Accra | Cape Town | Johannesburg | Product Updates | Experiences
Your Insider’s Guide to Johannesburg
With a vibrant and growing urban landscape, Johannesburg is much more than a collection of attractions. Its’ people — resilient and stunning — are driving a renaissance fueled by innovation and creativity. This is something that speaks directly to our values as company. Our platform focuses on people as Africa’s greatest ambassadors. We’ve built a network of curators — people who craft and host unique experiences — across the continent who are committed to sharing their world. As a visitor you can expect artist studio visits, traditional cooking classes, pop-up dinners, vintage shopping, VIP status at nightclubs, and much more.
Where to Eat + Drink
Johannesburg’s dining and cocktail scene has everything a food lover or at home mixologist would want. From casual places to find a “braai” to 5 star experiences, Joburg is a great place for foodies. Our picks highlight vibey places where your senses will be activated beyond your tastebuds.
Restaurants
URBANOLOGI
Tucked into the 1 Fox development, Urbanologi is an experimental kitchen and cocktail bar that gets you to try new things in the most delicious way possible. The menu is set into prep types “Raw”, “Cured” “Fried”, “Steamed” and “Dessert” with everything from vegan options to herb seared venison available. From the shredded pork fried like calamari to the cocktails decorated with fresh but edible flowers, it is a culinary experience with a crowd that keeps you coming back. Be sure to save room for dessert as the churros with dark chocolate sauce will make you feel like heaven has come to the table. Forget “avant garde”, this is “urban garde” with the vibe to match.1 Fox St | Newtown/Marshalltown | +27 11 492 1399
MILKBAR
A Pan-African inspired restaurant filled with art and inspiration, Milkbar’s simple menu packs a lot of punch. Situated right in the middle of Keyes Art Mile in Johannesburg, it’s the perfect break from your gallery hop. We especially love Milkbar for breakfast where their Sweet Potato “Toast” (lathered up with Harissa and Hummus) and their French Toast “Bunny Chow” with Nutella and Strawberries is the perfect start to your day.
21 Keyes Ave | Rosebank | +27 87 701 2002
CHÉ ARGENTINE GRILL
One of the latest and more legit dining concepts in the Maboneng Precinct, Ché is like being instantly transported to a rustic Argentinian villa without leaving the heart of one of Johannesburg’s most popular districts. There are enough delicious side dishes that a vegetarian can still have a rewarding meal at Ché but the star of the show are the succulent cuts of beef done in true Argentine style. Bonus: the wine and cocktail list is divine whether you prefer South American reds or a summery caiprihinha.
303 Fox St | Maboneng | +27 11 614 0264
MARBLE
As a dining experience Marble stands tall in Johannesburg. From the well-designed interiors to a view that’s perfect for a Johannesburg sunset it is one of our favorite places to have a meal with friends. Spacious enough for a team dinner but quant enough to be romantic, the cuisine at Marble shines from end to end. The seafood platter is out of this world and worth the splurge, the cocktails and wine list are stellar, and the brownie dessert will make you forget the scale altogether. Centrally located in Rosebank, it’s a must do when you are in the city. Reservations suggested.
19 Keyes Ave | Rosebank | +27 10 594 5550
CRAFT
With mammoth sized milkshakes and burgers that are freshly prepared with the most interesting toppings, Craft is the perfect casual spot to go to when you’re traveling with picky eaters who want to keep it simple. The cocktail list is straightforward with a twist and you can even add some sauce (in the form of your choice of spirit) to the milkshakes for a boozy twist.
33 4th Ave & 13th Street | Parkhurst | +27 11 788 7111
PABLO EGGS GO BAR
If you’ve never tried the North African breakfast dish “Shakshuka” you are in luck. Pablo’s version of poached eggs dish is rich in flavor with a sauce of tomatoes, chili peppers, onions, and cumin. The breakfast spot serves two versions alongside a menu that includes Nutella pancakes and a bunch of unique breakfast specialties that go perfect with the delicious cocktail selection. It’s the sister restaurant to one of our fave places to stay in Johannesburg and the vibe is equally as good. Get there early on the weekends or prepare for a wait.
2 7th St | Melville| +27 63 335 9348
MOMO &O
If you are craving Asian food at any point during your stay, any of the “Momo” restaurants will be your fix. From Poke Bowls to Boa to Ramen and Asian tapas, the modern Asian cuisine experiments across cultures and seems to get it right every time. Our faves: deep sea bao and any of the poke bowls.
124 Ivy Road | Norwood | +27 87 980 5843
BAFOKENG CORNER
There are braai spots and then there is Bafokeng Corner. Far away from Soweto’s Vilakazi tourist strip — Bafokeng is the braai spot for true Sowetans. You can see the smoke wafting through the street from blocks away and hear the sounds of Gqom and South African Deephouse as you approach. This place is not for the vegetarians in the bunch even if the Pap and Chakalaka are some of the best we’ve had. Come in the evenings, preferably on a weekend to catch the full vibe.
00333 Sagila St | Soweto| +27 84 505 8318
MASH
This is the “mama I made it” braai spot for Johannesburg’s black middle class. An upscale space with an amazing terrace view Mash takes the township braai and puts some extra sauce on it. On the weekends it turns fully up with DJ’s and parties from Thursday to Sunday. It’s a great alternative to Rocket Lolita’s if you’re at the Fourways Farmer’s Market during the day. The service isn’t always ideal, but after a few sips of cognac and a taste of their lamb, it won’t matter.
The Buzz Shopping Centre |Fourways | +27 11 658 0213
FREE FOOD
There are a few quality vegan spots in Johannesburg but Free Food is definitely our fave. The recipes are so good, even your carnivorous friends will want to dig in. It’s best to head here during the day as the one communal dining table fills up very quickly. If you don’t have time to stay in, Free Food offers many of it’s popular dishes to go.
Shop 5, Delta Rd | Illove | +27 82 406 4699
ANDICCIO’S
24 Hours. This is the one place you can count on after a long night in Joburg. This pizza joint is an institution and the Sandton location is the perfect spot to people watch at about 6AM on a Saturday morning when long legged ladies and the cities “big men” are spilling out of nearby Taboo. You can even get a bottle of Möet to go with your pizza if you’re still trying to keep the night going. Don’t be alarmed by the staff dancing as they serve your food — it’s all apart of the experience.
Grayston Shopping Centre Corner, Helen Rd & Grayston Drive | +250 788 303 030
MOOTEE
Imagine if every meal at a restaurant was presented in storybook format where ingredients were a tale and you could build wonder and excitement just thinking about a dish. This isn’t a farytale it is actually every meal and cocktail at Mootee and African concept bar and restaurant in Melville. While you may need to ask a lot of questions about the cocktails to really know what you’re getting into (like the worm you’ll find in one of the drinks) the food is straightforward South African goodness with a twist.
78A 4th Ave | Melville | +27 10 900 1399
GEMELLI
Another favorite of Johannesburg’s jetset crew, Gemelli is a black owned Italian spot with dish after dish of amazing cuisine. From the lamb meatballs to any of the pastas, it’s reputation while cultish is every bit justifiable. Try for a weeknight if you don’t want to wait or need to walk-in, the weekends are a zoo and you’ll have to call a couple days ahead to snag a reservation. If you do, it’ll certainly be a vibe.
13 Posthouse Link Centre | Bryanston | +27 10 591 4333
THE SIGNATURE
Looking to get some business done while looking at beautiful people? The Signature is your spot. Located in the plush suburbs of Joburg’s well to do set, this bar and restaurant is as good of a steakhouse as they come. Heavy on the traditional meat and potatoes vibes and solid on a strong martini or whiskey on the rocks, this is classic done right.
KG 674 St | +250 788 303 030
TASHA’S
While we normally avoid chain restaurants — this one is chain restaurant done right. With several unique locations across the city, Tasha’s is a must especially for the breakfast crowd. Each location has a theme — one of our faves is the pink luxe themed location at Nelson Mandela Square or the outdoorsy vibes of the Morningside location. You can’t really go wrong with anything on the menu and the proportions will leave you feeling like money well spent.
Markets and Food Experiences
MARKET ON MAIN
Sundays | 10AM — 3PM
Trading in regional foods and lots of vibes this food and design market is a the Sunday heartbeat of the Maboneng district.
264 Fox St | Maboneng | +27 82 868 1335
NEIGHBOURGOODS
Saturdays | 10AM — 3PM
Who wouldn’t want to spend their Saturday drinking bottles of bubbly, taking in Braam from a rooftop, and noshing on locally sourced nibbles? Neighbourgoods has become an attraction in and of itself, popular with the tourist crowd, but this shouldn’t stop you from checking out this Saturday staple. Just don’t make other plans — you could easily be here all day.
73 Juta Street | Braamfontein | +27 81 416 2605
FOURWAYS FARMERS MARKET
Sundays |9AM — 4PM
For a more suburban take on South Africa’s popular weekend markets, head out to Fourways — a 25min drive from the center of the city and an even closer jaunt from Sandton. What it lacks in some of the hipster vibes of it’s urban counterparts, it makes up for with views for days — a garden oasis with more than 100+ vendors, a cocktail area, and live music
1 William Nicol Dr & Montecasino Blvd | +27 10 534 6622
LOCRATE MARKET
Not held as frequently as its more established counterparts Locrate offers something a bit different. Yes the staple local eateries, vintage goods, and craft beers are all present but with a distinctly Sowetan vibe. Check out their website for postings of the somewhat monthly editions.
Orlando West | +27 42 228 0413
A Tastemakers Africa exclusive, Head Over Meals brings you into the home of photographer, musician, and influencer Lebo to be treated to an intimate dinner with a rising local chef. Offered a few times weekly be prepared for 5 star level cuisine with the intimacy of a dinner party. While your dinner is being prepared get lessons of food photography and the “flat lay” shot that has taken Instagram by storm.
Available on beta.tastemakersafrica.com
THRIFT SHOPPING + ROOFTOP DINING
Care to pair fashion with your meal? Interior designer Keneilwe takes you through her favorite places for vintage finds in Johannesburg and pairs the experience with an exclusive rooftop dining experience at a location that is completely off the map. Enjoy bubbles and a modern take on South African cuisine as your reflect on the stylish digs you’ve just picked up along the way.
Available on beta.tastemakersafrica.com
Once home to the most diverse set of Johannesburg residents, pre-apartheid, the Yeoville neighborhood has a storied history. Currently home to a large population of West African immigrants, it is known as a center of crime but Sanza Sandile has carved out a safe space to gain appreciation for the place he calls home through the tastebuds of adventurous visitors. A native South African who has watched the neighborhoods progression, Sanza’s spin on the cuisine found in the home of the local denizens will have you craving for more.
Available on beta.tastemakersafrica.com
CHEZ FONG
“Love you long time” is the tagline for this Asian weekly pop-up dinner in the glam Houghton Estate neighborhood. Held in Chef Suyen’s private home, the Tiger Kitchen experience includes 8–10 taster dishes, wine pairings and more. During the holiday season, the chef takes the dinner to the Western Cape where this meal can be enjoyed in a beach house about 90 minutes away from the city.
LOCAL DISHES TO TRY
Beyond the purvey of restaurants and established eateries, there are a few local delights that you must get your hands on (literally). Our must tries are fatcake a fried dough concoction found cooking on the roadside (which you can find on our Hillbrow boxing experience), kota’s a “sandwhich” of polish sausage, cheese, French fries and more found in the northern and eastern townships of the city, pap the maize based staple foods served in most households, and biltong the cured beef similar to American jerky found in butcheries across the city.
Cocktail Bars and Experiences
SIN + TAX
If the secret door isn’t enough to get you interested, step inside and try one of the masterfully crafted cocktails. Part speakeasy/members club vibes Sin + Tax is a super small venue with mega star power in the cocktail world. Need a bit of a bite to go with your cocktails, you can order a brick-oven pizza from next door and your servers will deliver it right to your table.
4 Bolton Rd | Rosebank | +27 10 900 2559
TIME ANCHOR GIN TASTING
Johannesburg’s first craft gin distillery is not one to be missed if you take your cocktails seriously. From understanding how those seemingly useless garnishes actually effect your G&T to making your very own varietal a tasting here is the best boozy class you’ll ever take.
7 Sivewright Ave |Maboneng/New Doornfontein | +27 72 495 1983
Carl and Sean take the idea of a “tasting” to disruptive new heights combining their backgrounds in music, travel, farms, and food with a passion for how whiskey can bring people together. Join one of their public tastings or organize your own — either way you are in for a treat.
Available on beta.tastemakersafrica.com
SAIGON SUZY
On a corner that packs a punch (Sin+Tax, Bolton Road Collection) Saigon Suzy holds its own in the cocktail department and has a setup that makes you want to sip in the vibe as long as you can. The Asian inspired bar and restaurant also has a secret karaoke room upstairs that you can reserve in advance to take your night up a notch.
144 Jan Smuts Avenue |Rosebank | +27 11 327 6596
LIVING ROOM JOZI
An Urban Oasis in the heart of Maboneng, Living Room is hands down one of the best places in the city to take in the sunset. An eco-friendly location that serves smoothies and vegan snacks in addition to a full bar, it’s a perfect place to take a breather while still feeling like you are in the thick of things.
Main Change Building, 20 Kruger St | Maboneng |+27 84 529 9006
SOWETO GOLD BREWERY
A hidden gem in Soweto that we have to shout out, is the Soweto Gold Brewery tucked away less than 5 minutes from the Vilakazi strip. With flavors ranging from cherry to ginger to apple and a traditional blonde brew, this brewed by the people beer is distributed across the country but the best place to take a sip is right where it’s made.
11846 Senokoanyana St | Soweto | +27 79 890 8321
THE ROYALE
While it’s “Cuban” claims are a bit questionable, the funky take on this bar and restaurant is still appreciated in Johannesburg. Definitely a spot for the “cool kids” you’ll want to reserve a table if you plan on staying a while. There’s even a dance floor tucked away in the bars outdoor area.
357 Jan Smuts Ave | Craighall/Hyde Park| +27 60 575 2471
Explore Art + Culture
Johannesburg is an artistic and cultural hub on the continent. With local and international music festivals, globally renowned artists, and several Fashion Weeks there is no shortage of ways to explore the creative side of the city. Here are the top places to find the cultural heartbeat of the city.
UMUZI
Tackling South Africa’s youth unemployment issues by training future creatives is at the core of Umuzi’s mission. In addition to adding professional training in photography, fine art, videography, and other forms of artistic expression they often host exhibitions that highlight the work of their current cohort. Just steps away from Maboneng, this is an amazing place to visit.
28 Madison Street | Jeppestown
GOODMAN GALLERY
One of the greatest hubs for contemporary art by people of African descent, Goodman does what few galleries do in actually opening up the art world and enacting social change through the medium. Established in Johannesburg in 1966, the gallery works with artists who are at once contemporary, influential and strive to shift perspectives and engender social transformation.
Founded during the era of apartheid, Goodman Gallery offered a non-discriminatory space when museums served the agenda of the autocratic government.
163 Jan Smuts Ave | Rosebank | +27 11 788 1113
AUGUST HOUSE STUDIOS
If the works of Nelson Makamo and Mary Sibande inspire you, take the chance at meeting them at their resident studios in August House. In the heart of Joburg’s CBD lies an exclusive building with breathtaking art, talented local artists, and grand colorful canvases line the walls and rooms of this five-story building. August House gives artists a unique creative hub and the freedom to ‘be’ to a community ready for the opportunity.
76–82 End Street | Doornfontein
FIRST THURSDAYS
Across South Africa, First Thursdays is when the art and creative worlds open up to the community inviting everyone to take part. From exhibition openings to tastings to tours, Johannesburgs top galleries and art spaces come together each month of the year. Our favorite is centered on the Keyes Art Mile where you can compliment your gallery gallivanting with cocktails and bites from the neighboring restaurants and bars in this developing district.
Keyes Art Mile | Rosebank
APARTHEID MUSEUM
No visitor to Johannesburg or South Africa for that matter should ever leave without experiencing the Apartheid Museum. One of the most artfully done museum’s tackling a hard and troubling moment in South Africa’s history known worldwide the museum makes it all tangible — sometimes hauntingly so.
Northern Park Way and Gold Reef Rd | +27 11 309 4700
THE AGOG
Part gallery, part bar, part private whiskey club — The Agog is one of the newer spaces in the Maboneng Precinct. It’s innovative take on space and constant stream of programming paired make it a place to pop in on a weekend just to see what’s going on.
Maboneng | +27 79 458 5350
GALLERY MOMO
Founded in 2003, Gallery Momo immediately shook up the South African art scene with locations in Cape Town and Johannesburg. The Gallery represent a growing number of international and locally based contemporary artists with a focus on African art and art from the diaspora.The Johannesburg Gallery is known for its lectures, panel discussions and seminars, such as ‘Regarding Woman’ in 2014. In addition to its residency program, which provides opportunities to collaborate with artists from around the world, Gallery MOMO has succeeded in bringing the work of artists such as; David Adjaye, Koto Bolofo and Yinka Shonibare to South Africa for the first time.
52 7th Avenue |Parktown North
WORKSHOP NEWTOWN
Nestled in the heart of a neighborhood undergoing rapid transformation, Workshop Newtown, showcases some of the cities fast growing fashion designers in a space that was built for both retail and community building. On the weekends check out Picnic Newtown, a monthly gathering bringing in DJ’s, cocktails, and food trucks into an already lively space. Look for upmarket established brands like Maxhosa (recently partnered with Ikea) and unknown rising stars.
Carr St & Miriam Makeba St | Newtown | +27 60 786 1004
DAVID KRUT PROJECTS
David Krut Projects is an alternative arts institution dedicated to encouraging an awareness of and careers in the arts and related literature and media, and to promoting contemporary culture in a dynamic, collaborative environment. Located at Arts on Main and also at 151 Jan Smuts Avenue — popping into this intimate multimedia environment is an immersive way to connect with Johannesburg’s art scene.
JOZIBURG LANE
Home to the Dorkay event space, the Hangout Jozi tapas bar, and several artist studios, this multi-functional creative space was built for Johannesburg’s budding entrepreneurial community. Programming throughout the week ranges from the popular “Feel Good Series” to photography shoots and more.
1 Eloff St | CBD | +27 64 700 1637
Where to Stay
Johannesburg is already a hub for meetings and events but it’s quickly growing as a leisure destination. To compliment the growing demand for in-city lodging new and international concepts are making their way to the most popular areas of the city. Here are our top picks for work and play.
HALLMARK HOUSE
Just on the outskirts of Maboneng, Hallmark House is the only David Adjaye creation in Johannesburg. With hanging gardens and an imposing facade it is truly a sight to behold. Walking in is even more breathtaking with attention to detail in every corner from the curated art collection on every floor to the furniture choices to the music in the lobby. The rooms offer stunning views of center city while providing the comfort and style of a hotel at a much higher price point.
54 Siemert Rd| New Doornfontein | +27 21 427 5900
PABLO HOUSE
If you want to feel like you found paradise in the middle of a residential neighborhood head to our favorite boutique hotel — Pablo House. Named after the famed Columbian gangster and with matching rockstar luxury appeal this is one of the most well designed spaces in the city with a magical array of guest rooms to choose from. The owner, Louie, a former member of a band who is passionate about hosting is also the owner of the renowned Pablo Eggs Go Bar restaurant a must do if you stay in this ‘hood.
3 4th Avenue | Melville| +27 66 215 0993
THE SAXON
If a private butler is something you fancy during your stay alongside luxury service and amazing views — The Saxon is your place to be. The rooms and villas are something out of a movie and the spa treatments will get your jet lag taken care of in a flash. Be wary though — with a stay this night you may not want to leave your room.
36 Saxon Rd | Sandton
RADISSON BLU SANDTON
If a more mainstream hotel is your preferred choice during your stay, look no further than the Radisson Blu Sandton. Combining the perks of a boutique hotel with the guarantees of an international chain, the rooftop pool, prompt service and notable guests make this place the popular choice for many.
Rivonia Rd. & Daisy St. | Sandton | +27 11 245 8000
AFRICAN PENTHOUSES
One of Johannesburg’s most popular AirBnB listings is on it’s way to building the most unconventional hotel concepts on the continent. Nigerian founder Ade, has taken to revamping historic buildings in the CBD to music video ready apartments for rent in prime districts. You’ll feel the global African touches throughout the properties and find yourself at home with all of the amentities.
Africanpenthouses.com
Where to Party
Johannesburg has a diversity of nightlife options that rival cities like New York or Paris. From laid back Jazz Bars to thumping mega clubs to underground monthlies — there is a vibe for everyone.
TABOO
Sleek, sophisticated and sexy, this is where Joburg’s young, influential elite meets. The most well-known club in the city rivals anything in New York, Miami, and dare we say Lagos itself.
Best day to go: Friday
Corner Fredman Dr. And Gwen Lane| Sandton | +27 11 783 2200
HAREM
See and be seen at the Johannesburg nightclub attracting a pan-African crowd in the heart of Rosebank. One could dance all night with the mix of Hip Hop, Afrobeats, and South African music in the air.
Best day to go: Saturday
Jan Smuts Ave & 7th Ave| Rosebank | +27 83 278 2541
THE SANDS SANDTON
With an outdoor pool deck and a champagne lounge, the Sands could easily be in Miami, except it has better music and an African vibe.
Best day to go: Saturday, Sunday
58 Wierda Road East |Sandton | +27 11 783 1302
SHAKERS
For a glimpse at how Johannesburg’s young hipster set parties, head out to Shakers in Maboneng. A favorite of locals and visitors alike — this spot is definitely for the 20-somethings or the young at heart. While you won’t see much outright dancing here — the environment is definitely a lively one to meet people in the city.
300 Commissioner St|Maboneng | +27 78 032 0025
THE ORBIT
The original Johannesburg jazz club has seen the likes of Bra Hugh Masekela and Feya Faku among other greats. With a bistro vibe and amazing food, it is definitely the place for a premium jazz experience in the city for those that like things on the quieter side. Shows happen nightly except for Mondays.
81 De Korte St | Braamfontein | +27 11 339 6645
MARABI CLUB
The newer entry to the Johannesburg live music scene is not to be underestimated. Part Jazz club and part speakeasy Marabi is fusing genres and demographics in it’s exclusive space in New Doornfontein just at the back of Hallmark House. It kicked off it’s run last year with a pop up of Cape Town’s famed Pot Luck Club and continues to bring innovative programming to it’s beautiful space. The cocktail and mixology program is one of the best in the city and the service is top notch, a rarity anywhere you go.
47 Sivewright Ave | New Doornfontein
ZONE 6
If you want to get out of the posh environs of the city, head to Zone 6 in Soweto where the township’s big wigs and plenty of the city’s notables head to play on Sundays. Local tunes mixed with international hits in an enormous warehouse space mean a lot of dancing and people watching to be had.
28, Blackchain Shopping Centre| Soweto | +27 11 256 3820
UNTITLED BASEMENT + ARTIVIST
A hidden speakeasy largely reserved for special events, Untitled Basement feels like place that could easily be in Brooklyn. From Art Fair Afterparty to secret shows. For the sophisticated person who still likes to turn up, catch many of the guest shows at this space for a guaranteed good time and a lot of networking potential.
07 Reserve Street | Braamfontein
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