There’s something special about discovering a restaurant that gets the little things right. Great food is one thing, but when you’re welcomed like an old friend before you’ve even ordered, you know you’re onto something. That’s exactly how lunch at Waiting for George in Linden felt.
From the moment we arrived, the team made us feel like part of the family. Warm smiles, genuine conversation and attentive service without ever feeling overbearing. It’s the kind of hospitality that has become increasingly rare, and it’s what turns a good meal into an experience worth talking about.
But… Who Is George?
One of the most charming things about Waiting for George is that there isn’t an official story behind the name.
Instead, they leave it up to their guests to imagine their own.
After spending an afternoon here, I think I’ve figured it out.
Maybe George is that friend who’s always running late, but nobody minds because waiting means another drink, another conversation and another plate of incredible food. Maybe George never actually arrives because the best moments happen while you’re waiting together.
Whatever the story is, after one visit you’ll probably have your own version too.
Souvla Sunday Is Worth Planning Your Weekend Around
We visited for Souvla Sunday, and honestly, this is how Sundays should be spent.
The plates arrive loaded with beautifully grilled meats, crispy roast potatoes and a fresh Greek salad that balances everything perfectly.
Every protein was cooked over the coals, giving each bite that unmistakable smoky flavour.
The Lamb Chops – 10/10
The lamb chops were easily one of the highlights.
Perfectly seasoned, incredibly juicy and cooked just right. Every bite had that beautiful balance between tenderness and smoky char that makes you slow down just to enjoy it.
Pork That Melts in Your Mouth – 9/10
The pork was another standout.
Beautifully caramelised on the outside, incredibly tender on the inside and packed with smoky flavour from the grill. Every bite was juicy and full of flavour without being overly rich. It was cooked perfectly and easily one of the highlights of the Souvla Sunday plate.
Chicken Done Right – 10/10
Chicken can often be the forgotten meat on a mixed grill.
Not here.
Moist, juicy and packed with flavour, it held its own alongside the lamb and pork. No dry chicken in sight.
The Perfect Supporting Cast
The Greek salad was exactly what it needed to be.
Fresh cucumber, ripe tomatoes, olives and creamy feta added brightness to the plate, while the crispy roasted potatoes soaked up all those delicious meat juices.
Simple ingredients done exceptionally well.
Don’t Skip the Drinks
The food may be the main attraction, but don’t overlook the cocktail menu. Every cocktail we tried was expertly made, beautifully balanced and incredibly refreshing. Whether you’re stopping by for a leisurely Sunday lunch or catching up with friends over drinks, the cocktails are reason enough to visit. Pair one with the Souvla Sunday plate and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect afternoon.
The Atmosphere
One thing that really stood out was just how relaxed everything felt.
The outdoor seating catches the afternoon sun, the smell of meat cooking over the coals drifts through the air, and you can hear conversations and laughter from every table. Nobody seems to be in a rush.
It’s the kind of place where lunch naturally turns into an afternoon with friends.
Final Thoughts
Some restaurants impress you with fancy presentation.
Others impress you with flawless service.
Waiting for George manages to do both while still feeling approachable, relaxed and genuinely welcoming.
It’s one of those neighbourhood gems you’ll happily drive across Johannesburg to visit again.
The menu is packed with dishes that immediately caught my eye, so I’ll definitely be back to explore more than just Souvla Sunday. If the rest of the menu is anywhere near as good as what we experienced, I’m already looking forward to my next visit.
