Unlocking the "Art de Vivre": Pretoria's Hidden French Gems

Written by: Hennie Fisher

The French and their culture hold, for many, a curious allure. Perhaps their culture is not for everyone, but they have left deep marks on South African history, particularly in wine-producing areas such as Franschhoek. Some South Africans with means are purchasing country properties to renovate, from humble farmhouses to elaborate chateaux and grand country houses. 

The month of March is the month of the Francophonie (la Francophonie), which is a global celebration of the French language, culture, and diversity, culminating on March 20th, the International Day of Francophonie. Look out for these suggestions in Pretoria below that may make you think that you are in France.

Brasserie de Paris

Brasserie de Paris is synonymous with the 1960s modernist Karl Jooste House that the restaurant occupies. In a certain way, this makes Brasserie de Paris even more French than it would have been in a typical ground-floor Parisian building with a large awning hanging over rattan tables and chairs. It is definitely a brasserie rather than a bistro, something slightly smarter and more modern. In the style of a great Brasserie, Brasserie de Paris’ “un steak frites” is probably one of the best dishes to be had in Pretoria and a staple on their menu, although they regularly serve other dishes one would traditionally find in a Parisian Brasserie.

Website: https://www.labrasseriedp.co.za/ 

MG Design Box

It may be dangerous to associate French design with over-the-top, bold, flamboyant interiors. Be that as it may, French interior style does conjure up a specific look. MG Design Box, although not necessarily marketing themselves as selling the latest in French décor, has loads of items to choose from, such as slightly rusted wire white-washed garden furniture that may give one a sense of being in a smaller French town somewhere. MG Design Box also stocks lovely art and some beautiful ceramic pieces, which would fit perfectly in any French interior.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mgdesignbox/ 

La Madeleine

Those who remember La Madeleine in its days in Sunnyside may well think it was much more “French” than it is in its current location. Going to La Madeleine for Sunday lunch feels like being invited to visit a French relative. Although the house in which La Madeleine now functions may not be completely Provençale from the outside, inside, with the large hearth against one wall, one could imagine a suckling pig slowly roasting in an earthenware container. Daniel Leusch is a master at serving French ciders, a beautiful, fresh seafood soup, and conjuring up a dessert with apples – how can that not be the epitome of French culture?

Website: https://lamadeleine.co.za/

Retro Rabbit

Not entirely on the same page as the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen de Clignancourt, the world's largest antiques and flea market (covering over 7 hectares in the north of Paris), but Retro Rabbit delivers the same ‘search and scratch’ pleasure. Those of you who have been to Clignancourt know that it is one of the best experiences if you love finding secondhand bargains – nothing beats picking up 12 beautiful silver-plated ‘restaurant-style’ knives for a Euro each? Retro rabbit has a little of everything: lots of kitchenware, some clothing, furniture, tableware, and much more, much the same as its French counterpart.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/retropta/ 

Nicole’s Macaroons

Whether you know (and care about) the difference between an Italian macaroon or a French macaron, they are some of the most popular and delicious treats one can have – crisp almond meringue shells with a perfect ‘foot’, filled with innumerable flavours. It is the ultimate one-bite decadence. Nicole’s Macaroons has a shop in Menlyn Main Central Square, left of the Capital Hotel entrance, and a factory in Waltloo, where production happens. They have decadent flavours such as almond & cherry, café espresso, chai spice, “birthday cake” complete with hundreds-and-thousands sprinkles, nougat blueberry, red velvet, salted butter caramel and many more.

Website: http://www.nicolesmacaroons.com/ 

Celebrating Francophonie month in March, this piece explores the enduring allure of French culture within South Africa, particularly its influence on history, architecture, and lifestyle. For those in Pretoria, the spirit of France is accessible through a curated selection of local gems: high-end dining featuring classic steak frites, rustic eateries serving traditional ciders and seafood, and shops offering everything from vintage flea market treasures to authentic interior decor and decadent macarons. Together, these spots provide a sensory journey through French heritage without leaving the city.