Move over Parkhurst, Linden's got a trendy new 'eat street'

Joburg's leafy suburb of Linden has become a hub of interesting eateries with several new restaurants popping up to join established favourites. Hilary Biller shares a taste of what's happening on 7th Street between 3rd and 4th Avenue

PRON (People's Republic of Noodles)

There's been much talk about PRON, the newest kid on the block, and their now famous pigs ear salad, which is made up of thin slivers of pigs ear tossed with a little chilli, sesame oil and fresh coriander.

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For those who prefer less of the nose-to-tail experience there are oodles of noodles served in a variety of authentic Chinese dishes.

The menu is small and the dishes are best shared. A meal here is incomplete without a couple of handbrake breads - layers of hot crispy dough studded with spring onion. Bookings are essential.

Visit: 69 7th Street. Call 011-782-1736.

THE FAT ZEBRA

The Fat Zebra has transformed a venue that has seen a lot of changes in recent times. With it's eye catching white and black decor, the small restaurant is inviting and spills out onto a balcony overlooking the street.

Central to the restaurant is the large a wood-fired oven that makes excellent pizzas (although a little pricey for the size). For those whose who prefer to steer clear of carbs, the menu is pretty varied offering steaks, burgers, wood-fired chickens and lots more. The wine selection is limited so BYO may be a better option.

Visit: 71 7th Street. Call 082-469-5757.

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OREGANO

This petite but charming patisserie is run by Sharon van Tonder and her two daughters who whip up excellent cakes, cookies, biscuits and breads. It's best to get there early as they sell out quickly.

Buffet lunches are served on Friday and Saturday - but remember to save some space for their signature gooey cinnamon buns. Yum.

Connected to Oregano is the family's very successful catering operation.

Visit: 71 7th Street. Call 083-260-6582.

THE ARGENTINEAN BAKERY AND COFFEE SHOP

A great casual dining spot perfectly positioned to watch life go by on this busy Linden corner. Famous for their croissants, made according to the recipe of the original owner, an Argentinian baker, they are considered the best in the area. Available plain and sweet (try the almond one), they are freshly baked, light and fluffy.

This eatery also offers a selection of light meals and are well-known for their all-day breakfast.

Visit: Cnr 4th Avenue and 7th Street. Call 011-888-9759.

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THE WHIPPET

Popular from the day it opened a couple of years back, The Whippet has become a  landmark in the suburb and is always packed and buzzing - it's certainly worth the wait for a table.

Offering both indoor and outdoor dining, they're open for breakfast and lunch. The menu is varied and interesting, although the helpings are a little small. The burgers are highly rated as is the signature bake, individual milk tarts, which are rich, creamy and topped with a generous sprinkling of ground cinnamon.

Excellent coffee, wine, craft beers and an interesting selection of teas make this a great pit stop.

Visit: Cnr 4th Avenue and 7th Street. Call 011-782-7310.

CHEESE GOURMET

Cheese Gourmet  started out as a small specialist shop stocking the largest selection of South African farm cheeses. They've expanded over the years, moving into  bigger premises which now includes a restaurant serving light snacks and meals.

The coffee is excellent and for those in search of a good munch settle for one of their speciality cheese platters. Reminiscent of a good English Ploughman's lunch (without the beer as they aren't licensed), the platters include a generous selection of cheeses,  locally-sourced charcuterie, pickles, fruit and bread. It's a feast.

Visit: Cnr 3rd Avenue and 7th Street. Call 011-888-5384.