Kanpai

Kanpai is an Asian tapas and bubbles bar at 21 Keyes Avenue in Rosebank, Johannesburg. The venue combines a seafood restaurant with a lively bar setting, bringing together Asian-inspired cooking, sushi and a drinks-led social atmosphere. Its style is chic, vibrant and casual, making it suitable for relaxed lunches, evening meals, drinks and celebrations.

The menu is built around shareable plates rather than a single culinary tradition. Sushi and sashimi sit alongside seafood-focused dishes, with prawns, salmon, oysters, mussels and other ocean-inspired plates forming an important part of the offering. Seafood pasta and paella bring a broader restaurant approach, while meat and plant-based choices add variety for groups with different preferences.

Asian techniques and flavours shape the food, with elements such as yuzu, soy, miso, sesame, teriyaki, chilli and edamame appearing across the menu. The result is a selection that moves between familiar Japanese influences and contemporary tapas-style combinations. Small plates allow diners to share across the table, while more substantial dishes provide a straightforward option for a complete lunch or dinner.

The drinks programme is central to the Kanpai experience. The venue presents itself as a bubbles bar, with sparkling drinks intended to complement the food and the celebratory character of the setting. The name refers to a Japanese toast associated with raising a glass, which reflects the restaurant’s focus on friendship, sociable dining and special occasions.

Kanpai also caters to celebrations and private events, offering a setting for birthdays, group gatherings and other occasions that call for food and drinks in a relaxed environment. The dress code is cool and casual, keeping the atmosphere approachable rather than formal. The venue suits diners looking for seafood with Asian influences, groups interested in sharing several plates, and guests seeking a restaurant that can shift from daytime dining to an evening of cocktails, bubbles and conversation.

Located in Rosebank’s Keyes Avenue precinct, Kanpai is positioned as a contemporary restaurant and bar for casual meals, social occasions and event bookings. Its combination of seafood, Asian tapas, sushi and sparkling drinks gives the venue a clear identity without limiting the menu to one style of dining.