Blu Saffron

This time of the year when you drive down the streets of Pretoria, you are treated to a mesmerizing exhibition of violet and lavender-blue. The trumpet-shaped flowers of the Jacaranda tree create the spectacle of the year. No wonder they call this the Jacaranda City. Blossoming from late September until November, legend has it that if one of these flowers drops on a student’s head, the student will pass their exams. Maybe coincidental that there are 3 Universities in the Capital.

Our reservation this evening is at Blu Saffron which is situated on the prestigious Pretoria Country Club. Upon entering the premises, we are greeted by more of these magnificent trees. We descend the stairs into the reception area where we are warmly welcomed and shown to our table.

We start off with cocktails on the terrace overlooking the lush golf course. Amanda has a margarita and I order a classic vodka martini. We sip our drinks, admire the impressive view, and remark on what a splendid evening it is.

While browsing the wine list we ask the drinks steward Angella for a recommendation. She suggests the Hartenberg Doorkeeper – Merlot Malbec. It is a medium-bodied easy-drinking wine with plum and black fruit flavours and hints of oak and vanilla.

Our host Peter comes over to greet us and runs us through the day’s specialities. We love his infectious enthusiasm. For starters, I decide on the salmon and the missus on a salad. Our conversation continues and we reminisce about our recent trip to Cape Town.

Before mains – duck a l’orange and Angus sirloin on the bone – we move to our inside table. The head chef Richard comes out to introduce himself and ask about our evening. We exchange pleasantries as our next course is served.