Bay Leaf Restaurant and Take Ways — Restaurant in Gauteng

The Bay Leaf was recommended to me by a client, as I'd expressed my love of Indian food.

Sunday presented an opportunity for my husband and I to take our youngest granddaughter and head out for lunch, and I was keen to try the Bay Leaf.

To our wonderful surprise, we found an intimate little restaurant where we could sit comfortably, and wait for my daughter and her friend who decided to join us with my older granddaughter.

The restaurant is super clean, and has the most beautiful gold wallpaper. The seating booths were covered in a nice red leatherette too. Very attractive. The restaurant also has a nice, clean, play area which was a bonus since we had a 3 year old, as well as an almost 2 year old with us.

We had come to try out the buffet, as recommended, which was laid out with so many mouthwatering dishes that it was going to be impossible to try everything.

We decided to have a few starters, there were samoosas, fried brinjals, spring rolls, and a few other delicious goodies that I would do injustice trying to pronounce, but I sure enjoyed tasting them.

Then for mains my husband stayed on the safe side, and ate Biryani and fried prawns, and I like a walk on the wild side, so I had my favourite - lamb curry, and samples of everything I didn't recognise the names of. I loved every morsel. I had super hot chicken dish, a very tasty chickpea dish, the most divine chicken wings with a spicy tomato tang and spicy rice with chicken. Due to capacity I could not try everything, and there was so much more e.g butter chicken, tandoori chicken, spaghetti, potatoes and probably some I forgot.

Then it was time for some dessert, the options were vermicelli pudding, fruit custard, Halawa burfee (I think was the name) and two types of laddoo rolled in coconut. These were nice, the darker of the two tasted like fudge but syrupy.

Instead of the conventional tea on offer, my client treated us to a traditional spiced milky Chai, which was a nice ending to a magnificent lunch.

Besides the food being gorgeous, the restaurant was not overcrowded (although I can't imagine why). The staff was friendly, and the owner was kind and humble.

The greatest surprise was the more than reasonable bill at the end, and the fact that there was no charge for the two little girls (who picked from our plates)

I am definitely going back, and would heartily recommend this restaurant to anyone who loves Indian food, but dislikes busy restaurants. It's a well recommended space for an intimate family lunch.

Thank you Bay Leaf for a most memorable...

Depending on where you dine or order your Indian food from, you are now spoiled for choice with the establishment of another Bayleaf Indian Restaurant just off Grant Road, Norwood, Johannesburg. Having opened its doors around March this year (2024) in totally revamped premises at the corner of Grant and Algernon Roads, the restaurant is conspicuous through its orange, almost saffron, coloured logo. Free street parking is available in front of the entrance in Algernon Road. First impression is an inviting and safe one, with a neat, well-designed entrance courtyard, and outdoor seating. The colourful kids play area and apparatus is a brilliant idea and a welcome addition only recently being provided in very few Indian Restaurants. They also have a menu for kids, as well as high chairs to get little ones off parents' laps! The entrance is also wheelchair friendly, and the dining tables are high enough where staff can assist to accommodate wheelchairs. The interior is tastefully decorated,.and the lighting helps contribute to the ambience. There are several indoor and outdoor dinjng areas, and on Sundays a beautifully laid out buffet table is set up in one section. Seating is very comfortable in several configurations, and bathrooms are clean. The food is very good, and the staff are attentive to your dining needs. The range on the menu is extensive, and prices are highly affordable. Would certainly visit again - especially for the stunning...

A awesome wholesome budget friendly option.

The ambiance very welcoming, with a casual setting that makes it perfect for both family gatherings and a casual eatout.

The buffet spread was impressive, showcasing a variety of dishes from appetizers to desserts. The starters, like samosas and tandoori items, are freshly prepared and well-seasoned, providing a tasty introduction to the meal.

Me being a Tikka head the selection had me going back for more and more. Definitely up there with the best around.

For main courses, you’ll find classics like butter chicken, lamb curry, and biryani alongside a wide selection of vegetarian options, including paneer dishes and flavorful vegetable curries. The naan and rice selection pair perfectly with these dishes, allowing guests to sample a bit of everything.

What really stands out is the quality; the spices are balanced and dishes are made with care. The dessert selection is a treat as well, very satisfying.

Service is attentive without being overbearing, and the staff is friendly and happy to explain dishes for those unfamiliar with Indian cuisine. Overall, Bayleaf’s buffet offers excellent value for money, providing an authentic Indian dining experience that’s both flavorful and memorable.

I'll be...