MZANSIGIRL DOES PRETORIA
Name: Meruschka Govender
Blog: www.mzansigirl.com
Tweet me: @MzansiGirl for more tips :)
City: Pretoria
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Weekday breakfast: Pure Cafe, Colbyn - Try their Spanish frittata or if you have a sweet tooth the cinnamon French toast with pecan nuts and maple syrup is pure yumness! You can''t leave without taking home one of their freshly baked ciabatta or a chocolate brownie or three.
Date night ideas: Forget about nighttime, some of the best Pretoria date options happen in the daytime, and for free or cheap.....a hike in Faerie Glen Reserve; a swim at the public swimming pool in Hatfield, a Park Acoustics concert at the Voortrekker or a picnic at the Botanical Gardens. For a more traditional option kick it old school style at Menlyn Mall drive in, the first drive-in built on the roof of a shopping centre worldwide. Order a picnic basket from the drive-in, or take your own. For only R65 a car, it’s great for those on a budget. In true Pretoria style, they even have braai facilities available in case you feel the need for a true local experience…
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Local midweek eatery: Alfie’s Italian Cafe is a family-run cafe known for its personal service and the best gnocchi in Pretoria. Named after the owner and chef Alfredo Fiachetti, Alfie’s offers a modern take on a traditional Italian trattoria. Be sure to book in advance.
Shopping: Irene Village Mall for open-air mall-shopping with your usual mall fare and a funky cow theme. For a more eclectic experience try Pretoria''s Antique Route 6 and load up on vintage fare.
Best coffee: Aroma Coffee - Pretoria''s only coffee roastery and coffee shop. Have a coffee and take home some freshly roasted beans.
Best sushi: Matsuya - Japanese owned, Matsuya makes the best sushi in Pretoria with excellent tepanyaki too. Great restaurant for a larger group.
Best sundowners: The viewpoints from Fort Klapperklop & Johann Rissik Drive. Take a bottle of wine and enjoy the panoramic views of Pretoria.
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Best market: Hazel Food Market every Saturday in Menlo Park.
Best escape from the crowds: Groenkloof Nature Reserve Just 5km out of the city the reserve is perfect for a trail run, day hike or a picnic with the family.
One must-do / must-visit: Though you can''t actually visit the Union Buildings, you can admire this architectural masterpiece designed by Sir Herbert Baker from the outside. Pack a picnic and enjoy the manicured lawns and terraced gardens with stunning views of Pretoria.
Best child friendly restaurant: Blos Cafe - perfect for a Saturday lunch in the garden, Blos offers an eclectic menu and plenty of space for the kids to run around.
Top family friendly activity: Rietvlei Nature Reserve - take a self-drive game drive, have a braai and don''t forget your binoculars for some great game watching!
- Visit http://www.portfoliocollection.com/location/Tshwane for 4 personally selected luxury Pretoria accommodation places.