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Discover the Charming Neighborhood of Groenkloof in Pretoria
Imagine living just five minutes away from Pretoria’s bustling city center, yet enjoying the tranquility of one of the greenest and most picturesque suburbs. Welcome to Groenkloof – a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Join me, Alet Van Der Merwe, cafe manager of Cafe 41, as I take you on a personal tour of this vibrant neighborhood.
Hi there! Welcome to Groenkloof Plaza. This is where I’m at, and let me tell you, it’s the heart of Groenkloof. Here, you’ll find a bunch of small shops, all tucked away in a peaceful, green neighborhood. It’s like a little village right in the middle of Pretoria. No wonder lots of families come here to unwind. You’ll often see parents taking a leisurely stroll with their kids and dogs, while others go for a run or ride their bikes.
Now, let me tell you about Café 41. Its name actually comes from a sweet story. The cafe was a gift from the original owner to his wife on her 41st birthday, more than 20 years ago. Since then, it’s been the go-to spot for a quick cup of coffee, a pit stop for cyclists, or a place to relax with loved ones on the veranda. For many people, it’s like a second home.
When it comes to the food, oh-boy, they’ve got it all! The menu is super diverse with dishes from all over the world. They’ve got amazing Greek options, tantalizing Moroccan lamb, and let me tell you about their famous Portuguese trinchado. It’s absolutely mouthwatering. You can have it with chicken or beef strips smothered in this secret peri-peri sauce. To top it off, you get to choose if you want it with bread or over pasta. Trust me, it’s their most popular dish, and once you try it, you’ll see why!
So, if you’re in the mood for good food and a cozy atmosphere, you’ve got to swing by Café 41. It’s located at 43 Bronkhorst Street, and you can reach them at 0124605216.
Social Scene
If you’re into music, Unisa’s concerts are a must-visit. They happen throughout the year and are mostly classical, organized by the university’s music department. Whether you prefer afternoon or evening performances, these concerts are perfect for culture vultures like you.
If dancing is more your thing, you should check out Vanity. It’s a trendy nightclub with a unique Afrocentric atmosphere. Get ready to dance the night away and have a blast. You can find Vanity at Groenkloof Plaza, and their contact number is 0123461169.
Unique Finds
When it comes to art, the Pieter Scheenloop Gallery at Groenkloof Plaza is an absolute paradise. It’s a haven for all art enthusiasts and offers a diverse range of artwork. If you have any questions or want to learn more, you can contact them at 0767538991.
If you’re in the market for fine French bedding, look no further than Yves Delorme. They have a fantastic selection and are located at Groenkloof Plaza. Give them a call at 0723108558 to find the perfect bedding for your needs.
For the best biltong and dry wors in town, head over to the famous Groenkloof Slaghuis. They have an excellent reputation and are known for their top-quality products. You can find them at Groenkloof Plaza, and their contact number is 0124606449.
Don’t forget to swing by the corner of Florence Ribeiro and Middle Street. There, you’ll find African artists selling their crafts. It’s a fantastic opportunity to support local artists and pick up some unique and beautiful handmade items.
Check out this image from Pieter Scheenloop, it’s really something special!
Coffee spots that will blow your mind
‘I have found the perfect spot for delicious coffee, light lunches, quiches, and cake – Isabella’s! Whenever I need a birthday cake, I just give them a call and they always deliver. You should definitely try them out! They are located at Groenkloof Forum, 57 George Storrar Drive. Give them a call at 0795042535.’
If you’re in the mood for something different, Del Forno is the place to go. You can enjoy amazing pizza, pasta, or ribs there. But let me tell you, the macaroni and cheese is out of this world! Plus, they have a Wednesday quiz night that you don’t want to miss. You can find them at the corner of George Storrar Drive and Baines Street. Give them a call at 0124604651.
Now, if you’re craving some fine-dining Italian, Fumo is the place to be. They make an incredible Risotto Costa d’Amalfi with calamari, mussels, octopus, and prawns. It’s a real treat for seafood lovers! You can find Fumo right next to Del Forno, at the corner of George Storrar Drive and Baines Street. Give them a call at 0123460916.
Photo courtesy of Isabella.
Explore the Great Outdoors
“Want to get a breathtaking view of the city? Hop in your car and head up to historic Fort Klapperkop. There’s something special about standing up there and gazing at the whole city in one go. But that’s not all! There are also awesome hiking and biking trails in the Groenkloof Nature Reserve. You might even catch a glimpse of some cute little animals and colorful birds. Now, if you’re in the mood for a relaxing picnic, you absolutely have to check out Magnolia Dell Park. Not only is it a great place to munch on sandwiches and enjoy the fresh air, but it’s also home to Huckleberry’s cafe! Trust me, their food is delicious. And if you’re a bird watcher, you’re in for a treat. Right next to Magnolia Dell, there’s the Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary, where you can spot all kinds of fascinating birds. Once you’re done bird-watching, head over to the Blue Crane Restaurant. You’ll have the chance to sit on the deck and enjoy a tasty meal with a stunning view of the dam.”
Hey there! I bet you’re on the lookout for some awesome places to eat. Well, you’re in luck because I’m about to give you the lowdown on what makes a restaurant top-notch!
Let’s start by talking about food quality. When it comes to choosing a great restaurant, you want to make sure that the food is delicious and made with fresh ingredients. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than a soggy burger or a salad with wilted greens. So, take a close look at the menu and see if they mention that they source their ingredients locally or if they offer any organic options. That’s a good sign that they’re serious about quality.
Now, let’s move on to the atmosphere. When I step into a restaurant, I want to feel like I’ve been transported to another world. I love places with cozy lighting, comfortable seating, and maybe even some cool artwork on the walls. It’s all about creating an ambiance that makes you feel relaxed and happy. So, keep an eye out for places that have a unique vibe and make you feel right at home.
Of course, the service is also super important. You want to be treated like a valued guest rather than just another customer. Friendly and attentive staff can really make a dining experience special. Look for reviews or ask friends for recommendations to find places that have a reputation for excellent service.
Lastly, let’s talk about price. Eating out can get expensive, so it’s important to find a place that fits your budget. That doesn’t mean you have to settle for subpar food, though. There are plenty of restaurants out there that offer delicious meals at affordable prices. Just do a little digging and you’re sure to find some hidden gems.
Remember, finding a great restaurant is all about balancing these different factors. You want to find a place that checks all the boxes – amazing food, a cozy atmosphere, excellent service, and a price that won’t break the bank. So, happy hunting and bon appétit!
Image from Blue Crane Restaurant and Bar