Bravo’s Pizzeria sits on South Street, right between the Hillcrest and Hatfield campuses. It has become a favourite pitstop for students chasing proper wood-fired pizza without breaking the bank. The ambience is nothing like your standard restaurant – step inside and it feels more like a laid-back holiday spot, almost island-like, with the music, atmosphere, and easy energy carrying the place. The staff are always warm and welcoming, and Dean – the owner – has a way of making you feel like a regular even if it is your first visit. The whole space gives off that “local hangout” comfort where you instantly feel at home.
The back area has been revamped with a cosy fireplace, TVs for sports, a solid bar, and couches that make it feel more like a student lounge as opposed to a restaurant. The food matches the vibe – fresh toppings, generous portions, and fair prices. Add to that the specials: a daily student deal of R100 for a Castle Light draught and the Yellow Belly pizza (until 4 pm), as well as the Ladies’ Night special every Wednesday, which includes a bottle of wine, a pizza, and two brownies for R165. With that in mind, PDBY tried five pizzas to see if Bravo’s lives up to the hype.
Love You Long Time $10 – R130
This unicorn of a pizza combines pepperoni, jalapeños, feta, and caramelised onions. The balance between spiciness and sweetness stands out, making it a favourite. The jalapeños pack a punch but are mellowed by the creamy feta and sweet onions. It is a good choice if you like bold flavours. At R130, it is not the cheapest pizza they have, but the taste makes it feel like good value for money.
Franky 4 Fingers – R130
The ingredients may be super simple – pepperoni, olives, onions, and mushrooms – but the laugh this pizza brings to the table makes it a showstopper. Bravo’s has uniquely named each of its pizzas, and this name sure adds flavour to a night out. If you are brave, swapping the pepperoni out for some avocado adds a smooth freshness. Franky 4 Fingers – she is playful, she is tasty, she is your vibrant night out.
Super Mario – R105
At R105, this ham-and-mushroom pizza is one of the more affordable choices on the menu. It does not overcomplicate things – it is simple, cheesy, and filling. For students on a budget, this is arguably the best bang-for-your-buck option, but it is not as interesting as some of the other pizzas.
A Fish Called Wanda – R150
This is Bravo’s seafood gamble – shrimp, double cheese, garlic, and parsley. The shrimps are tasty and the garlic complements the flavour nicely. That being said, at R150, it is on the pricier side, and it may not appeal to everyone’s palate. It is worth trying once if you are a seafood fan or if you are feeling adventurous. However, it is not the most practical student staple.
Hippy Happy – R140
This one is for the veggie lovers who are not afraid of mixing and matching. This explosion of happiness has a little bit of everything: onions, mixed peppers, olives, and mushrooms. Dip the corner of the slice into the famous Bravo’s sauce, and, well, you will be hearing colours and seeing sounds. For a vegetarian pizza, there is no boredom here because it is bursting with flavour. It falls on the more expensive side at R140, but it is definitely worth it for all those flavours.
Bravo’s never fails to disappoint. Close your eyes and get your friends to twist the menu around, and let your finger decide your fate. Nothing on their menu will disappoint, and the playful flavours and names will have you giggling for days. They also have good drink specials, and, as an added bonus, Ladies’ Night is on a Wednesday. So, when you are bored of those TuksRes chicken legs, take a walk down the street and be transported through a truly vibrant student experience like no other.
