Appetite at Sun International’s Time Square in Pretoria has quickly emerged as a culinary hotspot, renowned for its innovative approach to South African cuisine. The restaurant is dedicated to offering a unique dining experience that showcases bold flavours, creative presentations, and an imaginative twist on traditional dishes. We recently had an opportunity to review this trendy spot and got to experience creative dishes that truly pushed the boundaries of local cuisine.

From the moment we walked in, the service at Appetite was impeccable. Our waitress, Margaret, was not only friendly but also incredibly helpful. She took the time to explain the menu, suggest some great pairings, and check in on us throughout the meal. Her recommendations were spot on, and she made us feel truly welcomed. It’s always nice to have that kind of personal touch during a dining experience.

Our journey began with a tasting experience based on the Mezze Board concept, which immediately set the tone for the evening. This fun and interactive way of dining allows you to create your own tasting board by choosing three tapas-style dishes from a carefully curated selection. It’s the perfect way to sample a variety of flavours and textures, and it also makes for a great sharing experience if you’re dining with friends or family.

We opted for a selection that included a mix of sweet and spicy elements, each dish offering something unique to tantalize our taste buds. The Bourbon Barbecue Pork Ribs were a standout with their smoky, tender meat glazed featuring a tangy bourbon sauce, topped with crispy bacon relish and a smooth chive crema. The combination of smoky, sweet, and savoury flavours made these ribs an instant favourite. The Korean-Style Baked Chicken Wings were delightful. Coated in a rich gochujang sauce, the wings had just the right amount of spice, and the sesame seeds and spring onion added an extra layer of texture that complemented the juicy, tender chicken beautifully. The Biltong marinated in balsamic and parmesan gave a South African twist to the classic charcuterie experience.

Next, we indulged in the Prawn and Sesame Toast – delightful fusion of crispy exterior and succulent prawn filling, deep-fried to perfection. The toast was paired with a zesty sweet chili sauce and garnished with fresh spring onion and chili, hitting the perfect balance between heat and sweetness. The Trio of Samoosa featuring lamb, chicken, and potato served with a tangy cilantro chutney was an adventure of note. The beautifully made and mouthwatering Crispy Duck Bao Buns were the perfect finale for our starters, encasing succulent crispy duck, complemented by a black bean and hoisin sauce slaw, plus pickled shitake mushrooms for a burst of umami.

After such a fantastic start, the mains had a lot to live up to, but they certainly didn’t disappoint. First up was the Classic Durban Lamb Curry, a dish that packed a punch with bold, rich flavours. The lamb was perfectly tender, cooked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection, and the Durban curry spices gave it that signature heat and depth that Durban curries are known for. Served with traditional sambals, rice, and a fluffy roti, the dish felt like a comforting embrace – a true celebration of South African cuisine. Each bite was an explosion of flavour, with the spices lingering long after, making it an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves bold, vibrant dishes.

Then came the Classic Oxtail Stew Colcannon, another dish that had us swooning. The oxtail was so tender that it practically fell off the bone, slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, savoury sauce that enveloped every morsel. The stew was served with baby vegetables, which added a fresh, earthy contrast to the rich, meaty flavour of the oxtail. Both mains were hearty, satisfying, and beautifully balanced. Each dish showcased the restaurant’s commitment to high-quality, seasonal ingredients, and the perfect blend of comforting flavours with just the right amount of flair. It was clear that the chefs at Appetite take great pride in their craft, and these mains certainly lived up to the promise of a memorable meal.

After such an amazing experience, we knew we had to leave room for dessert – and we’re so glad we did. Appetite’s desserts are the perfect sweet ending to a flavourful meal, and they did not disappoint. First, we indulged in the Amarula Malva Pudding, which was everything you could want in a dessert. The pudding itself was rich, moist, and decadent, with a deep, comforting flavour that was elevated by the signature Amarula cream liqueur. The accompanying naartjie crème anglaise added a refreshing citrusy note that beautifully cut through the richness of the pudding, balancing the sweetness without overpowering it. The candied ginger on top provided a zesty kick, adding a touch of spice that tied everything together. It was the kind of dessert that makes you want to linger, savouring every bite.

For a lighter and more playful option, we tried the Ice Cream Sandwich – a fun treat that brought out the kid in us. The creamy, smooth ice cream was perfectly sandwiched between two soft, slightly crunchy biscuits. The texture was spot on, with just the right balance of creamy and crisp. Both desserts were a delicious contrast to each other – one indulgent and comforting, the other light and nostalgic – but both were a perfect way to cap off an already-fantastic meals, offering a sweet, satisfying conclusion to a night of bold flavours and unforgettable dishes.

Appetite has a great selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks too. One drink we particularly enjoyed was the Still Works cocktail – a refreshing mix of ginger, cola tonic, lime, and lemonade bitters. It was light, zesty, and had just the right amount of kick. Whether you’re into classic cocktails or something more adventurous, Appetite’s drink menu has something for everyone.

Overall, Appetite is a fantastic dining spot that delivers on all fronts – amazing food, a great atmosphere, and top-notch service. The creative tapas starters, comforting mains, and indulgent desserts make it a place worth visiting whether you’re a Pretorian or just passing through. The variety of flavours, combined with the fun and relaxed vibe of the restaurant, creates an experience you won’t forget. So, if you’re looking for a place to enjoy a memorable meal with friends or family, make sure you check out Appetite. You won’t leave hungry, and you’ll likely leave already planning your next visit!