This dusty little Limpopo town is known locally for the high level political meetings that sometimes happen there.
But the capital of Limpopo, Polokwane, meaning place of safety, is a city of incredible beauty. It was formerly known as Pietersburg.
Café Pavilion
This ornate restaurant features dining nooks created by wooden screens, wooden floors, rustic ornaments and a flamboyant staircase. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner, or try our the tea garden or buffet. If you’re a big party the main dining room seats about 60 on a long table, or try out the “private room” for more intimate dinners with dimmed lights, candles and a fire place — for up to 14 people. Upstairs is the deck which overlooks the garden and animal farm.
- Address: 60 Church Street, South Ivydale, Polokwane.
- Tel: +27 15 291 5359
- Website
The Deck Restaurant
This upmarket venue is still a good place to bring the kids. It blends family restaurant, bistro and cocktail bar, according to Dinner Site. The menu is varied with favourites ranging from sizzling steaks, lip smacking South African delicacies such as oxtail and lamb shank to juicy seafood options. Upstairs is the Deck Lounge, with a cocktail bar and funky décor, as well as wi-fi. They sometimes feature live music. Meals average from R65 – R95 and the dress code is smart casual.
- Cnr Pierre & Neethling Street
Bendor, Polokwane.
- Tel: +27 15 296 4956
- Website
The Red Plate Restaurant
On the R71 road between Polokwane and Tzaneen is the scenic village of Haenertsburg. Visit the Red Plate Restaurant in its peaceful surrounds. A top-voted eatery, it features funky interiors and fresh ingredients. Think local ingredients like trout, vegetables and fruit, which regularly make an appearance on the menu. Enjoy lunch or dinner under the trees on the deck. Note that booking is essential. Be sure to take cash, as they do not have credit card facilities.
- Address: 161 Rissik Street, Haenertsburg.
- Tel: +27 83 305 2851
Picasso’s
Also situated in nearby Haenertsburg, Picasso’s is renowned for its speciality pancakes and a tempting a la carte menu. It opens daily from 8.30am to 4.30pm. After lunch enjoy the local art and crafts on sale.
- Address: On the R71, Haenertsburg, Magoebaskloof.
- +27 83 866 3868
The Farmyard Trading Post Restaurant
The Farmyard offers country hospitality with garden dining, and a fresh variety of home baking and alfresco foods — from gourmet cheeses and breads to delectable pastries, according to SA Venues. Expect dishes like smoked chicken and mango salad with a yoghurt dressing, gorgonzola, ttomato and basil pesto salad, oxtail with butternut mash and roasted root vegetables and kabeljou with a lemon caper sauce.
- Address: Munnik Road, Polokwane, Limpopo
- Telephone: +27 15 296 0217
Have we left anything out? If you’re a fan of this host city leave your recommendations in the comment box below. Don’t forget an address and website link, along with any other relevant information.