See the winners in each category for the 2022 Best of Pretoria Reader’s Choice Awards
Best Live Music Venue
Nostalgic cover song shows, blues rock, local Afrikaans music, Latin music, band tributes – and more. Much more. The Barnyard Theatre has it all. Every musical genre and era to cater to all musical tastes. And when live musical performances aren’t your thing, then there are even standup comics to tickle the funny bone. Plus, you can make an outing of it. All Barnyard Theatres have a fully stocked bar, coffee and snack bar – and you are welcome to bring your own picnic baskets and platters.
Best Cocktail Spot
This lively pub boasts over 20 screens showing live sport, plus a terrace and a menu of grills and pizzas. Its vibe makes Eastwoods the premium entertainment venue in Pretoria. Here patrons can enjoy cocktails or cold draughts. Guests looking for something a little more substantial can also expect a fairly large menu, which offers everything from T-bones served with mash or wood-fired pizza. The vibe at Eastwoods is always amazing.
Best Neighbourhood Pub
Having been around for two decades, it’s no surprise that this vibey pub opposite Loftus Versfeld in Arcadia also won Best of Pretoria’s Best Neighbourhood Pub category in addition to the Best Cocktail Spot category. Eastwoods’ variety of dishes, great drinks specials, combined with the vibrant atmosphere allows for a truly unique experience.
www.facebook.com/EastwoodsPTA
Best Bottle Store
Liquor City is Pretoria residents’ one-stop destination for all they need when it comes to a vast selection of alcoholic beverages such as ciders, beer, wine, spirits, coolers – you name it. Add to this decent prices and friendly services and you know you’ve got a winner.
Best Place to Karaoke
Aahh, karaoke. It gets better (and less embarrassing), the more drinks you have. Of course, the right vibe is essential, which is why Pretorians picked this friendly spot in Hilda Street, Hatfield. So this is the ideal time to make your evenings epic again – and film those would-be YouTube karaoke videos with which to blackmail your boss into giving you a raise!
Best Outdoor Dining
This café describes itself as being “very uniquely non-traditional” but with a dash of “Zulu on my stoep and boerekos in my kitchen”. It is a place where you can “wear a Madiba T-shirt whilst walking over a Nguni-cowskin to fresh boerebeskuit on some painted antique afrikana shelf, soulfully humming along to Ladysmith Black Mambazo jiving in the background”. With a philosophy like this behind it, it is no wonder that afro-boer has won multiple prestigious awards with Eat-Out Magazine, Diner’s Club Wine Awards, TripAdvisor Service Excellence Awards and, of course, Best of Pretoria.
Best Breakfast Spot
This Equestria eatery, on the corner of Lynnwood Road and Meerlust Avenue, wants to be more than the food it serves. It is also selling an experience. “I want to share with the people around me,” their website says. “This I want people to remember as if sitting at their own kitchen tables whilst food is slowly and lovingly being prepared by hand. All of this, I combine in my eatery, aiming to set a slower pace, but one with a bit of meaning… and possibly some celebration!”
Best New Restaurant
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication, according to this new wine bar/eatery/art gallery at Ridge Square on Lynnwood. “An intimate experience. No bells and whistles here. No smoke and mirrors either. It’s just simple, unpretentious food made with intent,” its website declares. And Pretoria residents agreed, having voted it the best new restaurant in our fair city.
Best Bistro
Burger Bistro was started by Corné Read and Jan-Hendrik van Staden. “Two guys who love burgers and had too much time on their hands,” their website says. They opened the first restaurant on Pierneef Street in Villieria (against their mothers’ advice) in 2012. The idea was simple… Fresh ingredients, homemade patties, hand-cut chips, bad-ass milkshakes and good music. Word spread and soon this little restaurant on the other side of town was bursting at its seams with people driving from far and wide to sample these delicious burgers.
Best Neighbourhood Restaurant
Since its start in 1990, Cappuccinos has been a business with a passion for success. This is evident in that today there are 18 Cappuccinos stores across South Africa and one in Botswana. Drawing on the concept that you are always welcome, the Cappuccinos experience provides the opportunity for people from all walks of life to experience quality hearty food, served professionally with a smile. Their diverse menu is a testament to time-honoured family recipes and current foodie trends made with the finest quality ingredients that through trial-and-error ensure that the Cappuccinos offering remains fresh and exciting.
Best Indian Restaurant
Makhni, Rogan Josh or Lamb Shank Biryani? Well, residents have again voted for Geet as the best Indian restaurant in the city. So check out this restaurant which is a mere minute’s walk from Brooklyn Mall today!
Best Business Lunch
Offering global cuisine with a South African twist, plus sushi and whiskies, in a modern, stylish space, readers have selected Kream as the best place for a business lunch.
Best Romantic Restaurant
Versatility is the name of the game as the Kream restaurant in Nieuw Muckleneuk not only won in the Business Lunch and Spoil Yourself categories but also the Romantic Dining prize category. So make a booking today for you and the love of your life.
Best Spoil Yourself Restaurant
Known as one of the trendiest restaurants in Pretoria, Kream brings together fine dining and wonderful service for an all-around dining experience that will have you buzzing for days. Choose between private dining, closed booths and terrace seating options and make the most of any occasion. So go on, make a booking and spoil yourself…
Best Chinese Restaurant
With 10 branches in Pretoria and 15 in Johannesburg, it is clear that Kung-Fu Kitchen must be doing something right. It is clear that their restaurants enjoy a reputation for impeccable service, a wide variety of delicious Chinese and Japanese cuisine and a friendly oriental atmosphere. So, for seven days a week, Kung-Fu Kitchen’s talented chefs serve up mouth-watering dishes from appetizers to delicious sweet and sour, from Japanese sushi rolls freshly made from the sushi bar.
Best Italian Restaurant
Looking for the best pizza or pasta in town? Then, according to the readers who voted, you don’t have far to go because they picked Mimmos, which has several restaurants spread throughout the city. This is the fourth time in a row that Mimmos won the Best of Pretoria Readers’ Choice Award, so you don’t have to only take only our word for how good they are.
Best Seafood Restaurant
In Cape Town, they have a view of the ocean. In Pretoria, we have a view of the N1. Well, don’t let that get you down. Just because we live in the interior doesn’t mean that we also can’t enjoy fresh fish and seafood like those snooty Capetonians. Enter: Ocean Basket. For the second time in a row, Pretorians’ choice of the best place to get yummy seafood.
Best Sushi Spot
Once again, Pretorians picked Ocean Basket as their go-to place for this Japanese cuisine. Here you can choose between a variety of freshly prepared sushi, including Californian rolls, rainbow rolls, nigiri, salmon roses and sashimi. Best of all, there probably is an Ocean Basket near you.
Best Portuguese Restaurant
With a large Portuguese population in South Africa, it was only obvious that we would also inherit much of their culinary traits and preferences. So if you’re in the mood for LM prawns, langoustines, crab, lobsters and oysters then O’Galito has the platters for you. Although they specialise in seafood, the restaurants offer a full a la carte menu such as traditional peri-peri chicken, fillet steak, rabbit and oxtail. With restaurants in Woodlands and Centurion, O’Galito is also an ideal business lunch venue where every customer’s needs are attended to by well-trained and exceptionally groomed waiting staff. They also go the extra mile for business executives and offer services for large parties and corporate functions.
Best Sit-Down Pizzeria
Piza ē Vino’s food is rigorously Italian healthy and creative: through this simplicity, a winning formula has been discovered. So for a touch of Italy – slurping up a bowl of spaghetti ragu and pizza with the perfect blend of fresh ingredients – check out one of their restaurants in Waterkloof, Queenswood, Lynnridge and Irene.
Best Mexican Restaurant
Salsa is not your traditional Mexican Grill. Sure, they offer authentic Mexican recipes. And yes, they use traditional cooking methods. In fact, they travelled all the way to the West Coast of the USA to master them and bring them back to South Africa! So check out one of their restaurants in Centurion, Loftus and Menlyn Maine.
Best Steakhouse
Pretoria residents have spoken – and they love Spur. So if you’re in the market for a nice and tender juicy steak, some chips and a side of onion rings, then your local Spur is the place to be. Don’t forget to order a beer too! Mmmmmmm.
Best Greek/Mediterranean
Pretoria residents agree that if you are looking for a genuine Greek dining experience with genuine Greek food, then Toula’s is the place. No need to travel to Greece (although that would be nice). You can enjoy that idyllic simplicity and warmth of the Greek islands right here in Pretoria.
Best Fresh Produce
Becoming a community favourite, Apple Tree has become a place to shop for great specials on fruits and vegetables. They have other products also available such as dairy, cold meats, pastas, canned foods, and so on. You can also pick up a quick and easy meal. Check them out at the Park Shopping Centre in Elarduspark today.
Best Fish Deli
This seafood shop stocks a large variety of the freshest seafood available. They also offer same-day delivery on all orders placed by 16:00 (Monday-Friday) and 14:00 (Saturdays). So visit their shop next to Centurion Mall and discover the best seafood in town.
Best Food Market
When most people are still sleeping on a Saturday morning, the Boeremark is already a hive of activity where exhibitors set up their stalls and fill them with fresh vegetables, fruit, meat, baked goods and beautiful craft items. So check them out one weekend. They are located in 665 Moreleta Street, Silverton.
Best Patisserie
Château Gâteaux boasts modern, low-waste, defrost-and-serve convenience that tastes as good as it looks. The result is everything you see and taste today; exceptional quality, locked-in-freshness and attention to detail that goes beyond cake for pure indulgence that makes the moment even better. Check them out at Glenfair Boulevard in Lynnwood Manor or Menlyn Park Shopping Centre.
Best Bakery
Château Gâteaux says that they’ve perfected the world’s favourite cake, dessert, pastry and treat recipes for everyone to enjoy. And we believe them because they use only the finest, freshest and most natural ingredients available. You can taste the quality and care in every bite.
Best Continental Deli
Cremalat Cheese started with humble beginnings in 1993 from Claudio and Margaret Giustizieri, both of Italian origin, who shared a love for Italian food. Day by day, the demand for their Italian products grew so much that Claudio and Margaret decided to expand their lines by importing other Italian products such as cold meats, coffee, pasta, tomatoes, water, wine, olive oil and more. Eventually, they expanded to Groenkloof, Pretoria too.
Best Takeaway Chicken
We all know KFC, don’t we? After all, it is the world’s second-largest restaurant chain after McDonald’s, with 22 621 locations globally in 150 countries as of December 2019. No introductions are necessary!
Best Doughnut Spot
One bite into a light, fluffy Krispy Kreme doughnut and you’re transported into a world of pure joy. And they look so appetising, too. With so many glazes and fillings to choose from, the only solution is to take home a box of every single kind. And if you still can’t make up your mind, what about combining two for the flavours to melt in your mouth? But perhaps what you didn’t know is that they will customise doughnuts for kids’ parties, gender reveal parties, company events and more.
Best Butcher
Pretoria is braai country. After all, who doesn’t like a lekker tjoppie sizzling on the coals? And Pretorians’ go-to place for that tjoppie is Meat World whose expert butchers will cut, pack and price everything for your convenience. Hygiene and food safety are top priorities for Meat World.
Best Biltong
South Africa may have its problems but it still has the best weather. And it is the best place on earth to get biltong. The best biltong in the city, according to residents, is Meat World’s branch in Elarduspark. So check them out before that next Bulls game!
Best Place to Buy Boerewors
Meat World in Elarduspark must be doing something right. Not only do locals believe they have the best biltong in the city, but they are also the best place to buy boerewors. Something to keep in mind the next time you get the friends over for a braai.
Best Takeaway Pizza
Mamma mia! And Roman’s is Pretoria’s best pizzeria! Rhyming puns aside, Roman’s has always proved to be a firm favourite of locals, offering the best bang for your buck for those office or kiddies parties or those evenings when you simply can’t face cooking dinner!
Best Supermarket
With more than 850 stores nationwide there’s sure to be a SPAR somewhere around the corner to meet all your shopping needs. Besides the convenience, your local SPAR will also offer great savings.
Best Chips
No one wants the hassle of deep frying (and have you seen the cost of cooking oil?) so when a plate of piping hot, salty, vinegary chips is in order then get to Steers for their fries. Nothing tastes quite as good as their hand-cut chips, complete with their special seasoning sprinkled on top. But don’t miss out on their juicy burgers, flame grilled, just how we like them. Burgers and chips – a perfect pair just like bread and jam.
Best Takeaway Burger
They made Wednesday wacky with their double burger takeaway special, but the rest of the week is just as good for getting something to eat from your local Steers. That’s according to our readers, who again made Steers the go-to – or order from, thanks to Mr Delivery – choice in Pretoria. Mmmmmm. Flame-grilled…
Best Ice Cream Parlour
Gelato is, of course, the Italian word for ice cream. But you knew that, right? Because that is why our readers voted for Aroma Gelato. They are not a huge franchise with only two stores (one on the corner of Lynnwood Road & Pienaar Street opposite Hillcrest Boulevard; the other at the In-Shere centre on No. 4 Graham Road). But they have clearly made their mark as so many Pretorians voted for them. Worth checking out!
Best Coffee Shop
Located in the Elardus Park Shopping Centre, this trendy coffee café offers a modern flair with a feel-good, traditional touch to it. Key to this is the inspiration that they draw from café life prevalent from Cape Town to New York, imaginatively encapsulated in their modern and striking, yet subtle New-York-meets-Karoo décor theme. So step inside for an unhurried break. They have what it takes to make you come back for more.
www.thedailycoffeecafe.co.za/the-daily-coffee-cafe-elardus-park/
Best Jewellery Store
For three generations, Browns has been designing engagement, wedding and eternity rings and other exquisite pieces of diamond jewellery. Only stones with the most perfect cut and clarity make it into a Browns piece, so if you want to be sure that she says ‘I do’, make sure the ring as well as the girl is a keeper!
Best Fashion Boutique
Nicci Boutiques has 17 stylish boutiques located in the most sought-after shopping districts throughout Johannesburg, Cape Town and of course Pretoria. It is frequented by celebrities, socialites, businesswomen, home executives and the new emerging younger market alike. They cater for a wide range of fashion-first women in both sizes and ages. Here you can check out and buy the latest fashion styles of chic items that will have you dressing spot on trend for the upcoming season.
Best Fashion Boutique
Forever New is founded in Melbourne, Australia but while they’re a global brand, behind the scenes they’re a collective of close friends: fashion enthusiasts, designers and in-store experts, who work non-stop to help our customers embrace and elevate their style. Forever New South Africa was established over 10 years ago and currently operates retail stores in South Africa’s top shopping malls, including Menlyn Park Shopping Centre.
Best Shoe Store
Founded in 1975, Green Cross is South Africa’s and Pretoria’s leading comfort footwear brand. Stocking an array of shoes and shoe- and footcare products. Fans of the brand will attest that Green Cross shoes are lightweight, padded for extra comfort, and made from supple materials which conform to the shape of the wearer’s foot. The designs are unique and trendy ensuring customers amazing fit, comfort and style. The next time you are looking for the perfect pair of shoes for an event, you know where to go!
Best Accessory Shop
There isn’t a part of your body that you can’t adorn with beautiful Lovisa jewellery and accessories. From head to toe, Lovisa will make you glint, shine and dazzle. Their exquisitely designed pieces come in sterling silver, silver-plated, cubic zircona, white, yellow and rose gold – you can theme a look or mix and match, according to your mood. Go and choose something and start dropping hints in time for Christmas!
Best Nail Bar
Not just manis and pedis, but skincare and body massages, good hair days and bad hair days (and unwanted hair days), Sorbet knows how to pamper. They don’t have customers, they have guests who are family. And they are not just a brand, they bring a whole passion to their work, too. They’re all about hot towels, hot wax, manicures, blowouts and bro-outs, Hollywood, Brazilian and Swedish. They paint and dip, deep cleanse and deep tissue. We can feel the tension ebbing away already.
Best Place for a Massage
Because beauty is more than about looking good, it is also about feeling good. And what will make you feel better than, let’s say, a Swedish, aromatherapy or hot stone massage? Book them today, I say!
Best Men’s Grooming Spot
And, of course, beauty care isn’t the sole domain of the fairer sex. Men need grooming too! At Sorbet Man, they take their cuts and shaves seriously, with only the finest products in our hands and the keenest attention to detail. The barbershop menu extends from cuts and shaves to colour treatments too, with a whole lot of styles to choose from. As for their grooming therapists, they add a double serving of awesome to their man cave with their offering of massages, waxes, facials, manicures, pedicures and more.
Best Place for a Facial
Sorbet’s top-of-the-range skincare and beard care products as well as their solid facial treatments are dermatologically approved and recommended by the Sorbet professional institute. “Only the best for our bros,” as their website declares.
Best Day Spa
Following the phenomenal success of Soulstice Day Spa, Silverstar Casino in Krugersdorp, the founders of the business decided to pursue an opportunity to open a luxurious five-star spa in the heart of Pretoria east. This new spa forms part of the esteemed Lombardy Estate on Lynnwood Road. Today, it’s famous for its state-of-the-art facilities, superior customer care and cutting-edge top-to-toe skin and body treatments.
Best Hair Salon
“Hair, beautiful hair,” as the song goes. And where better to take the best care of it than this year’s winner for Best Hair Salon? Take a bow, Studio159. This friendly and warm home-based hair salon in Moreletapark is the place to go when that bad hair day is getting you down.
Best Tattoo Parlour
Established in 1986 by Gerald Devenny in Hillbrow, Tattoo Styles was one of the first tattoo studios in Gauteng, South Africa. It has successfully been in business for over 30 years! Having started tattooing at age 11, and having his first shop in Hillbrow at age 16, Gerald’s experience is unparalleled! Tattoo Styles is also internationally based.
Best Weight Loss Programme or Diet
Most people dread looking at the scale. And when your weight becomes a health issue, it can be even more daunting. Weigh-Less provides people with what they need to feel great and build a healthier future – strong bodies, strong balance and a strong community. Weigh-Less offers everything from fitness plans, meal plans, coaches and, of course, products.
Best Baby Essentials Store
Baby City will equip you from cradle to potty training, weaning to solids with every conceivable product or gadget imaginable to keep you and your baby safe and comfortable. From everything feeding-related, hygiene products, clothes, bedding, toys, and accessories, as well as all the everyday bum creams and diapers, you can kit out your nursery with cots, nightlights and more. Make sure your most precious cargo is strapped snuggly into the car with their range of SABS-approved car seats. A gift registry is available.
Best High School (Afrikaans)
Built in 1963, following a meeting of parents within the area, this high school kicked off with a mere 372 learners in grades 8, 9 and 10. Today, this Afrikaans-medium school has an impressive 1 700 learners. Among its most famous alumni are singer Koos Kombuis, actress Jana Cilliers and author Marita van der Vyver.
Computer Training
Eduvos is one of South Africa’s largest independent private higher education institutions with 12 campuses across the country and many international students. Eduvos offers 27 degrees in humanities, arts, business, applied science, technology and law.
Private School
Hatfield Christian School, an initiative of the Hatfield Christian Church, is a reputable school in Pretoria east. “We provide Christian education and training for the whole child – intellectual, physical, spiritual and social – to develop young men and women for a productive life,” their website says.
Online Learning Institute
If you ask Google what is the best online school in South Africa, it will list the Hatfield Online Christian School. That is because it was created out of the sound educational tradition of Hatfield Christian School in Pretoria, which also won this year’s award for Best Private School.
Best Primary School (Afrikaans)
Menlopark Primary School has always been a leading school in the broader educational circles of South Africa. A school that gained fame, especially with its historically balanced success story and a school that managed to maintain it sustainably since 1953. The school, with its peaceful, spacious, tree-rich and rural atmosphere welcomes children and parents to become part of them.
Best High School (English)
Pretoria Boys High School has a rich history going back to 1901 when it was founded by Alfred Milner, 1st Viscount Milner. Today, the school has over 1 500 learners, including 300 boarders, from South Africa and beyond, managed by about 100 full-time staff. It also has a new media centre, library and music centre which were built in 2016.
Best Primary School (English)
Pure Hope School is an educational institution for underprivileged children. Pure Hope School is an extension of our dream that resulted in a pre-, primary and high school, which opened its doors in October 2010. Their mission is “to see that children, the leaders of the future, find their rightful place in this world”.
Best Kids Party Venue
Where else to hold a kids’ party but South Africa’s most beloved and probably oldest steakhouse franchise, the local family-friendly Spur? Yes, the Spur has been around since 1967 – and there’s good reason for that our voters believe.
University
The University of Pretoria (UP) is one of Africa’s top universities and the largest contact university in South Africa. Founded back in 1908, the university has grown from the original 32 students in a single late Victorian house to approximately 53 000 in 2019. Today, it offers “a high quality of teaching and learning in the classroom, online, or communities”.
Best Theatre
What better way to celebrate life and happiness than unwinding with a live comedy show at everybody’s favourite theatre? The Atterbury Theatre has become synonymous with quality productions, world-class entertainment and fun nights out. So the next time you are in the mood for some giggles, you know where to go. Book today!
Best Developer (Property)
Century Property Developments began life in 1975 primarily as a developer of shopping centres. The company has since diversified into exclusive residential estates and commercial developments. In each of its projects, Century Property Developments has provided investors with enduring quality and integrity. Their understanding of the unique South African context and its core principles of financial feasibility and sustainability, combined with design and aesthetic vision, consistently make for sound property investment opportunities.
Best Courier Service
While the DHL brand is well-known in both Pretoria and across the country, few people actually know that it is a German logistics company, a division of the German logistics firm Deutsche Post. The company group delivers over 1.6 billion parcels per year. DHL is the global leader in the logistics industry. It specialises in international shipping, courier services and transportation.
Best Estate Agent (Letting)
The driving force behind the success of Dick & Sue Home Finders lies with Principal Joleen Stapelberg. For the past 22 years Joleen has been carrying on with the same level of dedication, professionalism and work ethic that was instilled by her parents and former owners, Dick and Sue, who started the agency in 1988. Today, their well-trained administration team smoothly processes the daily admin and other office tasks with financial institutions, lawyers, sellers, buyers, and so forth – all to ensure an effortless experience for all their clients.
Best Home Security Company
Looking for a private security company? Then why not go for the oldest and most well-known private security company? Fidelity ADT is the largest security solutions provider to medium and large-scale enterprises in South Africa. Their services range across industries from residential and golf estates to shopping centres, casinos, government, health and education, to airports and hospitality.
Best Cinema Complex
“Always better on the big screen,” used to be Ster-Kinekor’s old marketing slogan and this adage still holds. No matter how big your TV at home is, it can’t beat the cinema screen for sheer, well, bigness. Besides, there’s nothing quite like some butter-salt popcorn and the thrill of watching a movie with an audience. And the place to do this, according to residents, is the cinemas at The Grove Mall.
Best Craft Market
The Irene Village Market at the Big Red Barn has received many accolades from the likes of various magazines and newspapers. It provides an environment bringing together artists and patrons alike while offering excellent family entertainment. Only original art and craft are traded with exhibitors and their wares undergo a strict selection process, which was why it was our readers’ pick in this category.
Best Local Radio Station
Broadcasting in both Afrikaans and English with regular news and traffic as well as sports updates along with the best in adult contemporary music, it is no wonder that Pretoria folks picked Jacaranda FM as their go-to radio station yet again. Find it on 94.2.
Best Local Radio Personality
No one likes being stuck in traffic, but if you really have to be stuck in traffic in the mornings then locals agree that listening to star Jacaranda FM presenter Martin Bester is the best way to go. So you know where to stop the next time you are flipping through stations: 94.2 FM in the mornings between 6 and 9 am.
Best Weekend Getaway (3 hrs drive)
This game lodge is located at the Dinokeng Big 5 Game Reserve in the northern corner of Gauteng, next to the N1 Highway. The Dinokeng reserve accommodates all of the big five free roaming and offers great plains game viewing. It is the perfect malaria-free stop-over, only half an hour’s drive from Pretoria. Built with natural stone and thatch roofs, it boasts a bona fide African ambience.
Best Dance Studio
When Pretorians think of dance, they think La Danza. That’s because this dance studio located in Murrayfield has a fully equipped dance studio and exceptionally talented instructors with years of experience in all styles of dance. That’s right, La Danza offers more than just classic and traditional-style classes. They also provide their dancers with fitness, modern and therapeutic dance in addition to traditional ballroom-style classes.
Best Hospital
With 360 beds, Life Wilgers Hospital in Lynnwood Ridge is one of the largest hospitals in the Life healthcare group. It offers modern facilities such as an accident and emergency unit with a helicopter landing pad, a 46-bed intensive-care unit and a 10-bed neonatal ICU. A first-rate team of health professionals from 22 different medical and surgical disciplines are based at the facility. No wonder Pretoria residents picked it!
Best Local Car Dealership
Bidvest Automotive is one of South Africa’s largest and most respected motor retailers, with a strong history in mobility solutions. Known as an industry leader, it has 85 fully fledged dealerships, 82 in South Africa and three in Namibia. Bidvest McCarthy services more than 500 000 vehicles annually.
Best Retirement Village
Situated in the east of Pretoria, the 120 residential units of this retirement village are nestled among old leafy trees. This development commenced 25 years ago and is well established as a retirement lifestyle estate leader with its innovative and sustainable concepts. Oostvallei’s tree-rich gardens and water streams provide safe walkways within the security village. This is indeed a little paradise.
Best Insurance Company (Home and Car)
By pioneering the concept of money back for remaining claim-free, the company has once again been voted the best by our readers. After all, since starting out, they’ve paid out over R3 billion in cash OUTbonuses and saved consumers hundreds of millions of rands in premiums.
Best Spot to Take Out-of-Towners
The Voortrekker Monument was last year’s winner as the place to take out-of-towners, but it seems that the Botanical Gardens has scored big time when it comes to residents. After all, this 76ha urban oasis, situated in the eastern suburbs, has won five categories this year! Kudos to SANBI for making sure it is the premier nature destination in Pretoria this year.
Best Place in Pretoria
The Botanical Gardens has surely grown in residents’ estimation because it has won in a whopping five categories, snatching this title away from last year’s winner, namely the iconic Union Buildings. Perhaps the safe parking at the Botanical Gardens did the trick. Plus, it is rather lovely.
Best-Kept Secret in Pretoria
After winning five categories in this year’s Best of Pretoria, it is doubtful whether the Botanical Gardens will still be Pretoria’s best-kept secret! But in case, you never heard of it: it is one of South Africa’s nine national botanical gardens. The garden is wedged between Pretoria Road and Cussonia Avenue in Brummeria, in eastern Pretoria, Gauteng, and flanks a central rocky ridge that runs from east to west.
Best place to get back to nature
No need to travel far to see some local flora. Fifty hectares of the botanical garden’s total area is devoted almost exclusively to South African plants. All the flowering plant species to be seen, including 50% of the country’s tree species, make this garden a botanical tapestry. Visitors are offered a glimpse of different biomes such as savanna and forest biomes. Different theme gardens are continuously being developed.
Best Country Club
Silver Lakes Country Club offers several outstanding venues for both corporate and private functions. Situated in and around the beautiful Silver Lakes Clubhouse, the excellent country club facilities contribute to a healthy family lifestyle. Here you can spoil yourself with delicious food and drinks while enjoying the spectacular view from their restaurants and bars.
Best Estate (Place to Live)
As a formidable industry leader, Silver Lakes Golf and Wildlife Estate has successfully cultivated an outstanding reputation and true sense of belonging in the east of Pretoria, instinctively making it a premier piece of property for families wanting to embrace a wonderfully idyllic lifestyle, yet remain conveniently located to the capital.
Best Golf Course
“Golf is a good walk spoiled,” as they say. Well, shows you what “they” know. As golfers will tell you, the sport is the perfect way to blow off steam after a long week at the office. And, according to residents, the best place to do this is the Silver Lakes Golf Course in the east of Pretoria. Designed and built by Peter Matkovich, this 18-hole, Par 72 golf course is also definitely one of the finest in the country.
Best Race (Long or Short Distance)
The Tshwane leg of the SPAR Women’s Challenge has grown from humble beginnings to one of the world’s biggest road races. This challenge is the most popular and inclusive road race in South Africa, attracting the country’s top professional female athletes and thousands of recreational runners. The race began in 1996 with just 600 entrants racing along the University of Pretoria’s Groenkloof campus. Today, it has more than 25 000 entrants.
Best Home Internet Service Provider
With the Covid lockdown, everything from shopping and attending lectures has moved online. Today, gazillions of South Africans work and play online. You may not like this new reality, but having a good internet connection is more important than ever before. And when it comes to service and reliability, Pretoria residents have picked this telecommunications giant as their preferred internet service provider.
Best Museum
For only a R25 entrance fee (R20 for kids), you can check out the Pretoria Art Museum in Arcadia. The museum occupies an entire city block and is sure to offer a comprehensive selection of South African art.
www.facebook.com/Pretoria-Art-Museum
Best Place to Gamble
Years ago in Ye Olden Days when dinosaurs still roamed the planet, South Africans had to travel all the way to Sun City to get their kicks gambling. Nowadays you don’t have to go any further than the casino at Menlyn Maine Time Square for a premium gaming experience with world-class casino facilities that span two exciting gaming floors. With over 1 750 slot machines and 60 casino tables, Time Square casino in Pretoria is officially the largest casino in Gauteng!
Best Outdoor and Camping Shop
Planning a camping weekend? Maybe a hike? Then Pretoria residents agree that Cape Union Mart International is the place to shop. This trusted one-stop destination for outdoor enthusiasts, travellers and explorers stocks a wide range of quality gear and apparel for hiking, camping, trail running, mountain biking, snow sports, travelling, safaris, fitness, and more. On top of that, their K-Way factory employs more than 200 skilled employees who produce a range of award-winning outdoor clothing, footwear and equipment.
Best Hardware Store
Famous for hardware since 1903 (!), it is no wonder locals picked Chamberlains. Yes, you can order those DIY power tools online but where’s the fun in that? Not only can you pick the expert staff’s brains on that new paint colour you want to paint the new children’s room, but did you know they also offer the following handy services (at select shops): gate remote programming, pool water testing, cutting & edging and gas exchange. And if DIY bores you to tears, then you can hang out at the store’s coffee shop while your hubby checks out pine mouldings.
Best Place to Buy a Bed/Mattress
A good night’s rest is essential and so is a comfortable mattress or bed, which is why Pretorians once again voted for Dial-a-Bed as the best place to buy a bed or mattress in the city. So if you want a good night’s shut-eye, then you better start dialling now.
Best Pharmacy
And congratulations to Dis-Chem for again winning in this category! Well done. You might not know this, but Dis-Chem celebrates its 44th birthday this year. It was founded when recently qualified pharmacists, Ivan and Lynette Saltzman, opened their first retail pharmacy in Mondeor, south of Johannesburg, South Africa. Their retail pharmacy introduced the concept of a discount pharmacy with product categories not previously offered in South African pharmacies.
Best Furniture Store
Buying furniture isn’t something we do every day. After all, we want furniture that is both durable and stays in fashion. So best to get it right the first time around, and where else to shop but Etienne Lewis? Another repeat winner, they have been in business since 1976 and offer top-end quality furniture and excellent service. You can view their wide range of 100% genuine leather sofas at their showrooms in Montana (Sefako Makgatho Drive), Moreletapark and the Parkview Shopping centre across Woodlands Estate.
Best Home Appliance Store
While they may not necessarily have a branch near you, it is worth going out of your way when you are struggling to find, let’s say, the best refrigerator for your brand-new kitchen. Their expert staff will be quite happy to help you decide. Besides, Hirsch’s offers the widest range of appliances all under one roof. They have everything from kettles, fridges, televisions and toasters to sound systems and blenders. With affordable prices and loads of special deals, you simply cannot go wrong with them. After all, there is a reason why they again won in this category this year.
Best Computer and Electronics Store
With the changing world after Covid-19 being connected and having the best laptop or phone is now no longer the preserve of IT specialists or techno-geeks. But Incredible Connection, again winning this spot this year, offers a lot for them too. So whether you’re looking for the latest in technology or just a gift for someone, then the chances are good that Incredible Connection will have just what you’re looking for.
Best Garden Centre
Lots of Pots started as a business with only four employees and a borrowed delivery van back in 2008. Today, they have two branches with a large combination of plants and garden hardware. Together, the two branches employ almost 40 personnel, and with their two 4-ton trucks Lots of Pots has delivered plants and pots as far as Polokwane, Secunda, Zeerust, Emalahleni and many other places. Their product range has grown tremendously and includes garden pots, water features, stepping stones, pebbles, bird baths, steel goodies and gazebos, garden furniture, ornaments, statues, bird feeders, water pumps and accessories and much more.
Best General Dealer/Wholesaler
Saying Makro is a one-stop shopping destination is no hyperbole. Makro has grown throughout the years from a stalwart warehouse chain to now being able to offer customers a convenient online shopping hub. Makro offers food, the latest electronics, houseware, camping and outdoor equipment and even liquor. With a total of 22 stores across the country, it has now also gone online, bringing convenience and affordability to local households and businesses. Check their website out today. We think you will be surprised.
Best Local Shopping Mall
This multi-level centre boasts a large base of international brands and flagship anchor stores. It has set a new standard of becoming the biggest centre in Africa after undergoing a redevelopment of R2.5-billion. With its recent expansion and refurbishment, Menlyn has a GLA of over 177 000m2, an option of 16 parking entrances and 12 parking exits and 8 250 parking bays. Menlyn Park continues to bring residents even more of the best shopping, dining, entertainment and leisure experiences, in a world-class mall.
Best Place for Fabric and Haberdashery
To remain on the cutting edge of trade, MHC has established international links and imports a great deal of its merchandise from the leaders of fashion and technology throughout the world. Their products include curtaining, dress fabrics, haberdashery, menswear, linen, and lighting. This is in addition to electrical appliances, electronics, computers, gaming, cell phones and accessories. Their services include measuring and/or installation of carpets, flooring, curtains, blinds, upholstery, kitchen cupboards and custom-made furniture. Add to this tailor-made men’s suiting, gas refills and appliance repair. Not to forget, the servicing of all sewing machines including industrial sewing machines.
Best Place to Buy Car Spares and Accessories
According to our readers, there is one place where you are guaranteed to find that motor part or accessory you are looking for and that is Midas. Besides, there are over 300 franchised outlets in Southern Africa, including Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, Zimbabwe and South Africa. “The mechanism of distribution to owner-managed retail stores continues to be the most successful and efficient,” their website proclaims. And they’ve got that right, yes.
Best Gift Shop
Miss Flores has the most beautiful and stylish gifts as well as home décor to spoil that someone special or yourself! Check out their quaint little shop on Lynnwood Road, Brooklyn when that next birthday or anniversary event rolls around.
My Car Boot Sale, Groenkloof
Join “South Africa’s only authentic car boot sale” every Saturday at Groenkloof Bowling Club in Pretoria from 08:00 to 12:00. My Car Boot Sale is an outdoor market where you can sell and buy second-hand items from and out of your car boot. The goal is to recycle and create a platform where you can turn your “pre-loved” items into cash and find great second-hand bargains and treasures. Entry for shoppers is free.
Best Pet Shop
In existence since 2013, The Queen Pet Shop has taken its business seriously. Very seriously. “As human beings,” their website says, “we may start and end relationships as we please, but we feel that companion animals love their humans ceaselessly and unconditionally, making caring for pets a huge priority. The Queen is here to help humans do everything they can to ensure the health, comfort and happiness of their animals.”
Best Electronic Brand
When it comes to cutting-edge technology including smartphones, tablets, TVs, home appliances and more, there is one brand name that stands out for locals when it comes to home electronics: Samsung. After all, with tech must-haves such as that cool new Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and Galaxy Z Flip3 5G does this come as any surprise?
Best Optometrist
The first Spec-Savers franchise was started in May 1993 in Port Elizabeth. The Spec-Savers formula proved to be a phenomenal success ensuring this exciting and innovative approach to professional eye care grew rapidly. By August 1995, the franchise operation had grown to 24 stores. The group now proudly partners with over 270 franchise outlets throughout South Africa, Namibia, Lesotho and Botswana. No wonder Pretorians picked them!
Best Place to Buy Tyres
Too often your family’s safety is bandied around in marketing. This or that product will help keep you and your family safe, but nowhere is it more true than the set of tyres on your cars. They must be new, sturdy and reliable. And where else to buy them than at third-time winners Tiger Wheel & Tyre?
Best Car Services Centre
McCarthy Motor Group is one of South Africa’s largest motor retailing groups. It is a provider of products and services across the board including the servicing of cars, which makes taking your Merc to their state-of-the-art workshop in January Masilela Drive a no-brainer.
