Pretoria’s dining scene has gained an ambitious new addition with the opening of Amazon, a Latin-inspired dining and entertainment destination at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre.
Image: Supplied
Created by Monseca Hospitality Group, the team behind popular concepts including Greenhouse Sandton, Amazon has been designed as more than just a restaurant. Instead, it aims to offer an all-day experience where guests can move seamlessly from leisurely brunches and long lunches to evening dining, cocktails and late-night entertainment.
With seating for approximately 400 guests, the venue is the group’s largest project to date.
From the moment visitors arrive, the experience is intended to feel immersive. Hand-laid marble flooring, lush botanical installations and warm natural materials create an atmosphere inspired by the Amazon rainforest without leaning into themed excess.
According to co-owner Estiaan Joubert, the concept fills a gap in Pretoria’s hospitality landscape.
“There’s nothing in Pretoria that meets in the middle,” he says. “A place with real energy where you could bring your mother for brunch, celebrate a birthday lunch, and return later for dinner and drinks.”
Brunch takes centre stage
One of Amazon’s standout offerings is its extensive brunch experience.
Weekend brunches feature live music, bubbly and shareable plates, making the venue suitable for celebrations ranging from birthdays and bridal showers to relaxed catch-ups with friends.
The menu includes dishes such as the Amazon Breakfast Board, loaded with bacon, sausage, halloumi, avocado, baked beans and eggs cooked to order. Diners can also choose from Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon, breakfast burritos, tropical granola and smoked salmon toast.
Freshly baked Brazilian pão de queijo, traditional cheese rolls, are served from lunchtime onward.
South American flavours with Japanese influences
While brunch plays an important role, the menu evolves throughout the day.
Executive Chef Siya Mlaba draws on culinary experience gained in London, New York and Mexico to create dishes inspired by Brazilian and South American cuisine, complemented by Japanese techniques and flavours.
Executive Chef Siya Mlaba/Supplied
Starters include crispy chilli-lime squid, roasted bone marrow, tamarind-glazed prawns and flame-finished lamb riblets. The raw bar features sea bass ceviche and tuna dishes brightened with tropical fruits and citrus.
The sushi offering combines South American ingredients with Japanese precision, while premium nigiri, rainbow rolls and crispy rice dishes cater to seafood lovers.
Among the mains, hardwood-fired picanha steak is expected to be a signature favourite. Other options include peri-peri chicken, grilled queen prawns, sea bass and a selection of premium cuts served with a variety of sides.
Image: Supplied
Desserts continue the South American theme, with churros, grilled pineapple with rum caramel and a traditional Brazilian pavê among the highlights.
Cocktails, wine and design-led spaces
Amazon’s cocktail menu takes inspiration from the rainforest, with drinks named after creatures and landscapes of the Amazon. Bespoke syrups and tropical ingredients feature prominently throughout the selection.
The wine programme has been curated to complement both daytime dining and evening celebrations.
Image: Supplied
Designed by award-winning interior designer Wesley Bremer of Soda Custom, the venue incorporates onyx, brass, marble and solid wood throughout its interiors. Living plant installations and large-scale butterfly artwork reference the natural world while maintaining a contemporary feel.
A private dining room accommodates up to 12 guests, while an outdoor cabana deck overlooking a fountain offers a relaxed setting for brunches and afternoon gatherings.
The group has also confirmed that a VIP lounge, known as Tribe, is currently under development.
Planning a visit
Amazon is located at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre in Pretoria and operates from 10am daily. Trading hours extend until 11pm from Sunday to Thursday and until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays.
Bookings are recommended, although walk-ins are welcome.
For more information and reservations, visit: https://www.amazonmenlyn.co.za
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