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Hungry for new flavours? Check out the best restaurants in Pretoria
Ever found yourself wanting to dine out because cooking feels like too much of a hassle?
Restaurants offer a quick fix, but they also provide a chance to catch up with friends, celebrate special moments, or just enjoy a change of scenery. Isn’t it exciting to explore new flavours and cuisines that you might not try at home?
For a taste of the best spots in the city, dive into the best restaurants in Pretoria and discover your next favourite dining experience.
Pachas Restaurant
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Website: http://www.pachas.co.za/
Address: The Club Centre, 22 Dely Road, cnr Elandslaagte Street & Dely Road, Hazelwood
Phone: +27 12 460 5063
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours:
- Monday – 12 PM to 8:30 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday – 12 PM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 2 PM
Pachas Restaurant is a well-loved spot and a long-standing gem since 1985. It’s known for blending classic favourites with modern dishes, offering a wide range of options.
I ordered the rump with mustard and brandy sauce, which had a sharp, tangy edge, and the duck Fuji, where the sweetness of the glaze perfectly complemented the tender meat. Both stood out for their well-balanced flavours and unique combinations.
| Pro Tip: If you’re planning a special occasion or business lunch at Pachas, make sure to book one of their private venues in advance with a phone call. Spaces fill up quickly, especially around year-end celebrations. |
Wood & Fire
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Website: https://woodandfire.co.za/
Address: Veale St, Nieuw Muckleneuk
Phone: +27 12 346 2261
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 9 AM to 9:30 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 9 AM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 9 AM to 9 PM
Wood & Fire offers a cosy, laid-back spot to enjoy a wide range of dishes for any meal of the day. Whether you’re after a quick bite, a gathering with friends, or something a bit more relaxed, there’s something for everyone, including vegan and vegetarian options.
I went with the lamb chops, and they were perfectly tender and rich in flavour, while the others tried the fillet and fish, both getting thumbs up around the table. The vibe was easygoing, and the staff kept everything running smoothly.
| Pro Tip: Get 25% off any cocktail from The Classic section, Monday to Friday, between 2 PM and 6 PM. It’s a great way to try out a few drinks without breaking the bank. |
The Blue Crane Restaurant and Bar
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Website: https://www.bluecranerestaurant.co.za/
Address: 156 Melk St, Nieuw Muckleneuk
Phone: +27 12 460 7615
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 8 AM to 3 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 8 AM to 10 PM
The Blue Crane Restaurant and Bar offers a lovely setting right on the lake within the Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary. With a variety of dining spots, from the open-air Top Deck to the relaxed African Mask Bar, it’s a great place to enjoy a meal any time of day.
During my visit, I opted for the beef burger and fries, which were satisfying without being overly fussy. The relaxed vibe of the African Mask Bar made for a pleasant spot to watch the sunset while enjoying my meal.
| Pro Tip: Take a scenic walk through the park next to the restaurant to reach the gallery of the Association of Arts-Pretoria, where you can enjoy a diverse collection of contemporary art. |
Crawdaddy’s Brooklyn
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Website: https://crawdaddys.co.za/
Address: 02, Brooklyn Piazza, Middel St, Brooklyn
Phone: +27 76 733 5636
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM
- Sunday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
Crawdaddy’s offers a unique dining experience where you cook your steak on a skillet right at your table. You can choose from sides like fries, sweet potato fries, rice, mashed potatoes, and veggies such as butternut or spinach.
I tried cooking my steak myself and paired it with sweet potato fries and a side of spinach. The process of grilling at the table added a fun touch, and the sides complemented the steak perfectly, making it a satisfying meal.
| Pro Tip: When cooking your steak at the table, make sure the skillet is preheated to a high temperature before adding the meat. This ensures a good sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. |
Fermier Restaurant
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Website: https://www.fermierrestaurant.com/
Address: 141 Lynnwood Rd, The Willows 340-Jr
Phone: +27 76 072 5261
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 7 PM to 10 PM
Fermier Restaurant offers a unique dining experience, where a farm gate and dirt road lead to a peaceful clearing in the veld. The journey to the restaurant is as memorable as the meal itself, with a farm-to-table ethos evident throughout.
During my visit, the kingklip with dill dust and the duck parfait were highlights. The kingklip, with its goat’s cheese sauce, changed how I think about the fish, and the duck parfait with fresh bread showed off the chef’s talent.
| Pro Tip: Take a pre-dinner walk around the farm if possible. You’ll get to see the produce and understand the sustainable practices that contribute to the restaurant’s menu. |
Peppertree Restaurant
Website: https://peppertreerc.co.za/
Address: 581 Verdi St, Constantia Park
Phone: +27 83 380 4050
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 6:30 AM to 9 PM
Peppertree, opened by Helen de Beer in early 2019, offers a charming blend of home-cooked meals with a modern twist. Originally catering to Opikopi Guest House guests, it now welcomes the public for dinner, set within the tranquil Opikopi grounds.
I tried the tempura prawns with a crisp coating and zesty lemon butter sauce that complemented the prawns well. The Moroccan-style lamb shank was tender with aromatic spices and paired nicely with the sweet pumpkin fritters.
| Pro Tip: The restaurant also hosts wine tastings. Stay tuned to their Facebook for the latest schedule and details. |
Priva
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Website: https://www.priva.co.za/
Address: 103 Club Ave, Waterkloof Heights
Phone: +27 12 346 4849
Pricing: $
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 4 PM to 12 AM
- Saturday & Sunday – 12 PM to 12 AM
Priva offers a unique fine dining experience with its blend of contemporary style and luxurious atmosphere. The indoor and outdoor dining options, along with live jazz and a diverse humidor, create an inviting setting for a memorable evening.
During my visit, I enjoyed the rich, caramel notes of the crème brûlée, which had a perfectly crisp top and a velvety custard base. The lamb shoulder was tender and well-seasoned, with a depth of flavour that lingered nicely on the palate.
| Pro Tip: Book a table on the balcony and aim to visit around sunset. The view over the Waterkloof Valley at this time is stunning, adding a special touch to your meal. |
Hillside Tavern
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Website: https://hillsidetavern.co.za/
Address: 320 The Hillside St, Lynnwood
Phone: +27 12 348 5505
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday – 5:30 PM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 11:30 AM to 3 PM
Hillside Tavern offers a relaxed setting and a varied menu, including steaks, seafood, and unique options like ostrich. Their outdoor seating and flexible dining options make it a great spot for any occasion.
I had the Portuguese-style ribs, which were tender with a smoky flavour and a tangy marinade. The cocktails were well-balanced and refreshing, nicely rounding off the meal.
| Pro Tip: Arrive early for the Saturday patio party from 7 PM to 11 PM to secure a good spot and enjoy the live music in a relaxed atmosphere. |
Caraffa Restaurant
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Website: https://www.caraffa.co.za/
Address: 46 Selati St &, Garsfontein Rd, Alphen Park
Phone: +27 12 346 3181
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 12 PM to 9:30 PM
Caraffa Restaurant, established in 1990, offers a genuine family atmosphere with a distinctly Italian charm. What sets it apart is the authentic touch provided by Michela and Enrico, who ensure every detail reflects their love and dedication.
I tried the costata Fiorentina, a 500 g T-bone roasted in the pizza oven, which had a smoky richness from the olive oil, black pepper, and garlic. The homemade gnocchi was wonderfully tender, with a creamy sauce that highlighted its comforting taste.
| Pro Tip: Enjoy live piano music every Monday, Tuesday, and Saturday at the restaurant, adding a lovely touch to your dining experience. |
La Pentola
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Website: http://pretoria.lapentola.co.za/
Address: 5 Well St, Riviera
Phone: +27 12 329 4028
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 12 PM to 10 PM
La Pentola is a refined restaurant known for its elegant wood-panelled setting and intimate, candlelit atmosphere. I tried the Santorini chicken, which had a delightful mix of Mediterranean herbs that enhanced the tender meat perfectly.
Their cocktails were equally impressive, adding a refreshing touch to the meal. With attentive service and a cosy setting, it made for a truly enjoyable dining experience.
| Pro Tip: If you’re a fan of steak, try to visit on Wednesdays for their steak special. The 20% discount on fillets and rumps is a real treat and makes for a great value. |
Mezetaki Pretoria
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Website: https://mezetaki.co.za/
Address: 27 Maroelana St, Hazelwood
Phone: +27 12 023 2040
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday – 7:30 AM to 5 PM
- Wednesday to Saturday – 7:30 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 8 AM to 4 PM
Mezetaki is a charming spot with Greek-inspired dishes that make for a delightful dining experience. Their menu is packed with Mediterranean favourites, ideal for any meal of the day.
On my visit, the Meze Platter was a highlight, featuring succulent grilled calamari and tangy dolmades. The meatballs were particularly memorable, tender and seasoned with just the right blend of herbs.
| Pro Tip: Be sure to visit their deli section for a great selection of Greek goodies like rich olive oil and creamy feta cheese. |
Alēia
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Website: https://aleia.co.za/
Address: 366 Aries St, Waterkloof Ridge
Phone: +27 82 764 4202
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 6:30 PM to 11:30 PM
Alēia Restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its focus on thoughtfully crafted cuisine and an ever-evolving menu. From the fresh seafood to the Mediterranean-inspired lunch options, there’s always something new to discover.
I found the fresh salmon to be particularly memorable, with its rich, smoky undertones that were beautifully balanced. The dessert, a sweet risotto with a touch of citrus, offered a refreshing end to the meal that was both unique and satisfying.
| Pro Tip: Don’t miss the gallery at Alēia, featuring a diverse range of art from South Africa’s top artists. From impressionism to modern pieces, all works are for sale, and if you’re interested in a custom piece, the curators are happy to assist. |
Kream Restaurant Brooklyn
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Website: https://brooklyn.kreamrestaurant.co.za/
Address: 283 Dey St, Nieuw Muckleneuk
Phone: +27 12 346 4642
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11 AM to 2 AM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 1 AM
Kream stands out for its creative twist on globally inspired dishes with a local touch. The restaurant offers an intriguing wine selection, featuring both international and South African options.
I tried their brownies and blondies, which were notably rich and dense with a deep chocolate flavour and a sweet, buttery note. The lamb shank was tender and well-seasoned, with a robust, savoury taste that highlighted its slow-cooked preparation.
| Pro Tip: Make the most of your visit to Kream by indulging in their bottomless mimosas for R199 per person, available daily from 11 AM to 3 PM. Each glass comes with a meal, so sip leisurely and enjoy the full experience. |
Brasserie de Paris Pretoria
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Website: https://www.labrasseriedp.co.za/
Address: 381 Aries St, Waterkloof Ridge
Phone: +27 12 460 3583
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday – 6 PM to 9:30 PM
- Wednesday to Saturday – 12 PM to 9:30 PM
The Brasserie de Paris offers a unique blend of classic French and contemporary international cuisine, housed in the historic Karl Jooste House. The restaurant stands out with its carefully curated wine list, featuring both local and international selections.
During my visit, I had the vanilla pod crème brûlée, which had a rich vanilla aroma and a perfectly caramelised top. The potato and leek soup was a comforting choice, with its velvety texture and subtle hints of fresh leek.
| Pro Tip: When enjoying a multi-course menu, pace yourself and savour each dish slowly to fully appreciate the flavours. Take small bites and focus on the nuances of each course, allowing time between dishes to reset your palate. |
Blu Saffron
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blusaffron1/
Address: Pretoria Country Club, 241 Sidney Avenue, Waterkloof, Pretoria
Phone: +27 12 346 0223
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours:
- Monday – 12 PM to 8 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday – 12 PM to 9:30 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 2:30 PM
Blu Saffron offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. The menu is thoughtfully diverse, catering to various tastes, from hearty meats to light vegetarian dishes.
I tried the salmon teriyaki and lamb shoulder, which had well-balanced flavours. The teriyaki sauce on the salmon was subtly sweet and tangy, while the lamb shoulder was tender and slow-cooked, making both dishes enjoyable.
| Pro Tip: There’s more to explore in the area. You might enjoy a stroll through the picturesque grounds of the country club or take advantage of its various recreational facilities, such as the golf course or tennis courts. |
SMOKE
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Website: https://smokecapital.co.za/
Address: 16 Firwood Ave, Hazelwood
Phone: +27 65 868 8647
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday – 12 PM to 11 PM
- Thursday & Friday – 12 PM to 11:30 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 11:30 PM
- Sunday – 9 AM to 10 AM
Smoke is known for its unique blend of South African flavours and cosmopolitan atmosphere. The restaurant showcases a special dedication to its craft, using two giant cabinet smokers and open fires to prepare its tapas-style dishes.
I tried the Boboti Crockett and smoked spare ribs during my visit. The Boboti Crockett was rich and spiced with a subtle sweetness, while the smoked spare ribs had a deep, smoky flavour that was well-balanced and tender.
| Pro Tips: For a great date night, visit on Wednesdays when they offer a three-course dinner with wine for R695 per couple. Check out SMOKE’s cocktail masterclass. You’ll get hands-on training from the head mixologist, learn to craft premium cocktails, and enjoy four cocktails along with dinner. |
