Tao Café, also known as KaMawiza, is a community restaurant and event venue located at 2542 Jangu Street, Wattville, Benoni, Gauteng, operated by local entrepreneur and chef Tao. The venue opened in 2019 and has since become known for hosting intimate events, private functions, and serving traditional South African cuisine. Tao Café caters to residents of Wattville and the greater Benoni area who are seeking an authentic, locally-owned space for celebrations, family gatherings, and community events.

About Tao Café and KaMawiza

Tao Café operates under the name KaMawiza, reflecting the owner’s commitment to creating a welcoming, home-style atmosphere where guests feel like family. The business is run by Tao, who brings a personal touch to every event and meal served at the venue. Guest reviews frequently mention the warm hospitality and personalized service provided by Tao and the team. The café functions both as a daily eatery serving walk-in customers and as a bookable function venue for private celebrations, making it a versatile community hub in Wattville.

Function and Event Spaces

Tao Café offers a single indoor function space that can be configured for various event types. The venue accommodates intimate gatherings, including birthday parties, kitchen teas, baby showers, and small wedding receptions. The space can comfortably host between 30 and 50 guests depending on seating arrangements. The layout is flexible, allowing for both seated dining events and more casual standing receptions. Tao Café provides tables, chairs, and basic décor for events, with clients welcome to bring additional personal touches and decorations to suit their theme.

Catering and Traditional Cuisine

Tao Café specializes in traditional South African dishes, with a focus on home-cooked meals that reflect township culinary heritage. The menu features favourites such as:

• Pap and vleis (maize porridge with meat)
• Mogodu (tripe)
• Chicken stew
• Dombolo (steamed bread)
• Chakalaka and other traditional sides
• Samp and beans

Many patrons praise the authenticity and generous portions of the meals served at Tao Café. For private functions, Tao Café works with clients to customize menus based on dietary preferences, guest count, and budget. The café also caters for smaller, walk-in customers throughout the week, offering daily specials and platters for collection.

Services and Amenities

Tao Café provides a range of services to support successful events and gatherings. For function bookings, the venue offers event coordination assistance, helping clients plan timelines, seating arrangements, and catering requirements. The café has a sound system available for music and announcements during events. On-site parking is available on Jangu Street, with additional street parking nearby for larger gatherings. The venue is accessible by taxi and public transport, making it convenient for guests travelling from across Benoni and the East Rand.

Practical Information and Contact

Tao Café is located at 2542 Jangu Street in Wattville, a residential township in Benoni, approximately 30 kilometres east of Johannesburg. The venue is easily reached from the R51 and R23 routes. For bookings and inquiries, clients can contact Tao Café directly by phone at 079 374 8240. Advance booking is recommended for weekend events, especially during peak celebration seasons. Walk-in customers are welcome during regular operating hours, though availability may vary depending on private event bookings.

Community Role and Local Impact

Tao Café has established itself as a valued community gathering place in Wattville, supporting local employment and providing an affordable venue option for township residents. The café’s owner, Tao, is actively involved in the local community and is known for supporting neighbourhood initiatives and small celebrations. Customers often mention the café’s role in bringing people together and creating a sense of belonging in the area. Tao Café also sources ingredients from local suppliers where possible, contributing to the township economy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What types of events can Tao Café accommodate?
A: Tao Café can host birthday parties, kitchen teas, baby showers, small wedding receptions, family gatherings, and other intimate celebrations for 30 to 50 guests. The venue is suitable for both seated dining events and casual standing receptions. The team works with clients to tailor the space and catering to each event’s specific needs.

Q: What kind of food does Tao Café serve?
A: Tao Café specializes in traditional South African township cuisine, including pap and vleis, mogodu, chicken stew, dombolo, samp and beans, and chakalaka. The menu focuses on authentic, home-cooked meals with generous portions. Custom menus can be arranged for private functions based on client preferences and budget.

Q: How do I book Tao Café for a private function?
A: You can book Tao Café by calling 079 374 8240 to speak with Tao or a member of the team. Advance booking is recommended, especially for weekend events during busy seasons. The café will discuss your event requirements, guest count, catering preferences, and any additional services needed.

Q: Is parking available at Tao Café?
A: Yes, on-site parking is available on Jangu Street, with additional street parking nearby for larger events. The venue is also accessible by taxi and public transport, making it convenient for guests travelling from across Benoni and the East Rand.

Q: Does Tao Café provide tables, chairs, and décor?
A: Tao Café provides tables, chairs, and basic décor for events held at the venue. Clients are welcome to bring additional personal decorations and touches to match their event theme. The café also has a sound system available for music and announcements during functions.

Q: Can I visit Tao Café as a walk-in customer for a meal?
A: Yes, Tao Café welcomes walk-in customers during regular operating hours and offers daily specials and traditional South African meals. Availability may vary depending on private event bookings, so it’s advisable to call ahead if you’re planning a visit during peak times.

Q: Where exactly is Tao Café located in Wattville?
A: Tao Café is located at 2542 Jangu Street, Wattville, Benoni, Gauteng. Wattville is a residential township approximately 30 kilometres east of Johannesburg, easily accessible from the R51 and R23 routes. The café is situated within the neighbourhood and is well-known to local residents.

For more venues in the area, visit the Benoni event venues directory and Gauteng event venue listings.