SMOKE Pretoria Review: A Top Dining Experience in Gauteng
Table of contents
Located in the trendy suburb of Hazelwood, Pretoria, SMOKE Pretoria delivers a vibrant dining destination that beautifully blends South African culinary pride with innovative mixology and warm hospitality. Celebrated for its premium use of local ingredients and expertly crafted cocktails, SMOKE has quickly established itself as a must-visit spot for locals and visitors seeking a memorable and dynamic dining experience.
Atmosphere and Accessibility
SMOKE offers a stylish, upscale yet welcoming environment, perfect for diverse occasions, whether an intimate dinner, weekend brunch, or lively night out with friends. The restaurant is housed at 16 Firwood Avenue, The Village, Pretoria, featuring ample free off-street parking and wheelchair accessibility, ensuring comfort and convenience for all guests. The establishment respects well-curated house rules, including welcoming all guests after 16:00 with the Capital Bar reserved for 18+ patrons, which helps maintain a vibrant but appropriate atmosphere.
Culinary Experience
SMOKE’s kitchen is a fire lover’s dream, boasting an impressive arsenal of cooking techniques:
- Open Fire Pits using Vaalbos & Groen Sekelbos wood sourced directly from Limpopo
- A Josper Grill imported from Spain, heating to over 350°C, which imparts robust smoky flavors
- Large cabinet smokers manufactured locally, fueled by indigenous Boekenhout and Kameeldoring wood for slow-smoking dishes (some cooked over 12 hours)
- Exclusive Nexgrill Oakford Pellet Grill experiences made available on request
The menu is a celebration of South African flavors, offering an extensive range of dishes that showcase the best of the country’s meats, grills, and barbecue styles. Signature dishes praised by guests include perfectly smoked brisket, short ribs, wagyu cuts, and expertly prepared potbrood. The menu also caters to various meal types, from breakfast through to late-night drinks and after-hours dining.
Drink Selection & Mixology
Cocktail lovers will find SMOKE’s beverage program equally impressive, with innovative mixology and a full bar featuring local and international spirits. Guests consistently highlight the creativity and craftsmanship behind their signature drinks, along with friendly, attentive service from the bar staff.
Service and Guest Impressions
Reviews from customers emphasize SMOKE’s attentive, friendly staff who add an extra layer of hospitality to the dining experience. Many guests applaud the high quality and presentation of food and drinks, with some noting that minor details (such as egg preparation on brunch items) occasionally miss the mark but do not detract significantly from an otherwise exceptional experience.
Practical Info
- Address: 16 Firwood Avenue, The Village, Pretoria, Gauteng
- Phone: 065 868 8647 (Booking via WhatsApp also available)
- Opening Hours:
- Monday-Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday-Thursday: 12:00 till close
- Friday: 11:00 till close
- Saturday-Sunday: 09:00 till close (Kitchen closes at 20:00 on Sunday)
- Booking Policy: Confirmed bookings are held for 15 minutes past reservation time, after which tables are released to waiting guests. Walk-ins are warmly welcomed with 40% of space reserved for them at all times.
- Website: smokecapital.co.za
- Menus:
Celebrating The Best
SMOKE Pretoria stands out as a premier destination in Gauteng for food and drink lovers eager to indulge in the heart of South African cuisine, grilled specialties, and innovative cocktails. Its unique fire-based cooking methods and dedication to showcasing local ingredients deliver flavors that impress. Coupled with a lively vibe, thoughtful service, and an inclusive yet sophisticated atmosphere, SMOKE offers a dining experience that is both memorable and highly recommended.
Whether you’re planning a special night out, a weekend gathering, or simply crave expertly prepared South African dishes and vibrant drinks, SMOKE is undoubtedly a top pick in Pretoria’s food scene.
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