A South African’s Guide to New Restaurants in Pretoria
Pretoria is a thriving hub of cultural significance and authentic food. The city’s foodie scene has recently been enhanced with an array of new restaurants. All of these dining destinations bring unique flavours, one-of-a-kind experiences and original concepts. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these new Pretoria restaurants are worth checking out.
Smoke
One of Hazelwood’s newest additions, Smoke, is located at 16 Firwood Ave. After the founders of Smoke had done their fair share of travelling, they decided to embrace the authenticity of South African food. What better way to celebrate South African food than opening a restaurant in the hub of Pretoria? The restaurant boasts a beautiful layout and a bar that caters to over 18s. Visit Smoke to enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner and a drink. They also host regular events here.
Aleia
While they’ve been around for a while, their relatively new location offers the perfect setting for simplified dining. A fusion of Japanese and French cuisine and open for dinner only, Aleia is a must-visit in Pretoria. Located at 366 Aries Street in Waterkloof Ridge, this dinner hotspot can only be experienced if you have a reservation. Simple, elegant and intimate, it’s the perfect fine dining experience.
Badinage
Badinage, meaning humorous or witty conversation, has opened its first franchise in Equestria’s Silverstream Shopping Centre, Pretoria. Founded by Rikus de Beer from the Hennie’s Group, this elegantly designed culinary space boasts the ideal setting for Chef Monaheng’s delicious cuisine. In addition, Badinage offers an extensive offering of drinks and cocktails too, served in beautiful stemware.
Of course, there is a handpicked playlist that contributes to the overall ambiance at the restaurant. The London-inspired brown bar will most probably be the start of many good conversations and memories shared among friends.
Read more about why Badinage falls under our #HelloRecommends list here.
Gypsy Grand
A contemporary culinary experience in an architect’s beloved home – this is Gypsy Grand. Based in the heart of Rietondale, it’s created for the creative and curious. It is not just another restaurant; it’s an experience. Indulge in a contemporary culinary experience while engaging with different art forms and likeminded individuals.
Gypsy Grand hosts frequent events that bring well-known and upcoming artists, food enthusiasts and storytellers together.
Prosopa Restaurant
Prosopa Restaurant is no stranger to the food scene in Pretoria, but what you might not have known, is that they recently got a face lift. This Greek restaurant might be an oldie, but it’s a goodie and with its revamped look and feel, it’s a completely new experience. Yes, their good reputation of being a leader when it comes to a Mediterranean adventure of taste and flavour, still stands.
Visit this Greek-themed culinary gem in Waterkloof Heights.
BOSSA Restaurant, Castle Walk
Let the good times roll at BOSSA Castle Walk. We’ve added this one specially for the parents out there, as they have an outdoor seating area overlooking a kiddies’ play area. Yay for some quiet time while enjoying your meal! BOSSA is open for breakfast, lunch or dinner and you can expect some divine seasonal deals in addition to the general menu items. When we visit next, we’re opting for the Moroccan Lamb Pizza with Tzatziki and Coriander, and the Cheeseburger Spring Rolls served with Mexican Salsa.
Puzzles
The inspiration behind the name of the new eatery, Puzzles comes from 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!”
Of course, knowing what to order at this restaurant isn’t a puzzle at all. The smallish menu boasts many favourites – especially for the regulars who keep coming back for their go-to meal of choice. This restaurant also has some of the best sweet potato fries and zucchini fries you’ll find in Gauteng.
