South Africa may well be renowned for its Braaivleis and biltong, but not every visitor to this country would be able to eat braaivleis and pap (porridge) every night of the week like some South Africans do. So, if you are panicking about your diet while on holiday here, read this article on a few restaurants and takeaway places.

South Africa has a number of fast food chains to cater for every taste.

• Steers , McDonalds, Bimbo's - chicken, red meat and vegetarian
• Nandos, Kentucky or KFC, Fontanas - chicken only
• Global Wraps - chicken, red meat and vegetarian
• Debonaires, Scooters Pizza, Mimmos - pizza & pasta
• Something Fishy, FishAways - sea food
• Vetkoek Den, Sandwich Baron
• Chinese, asian and other european style takeaways
• Kuai - salads and health foods

Restaurant chains in South Africa:

• Spur is a South African favourite with new special deals every few months that keep their customers coming back for more. Great value especially if you have a family. Has a buffet style salad bar and a kiddies menu. On your birthday the waiters will serenade you.
• Moyos - this is a relatively smalll group of restaurants spread out over the country - serves African cuisine. Tangines from Morocco and other West African dishes will satisfy your culinary desires.
• Panarottis serve mostly pizzas and pastas and offer great value for money for families.
• Mug & Bean - this group changes their menus on a regular basis to keep it fresh. Mug & Beans are known for their extra large pieces of cakes and aromatic coffees.
• Wimpy is a favourite for breakfasts. This group is known for its hamburgers and morning breakfasts. They have a separate kiddies menu available as well.
• Primi Piatti is a vibey chain of restaurants that sees the waiters in bright orange overalls. The restaurant chain has a distinctive decor. Portions on all dishes are usually more than adequate.
• Asian restaurants like Bangkok Wok, Mai Tai, Saigon (for oriental style dining) and don't forget the many Indian restaurants.
• If you are a seafood lover then Ocean Basket or Cape Town Fish Market will definitely tickle your tastebuds.

Food that some ethnic groups eat:

• Runaways - cooked chicken legs with feet.
• Mopani worms - these worms are cooked or dried.
• Marog - looks and tastes like spinach.
• Potjiekos - made over an open fire with vegetables and meat. This dish takes from 45 minutes to two hours to make.
• Cow tongue and "afval" - this is not for the faint stomached!