Art, ancestry and outstanding oysters: Inside Johannesburg’s Math restaurant

JOHANNESBURG - Tucked into a quiet corner of Johannesburg’s bustling dining scene, Math Restaurant is a sophisticated, soulful space that blends modern flair with ancestral roots.

Since its opening in May 2024, it has quickly evolved into more than just a restaurant, it’s a cultural gathering space that celebrates heritage, food, and art.

Founded by Puleng Mathabatha, the restaurant is deeply personal. Its name, a nod to the first four letters of his surname, is not only a brand but a tribute.

That spirit is tangible from the moment you walk through the doors. Visitors are met with a bold painting titled “When We Gather” - a visual statement piece that sets the tone: bold, warm and thought-provoking.

Inside, the décor balances minimalism with creative depth. Subtle artistic flourishes from abstract installations to traditional motifs give the space texture without overwhelming it. It feels curated rather than crowded.

MATH is more than just a restaurant. Picture: Simangele Legodi/Eyewitness News

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Approaching the restaurant, you can’t miss the cheeky signage - “MATH and stuff” - that gives a playful nod to its casual sophistication. Inside, staff greet you with genuine warmth, reinforcing Math’s growing reputation not just for food, but for hospitality.

A notable shift toward sustainability and digital convenience is underway, with the restaurant slowly phasing in digital menus. A smart move, especially considering the current oversized printed versions that can dominate the table.

Satisfy your taste buds and make sure you get the best experience. Picture: Simangele Legodi/Eyewitness News

STARTERS THAT SHINE

We began with fresh oysters served with a classic mignonette sauce. The taste was oceanic and clean, briny in the best way, fresh enough to mentally transport you to a beach in Mauritius. A delightful, palate-awakening start.

The BBQ pork riblets were another hit, according to my dining partner.

“Succulent and falling off the bone,” he said, noting that the accompanying onion rings were a standout - crunchy, golden, and balanced. The corn salsa, though flavourful, wasn’t essential, given how well the riblets and rings complemented each other.

MAINS WITH A HEART

Choosing a main from Math’s enticing menu was a challenge. Everything read like a must-try.

I finally settled on the grilled queen prawns, served with roast garlic potatoes, butternut and a delicate lemon butter sauce. The dish exceeded expectations. Generous in portion and rich in flavour, it was both comforting and elevated.

Across the table, the lamb chops served with mint-coated mash and jus impressed, though not completely. While the execution was on point (the kitchen nailed the requested doneness), the natural aroma of the lamb wasn’t to my partner’s liking. A touch of rosemary, he suggested, could have balanced the dish better. Still, he gave it a solid 8/10.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Math is more than a restaurant; it’s a statement. It captures a unique blend of cultural pride, culinary ambition, and contemporary design. With its spacious outdoor seating, it's poised to become a favourite spot for sundowners, social gatherings, and casual business meetings alike.

If there’s a drawback, it’s the limited indoor space, which can make the restroom facilities a pinch point during busy hours. But that’s a small trade-off for an experience that feels thoughtful and fresh.

In a city full of dining options, Math stands out, not with flash, but with feeling.