Pretoria may be inland, but its seafood dining scene is surprisingly vibrant and diverse. From upscale Mediterranean restaurants serving fresh oysters and grilled octopus to beloved Portuguese taverns with their signature seafood platters, and from family-friendly chains offering affordable hake and chips to fine-dining establishments with sophisticated menus, the capital has something for every seafood lover.
The city’s best seafood restaurants draw on fresh catches from the West Coast, the Mozambican coast, and beyond, delivering the flavours of the ocean to the Highveld. Whether you’re craving a hearty seafood platter, delicate sushi, or a simple plate of fish and chips, Pretoria has options to satisfy your appetite. This comprehensive guide covers the top 25 seafood restaurants in Pretoria, drawing on guest ratings, expert reviews, and local insights.
TOP 25 SEAFOOD RESTAURANTS IN PRETORIA
1. Ostra Mediterranean
Ostra Mediterranean is one of the top-rated seafood restaurants in Pretoria, earning a 4.80 rating from 92 reviews. The restaurant is known for perfectly prepared seafood, delicious paella, and a diverse menu featuring fresh oysters, grilled sardines, mussels, octopus, and prawns. The restaurant’s fishmonger is literally next door, ensuring the freshest possible ingredients.
The service is fast, efficient, and attentive, with managers frequently checking on guests. It is an excellent choice for a special occasion or a refined seafood dining experience.
2. Ocean Basket (Zambezi Junction)
The Ocean Basket at Zambezi Junction is a standout among the franchise, holding an exceptional 4.90 rating from over 2,500 reviews. It is praised for its cheerful vibe, fresh and delicious seafood, and generous sharing platters. Reviewers consistently highlight the friendly and efficient service, with particular mentions of waiters like Basil, Junior, and Mavis. It is a reliable choice for families and groups.
3. Crawdaddy’s (Brooklyn)
Crawdaddy’s in Brooklyn is a popular choice for both meat and seafood, holding a 4.6-star rating from over 4,200 reviews. The restaurant is known for the high quality of its fish and meat, excellent prawns, and whole kingklip, along with a wide variety of starters. The lively atmosphere and consistent quality have made it a local favourite.
4. Mozambik Groenkloof
Mozambik Groenkloof brings the coastal flavours of Mozambique to Pretoria, earning a 4.4 rating from over 378 reviews. The restaurant is known for its exceptional seafood, including prawns, calamari, and mussels, as well as unique cocktails like the Green Mamba and Frozen Candy Cane. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff make it perfect for special occasions or casual outings. The prawn curry is a standout dish.
5. Hillside Tavern
Established in 1989, Hillside Tavern in Pretoria East is celebrated for its relaxed atmosphere and diverse menu that includes excellent seafood, steaks, ostrich, and venison. It is known for its warm service and has been recognized as one of South Africa’s best grills. The food is described as full of flavour, well-prepared, and served hot. The cave-like interior adds a unique character to the dining experience.
6. O’Galito (Centurion)
O’Galito at the Centurion Waterfront is a traditional Portuguese restaurant known for its Mozambican-hued dishes and affordable, luscious seafood. The house speciality is an abundant seafood platter, and other menu highlights include Cajun baked oysters, Cataplana with a hint of port, and heavenly roast lamb on the bone. The waterfront setting adds to the restaurant’s charm.
7. Oze Cafe Bistro
Oze Cafe Bistro in Hazelwood offers a Portuguese-inspired menu and a cosy atmosphere, holding a 4.4 rating from over 900 reviews. Diners praise the excellent seafood, generous portions, and reasonable prices. The outdoor seating area is particularly recommended for a lovely view and romantic atmosphere.
8. Fishmonger Centurion
Fishmonger Centurion is an upscale restaurant consistently ranked as a top romantic seafood spot. It offers a polished dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood, making it a reliable choice for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries. The attentive service and elegant setting make it a standout.
9. The Famous Fishoek Co
The Famous Fishoek Co is ranked second for seafood restaurants in Pretoria, earning an 8.2/10 rating. Reviewers describe it as having the “best Hake and Chips in the world” with excellent value for money. It is a beloved local institution for traditional fish and chips.
10. Karoo Fish and Seafood Grill
Located in the trendy Hazelwood neighbourhood, Karoo Fish and Seafood Grill is a haven for seafood lovers. The restaurant specializes in fresh seafood sourced from sustainable suppliers, ensuring high-quality dishes that capture the essence of South African coastal cuisine. From grilled prawns and line fish to calamari and seafood platters, the menu caters to all tastes. The warm and inviting atmosphere adds to the overall dining experience.
11. Greenhouse On Festival
Greenhouse On Festival in Hatfield offers a seafood-focused menu alongside steakhouse and Mediterranean options, earning a 4.9 rating from over 434 reviews. Guests praise the warm welcome, friendly service, and delicious dishes like the seafood linguine and lamb shank. It is highly recommended for special events and intimate dinners.
12. John Dory’s (Menlyn)
John Dory’s at Menlyn Shopping Centre offers a wide selection of seafood including fish, shellfish, calamari, sushi, and grills. It is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and excellent value. The restaurant is a convenient choice for shoppers and families seeking a satisfying seafood meal.
13. Fishaways (Multiple Locations)
Fishaways is a popular chain specializing in affordable seafood meals, such as their Hake, Rice, Chips and Onion Rings combo. With numerous locations across Pretoria including Gezina Galleries, Sunnypark, Menlo Park, Montana Crossing, and Glenfair, it is a convenient and budget-friendly option for a quick seafood fix.
14. Porto Take Aways (Hatfield)
Porto Take Aways in Hatfield is praised for its delicious chips, especially the peri peri option. Reviewers highlight the friendly staff and pleasant eating area, with crispy fish and tasty Russians available. It offers a unique flavour profile reminiscent of the original Porto’s from Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal.
15. Ocean Basket (Waverley)
The Ocean Basket at Waverley Plaza is a standout branch, holding a 4.9 rating from guests. Described as a “small spot” that is “hands down the best seafood restaurant in the Moot,” it offers fast service and a warm, inviting vibe. The special includes a bottle of wine, making it ideal for a date night.
16. Ocean Basket (Menlyn Park)
The Ocean Basket at Menlyn Park is another reliable branch of the popular chain, offering the same fresh seafood and generous platters that have made the brand a household name. It is conveniently located for shoppers and moviegoers.
17. Ocean Basket (Hatfield)
The Ocean Basket at Hatfield offers spacious indoor and outdoor seating and a menu featuring prawn and mussel combos, grilled salmon, and sharing platters. It has a 3.8 rating from nearly 4,000 reviews and caters to various tastes in a lively atmosphere.
18. Ocean Basket (Brooklyn Square)
The Ocean Basket at Brooklyn Square serves the popular Brooklyn area near the University of Pretoria. It offers the brand’s signature seafood offerings in a convenient location for students, professionals, and residents of the area.
19. LM in the East
LM in the East offers a comforting blend of delicious food with a focus on seafood and wood-fired pizza. Guests praise the seafood’s wonderful flavours and the restaurant’s warm, inviting atmosphere. It is recommended for those who want to mix and match their favourite seafood on a large plate.
20. Mozambik (Other Locations)
Mozambik has multiple locations across Pretoria, bringing Portuguese-Mozambican flavours to different suburbs. The menu features prawns, calamari, mussels, and their signature prawn curry. It is a solid choice for those seeking vibrant, flavourful seafood in a family-friendly setting.
21. Pretoria Country Club
The Pretoria Country Club offers a refined dining experience with a menu that includes excellent seafood options. Reviewers have praised the hake and thrice-cooked chips as “heavenly.” It is an excellent choice for a leisurely lunch in an elegant setting.
22. Ocean Basket (Centurion Mall)
The Ocean Basket at Centurion Mall serves the Centurion community with the franchise’s signature seafood offerings. It is a convenient choice for residents of the area seeking a familiar, quality seafood meal.
23. Ocean Basket (Wonderboom Junction)
The Ocean Basket at Wonderboom Junction serves the northern suburbs of Pretoria. It offers the same menu of seafood platters, sushi, and grilled fish that has made the chain a favourite across South Africa.
24. Fishaways (Gezina Galleries)
The Fishaways at Gezina Galleries is a convenient takeaway option for residents in the Gezina area. It offers the brand’s affordable seafood meals, including hake, rice, chips, and calamari combos.
25. Fishaways (Menlo Park)
The Fishaways in Menlo Park serves the eastern suburbs with the chain’s signature budget-friendly seafood offerings. It is a practical choice for a quick, satisfying meal.
COMPARISON TABLE: Best Seafood Restaurants in Pretoria
| Rank | Restaurant | Location | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ostra Mediterranean | Hazelwood | 4.80 rating; fresh oysters; paella; fishmonger next door |
| 2 | Ocean Basket (Zambezi Junction) | Montana Park | 4.90 rating; 2,500+ reviews; sharing platters; family-friendly |
| 3 | Crawdaddy’s | Brooklyn | 4.6 rating; prawns, kingklip, fish and meat dishes |
| 4 | Mozambik Groenkloof | Groenkloof | Mozambican-inspired seafood; prawn curry; vibrant atmosphere |
| 5 | Hillside Tavern | Pretoria East | Established since 1989; seafood, game, steaks; classic atmosphere |
| 6 | O’Galito | Centurion | Portuguese-style seafood; Cataplana; seafood platters |
| 7 | Oze Café Bistro | Hazelwood | Portuguese-inspired menu; cozy dining; seafood options |
| 8 | Fishmonger Centurion | Centurion | Upscale seafood restaurant; romantic setting |
| 9 | The Famous Fishoek Co | Pretoria | Known for hake and chips; strong value-for-money reputation |
| 10 | Karoo Fish and Seafood Grill | Hazelwood | Sustainable seafood; grilled prawns; fresh line fish |
| 11 | Greenhouse On Festival | Hatfield | Highly rated; seafood linguine; excellent service |
| 12 | John Dory’s | Menlyn | Family-friendly seafood chain; broad menu selection |
| 13 | Fishaways | Multiple Locations | Affordable seafood takeaway; hake, rice and chips |
| 14 | Porto Take Aways | Hatfield | Portuguese-inspired takeaway seafood and peri-peri chips |
| 15 | Ocean Basket (Waverley) | Waverley | Popular date-night venue; fast service |
| 16 | Ocean Basket (Menlyn Park) | Menlyn | Convenient location; reliable seafood platters |
| 17 | Ocean Basket (Hatfield) | Hatfield | Lively atmosphere; sharing platters |
| 18 | Ocean Basket (Brooklyn Square) | Brooklyn | Convenient for students and nearby residents |
| 19 | LM in the East | Pretoria East | Seafood, wood-fired pizza, sharing plates |
| 20 | Mozambik (Other Locations) | Multiple Locations | Portuguese-Mozambican seafood; prawns and calamari |
| 21 | Pretoria Country Club | Pretoria | Refined dining; hake and thrice-cooked chips |
| 22 | Ocean Basket (Centurion Mall) | Centurion | Signature Ocean Basket experience |
| 23 | Ocean Basket (Wonderboom Junction) | Wonderboom | Consistent quality for northern suburbs |
| 24 | Fishaways (Gezina Galleries) | Gezina | Affordable seafood takeaway |
| 25 | Fishaways (Menlo Park) | Menlo Park | Convenient budget-friendly seafood option |
TIPS FOR UNDERSTANDING PRETORIA’S SEAFOOD DINING SCENE
For a Fine-Dining Experience: Ostra Mediterranean and Crawdaddy’s are excellent choices for a special night out with high-quality ingredients and attentive service.
For Mozambican and Portuguese Flavours: Mozambik and O’Galito offer authentic coastal dishes with vibrant atmospheres and generous platters.
For Value and Consistency: The Ocean Basket branches at Zambezi Junction and Waverley are standouts, offering consistent quality and cheerful service.
For Budget-Friendly Options: Fishaways and Porto Take Aways offer affordable seafood meals and delicious chips without compromising on taste.
Book in Advance: Popular seafood restaurants, especially upscale venues like Ostra Mediterranean and Fishmonger, fill up quickly on weekends. Reservations are recommended.
CONCLUSION
Pretoria’s seafood dining scene is far richer than its inland location might suggest. From the refined Mediterranean cuisine at Ostra to the Mozambican flavours at Mozambik and the beloved Portuguese dishes at O’Galito, there is a seafood option for every taste and budget. Independent gems like The Famous Fishoek Co, Karoo Fish and Seafood Grill, and Porto Take Aways offer unique experiences that go beyond the familiar chains.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner for two, a family-friendly meal, or a quick and affordable takeaway, Pretoria’s seafood restaurants deliver the fresh flavours of the ocean to the Highveld. By considering your priorities—whether that’s fine dining, value, or a specific cuisine—you can find the perfect seafood restaurant for your next meal in South Africa’s administrative capital.