Ring burning a hole in your pocket as you try and figure out the perfect time and place to propose? We’ve got you covered, with a guide to Pretoria’s most romantic and splurge-worthy restaurants.

Black Bamboo (Ashlea Gardens) ?

Black Bamboo is the perfect spot for a proposal, with lovely art, great design, a delicious menu and a must-try wine list. The restaurant offers a vibey ambience with a few fireplaces, creating a wonderfully warm and romantic atmosphere, and the staff loves doing something special for patrons. The restaurant has several corners where an intimate table could be set up (especially around the spacious pool area), but you could also get complete privacy in one of their private rooms. Try the five- or seven-course set menu – with or without wine pairings – that might include duck parfait and a modern beef Wellington.

? Available for online bookings on the Eat Out app. 

 

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Brasserie de Paris (Waterkloof Ridge) ?

At the Brasserie, any prospective marrying couple will be treated like the only couple in the room. This architect-designed house-turned-restaurant offers many nooks and crannies where they’ll gladly set up a romantic table for two. Reserve the entire rooftop for a private extravaganza under the stars. The establishment’s staff are super knowledgeable and will gladly guide your choices, but if you’re happy to share a lifetime with your loved one, we recommend also sharing the best chateaubriand in Gauteng to seal the deal.

? Available for online bookings on the Eat Out app. 

 

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Fermier Restaurant (The Willows)

Adrian Maree may appear completely absorbed by what’s going on in the kitchen, but convince him and his staff to make your dream evening a reality and they won’t miss a beat. Since this is a large open space, you might have to book a slightly darker corner for a more private engagement. Alternatively, book the table for two right beside the kitchen counter and let the kitchen staff be witnesses to your great moment. Not only is the food elegant, contemporary and delicious, but the service is also excellent, and the staff will go out of their way to give you a superbly romantic experience.

Fermier Restaurant. Photo supplied.

Forti Grill and Bar (Menlyn Maine) ?

Forti Mazzone, an eternal romantic, will happily custom-design an engagement dinner that would make any prospective spouse’s eyes pop. Forti Grill and Bar will design a special degustation menu for two, with the ring hidden in the dessert platter. Plus, if you’re lucky enough, Forti himself might clinch the deal for you with a romantic aria from your favourite opera. You could also get engaged in the private cellar (this is subject to the payment of a deposit and is only open on weekends).

? Available for online bookings on the Eat Out app. 

 

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A post shared by Forti Grill & Bar (@fortigrillandbar) on May 14, 2018 at 11:55am PDT

La Madeleine (Lynnwood Ridge)

La Madeleine is the place to go for a classic experience, whether you’re celebrating young love or old love. The menu often includes romantic dishes such as foie gras, oysters, fillet with truffles and thick reduction sauces, and the best strawberry dessert. If weather permits, you could also ask to dine al fresco around the swimming pool and hire a musician for a truly romantic experience.

La Pentola (Riviera)

La Pentola recently renovated its interior and continues to go from strength to strength. Shane Sauvage says that in addition to offering the couple a bottle of bubbly on the house, he always recommends that the couple shares a paella to celebrate the happy occasion. This is followed by their classic strawberry flambé. La Pentola also has some creative ways to present the ring at the table.

Prue Leith Restaurant (Centurion) ?

At Prue Leith you’ll find yourself supported by a bevy of young romance-loving students. The restaurant mainly offers an à la carte menu but, since this is a training restaurant, the students are open to designing a set menu for the occasion. If you do opt for the à la carte menu, you’ll find yourself enjoying some tried and trusted stalwarts with modern interpretations, like consommé with grilled salmon and octopus. They also offer party and event services for when the engagement turns into the big day.

? Available for online bookings on the Eat Out app. 

 

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Restaurant Mosaic at the Orient (Elandsfontein)

If money is no object and you want to impress your loved one with pure luxury and indulgence, Mosaic is the place to go. They might be convinced to set a table in one of their private rooms or other hideaways, or nab one in the small lounge area near the fireplace. Be sure to save your appetite so you can celebrate by enjoying the grand degustation menu with wine pairings. Plus, extend the bliss by booking a room and staying over at The Orient. (This venue gets the thumbs up from two other Eat Out panellists too. “Mosaic at The Orient has to be one of the most romantic and exceptional dining experiences in South Africa,” says Kate Liquorish. “It’s like nothing else. The setting, the service, the wine cellar and chef Chantel Dartnall’s award-winning cuisine – what more could you ask for?” And we like the way Sylvia McKeown thinks: “Best place to pop the question? Mosaic, ‘cause you know their bubbles selection is the best.”)

 

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A post shared by Chantel Dartnall (@restaurantmosaicatorient) on Mar 5, 2018 at 8:51am PST

Silver Orange Bistro (Hartebeespoort)

Book a romantic table under a flowering frangipani, or secure a secluded table on the verandah for a romantic night of decadent real French champagne and creative spectacular cuisine to pop the question. Salmon, fillet Benedict, duck two ways and a Turkish delight dessert are a few examples of romantic plates that appear on the menu regularly. Alternatively, ask for a table at their adjacent establishment Almost Orange, which has views over flowering orange groves. (It could even end up being your wedding venue!)

A dish at Silver Orange Bistro. Photo supplied.

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