Our Story
A contemporary restaurant in the heart of Sandton
AURUM is a contemporary dining destination on the 7th floor of The Leonardo in Sandton, Johannesburg. Our name is the Latin word for gold - and it shapes everything we do, from the warmth of our welcome to the care behind every plate. We serve an eclectic, seasonal menu built around exceptional ingredients, paired with a thoughtfully curated wine list with a strong South African focus.
Cuisine guided by the seasons
At AURUM, we believe every ingredient has a purpose, and that extraordinary cuisine begins with the finest components. Our culinary team crafts modern plates that celebrate the journey from seed to plate - dishes that are as intentional as they are memorable. Seasonality guides our kitchen. By respecting each ingredient and sourcing with care, we design menus that pay tribute to sustainability, local producers, and the rhythms of the year.
Set inside South Africa's tallest building
Few restaurants can claim an address like ours. AURUM is located within The Leonardo — at 234 metres, the tallest building in South Africa and a landmark in Sandton, the richest square mile in Africa. This 57-storey, mixed-use development was built during one of the country's toughest economic periods, creating countless jobs and standing today as a symbol of hope and renewal for Johannesburg.
The Leonardo was designed around principles of sustainable development, and it champions South African creativity - showcasing original works by established and emerging local artists throughout the building. Dining at AURUM means stepping into a space where architecture, art and hospitality meet, with the city of gold laid out beneath you.
Meet the Manager
“Hospitality is the art of making someone feel they are exactly where they belong.”
With over two decades of international experience in ultra-luxury service, our Operations Manager leads the Aurum team with a relentless focus on the multi-sensory guest journey. Every detail, from the acoustics of the room to the temperature of the wine, is curated under his watchful eye.
Richard Moseby
Operations Manager
Executive Chef
For Executive Chef Michelle Biondi, food is a love letter to heritage and connection. Drawing from French classical mastery and her rich Italian roots, her culinary style highlights the beauty of local ingredients through a Mediterranean lens. Designed around the joy of sharing, each plate is crafted with purpose - allowing honest, vibrant flavours to take centre stage.
Signature Style
Refined Mediterranean comfort crafted for sharing.
Philosophy
Celebrating togetherness through seasonal, ingredient-driven cuisine.
Michelle Biondi
Executive Chef
Executive Sous Chef
Steering the pass alongside our Executive Chef, our Sous Chef brings precision and consistency to every service. From sourcing seasonal produce to mentoring the brigade, the role keeps AURUM's kitchen running with the discipline and creativity our guests have come to expect.
Sammy Nkosie
Executive Sous Chef
Begin Your Story With Us
Join us at the Leonardo for an evening of redefining luxury through flavour and architectural wonder.
