There are many reasons to love Pretoria. This may come as a surprise to those who’ve never been, who picture combs in socks, boerewors rolls in parking lots, and no mountains, rivers or beaches to speak of.

But in summer the long, warm days culminate in spectacular purple storms that leave the roads steaming and the smell of earth and Jacaranda flowers in the air. In winter the sun melts away the frost to reveal sparkling amber grass. The people are friendly, there is so much space, and you can find a tuisgebakte koeksuster on almost every corner.

Ja nee, Pretorians love their simply satisfying food. You are more likely to find hearty burgers topped with cream cheese and sweet chili sauce, generous grills and snack baskets than you are risottos, fragrant Asian dishes or gels of any sort at your local. That isn’t to say these kinds of dishes can’t be found, however.

Searching for a stylish first date venue? Head to Kream. Looking for a buzzing Italian trattoria with amazing food? Ritrovo Ristorante is your best bet. And if you really want to try something delicate and gourmet you can always make your way to Restaurant Mosaic at The Orient, one of our 20 nominees last year.

Here are the capital’s top eateries, offering everything from bistro flair to afro chic, as selected by our editor and awards judge Abigail Donnelly.

Best fine dining restaurants 
Brasserie de Paris
Cynthia’s Indigo Moon
Granita Signature
Kream
La Madeleine
La Pentola
Prue Leith
Restaurant Mosaic at the Orient
Cafe Bree

Best Bistros
Al Fiume
BICCCS
Carlton Café Delicious
Ritrovo Ristorante
Villa San Giovanni
Zest Bistro

Best Asian Restaurants
Geet
Guia
Shilla Korean Restaurant
Wing Hin

Best Steakhouses
Karoo Cattle and Land Grey Owl, Parkview and Irene

Most stylish spot
Kream

Best African Restaurants
Afro Lounge Kitchen Bar
Boer’geoisie
Leipoldt’s

By Linda Scarborough
Research by Kelly Pluke
Photograph: andré.luis