The ‘Best’ section of the Eat Out Mercedes-Benz Restaurant Awards recognises eateries that are at the absolute top of their game, but don’t fit into the fine dining category of the Top 10. One of these winners is The Local Grill, which has just reclaimed the title of Best Steakhouse. (The restaurant was the inaugural winner of this category in 2011.)

Judge for this category, Caro de Waal, said she was seriously impressed. “There’s a lot of passion here and they’re extremely knowledgeable about meat. The fillet is beyond expectation: an amazing piece of very full-flavoured meat, dark in colour with a stunning firm texture, but still soft and succulent. The rump is dark, aged and gorgeous, with a great texture and lovely meaty flavours. All steaks are aged and cooked to perfection. The Local Grill stands apart from the norm.”

The Local Grill owner, Steve Maresch, said, “What a privilege to be judged as the 2014 Best Steakhouse. I hope to make this an annual event and we will do what we can to continue to improve on our offering and get even better beef to the table.”

Want to know more about this true meat-lover’s experience? Here are the juicy details:

Steve Maresch of The Local Grill in Parktown North

Food

This restaurant has kept with the times and has constantly improved over the last few years. With friendly staff, modern décor and guided tours of the cold room filled with their prized hung meat, The Local Grill goes the extra mile. Guests can expect a variety of beef cuts (with the choice between grass- and corn-fed beef), as well as some options for those not in the mood for a good old steak, or of the vegetarian persuasion. Well-appointed sides and sauces are on hand to complement your meal. The dish of slow-cooked beef cheeks on mash is so tender that all you need is a fork to devour the melt-in-the-mouth nuggets. The aged sirloin, served on the bone and seasoned with the restaurant’s homemade spiced rub, greets you with a pronounced charred note and the perfume of properly aged beef, while the rolled pork is a tender treat, served with poached apples and a delicious curried quince sauce. Round off the experience with a generous-sized portion of delicious homemade pecan nut pie with ice cream.

Drinks

The wine list is extensive but a touch pricey.

Service

Staff members are friendly, professional and well trained.

Food at The Local Grill. Photo courtesy of the restaurant.

Ambience

The warm and inviting interior with parquet floors, soft lighting and white tablecloths sets the mood for a relaxed or romantic evening. The restaurant is situated in the heart of Parktown North’s bustling food district, which makes the outdoor balcony perfect for a bit of people watching.

And…

They offer a Weber grill course with a private dining room and kitchen, which is great for a special occasion or corporate event.

Click here to write your own review of The Local Grill.