DISCLAIMER
This production is the property of Bloemfontein Courant and published to announce the results of the Best of Bloemfontein Readers’ Choice Awards 2023.

The category winners announced here have been chosen by online reader votes in the annual Best of Bloemfontein campaign. The voting results as depicted herein were verified by independent auditors and are final.

Best Bottle Store and Best Bottle Store to Buy Wine: Delta Express
Founded by Akie Koupis Delta, positions customer service at the centre of its business. As the co-owner, George Koupis believes it is a great product that sells itself, however, this is not the secret to their large customer base and success, it is because they treat their customers like their friends and as though the sale is more than just a sales transaction. Delta has five express stores in Bloemfontein as well as a warehouse; from where the deliveries to their loyal restaurants, bars and taverns take place.

Best Cocktail Bar: Cubaña
Cubaña is South Africa’s only authentic Latino Social Caffé and eatery, showcasing stores strategically situated around South Africa. Established in 2001, the Cubaña brand has gained momentum over the years to be at the forefront of its industry, with no signs of slowing down. Cubaña is a social caffé which offers breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, as well as a buzzing nightlife.

Best Food/Art/Night Market: Langenhoven Mark/Market
Langenhoven Mark/Market is a farmers’ market that takes place every Saturday (excludes public holidays). You will find local farmers selling their wares, arts and crafts, jewellery, clothing and books.

Best Local Brewed Beverage: Famous Brew & Still
The Famous Brew & Still, situated in the vibrant epicentre of Bloemfontein, provides beer lovers with something a bit different. In its commitment to come up with something distinct, this brewery only produces small quantities of each of its beers. This means that each batch is fresh, delicious, and unique.

Best Local Band: J.A.R
J.A.R. is named after its three band members: John Smit, André Small and Riaan Nel. They are a 3-piece live cover band with a great variety and a mix of songs from all genres to listen, dance and/or party to. The band plays at functions, weddings, private parties and events and boasts having performed at close to 100 gigs.

Best Neighbourhood Pub and the Best Place to Watch the Big Game: The Staffordshire
The bar with a touch of class, affectionately known as “The Staffy”, is a Bloem Pub that serves great food and cocktails, has live music, karaoke, and Quiz Nights. Bloem residents are treated to a great time at The Staffy, which has a beautiful beer garden and sports bar and is located at 5 Faan Ferreira Ave, Spitskop Smallholdings.

Best Place to Attend Live Shows: Be Human– Middelwater Farm
BeHuman- Middelwater Farm is a luxury farm hotel, wedding and function venue. They host a Saturday family market with a kiddies’ play area and an animal farm located just off the N1 near Bloemfontein.