A Narina Trogon is a furtive, brightly coloured bird that lives primarily in coastal forests ranging from Tsitsikamma in the Cape, to Mount Meru in Tanzania. Sighting a Narina Trogon is a major coup for bird watchers, including the owner’s son, who named the restaurant.

Like this elusive bird, we feel that Narina Trogon is a nod to the rarity of good food in a stylish setting in downtown Johannesburg.

An historic treasure, 81 De Korte Street housed a sweet manufacturer on its ground floor with warehousing above in the 1920s. More recently it was home to the original Turn ‘n Tender steakhouse, before our talented team of local designers and owner, Carlyn Zehner, transformed it into the unique haven that it is today.

American-born, Carlyn Zehner moved to Johannesburg in 2006. Missing the buzz of city street life after decades of living in New York City and London, and inspired by the bountiful produce grown in South Africa - a dream was born.

Executive Chef, Ross Wilson, has been working his own form of culinary magic at Narina Trogon since April 2008.

Paul Barrett, Head Chef, has ably assisted Ross since November 2008.

While no longer a formal member of staff, Aryn Guiney, has been an integral member of ‘Team Narina’ since its inception. In her role as Event Coordinator for Narina Trogon and The Canopy, Aryn continues to play a vital role.