Written by: Hennie Fisher
Brunch is just one of those meals that we think should be celebrated with more passion. Although the hospitality industry may not be too fond of it, and controversial foodie Anthony Bourdain cautioned that one should be especially wary of Hollandaise sauce served at brunch (since it may be leftovers from breakfast and therefore a “veritable petri dish of biohazards”), we encourage you to disregard all these naysayers and book a table at one of Pretoria’s best brunch spots.
23 on Hazelwood
What could be more perfect for brunch than a King Shaka – chicken livers with a mild mango chutney curry sauce, served with toast, a fried egg and grilled cocktail tomatoes? Or, what about their Melrose, comprising seeded bread topped with avocado, spinach, mushrooms, fried egg, roasted pumpkin seeds, pesto mayo and chilli flakes? This is a great place to hang out for brunch.
Website: 23onhazelwood.co.za
Goddess Café
Although the menu calls them boutique breakfasts, we consider them to be brunch menu items in disguise. What suits brunch better than Eggs Benedict, served with mustard Hollandaise? Alternatively, what about crumbed chicken and halloumi naan with sweet chilli sauce? Goddess Café has four Pretoria branches, one across the road from Rietondale Park, one in Waterkloof, another in Southdowns and another in Watermeyer Park, with two more in in Linden and Park Meadows in Joburg.
Website: goddesscafe.co.za
Geek House
With their main dining area on the first floor of the building, one feels slightly removed from the world and all its problems here. Step into the joy of Geek House Eatery, where young and old mingle and brunch can go on for as long as you want. What could be better for brunch than a breakfast jaffle – not quite breakfast, but not quite lunch either – made with Bolognese mince, béchamel sauce, soft egg, crispy onions and fresh basil?
Website: geekhouseeatery.co.za
Ouma Isie’s Tea Garden
Even though Steak & Chips features on their lunch menu, one can add a fried egg and build your own true brunch dish here. Very continental and elevated with a glass of Pongrácz, one may even think that you are in rural France. But no, Ouma Isie’s Tea Garden is located in a typical Old Transvaal landscape - on the historical farm of General Jan Smuts and his wife, Ouma Isie - and boasts nostalgic brunch experiences of note.
Facebook: oumaisies
Afro Boer
Few restaurants in town make one feel so special. The large, open-plan dining area allows one to peek into the busy kitchen, pick a favourite from all the delightful cakes under glass cloches on the counter, and hear the constant hiss of the espresso machine. Of course, this all contributes to conviviality and gustatory pleasure. This is where you can find various local brunch options, including the typical South African pap & kaiings - perfect for brunch.
Website: www.afroboer.co.za
Brunch is presented as a ‘civilised’ meal that bridges breakfast and lunch and while there are many more, these are some of Pretoria’s best brunch spots to explore.