A bold new dining experience has arrived in Johannesburg, with STOK’D officially opening its doors at Omni Square Shopping Centre in Bassonia on 1 August 2026.
Built around the energy of charcoal cooking, generous food, music, atmosphere and shared dining, STOK’D is the latest venture from internationally respected hospitality entrepreneur Bradley Michael, alongside hospitality leader and shareholder Ernesto Ferreira.
Since opening, STOK’D has been warmly received, with diners responding enthusiastically to the food, generous portions, distinctive flavours and vibrant atmosphere. Early guest reviews have been particularly positive, setting an exciting tone for the brand’s first few weeks.
For Bradley Michael, STOK’D marks a meaningful return to South Africa after decades spent building globally recognised restaurant brands across Australia, the Middle East and South Africa.
But STOK’D represents something more personal.
Inspired by Bradley’s Lebanese heritage, South African food culture and a lifelong connection to cooking over charcoal, STOK’D brings these influences together in a way that feels distinctly its own.
At the heart of the menu is charcoal chicken, prepared over real coals and served alongside a selection of mazza, sides and dishes designed for sharing. It is food that celebrates bold flavour, generosity and the simple pleasure of gathering around a table.
“STOK’D is about bringing people together,” says Bradley Michael. “It’s about the atmosphere, the music, the food landing in the middle of the table and that feeling you get when a restaurant has real energy. We wanted to create something that feels authentic, generous and full of life.”
Joining him in the venture is Ernesto Ferreira, shareholder in both Ribs & Burgers and STOK’D, whose extensive experience in hospitality leadership and restaurant operations has helped shape the culture and guest experience behind the brand.
“Restaurants are always about people first,” says Ernesto Ferreira. “The food matters, the design matters, but ultimately, it’s about how people feel when they walk through the door. We want STOK’D to become a place where the community connects, celebrates, relaxes and keeps coming back to.”
Designed as a contemporary expression of Charcoal Culture, STOK’D is relaxed yet energetic, combining bold flavours, warm hospitality, music and a distinctive restaurant environment.
The response since opening has reinforced what the team set out to create: a restaurant that feels welcoming from the moment guests walk through the door while offering something fresh and exciting to Johannesburg’s dining scene.
STOK’D is now open at Omni Square Shopping Centre in Bassonia, Johannesburg.
The STOK’D team looks forward to welcoming members of the media to experience the food, atmosphere and Charcoal Culture for themselves.