This October, we’ll be announcing the Eat Out Mercedes-Benz Best Everyday Eateries. How does it all work? Every star rating you give with a restaurant review from 1 October 2016 to 31 August 2017 goes towards an overall score for that restaurant. The top reader-rated restaurants in each category are then rated by an Eat Out critic. Final scores for the award will be based on a 50-50 composite rating determined by the public and the critics. (This last step has been introduced after restaurants and readers have asked for the process to be audited by our critics.) Here are the top reader picks from the past seven days’ worth of reviews.

• Joburg
• Pretoria
• Durban
• Cape Town

Joburg

PRON Restaurant (People’s Republic of Noodles)
Red Chamber is an Asian-food institution in Joburg. Every time I crave some good, traditional, wholesome Chinese, I wheel on over to Hyde Park Corner. The owner of Red Chamber, Emma Chen, has now opened a second restaurant in the trendy suburb, Linden. PRON (People’s republic of noodles) is an artwork. The décor is bright, slightly oddball and fun. It makes you smile as soon as you walk in. The menu is divided into two parts: tapas and noodles, with a good number of low-carb and vegetarian dishes amongst the noodle dishes. We decided to order mostly from the tapas menu and added some plain noodles to go with the meat tapas. The best dishes of the night: The hand-break bread. This is a flaky, warm flatbread that’s somewhere between naan and a croissant. Tofu and cucumber salad. It was fresh and crunchy with an amazing secret dressing…
– Equilibrio Lifestyle Blog

Pork noodles from PRON. Image courtesy of the restaurant

The Local Grill (Parktown North)
Great food and a good selection of wines, which was accompanied by a personal tour of the kitchen by one of the chefs. We saw how they prepare the steaks and which cuts we could have, which was a great way to know what to order. Will definitely be back!
– Khotso Machere

A steak from The Local Grill. Photo supplied.

The Porterhouse (Roodepoort)
This is the best restaurant on the Westrand. Excellent service from all, from the time you walk in until you walk out. Food is great and good value for money. Simply the best, thanks to Steve and Morris.
– Dolores Kolbe

Sin + Tax (Rosebank)
Sin+Tax is cool for a number of reasons. The first reason is that it’s hard to find – like a secret society bungalow (think The Bookhouse Boys in Twin Peaks or Dead Poet’s Society). The entrance is down a dark alleyway with no signage. Very mysterious, and very enticing… But, once you’re inside, the little windowless bar is warm and inviting, with a tinge of dingy-grotto and a hint of designer-cool. The second reason is its smart name, which our waiter said is “syntax” or “sin tax” but others are calling “sin and tax”. And the third reason is its menu. Go thirsty to Sin+Tax because the cocktail list is outrageous. My first round was the Afterglow, a turmeric, gin, chamomile cordial, passion fruit, fennel seed and Absinthe mist concoction. With two superfoods included, it almost seemed healthy, but naughtily so. My second was the Apothica, another gin-based cocktail which came in a little black cauldron. I must admit I didn’t quite know how to approach this one; I copped out and asked for a straw. And after two cocktails one’s shoulders start moving to the oozing music and the inevitable need for food arises. The food menu is limited at Sin+Tax, mostly bar snacks like biltong, nuts and olives or if you order before 8pm, you have a choice of a few pizzas. We shared a pizza which soaked up some booze and satisfied the craving. If you’re not into cocktails there is a very inventive wine list and limited, but good wine by the glass. The whiskey list is excellent. I’d recommend Sin+tax for pre-dinner drinks and mood-setting. The service was attentive and knowledgeable. I’ll definitely return.
– Equilibrio Lifestyle Blog

Pretoria

Baraćas Wine & Beer Bar (Groenkloof)
A true owner-run pub and one of the few left in Pretoria! Baracas Wine and Beer Bar is in one of the oldest serving pub/sports clubs in Pretoria. The place is filled with history and give you a great homely feel inside, with fireplaces and wood and copper finishes everywhere. The food is simply out of this world! It is a gastronomical journey and it will take a while to try most of the items on the menu, but it is worth it. There burgers are some of the best in town, with fresh, home-made patties on an amazing bun, accompanied with onion rings and GREAT chips! They also have the monster burger on request, which is big enough to feed eight people! If you haven’t been to Baracas yet you have to give it a try!
– Luke Paola

Black Bamboo (Ashlea Gardens)
Dear Chef Grobler and team. I visited your establishment on Tuesday and I have been tortured by dreams of the steak tartare amuse bouche and of that of my tuna starter. Oh my word, I enjoyed both tremendously. Thank you, Ben, for also taking the time to show us the rest of the establishment.
– Elisha Du Bois

The Rib Eye Steak at Black Bamboo. Photo supplied.

Burger Bistro (Clubview)
Something special… A real 70s diner – the only thing missing is the waiters’ roller skates. Designer burgers served with hand-cut chips. Each burger unique and made from fresh ingredients. They have an incredible variety of burgers on the menu as well as steaks. They have a special milkshakes menu with shakes ranging from peanut butter to rose. They also offer a selection of craft beers and wine. Just a fun and cosy joint to enjoy with your whole family!
– Rochelle Steyn

Burger Bistro (Hazelwood)
This is no normal eatery. The food portions are great, the best names to describe succulent, mouthwatering food on their menu and it’s freshly prepared every time. You will be back for more. For burgers, I choose Burger Bistro Hazelwood every time.
– Wimpie Dempsey

The fare at Burger Bistro. Photo by Patrick Furter.

The Harlequin (Groenkloof)
I really love eating here. The meat is always prepared exactly as asked – never over or under. The quality of the proteins is always excellent. This is, in my mind, a hidden gem, and definitely worth a visit.
– Celicia Serenata

Ribs & Burgers (Waterkloof)
I have had the pleasure of dropping in at R&B on a few occasions and every single time the food has been delicious. I have had both the original beef and cheeseburgers, as well as the falafel and chicken burgers. The patties are super juicy, buns fresh and the cheese and other the toppings work well with the whole deal. The staff members are always friendly and the managers even recognise me and greet me by name. The layout of the store is cosy on cold days and welcoming when the weather is warm out. In general, they have definitely impressed me and they are honestly my favourite place to get a burger when I am in that side of town. Well worth the visit if you have a chance.
– Stephen Botha

A burger from Ribs & Burgers. Photo supplied.

Villa San Giovanni (Sinoville)
Dear VSG-team, what an awesome time we had at your restaurant. Kids were happy making their own pizzas and it gave us (mom and dad) a break as well. Food portions are generous and comforting. Thank you to Tony for bringing life to the area; it’s so good to see you after so many years. We will be back.
– Elisha du Bois

Durban

Butcher Block (Berea)
Butcher block is known for its steaks and this one is no exception. Delicious and well worth it.
– Justine Purcell

A burger and beer at Butcher Block. Photo supplied.

Butcher Boys (Morningside)
Butcher Boys always delivers the most incredible service as well as hearty tasteful food. A visit is definitely a must!
-Thayne Flanagan

A saucy steak and chips at Butcher Boys. Photo supplied.

Chez Nous (Westville)
Comfy couches to relax on while you enjoy a good cuppa with friends. The restaurant is very open and can get a bit noisy.
– Justine Purcell

Danny’s House of Curries (Blue Lagoon)
Best curry spot in Durban.
– Justine Purcell

El Toro (Durban North)
I really enjoy this spot. The food is tasty and different. I have been there when it is busy and the service has been spotty, but I enjoy the atmosphere. Great decor and vibe.
– Varsha Naidu Moodley

The interior at El Toro. Photo supplied.

Lupa Osteria (Westville)
Great for a date or with friends. Food is really good and the waiters are very knowledgeable and quirky. I like it.
– Justine Purcell

Mali’s Indian Restaurant (Morningside)
I noticed Mali’s hasn’t been reviewed on Eat Out in two years, so maybe they have upped their game, because this was some of the best Indian I’ve had in SA and I’ve personally dined at all the top PTA, JHB and CPT Indian places. The ambience of the restaurant is very compact and homey, which suits the Indian style, so I have no complaints. Our food was also served in traditional copper bowls as expected, also very authentic and added to the experience as a whole. Our two waiters were friendly and very helpful, even when giving advice or answering questions about the dishes. We had the butter chicken and chicken chettinad, which were both simply perfect. Incredibly tasteful, yet not overpowering in any way, as many Indian places sometimes try to hard and kill the main ingredients. We ended off the meal with a very rare method of sooji made with carrot – it was truly Indian and absolutely to-die-for. Top Indian cuisine!
– Pierre Coetzee

Mamma Luciana’s (Morningside)
Fast, friendly staff and yummy food. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit!

– Justine Purcell

Mo-Zam-Bik (Morningside)
Good food and friendly staff. I will be back.
– Justine Purcell

Inside Mo-Zam-Bik. Photo by Jan Ras.

Pallet Jacks (Hillcrest)
Looking for a place to take the kids on a rainy day? This is it. They have separate areas for younger kids and child minders, so parents can enjoy their meal, stress free. I loved the decor too; it’s rustic but modern.
– Justine Purcell

PL8 Restaurant (Morningside)
The PL8 is one of the best, with a modern look and menu with selection of your choice. They provide the best burgers and tastiest meals in Morningside. I love the burgers and big red walls.
-Mnqandi Mncwango

Pop-Up Society (Glenwood)
I kept seeing ads pop up everywhere and decided to go see for myself. I wasn’t disappointed and the food was beautiful and tasty too!
– Justine Purcell

An OTT burger from Pop-Up Society. Photo supplied.

Republik (Durban North)
The flavors are sensational. These are the best burgers, definitely. The service and staff are really amazing. Real value for money. The place also has a awesome vibe. If you want to have a good time with friends and family, this is the place to be.
– Hanlerie Saayman

Rocomamas (Gateway)
Their burgers are to die for! Energetic staff and great vibe here.
– Justine Purcell

S43 Home to That Brewing Co. (Berea)
Nice place that gets more vibey as the night develops. Service is a bit slow, but the food is great!
– Justine Purcell

The interior at S43 in Station Drive. Photo supplied.

Taco Zulu (Windermere)
Who says no to giant pizza? The place is vibes, with music a little too loud for conversations, but great for an afternoon with friends.
– Justine Purcell

Union Square Food and Restaurant (Durban North)
They have top selection of burgers with unique pairings of some local beers and other drinks on the market. On the menu the burgers are unique, with portions enough to fulfil your cravings, and the best sauce.
– Mnqandi Mncwango

Cape Town

Belthazar Restaurant and Wine Bar (V&A Waterfront)
Steak, steak, steak, steak: They have grain-fed, grass-fed and Argentinian, plus lots of game. Too much variety. I had a rib-eye which was cooked to perfection and served with veg. My pal had the most delicious sirloin steak with fries. We must be alcoholics as we drank till midnight and took an Uber back.
– Stenford Chiburacho

Cattle Baron Steak Ranch (Durbanville)
I have never yet had a bad steak at Cattle Baron in 25 years! The quality is consistent and the portion sizes reasonable. The fact that you get a starch AND veggies makes every plate worth the money spent – everywhere else, every dish you want is extra. They also charge no corkage, which makes it even more attractive. I have been to many steakhouses, but Cattle Baron Durbanville is still the best value and quality for money.
– Nelia Jansen

Steak at Cattle Baron. Photo supplied.

Collins Grill Butchery (Belville)
Best of the Best!
– Lydia Steyn

Didi’s Bitchin Burritos (Cape Town and surrounds)
On their busiest evening we placed a huge order, basically a sample of almost everything! The order was dealt with promptly, timeously and food was amazing! I would recommend this any day of the week. We are coming for you, taco Tuesday!
– Erika Stougie

Eighty Ate Restaurant (Cape Town CBD)
I was here with my family in the evening. Warm in winter with beautiful table setting. Friendly waiters. Great food presentation. Food was fresh and attentively prepared. Extensive wine list. They have a dedicated kids’ menu.
– Chantel Pienaar

Famous Butcher’s Grill (City Bowl)
My husband and I visit this restaurant during our annual leave every year. The steaks are grilled to perfection and offer real value for money, not to mention the service. I will highly recommend this restaurant to all steak lovers.
– Ashley Carolus

Gibson’s Gourmet Burgers and Ribs (V&A Waterfront)
Absolutely a mouthful!
– Lydia Steyn

A double cheese whopper from Gibson’s. Photo supplied.

HQ (Cape Town CBD)
HQ is my go-to for steak hungry days. The food, from starters to desserts, is always deliciously prepared and served with a smile. The budget-friendly weekly specials here make this an easy and affordable dining experience.
-Irmsk

HQ’s famous steak. Photo supplied.

Hussar Grill (Steenberg)
When entering Hussar’s grill at both Sternberg and Constantia you are welcomed to a culinary experience with a difference. Friendly, knowledgeable and efficient staff complement every dish and beverage ordered. Hussar is renowned for succulent steaks and side orders. We had crispy chips and lovely veg. This is definitely a venue for any occasion, from a few friends getting together and having a meal to couples spending time together. Awesome place with memorable moments. Definitely returning.
– Shahieda Scheffers

JC Pub & Brasserie (Zonnebloem)
Great place to have a business lunch or enjoy a chilled evening with music. Food is excellent and the atmosphere is awesome. Definitely a place one can eat at again and again.
– Nicci van Doesburgh

Jerry’s Burger Bar (Gardens)
I absolutely love the burgers at Jerry’s Burger Bar. Most often a toss up between the Philly Steak burger & the Sweet Baby Cheeses. Always delicious. Always great service. And don’t forget the cheese balls starter…
– Irmsk

Jerry’s burgers and fries. Photo supplied.

NV-80 (Sea Point)
Certainly one of the best steaks I have had in Cape Town. The establishment does not look like a traditional steakhouse in any manner, but as they say, looks can be deceiving. Victor and his team have things waxed.
– Ravi Jaga

Pirates Steakhouse and Pub (Plumstead)
Pirates is a very warm family orientated restaurant. They always have excellent music which keeps patrons entertained well into the night. The food is good and reasonable and the atmosphere in the restaurant is warm and inviting.
– Ingrid Milne

Saints Burger Joint (Blouberg)
10/10 for ambience, 10/10 for service, 12/10 for food. I visited Saints on Friday 16 June 2017. I didn’t know what to expect; all I wanted was a seat on the deck in the sun and in full view of Cape Town’s beautiful mountain and sea. I was instantly impressed by the ambience. I ordered Sweet Child O Mine, which includes two sides of your choice – talk about variety! I honestly didn’t expect something decent because my meal was quite affordable. To my surprise, I received more than value for my money! I thoroughly enjoyed my meal; everyone at my table enjoyed their meal! The best I’ve tasted by far, and I will definitely be returning to try out the rest of the menu. Great beer, great food and great company! My meal was tasty, my salad was fresh and my chips were top notch. Overly impressed! Thank you for a wonderful experience.
– Meagan Abrahams

Redemption Burgers (Woodstock)
Awesome rock-and-roll vibe! Friendly staff and service were very good. And it is the best burger in Cape Town.
– Christo Stander

The Straight Ace at Redemption Burgers in Woodstock. Photo courtesy of Jan Ras.

Woodies (V&A Waterfront)
This is by far the best burger joint in Cape Town! Amazing!
– Tamara Yates-Butler