
Best Cities for Food Lovers in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
1. Azalea Park Restaurant
A beloved eatery famous for its hearty South African dishes and stunning views of the city.
- Location: Nestled at the foot of the Ngwebeni Valley, offering breathtaking landscapes
- Atmosphere: Casual and welcoming ambiance perfect for family dining or romantic evenings
- Menu Variety: Offers a wide range of dishes, from local specialties to international cuisine
2. Curry Corner
A vibrant Indian restaurant serving authentic curries and other spicy delights.
- Authenticity: Prepared by skilled chefs who bring the rich flavors of India to Pietermaritzburg
- Variety: Features a diverse menu with numerous vegetarian, vegan, and non-vegetarian options
- Location: Centrally located in the city for easy accessibility
3. Oakfield Farm Market
A bustling marketplace offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delicious food stalls.
- Local Produce: Sells farm-fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats sourced directly from local farmers
- Artisanal Goods: Showcases unique handmade crafts, jewelry, and other artisan wares
- Community Gathering Space: Provides a lively gathering space for locals and tourists alike
4. The Cocoa Bean Coffee Shop
A charming coffee shop serving delicious treats alongside locally roasted coffee.
- Coffee Quality: Uses ethically-sourced and carefully roasted beans for a superior cup of coffee
- Food Selection: Offers an array of sweet and savory pastries, sandwiches, and salads
- Cozy Atmosphere: Inviting interior design creates a warm and welcoming environment
5. Bunny Chow Stalls
Street food stalls selling the famous 'bunny chow' - a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry.
- Traditional Cuisine: Serves a classic dish deeply rooted in Durban's cultural heritage
- Affordability: Offers tasty and filling meals at budget-friendly prices
- Street Food Experience: Provides an authentic taste of South African street food culture
6. The Glasshouse Cafe and Restaurant
A modern eatery set in a historic glasshouse, featuring gourmet dishes and beautiful views.
- Historic Setting: Located within the historic Alexander Road Baths, showcasing architectural charm
- Gourmet Menu: Serves innovative dishes using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients
- Outdoor Dining: Offers al fresco dining with stunning views of the city and surrounding park
7. The Tasting Room
A Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite tasting menus and a wine cellar brimming with South African vintages.
- Michelin Star Recognition: Receives recognition from the prestigious Michelin Guide
- Tasting Menus: Offers multiple course tasting menus showcasing creative and refined dishes
- Wine Cellar: Boasts an extensive collection of South African wines, some of which are rare and hard to find
8. Pietermaritzburg Market
A bustling market offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional Zulu cuisine.
- Local Produce: Sells fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats sourced directly from local farmers
- Artisanal Crafts: Showcases unique handmade crafts, jewelry, and other artisan wares
- Traditional Food: Features traditional Zulu dishes that showcase the rich flavors of Pietermaritzburg's cultural heritage
9. Thokozani Coffee Roasters
A coffee roastery and cafe specializing in ethically-sourced, artisanal coffees.
- Ethical Sourcing: Prioritizes ethical sourcing practices to ensure fair wages for farmers
- Coffee Quality: Uses ethically-sourced and carefully roasted beans for a superior cup of coffee
- Community Gathering Space: Provides a lively gathering space for locals and tourists alike
10. The Pig & Whistle
A pub serving traditional British dishes alongside craft beers and ciders.
- British Cuisine: Serves traditional British dishes, such as fish and chips and bangers and mash
- Craft Beers: Offers a diverse selection of locally brewed craft beers and ciders
- Historic Atmosphere: Set in a beautifully restored Victorian building, filled with nostalgia
11. Spice Route Wine Estate
A vineyard and restaurant showcasing South African wines and cuisine.
- Wine Tasting: Offers wine tastings and tours of the vineyards
- Cuisine Selection: Serves dishes inspired by the flavors of the Cape Winelands
- Scenic Location: Located on a picturesque wine estate, offering stunning views
12. Mariette's at the Rosebud Coffee Shop
A quaint coffee shop serving homemade pastries and light lunches in a charming garden setting.
- Homemade Goods: Prepares dishes using recipes passed down through generations
- Garden Setting: Set in a beautiful garden, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere
- Artisanal Coffee: Uses ethically-sourced and carefully roasted beans for a superior cup of coffee
13. Pietermaritzburg Railway Station
A historic train station housing several food vendors and shops.
- Historic Setting: Set within a beautifully restored Victorian-era train station
- Food Variety: Features multiple food vendors offering various cuisines
- Shopping Opportunities: Offers souvenir shops and other retail outlets for visitors to explore
14. Zulu Cultural Village
A living museum showcasing Zulu culture and traditions, including demonstrations of traditional cooking methods.
- Cultural Education: Provides insight into the rich cultural heritage of South Africa's Zulu people
- Traditional Cooking Demonstrations: Offers demonstrations of traditional cooking techniques and recipes
- Authentic Experience: Allows visitors to immerse themselves in the authentic Zulu way of life
15. Pietermaritzburg Bierfest
A popular annual beer festival showcasing South African brews and live entertainment.
- South African Beers: Features a wide variety of locally brewed beers to sample
- Live Entertainment: Offers live music and performances throughout the festival
- Community Gathering Space: Provides a lively gathering space for locals and tourists alike