Diane de Beer hangs out at one of the coolest spots in town, Papa’s Real Food in the centre of Duncan Yard in Hatfield, Pretoria.

Food

The menu at this popular hangout spot offers a wide variety. Start with a three-egg omelette (choosing your favourite toppings as you go) for breakfast; follow that with a roast beef sandwich with mustard, sundried tomatoes and mozzarella for lunch; and finish the night with a slow-cooked lamb or oxtail potjie, which will have you back for more. Other favourites include battered hake and chips, and the gourmet burgers. You could also dip into their mussel pot or tuck into a lamb shank as you hang out in Tshwane’s coolest courtyard. On a chilly night, book a seat close to the fire.

Wine

They keep up with the cool crowd and stock a wide range, from Alexanderfontein to Constantia Uitsig. This is also a good spot for cocktails, like the decadent choc marshmallow version – or how about a sour appeltini?

Ambience

Pick your seating according to your mood. The courtyard offers some secluded spots, so it’s good for a intimate chat, but then it would also work for a party. In winter, heaters are lit and blankets passed around. The inside dining area has a smarter, more formal feel.

Papa’s Real Food. Photo courtesy of Melkkan Creative

Service

Despite the fact that they’re always on the run because of the constant flow of diners, they seem to manage the pace.

And…

It’s in the centre of Duncan Yard, which really makes it one of the coolest spots in town.

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