Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, Pietermaritzburg, Food & Drink, Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them

Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

1. Bunny Chow

A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with spicy curry, originated in Durban but a must-try in Pietermaritzburg at Johnny's Place.
  • Spiciness Level: Adjustable to suit your taste buds.
  • Portion Size: Generous servings for a filling meal.
  • Authentic Experience: A true South African culinary experience.

2. Boerewors Roll

A traditional South African sausage wrapped in a roll with onions, tomato sauce, and mustard, often enjoyed at The Pig and Whistle.
  • Flavorful Filler: The boerewors sausage is a delightful blend of spices.
  • Convenient Portion: A perfect meal for on-the-go travelers.
  • Local Atmosphere: Enjoy the roll in a lively, friendly environment.

3. Rooibos Tea

A popular South African herbal tea made from the leaves of the rooibos plant, best tasted at The Tea Merchant.
  • Health Benefits: Rumored to have numerous health benefits.
  • Unique Taste: A mildly sweet, earthy flavor.
  • Relaxing Experience: Perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

4. Bobotie Pie

A spiced minced meat dish baked with an egg and milk topping, available at various restaurants like The Little Bakery.
  • Flavorful Layers: Each layer offers a unique taste.
  • Traditional Dish: A staple in South African cuisine.
  • Portion Size: Ideal for sharing or saving leftovers.

5. Sosaties

Marinated strips of meat threaded onto skewers and slow-cooked in a tomato-based sauce, often found at the local market.
  • Exotic Flavor Profile: A unique mix of spices gives it an exotic taste.
  • Portable Snack: Easy to carry and eat on-the-go.
  • Affordable Delight: A budget-friendly choice for travelers.

6. Pietermaritzburg Pie

A traditional pie filled with a variety of meats and vegetables, a must-try at The Old Biscuit Mill.
  • Hearty Meal: Perfect for a satisfying lunch.
  • Unique Local Version: A spin on the classic meat pie.
  • Popular Choice: One of Pietermaritzburg's favorite dishes.

7. Curry Durban Style

A mild, creamy curry made with potatoes, beans, and various spices, best enjoyed at Cane Cutters.
  • Creamy Texture: The sauce is smooth and velvety.
  • Mild Spiciness: Perfect for those who prefer a less spicy curry.
  • Served with Rice: Comes with fragrant basmati rice.

8. Peri-Peri Chicken

Marinated chicken cooked in a spicy peri-peri sauce, popular at Nando's.
  • Spicy Kick: Varying levels of heat to suit your preference.
  • Flavorful Marinade: A unique blend of herbs and spices.
  • Fast Service: Quick meal for busy travelers.

9. Pap and Wors

Maize porridge (pap) served with boerewors sausage, typically found at local braais.
  • Comfort Food: A warm and comforting meal.
  • Traditional Pairing: Pap and boerewors is a classic South African combination.
  • Affordable Option: A budget-friendly meal for travelers.

10. Malva Pudding

A sweet dessert made with apricot jam, batter, and custard sauce, best enjoyed at The Oasis Restaurant.
  • Sweet Treat: The perfect ending to a meal.
  • Homemade Taste: Made fresh daily in local eateries.
  • Rich Flavor: A decadent, indulgent dessert.

11. Bobotie Pie Variation

A variation of bobotie pie made with a coconut-milk topping and served at The Curry Farm.
  • Unique Spin: A creative twist on the traditional bobotie pie.
  • Creamy Topping: The coconut-milk topping adds a unique flavor.
  • Hearty Portion: Generous servings for a filling meal.

12. Vetkoek with Chakalaka

Deep-fried dough balls served with a spicy vegetable relish, often enjoyed at street food vendors.
  • Portable Snack: Easy to eat on-the-go.
  • Spicy Combo: The chakalaka adds a nice spicy kick.
  • Affordable Option: A budget-friendly choice for travelers.

13. Mieliepap and Smoked Fish

Cornmeal porridge (mieliepap) served with smoked fish, a typical dish found at local eateries.
  • Comfort Food: A warm and comforting meal.
  • Traditional Pairing: A classic South African combination.
  • Fish Variety: Taste various types of smoked fish.

14. Milk Tart

A sweet pastry filled with creamy custard and topped with cinnamon, best enjoyed at Woolworths Cafe.
  • Sweet Treat: The perfect ending to a meal.
  • Homemade Taste: Made fresh daily in local eateries.
  • Rich Flavor: A decadent, indulgent dessert.

15. Rooibos-infused Desserts

Various desserts infused with rooibos tea, like Rooibos Creme Brulee at The Tea Merchant's Cafe.
  • Unique Flavor Profile: A blend of sweet and earthy flavors.
  • Health Benefits: Rumored to have numerous health benefits.
  • Relaxing Experience: Perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.