Review: Mingling After the Match at Puzzles Restaurant in Pretoria
Those who are active and often find themselves mingling beside the rugby field might know about the eatery that recently opened its doors, overlooking the Pretoria Rugby Club. It seems to be the final piece of the puzzle, elevating the club’s location even further and offering the perfect get-together spot to those who just finished a HIIT session at the Willow Way Gym next door or a rugby or soccer match on the field.
For this reason, we think the restaurant’s name, Puzzles, is very apt. While it seems like the final piece of the puzzle, the inspiration behind the name actually comes from something completely different: An episode of ‘How I Met Your Mother!’ Remember Barney? Fans of the series will recall an episode where he wanted to open a restaurant and call it Puzzles. When his friends asked him why he wanted to call it Puzzles, he merely said: “Well, that’s the puzzle!”
There is no puzzle to why you would want to visit this eatery, though. Apart from views across the outstretched field in front of you, they also have a rather impressive kiddies’ play area (which immediately caught our attention). The huge jungle gym comes with all the bells and whistles and outdoor seating allows for parents to keep a close eye on their littles. There is even a pathway on which children can ride their bikes.
Of course, here, it’s mainly about the food and drink, isn’t it? The smallish menu boasts many favourites – specially for those who keep coming back to their meal of choice – with some of the best sweet potato fries and zucchini fries you’ll find in Gauteng. Well-known local chef, Pellie Grobler offered his guidance when it comes to the menu, with some brilliant sauces and flavours that undoubtedly elevates any rump steak or burger.
Spending quality time with friends and family is ultimately what the idea around Puzzles was from the start – a place where people can come together. Gert, Janie and Herman Kriel, together with Marthinus Roodt certainly got the recipe right here, with ample to enjoy for both adults and kids. That counts for food, entertainment and even the background music, featuring various classics, including remixes from the nineties.
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