Diana Kinyanjui 
Pretoria’s food lovers have a new reason to celebrate. Nestled in the heart of Waverley Plaza, the brand-new Ocean Basket Waverley is more than just another addition to South Africa’s favourite seafood franchise. It is a thoughtfully designed space where flavour, atmosphere, and service combine to deliver a dining experience that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.
From its humble beginnings in Menlyn Park back in 1995, Ocean Basket has grown into a household name across South Africa and beyond. Known for generous platters, bold Mediterranean flavours, and its signature “sharing is caring” philosophy, the franchise has built a loyal following. The Waverley branch, opened under the stewardship of Johannes and Anna Pienaar, reflects a modern evolution of the brand. The restaurant offers a more intimate design, with coastal-inspired interiors, warm tones, and a layout that encourages connection.
Walking into the restaurant, the first thing you notice is the breathtaking view that frames the dining area. It is the kind of view that slows you down, inviting you to savour not just the food but also the moment. The space feels airy yet cosy, with minimalist décor inspired by the sea — a perfect blend of sophistication and comfort. Our team from Gauteng Lifestyle Magazine was invited to experience the restaurant first-hand, and the verdict was unanimous: this is a standout addition to Pretoria’s dining scene. The team noted how “the service was top tier, the staff were warm and friendly, the view was breathtaking and the food was incredibly delicious.” That warmth is no accident. Ocean Basket has long emphasised hospitality as part of its DNA, and the Waverley team takes it to heart.
While the food naturally takes centre stage, the people made the experience memorable. Staff member Lazarus offered attentive, friendly service, striking the right balance between professionalism and approachability. Manager Banele was visible throughout the evening, moving between tables with genuine interest and a smile, ensuring every guest felt welcome. This presence left an impression on our photographer Mfezeko, who summed up the evening by saying it was “a five star on everything” and that he appreciated Banele’s “visibility and interactiveness with the people.”
The food itself lived up to the brand’s reputation for abundance and flavour. Platters came vibrant and generous, designed for sharing, with prawns in garlic butter, perfectly grilled fish, and tangy mussels that carried the familiar Mediterranean notes Ocean Basket has become known for. Freshness was the theme throughout, each dish arriving with a flourish that celebrated the ocean’s bounty. One detail that stood out was the oyster menu — or rather, the lack of it that evening. They had sold out before our team arrived, a clear indication of how popular they already are in Waverley. Instead of disappointment, there was humour. As Mfezeko joked, “Please order more oysters on month-end weekends, clearly they are a hit, and I am not even mad we couldn’t get them.” It is a small anecdote, but one that captures the vibrancy of this branch — a restaurant that already has Pretoria locals queuing for their favourites.
What struck us most was how well Ocean Basket Waverley fits into the lifestyle of the city. The restaurant has managed to create a space that feels versatile enough for families on weekends, romantic enough for date nights, and relaxed yet professional enough for business lunches. It is more than a meal — it is an experience, one that anchors itself in hospitality, quality, and a sense of community.
Ocean Basket Waverley is not just another chain restaurant. It blends the brand’s long-standing reputation with a new spirit of intimacy, warmth, and flair. For Pretoria locals, it offers a taste of the coast without leaving the city. For Ocean Basket loyalists, it is proof that the brand continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. Whether you are chasing a casual weekday dinner, celebrating with family, or indulging in oysters on a payday weekend, this branch deserves a spot on your must-visit list. As we left the restaurant, one thing was clear: Ocean Basket Waverley has already made waves — and the tide is only rising.
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