La Terrasse Rooftop Café invites you to indulge in the fragrances and flavours of North Africa.
If you can get past the abundant mezze platters packed with the richly flavoured spices of Morocco, that’s a feat in itself. From hummus and baba ganoush to kefta and Zulu zaalouk (aubergine relish with tomato, cumin, paprika, green olives and balsamic), it’s a non-stop feast.
But the most exotic option is to go for one of their bountiful tagines. Picture lamb with dates and honey or tomato; chicken with preserved lemon; beef with sweet potato; and, for vegetarians, butternut with sweet potato, lentils and Moroccan spices. All are served with fragrant couscous, making them perfect for celebratory get-togethers.
You could also try their most recent addition, an oxtail tangia that has been treated to the most extreme of slow cooking in a clay vessel. It’s called a bachelor’s dish in Morocco, because the young men make it at the start of the week to last right to the end.
Other standouts include the cinnamon butternut soup, and there’s even a Moroccan breakfast of a kefta tagine with egg poached in tomato, spicy meatballs and grilled pita. It’s a fantastic African feast.
Their wine list is sourced by the owner’s brother, who’s constantly on the hunt for wines that match their particular flavour requirements. They offer pairing suggestions all the way through. Incidentally, the best option, they feel, is pinot noir chardonnay, but this might also differ according to the seasons.
As for other drinks, fragrant cordials (vanilla-, rose- and hibiscus-scented) and their secret blend of pomegranate and apple juice make for fine non-alcoholic choices.
The staff compliment is tiny and does its best to take special care. Don’t be in a hurry – food is prepared to order.
As the name suggests, the restaurant is located on a rooftop under the African sky, with a distinctly Moroccan style. In winter the heaters will keep you warm.
After you’ve indulged in the glorious food, go do some exotic Moroccan shopping.
Eat Out critics dine anonymously and pay for their meals in full. Read our editorial policy here.
Have you indulged in a north African feast at La Terrasse Rooftop Café in Pretoria? Tell us all about it in a review.
In her review Diane mentions;
“Service – The staff compliment is tiny and does its best to take special care. Don’t be in a hurry”
Indeed! Snail time. Great setting, OK food but very, very slow service……
Amazing setup
Awesome food and presentation
Great service and location
Highly recomened for anyone that loves food