DISCLAIMER
This production is the property of Bloemfontein Courant and published to announce the results of the Best of Bloemfontein Readers’ Choice Awards 2025.

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 Place to Buy Biltong, Best Place to Find Boerewors for a Braai, and Best Butcher: D&J Butchery

D&J in Bloemfontein is a trusted local favourite, known for top-quality, fresh meat at affordable prices. Specialising in a wide selection of beef, lamb, pork, and chicken, they proudly serve families, restaurants, societies, and special occasions. With friendly service and a commitment to excellence, D&J ensures every customer enjoys premium cuts and great value. Whether you’re planning a braai, stocking up for the week, or searching for something special – D&J Meat has you covered. After all, your tongue deserves D&J’s meat.

Best Burger and Best Chips: The Staffordshire Pub

Affectionately known as The Staffy, this Bloemfontein pub brings a touch of class to the local scene. With great food, signature cocktails, and a lively lineup of entertainment – including live music, karaoke, and Quiz Nights – The Staffy promises a memorable experience. Bloem residents enjoy the welcoming vibe, beautiful beer garden, and vibrant sports bar that make it a favourite gathering spot.

Best Caterer: Pienaar Spyseniers

Pienaar Spyseniers is a trusted catering company based in Bloemfontein, offering expert spit braai, wedding, party, corporate, and funeral catering services. With extensive industry experience, a strong focus on customer satisfaction, and competitive pricing, they deliver quality and reliability for every occasion. 

Best Coffee Shop: Platō Coffee

Plato Coffee, located at the Pretty Garden Lifestyle Centre in Langenhoven Park, Bloemfontein, officially launched on March 28, 2025. Known for serving premium, expertly crafted coffee, Plato offers a cosy, community-focused atmosphere where quality and connection take centre stage.

Best Deli/Bakery: Daisy & Co.

Situated at Preller Square, Daisy & Co. offers a delightful selection of freshly baked treats and a curated range of gifts to help turn your house into a home. With a heartfelt belief in “baking the difference,” they combine flavour, charm, and creativity to make every visit a special experience.

Best Fish and Chips Shop: Fishaways

Fishaways is a South African seafood-focused, quick-service restaurant brand that offers a range of affordable, healthy, and fresh seafood meals and sushi. The brand emphasises healthier options, such as grilled fish and salads, with many meals verified by dieticians and highlighted for their calorie content.

Best Place to Buy Fresh Produce: Johnny’s Fruit Market

Johnny’s Fruit Market is a well-known and award-winning retailer in Bloemfontein, specialising in high-quality fresh fruits and vegetables, and established by the Tyranis family in 1991. After a recent change in ownership in late 2024, the market continues its legacy under new management, offering a wide variety of produce, daily specials, and a one-stop shopping experience for local residents.

Best Place to Buy Frozen Foods: Econo Foods

Econo Foods is the leading food service provider across the Free State, Northern Cape, Gauteng, and North West regions, specialising in frozen and chilled products. As an independently owned company, Econo Foods delivers an unrivalled service experience with customer satisfaction at its core. Backed by strategic partnerships, deep product and industry knowledge, and a no-minimum-order policy, they ensure reliable, flexible, and value-driven solutions for every client.

Best Spot to Go for a Pizza: Minnie’s Pizzeria

Minnie’s Pizzeria is a family-friendly favourite, serving wood-fired pizzas, pastas, eisbein, oxtail, and fresh salads in a warm, Italian-inspired setting. Known for flavourful dishes made with fine ingredients, Minnie’s offers a cosy atmosphere perfect for casual meals or special occasions.

Best Takeaway Shop: Stadium Fast Foods

Taste the difference with the best quality ingredients in all the freshly prepared meals that are served with friendliness at Stadium Fast Foods – guaranteeing the true Stadium experience and the best takeaways in the City of Roses.

Best Tea Garden: Pretty Gardens Lifestyle Centre

Pretty Gardens is a Gardens Centre that strives to provide their customers with a unique shopping experience while giving professional advice and supplying the best quality plants and garden accessories available.