For a creative vibe head out to Maboneng ( Sotho for “ place of light “ ). This precinct has been transformed into a dynamic cultural hub over the last few years starting in 2009. This rejuvenation has brought about an electric energy to the area and the number of restaurants, shops and galleries are on the increase.
My favourite day to visit is on a Sunday when Fox street comes alive with musicians ranging from well orchestrated groups to hopeful soloists who will gladly sing you a song from their CD in the hopes of you buying one. Hawkers line the street selling their fashion ware, the majority of the items are African influenced
10 cool things to do
Market on Main – Every Sunday from 10am to 3pm . This food market is the world under one roof. With food from all corners of the earth, you can eat Mexican nachos, Spanish paella, Israeli shakshuka, vegan food, Lebanese treats and decadent sweet treats like macaroons, cupcakes and so much more. Outside, an Ethiopian coffee ceremony is conducted and bowls of popcorn are handed out as part of the conversation maker.
Eat Ethiopian – Habesha restaurant and Little Addis are a stones throw away from each other. Which ever one you choose you wont regret it. Kasha, the owner of Little Addis worked as a waiter, barrister and cook at many Joburg restaurants. Coffee is served in the traditional jebena , a piece of clay pottery and no milk is need to enjoy this coffee. Another drink that is a must try is the tej, Ethiopian honey wine, served in a berel designed to keep out insects ,you will definitely want more. Both restaurants have sidewalk seating and indoor seating and the staff wear traditional Ethiopian dress.
The bio scope – with their en-suite diner called Chalkboard cafe is fun way to watch movies with 68 seats they showcase local and international independent films. Tickets cost roughly R30 each and the cosy atmosphere with the large Vegas welcome board takes you back in time
The Living Room – This venue is worth seeing for is beautiful greenery. The hanging gardens and breath taking views add a touch of glamour to the concrete jungle. This rooftop bar and cafe serves healthy food .Sunday has a cover charge.
The Cosmopolitan Hotel – Built in 1899 this grand old lady has undergone some work and refurbishment. The bar was taken over and run by Sphere Monk, upstairs the various rooms of the old hotel housed various art displays. The hotel is again going through a transformation as the rooms are being revamped so that it can again become a working hotel. Take a stroll through the garden , enjoy a selfie with beautiful large mural on the wall and drink some tea.
David Krut Workshop – found at Arts on Main, pop into this delightful bookstore and workshop that houses both local and international authors. David Krut has played a significant role in promoting contemporary South African artists through printmaking, art book publishing and education. This was one of the first art studios to move into the Arts on Main development.
Noona Stylez – Handmade fabric shoe clips and accessories, Nykai is a vibrant as her products. Stop by her street stand on a Sunday and be tempted by her earrings that she makes from off cuts of African fabrics from surrounding clothing stylists.
I was Shot in JHB – The idea behind this concept was to provide street children with disposable cameras and teach them some basic ideas on taking a photo. They would then capture images in their environment. These photos are then transformed into pieces of art and sold upstairs above the food market. You can have your photo taken against a backdrop of Jozi and for the cost of R30 they will print one or else email it to you free of charge. A really noteworthy NGO.
Uncle Merv’s – located on the corner of Fox street and Kruger this sidewalk cafe is the ideal spot to do some people watching or soak up the city vibe. You can hire bicycles and cycle around the area or else sit back and enjoy a smoothie on a hot summers day or good coffee on a winters day.
Matt Cigar Lounge – Open Wednesday to Sunday , found across the road from the Cosmopolitan in the big warehouse don’t be fooled by the narrow, steep staircase going down. You will walk into a plush , hospitable spot. Great cocktails and a range of the finest cuban cigars this cigar lounge is sure to tantalise all of your senses.
There is so much more to do so wonder the streets and get lost in the Jozi vibe. Its addictive .
