Street Eats Pretoria

For many visitors to South Africa, Johannesburg and Cape Town are two top destinations, but locals know that Pretoria has its share of low-key charms. Pretoria is also referred to as the “Jacaranda City,’ because of its violet-blooming Jacaranda trees that paint the city purple every year. The city has a wealth of natural, historical and cultural attractions that include; the Union Buildings, the Voortrekker Monument, and the Rietvlei Nature Reserve. Pretoria also serves as a great jumping off point to a number of  the country's best game lodges, national parks and bush retreats. So next time you find yourself in South Africa, don't shy away from making a pitstop in Pretoria, a laid-back city that should be on every traveller's must-see list. And of course, when all of that exploring works up an appetite, we know the tastiest places in town. We've composed a stellar list of Pretoria's best eateries and markets, that showcase the city's welcoming and chilled atmosphere and rustic appeal.

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Pionier Museum. Keuningstraat. Silverton, Pretoria. Every Saturday from 5:30 AM- 9:30 AM Set your alarm clocks early so you don’t miss this unique South African market. Local farmers, cheese makers, artisans and food sellers rise before dawn to set up shop on the grounds of the Pioneer Museum. Like your typical farmer’s market you can find wonderful fresh produce, organic eggs and dairy along with a selection of homemade pickles, sweets, biltong, jams, chutneys and chilli sauces. Vendors are always happy to give a free tasting, so you can sample an assortment of delectable goodies before purchasing some take-home treats. However, be sure to save your appetite for the hearty Boer breakfast favourites like pancakes, veotkok, and pap and kaaines. There are also several fresh coffee brewers, so once you grab a steaming cup of coffee, make your way through the food stalls until you find something that looks good! It’s a popular Saturday morning spot to bring family or friends to shop and have a picnic. For more information about this market, click here.

Shop 12, Eastwood Village Shopping Centre, Pretorius St, Arcadia, Pretoria South African pancakes, called pannekoek in Afrikaans, are thin and delicate, and are similar to French crepes. Traditionally, pancakes are sprinkled with a light powdering of cinnamon and sugar and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, simple yet utterly addictive. Harrie’s Pancakes is a Pretoria institution that has been whipping up creative pancake combinations for over eighteen years. The breakfast and lunch cafe now has four different branches; Eastwood, Graskop, Dullstrom and Cullinan. The menu offers a diverse selection of sweet and savoury pancakes such as peppermint crisp crumble with caramel sauce or a traditional filling of Bobotie (a curried mince meat casserole) with a chutney vinaigrette or Chicken Livers in a Pepper Cream Sauce. And, if for any reason, you’re not a pancake person, (heaven forbid!) Harrie’s also makes excellent salads, breakfast dishes and sandwiches. For more information on Harrie's Pancakes, click here.

66a Olympus Dr & Leander St, Faerie Glen, Pretoria Found within an old, beautifully restored farmhouse, Blos Cafe is a true Pretoria gem. The inviting interior is flooded with natural light and its cool contemporary decor plays well off the whitewashed walls. The menu is an eclectic mix of dishes that includes traditional South African favourites like their Lamb and Prune Potjie and braised Oxtail, along with Thai-inspired curries and an excellent selection of burgers and steaks. Blos is also a popular breakfast and brunch spot, and offers a creative selection of omelettes, and eggy breakfast options. For more information on Blos Cafe, click here.

11 Hazelwood Drive, Hazelwood, Near Waterkloof, Waterkloof, Pretoria Serving fresh, homemade pastas, and simple yet carefully prepared entrees, Alfie's is one of the most popular restaurants in Pretoria. The cosy restaurant on Hazelwood Drive books out quickly so patrons need to make reservations at least two weeks in advance. However, this place is well worth the wait. Its clean white walls and stylish details transform Alfie's into the perfect modern trattoria. The menu highlights provincial flavors and its comforting plates of ravioli, linguine and tagliatelle are mouthwatering, while other Italian classics like Florentina steak are perfect for meat-loving guests.

Greenlyn Village Centre, SHOP NO. 20 Cnr Thomas Edison & 12TH Street East, Pretoria The craft beer craze has taken firm root in South Africa, especially in Pretoria. Capital Craft was started by four good friends who wanted to share their love for quality craft brews and promote the craft beer industry in South Africa. Their vision has succeeded and Capital Craft continues to impress with their excellent and diverse selection local craft beers and delicious BBQ-styled food. Capital Craft is definitely not your average pub. Its welcoming atmosphere is where the young and young-at-heart love to kickback and relax on a Friday or Saturday night. Count on a packed house, lots of buzz and energy and a South African rugby game being streamed on one of the big-screen TVs. For more on Capital Craft, click here.

289 R223, Mooiplaats, Pretoria Drive down the dusty Boschkop Road on the outskirts of Pretoria East and you run into this beautiful countryside oasis. The Tin Roof Cafe boasts a stunning, well-manicured garden and spacious shady veranda. Both  make it the perfect venue for a lazy weekend lunch when the weather is warm. Alternatively, head inside to the cafes high-ceilling, barn-like restaurant that boasts a wood-burning fireplace and a homey atmosphere. The artisanal menu offers a fine selection of wine, wood-fired pizzas, filets and Italian-inspired fare. Come for for the great service and ambiance and stay for a sumptuous 3-course meal that's topped off with an affogato, vanilla semifreddo or passion pavlova. For more information and photos, click here.

Multiple locations Without a doubt, one of the most treasured South African traditions is a braai, or outdoor barbecue. A braai is the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones, and any visit to South Africa wouldn't be complete without enjoying a 'lekker' braai. The focus of any braai is the meat, whether it's Karoo lamb chops, steak, chicken kebabs or sausage, quality meat is important. Boma Meat Market is your one-stop-shop for a braai and you can find a choice selection of meats, deli items and traditional South African side-dishes and desserts. For more information on Boma, click here.

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