Pretoria East’s culinary scene has witnessed a meteoric rise with Golden Hour Asian Grillhouse. Since opening in Faerie Glen’s Boardwalk Office Park, the restaurant has captured hearts—and votes—culminating in the prestigious Best New Restaurant title at the South Africa Restaurant Awards 2025. What began as a family tribute has transformed into an immersive gastronomic experience worthy of national acclaim.
A Narrative Forged in Family and Intention
Golden Hour was born from the vision of brothers Nazareth and Jedidiah Tam. Inspired by memories of cooking together at sunset and a desire to honour their late father, the restaurant embodies more than just food—it’s a celebration of connection. “You spend the Golden Hour together and try your best to get closer,” Nazareth shared. This ethos permeates every aspect, from décor to menu.
Effortless Elegance in Ambience
Designed to evoke serenity, Golden Hour juxtaposes minimalist aesthetics with warm, inviting touches. Soft lighting, sleek lines, and a faux cherry‑blossom centrepiece shape an atmosphere that’s at once refined and intimate—perfect for celebrations or quiet dinners. Guests have consistently praised its visual appeal, calling it “Instagram‑worthy” and captivating even before the first bite.
Grill‑At‑Table: Culinary Theatre
Golden Hour’s standout feature is its interactive grill stations. Offering premium cuts—wagyu, pork belly, beef short rib, and enoki mushroom bundles—dining becomes a participatory affair, engaging both novice and seasoned grill‑masters alike. One reviewer was captivated: “the experience of a Korean BBQ and the beautiful aesthetics make it so memorable” . The result? A feast that’s as much about community as cuisine.
Menu Highlights: Balanced Boldness
While meat options draw attention, Golden Hour’s menu showcases finesse across the board. Crisp cucumber‑noodle salads, poke bowls, and thoughtfully crafted vegetarian dishes round out the experience . Signature items, such as pork belly and beef short rib, have earned praise as “incredibly flavourful” and “divine” . The kitchen’s ability to blend intense flavours with palate‑cleansing elements proves its culinary maturity.
Service with a Personal Touch
Service at Golden Hour reflects the Tam brothers’ values—personal, attentive, and familial. Diners frequently mention staff by name—such as Nazareth and Honest—a sign of genuine connection. The warmth and efficiency of the team have earned it high marks, with one guest noting the staff were “friendly, quick on their feet,” and doubled as excellent drink consultants.
Award Recognition: Merit Realised
The restaurant’s devotion to value, atmosphere, and innovation paid off in April 2025, when Golden Hour was named Best New Restaurant among a highly competitive shortlist . With over 950,000 public votes cast, the win underscored its mass appeal and solidified its national reputation
Why It Stands Out Among Newcomers
Golden Hour’s triumph isn’t just about a stellar meal—it’s about the emotional resonance of shared time. It combines:
- Interactive cooking: Guests actively participate in their meal.
- Emotional narrative: A heartfelt story of family and community weaves through the experience.
- Design excellence: A carefully crafted, social-media-friendly environment.
- Consistent quality: From service to food, there are no weak links.
These qualities set it apart in a year crowded with phenomenal new openings.
The Road Ahead: Sustaining the Momentum
Winning Best New Restaurant sets lofty expectations. Golden Hour must now prove its staying power—evolving its menu, reinforcing service excellence, and adapting to feedback (e.g., expanding veg options) while preserving its soul. If the early months are any guide, the restaurant is poised to do just that.
A Golden Moment Worth Sharing
Golden Hour’s story underscores that awards matter—but connection matters more. It validated South Africans’ affection for its vision: bringing people together over heat, flame, and flavour. In every sizzle and shared smile, it illuminates what makes dining magical.
Golden Hour Asian Grillhouse is no longer just a hopeful newcomer—it’s the shining example of new‑era South African dining: ambitious, heartfelt, and unforgettable. As it evolves, expect this Pretoria East gem to continue shaping the narrative of communal, experiential cuisine.
Visit & Contact
Address:
Phase 2, Boardwalk Office Park,
107 Haymeadow Street,
Faerie Glen, Pretoria East
Opening Hours:
Tuesday–Sunday: 12:30–21:30 (closed Mondays)
Reservations & Contact:
info@goldenhourgrill.com | 081 269 4999 / 076 801 5551
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