My Top Picks From The City of Roses
Bloemfontein, the capital of the Free State province, is a small and quaint city in South Africa.It is the judicial capital of the nation and a place that I called home for the past 4 years whilst studying law at the University of the Free State.
Having recently moved back to Johannesburg, the feeling of nostalgia for this dusty city is weighing heavily in my heart! So, how better to cure the heart of this? Write about it of course!
Although this tiny city is not bursting with calendar-full events or 5 star-restaurants, it has many hidden gems worth noting for your next visit:
"Longhorn Grill has been all about sizzling grills & legendary steaks since 2009."
This restaurant serves up good food and vibes! With multiple specials throughout the week, it certainly did my cravings and student budget good!
Afternoon Treat: Bob's Peanut Butter Shack
A hidden gem in Bloemfontein's Westdene! Serving the most wild milkshake combinations at R40 a pop (normal size) and great food in a wonderful garden! A fav to try is definitely the bacon and syrup milkshake! Yum!!
Nite Market: Jack & Jill Food Co.
Hosted by the Jack & Jill restuarant (on the Corner of Waverley and Andries Pretorius Street, Bloemfontein) this market brings a cheerful and lively social atmosphere. Held every 3rd Friday of every month. Paired with live performances, wine tastings and a great variety of stalls, every pocket and preference will be satisfied. But, if you can't make it to the market be sure to visit Jack & Jill!
Day Market: Langehovenpark Boeremark
Don't let the name or lack of racial diversity chase you away ! It chased me away for about 3 years ! Although nothing compared to the Fourways Farmer's Market in JHB, this weekly Saturday Farmer's market is a treat for a boring Saturday morning.From pancakes, crafts to vintage clothing on sale it's a great way to get a group of friends together for a late breakfast and some shopping.
Note: If you're a racially mixed group you might just get a few stares BUT remember you're in Bloemfontein.
Burger Joint : No16 Stoep & Beer Garden
Serves one of the best burgers in town! Although a little pricey for a student budget it is a great treat. Great selection of craft beers and good atmosphere during the day.
Tip: Avoid going there for a late dinner (unless looking for a jol) as the restaurant converts to a restaurant/club/bar in the evenings. Overall good atmosphere, just one of the owners (Mario) is not the most welcoming! But definitely worth the visit!
Cocktail Bar: Boho Bistro
Found in well-known 2nd Avenue street, this colourful Bohemian inspired restaurant, cocktail bar and lounge is the newest to join the Bloem social scene! Vibrant, cosy and welcoming, it is the perfect place for midweek after-work sun-downers or Friday/Saturday night drinks!
Good prices, a mixed group of people and great music! My favourite hang out spot! hosts the best Karaoke Night! Not to be missed!
Restaurant/ Bar : Scarlet Room
This Langehoven Park restaurant is the perfect place to get friends together for a drink or meal!
Although it's most certainly not 5-star, it's menu has a wide variety of food choices from curry to steaks at good student prices! Plus they host multiple fun game nights for those boring Bloem evenings!
Gin Bar: Wiltshire and White Horse Company
Situated just across from Jack & Jill (trading from 12:00PM - 11:00PM), this stylish bar offers a variety of artisanal Gins, quality malted scotches and hand crafted foods.
The barmen have great knowledge of the Gins and create a pleasant atmosphere and cocktails are Instagram worthy!
It is the perfect place to spend a Saturday afternoon.
Downfall: a bit pricey for my student budget (Cocktails going between R50-R60) but for something different in this small city it's worth it!
Restaurant : Iewers Nice
Iewers Nice (translating to ‘somewhere nice’ in Afrikaans) is indeed a nice spot to meet a friend for a lunch or dinner.
It’s a fun space with quirky touches everywhere including a real mini-bus inside that you can eat in! The informal space, albeit quite busy décor-wise, will lift your spirit. Iewers Nice offers a remarkably wide range of food that's delicious!
Bar : Die Mystic Boer
Known to locals as 'Mystic' . This bar has interesting décor – candles jammed into old wine bottles - and attention to pop art, with floor-to-ceiling mounted wallpaper- and vibe! Great for a chilled evening of beers, catching up or playing a round of beer pong or pool! Has a great variety of people, music and welcomes all misfits! Including me!
Warning: Eat the pizza when you're drunk, it will taste amazing!
Disclaimer: All details were correct at the time of publishing. Please check out websites for any changes made thereafter.
