become just as important as the meal itself. At Turn ‘n Tender, we’ve designed our spaces to be as comfortable as they are visually appealing. From the warm, inviting lighting to the carefully chosen furniture, every detail is crafted to make your experience memorable. After all, a great meal deserves a great setting — one that you’ll want to share with your friends on Instagram.

4. A warm atmosphere: Where you feel like family

A restaurant’s atmosphere is the sum of its parts: the decor, the music, the lighting, and, of course, the staff. At Turn ‘n Tender, we’ve created a space where guests feel relaxed and welcome, whether they’re here for a casual lunch or a romantic dinner. Our team is dedicated to making sure every guest feels like they belong, adding to the overall warmth and charm that defines our restaurant.

5. A great wine menu: Perfect pairings every time

A good meal is always enhanced by a great wine, and we believe in offering a selection that complements our menu perfectly. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for the perfect pairing to your steak, our knowledgeable staff will guide you through the options to find something that suits your taste and budget. It’s not just about having a wide variety of wines, it’s about curating a list that elevates the dining experience.

Know your steak… We do!

When it comes to steak, there’s no room for compromise. At Turn ‘n Tender, we take pride in knowing our cuts inside and out, ensuring that every steak is grilled to perfection. But here are a few pro tips on how we do it, and how you can get the most out of your steak experience:

1. Always grill, never fry

Grilling is the only way to cook a steak. It seals in the juices, enhancing the natural flavours and creating that perfect crust. Frying simply doesn’t do it justice.

2. Stick to the tongs

Never use a fork to flip or move your steak. Piercing the meat releases valuable juices, resulting in a dry, tough steak. Use tongs and touch your steak as little as possible to keep it juicy and tender.

3. If it sticks, leave it alone

When your steak is stuck to the grill, it’s telling you it’s not ready to be flipped. Wait until it naturally releases, and you’ll have a perfectly cooked steak every time.

4. Let it rest

Once your steak is off the grill, let it rest for half the time it was cooked. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy steak every time.

5. Don’t risk it — Book your table

While these tips are helpful, it’s probably best to leave it to the professionals. Let our chefs handle your steak while you sit back, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere.

A legacy of legendary steaks and timeless memories

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a meal out, Turn ‘n Tender is where stories become legend. Join us for a meal, and let us help you create your own legendary experience — one bite at a time.