01/06/2026
The old Casbah Roadhouse was one of Alberton’s best-known roadside eateries and became a local landmark for several decades. It formed part of the wider Casbah Roadhouse chain, which originated in Brakpan during the 1950s and expanded across Gauteng. The chain was founded by Sylvia Kongos (later Theologo family ownership) and became famous for classic South African roadhouse culture — where customers parked their cars and were served food directly at their windows. �
Notes from underground +1
The Alberton Casbah
The Alberton branch was established as part of the growing Casbah network and became one of the East Rand's most recognised roadhouses. Historical reports indicate that the building opposite the old Alberton Mall was constructed in 1972, although the Casbah brand itself had already existed since the early 1950s. �
The Mail & Guardian
According to historical accounts from the Casbah family, the Alberton branch was one of several locations opened by Evangelo “Ponch” Theologo, who expanded the chain into areas including Alberton, Johannesburg, Benoni, Vereeniging and Krugersdorp. �
Notes from underground +1
Why It Became Famous
The Casbah became known for:
Giant toasted sandwiches such as the Dagwood and Blondie.
Traditional curry-and-rice meals.
Hand-cut chips.
Milkshakes and classic roadhouse burgers.
The unique experience of eating in your car while trays hooked onto the vehicle windows. �
The Mail & Guardian +1
For many Alberton residents during the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, the Casbah was a regular meeting place after school, after rugby matches, or for late-night family meals.
The Decline of the Original Casbah
Like many traditional South African roadhouses, the Alberton Casbah faced increasing competition from shopping-centre restaurants and fast-food franchises. By the late 2010s, reviews and local accounts noted that the original Casbah operation at the site had effectively ended. One review specifically mentioned that the "original location is no more", although a restaurant continued operating from the historic premises. �
Tripadvisor
Johnny Guitar Drive-In
In 2018, the historic Alberton Casbah property was reportedly taken over by John ("Johnny") Kongos, son of Casbah founder Sylvia Kongos. The venue was rebranded as Johnny Guitar Drive In, preserving much of the classic roadhouse atmosphere while giving the establishment a new identity. �
2Summers
Historical Significance
The Casbah was more than just a takeaway restaurant. It represented a uniquely South African version of American drive-in culture and became part of Alberton’s social history. For many residents, memories of the Casbah include:
Waiting for food trays to be attached to car windows.
Friday-night family outings.
Huge toasted sandwiches and milkshakes.
Meeting friends in the parking area.
The neon signs that once lit up Alberton’s main roads. �
2Summers +1
Interesting Fact
The Casbah name was inspired by the film "Casablanca", and the chain's first branch was originally a small establishment called Smithy's Tea Pot in Brakpan before being transformed into the first Casbah Roadhouse on 29 January 1955. �
Notes from underground +1
For many long-time Alberton residents, the Casbah remains one of the town's most nostalgic landmarks, alongside the old Alberton Mall and other classic Alberton gathering spots. �
2Summers +1
