South African cuisine is just as diverse as its cultures, with influences from British, Dutch, German, Indian, Malay, Portuguese and of course all the indigenous tribes.

- Braaivleis, meat roasted over an open wood or charcoal fire, is very popular and generally done at weekend social events. The act of roasting the meat as well as the social even is referred to as a braai.

- Pap, a porridge made with corn meal. Slappap (runny porridge), is smooth and often eaten as a breakfast porridge, Stywepap (stiff porridge) has a doughy and more lumpy consistency and is often used as a replacement for rice or other starches. Krummelpap (crumby porridge) is drier, resembles couscous and is often served at a braai covered in a saucy tomato relish.

- Potjiekos, a meat and vegetable stew make in a cast iron pot over an open fire. A favourite at braais.

- Boerewors, a spicy sausage. Boerewors Rolls are hotdog buns with boerewors rather than hotdogs, traditionally garnished with an onion and tomato relish.

- Biltong and Droëwors, seasoned meat or sausage that has been dried. Beef, game and ostrich meat is often used. A favourite at sports events and while travelling.

- Bunny chows, half a loaf of bread with the inside replaced by lamb or beef curry is a dish not to be missed when traveling to KwaZulu Natal.

- Bobotie, meatloaf with a Cape Malay influence, seasoned with curry and spices, topped with a savoury custard.

- Morogo, a wild spinach on it's own or with potato. Sometimes served with pap.

- Waterblommetjiebredie, mutton and indigenous water lily stew.

- Masonja, for the culinary adventurer, fried Mopanie worms.

You will find the usual array of international fast food outlets, McDonalds, KFC and Wimpy is well represented throughout the country. Local franchises worth mentioning are Black Steer and Steers for the best burgers and Nando's peri-peri chicken.

Pizza delivery is available in most urban areas.

Drink

Municipal tap water is safe to drink.

The legal age to purchase and drink alcohol in South Africa is 18. Almost all restaurants are licensed to serve liquor.

Be very careful if someone offers you witblits or mampoer; those are the local names for moonshine or firewater. It's extremely high in alcohol content and packs a lethal blow.

Beer

Local beer production is dominated by SABMiller with the Castle, Amstel and Windhoek , Black Label and Castle Milk Stout being most popular brands

Imported beers such as Stella Artois, Heineken and Grolsh are also widely available.

Prices can vary widely depending on the establishment. Expect to pay anything from R7 to R18 for a beer.