Tom Cruise in South Africa

South Africa
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DUM DUM, doo doo DUM DUM! Attention all “Mission: Impossible” moviegoers and Tom Cruise sweethearts! The Hollywood heartthrob has been spotted in stunning South Africa, and let’s just say things are about to get a little more exciting around these neck of the woods…

Motorcycle scene from a Mission Impossible movie

South Africa is getting even more action-packed, Image Credit: Paramount Pictures

The Countdown Is Not Helping

Yes, you heard that right – Tom Cruise is in South Africa, and he’s not just here to soak up the sun, go on a Big 5 safari, and enjoy a few braais (that’s barbecues for the non-South Africans out there). No, Cruise is in town to film the latest instalment of the “Mission: Impossible” franchise, and let’s just say the stakes are high (as per usual).

Red light! Green light!

But don’t just take our word for it – locals have been spotting Cruise all over the place. According to social media, (in true “spy” fashion) Cruise landed his helicopter at the Killarney Country Club in Johannesburg earlier this month. Then, Twitter user @Blademale, also shared a photo and short video of Tom Cruise driving through KwaZulu-Natal, which they captured while he passed by – an unexpected road trip surprise for sure!

Tom Cruise and Killarney Country Club team posing for a photo

Tom Cruise landing at the Killarney Country Club, Image Credit: Killarney Country Club

Tom Cruise driving by

Tom Cruise recently spotted in KwaZulu-Natal, Image Credit: Twitter user @Blademale

Make It Count

As filming gets underway, fans can expect to see more of Cruise in South Africa as he takes on the role of Ethan Hunt, the main character in the “Mission: Impossible” series. Whether he’s scaling the towering heights of Table Mountain or navigating the bustling streets of Cape Town, Cruise is sure to make the most of his time in our beautiful country as he brings the latest instalment of the “Mission: Impossible” franchise to life.

Paragliding off Signal Hill

If I Let You Know Where I’m Going, I Won’t Be On Holiday

So why South Africa, you ask? Well, we can’t give away too many details (those pesky non-disclosure agreements), but let’s just say the diverse landscapes and stunning natural beauty of our beloved country provide the perfect backdrop for some high-stakes action sequences.

Chapman's Peak Drive in Cape Town

Chapman’s Peak Drive in Cape Town

Mission Accomplished

So if you’re a fan of Tom Cruise, or just a good old-fashioned action movie fanatic, be sure to keep an eye out for updates on the filming of “Mission: Impossible 7” in South Africa. Who knows, you might just get the chance to see Cruise in action as he takes on his latest mission (and possibly saves the world while he’s at it). Are you ready for action? Contact our Travel Experts to experience exciting South Africa first hand!

Featured Image: The Blast

Our Favourites

Johannesburg Restaurant Guide,Travel Tips
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Chapter 1: Our Favourites – Updated 2023

Marble

David Higgs, formerly of Five Hundred at The Saxon and Rust en Vrede in Stellenbosch, is one of South Africa’s best chefs, and his latest culinary creation promises something new for “meat and flame enthusiasts”.

Why go?

Marble is a celebration of South African enthusiasm of cooking over a flame, boasting an array of fresh ingredients all cooked on our perfectly prepared coals including fish, poultry, vegetables and breads.

A celebration of quintessential South African fare, Image Credit: Marble

Details

a: Trumpet on Keyes Corner, Jellicoe Ave, Rosebankt: +27 10 594 5550w: www.marble.restauranth: Tuesday—Saturday: 12h00 – 22h00

Shortmarket Club

Shortmarket Club manages to take old-school aesthetics, combine them with dinnertime classics, and filter the whole thing through a postmodern lens. Creating a glamorously plush dining experience overrun in era-bending throwback and cutting-edge flavour.

Why go?

Shortmarket Club is all about the theatre of dining. Look forward to an upmarket European-style brasserie serving delicious modern European food with Asian influences

A celebration of quintessential South African fare, Image Credit: Shortmarket Club

Details

a: 1 Oxford Parks, 199 Oxford Rd, Rosebank, 2196t: +27 10 006 2323w: www.theshortmarketclub.co.zah: Tuesday—Saturday: Lunch: 12h30-13h30, Dinner: 18h00-20h30

44 Stanley

The most established precinct on the edge of downtown Joburg, 44 Stanley’s shady arcades and green courtyards are placed between what was once a series of industrial 1930s buildings, to make for Johannesburg’s most unique spaces.

Why go?

Whether you are looking for a quick bite to eat or a beautiful setting in which to enjoy Sunday lunch, 44 Stanley in Milpark has the eatery you’ve been looking for.

A mix of carefully-curated, bespoke stores and independent restaurants, Image Credit: 44 Stanley

Details

a: 44 Stanley Ave, Braamfontein Werft: +27 11 482 4444w: www.44stanley.co.zah: Monday—Saturday: 09h00–17h00, Sunday: 09h00-16h00.

La Boqueria

The tapas categories are divided into nibbles, bruschetta, ceviches, fried street food, skillets, soul bowls, live-fire barbequed dishes, kebabs and paellas—it’s a culinary journey that stretches from Japan to Mexico, from Italy to Argentina. Once you understand the formula, you’ll enjoy the ride.

Why go?

This uber-trendy, mostly-Spanish-inspired eatery takes its cues from iconic food markets, such as London’s Borough Market and Barcelona’s La Boqueria on Las Ramblas.

Iconic eatery with sublime food and décor to match, Image Credit: La Boqueria

Details

a: 17 3rd Ave, Parktown North, Johannesburg, 2193t: +27 11 325 0011w: www.laboqueria.co.za

h: Brunch: Saturday—Sunday, 10h00–12h00

h: Lunch: Tuesday—Sunday, 12h00–17h00

h: Dinner: Tuesday—Saturday, 17h00–22h00

Signature Restaurant

Signature Restaurant boasts an exquisite lunch and dinner menu, with a local and international wine list for even the most discerning palate. It’s the ideal spot for spending time with family, friends or colleagues celebrating life; birthdays or enjoying a romantic night out.

Why go?

Delivers an unparalleled mix of attention to detail, flawless service, sumptuous cuisine and some of the best bluesy or jazz sounds on nightly basis.

Sophisticated cooking, imaginative ideas and respect for ingredients, Image Credit: Signature Restaurant

Details

a: Morningside Shopping Centre Cnr Rivonia & Outspan Roads, Morningside, 2196

t: +27 11 884 8888

w: www.signaturerestaurant.co.za

h: Monday—Saturday: 12h00–00h00, Sundays: 12h00–16h00

Pigalle

Pigalle Restaurant is situated in Sandton, in the Michelangelo Towers, a prominent structure in the Sandton skyline and one of South Africa’s elite hotels. The perfect choice for an intimate dinner, catchup with friends or a special occasion.

Why go?

The restaurant is upmarket and exclusive and the menu hits all the right notes comprising of fresh seafood and classic dishes with Portuguese flair.

Exceptional seafood dishes in Johannesburg, Image Credit: Pigalle

Details

a: UO9, Michelangelo Towers, Maude St, Sandton, 2196

t: +27 11 884 8899

w: https://pigalle.joburg/

h: Monday—Sunday, 12h00–21h00

Chapter 1/9

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Fine Dining

Johannesburg Restaurant Guide,Travel Tips
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Chapter 2: Fine Dining – Updated 2023

Signature Restaurant

Signature Restaurant boasts an exquisite menu, with a local and international wine menu for even the most discerning palate.

Why go?

The most exciting and fashionable restaurant in Sandton, offering a unique mix of exclusivity, flexibility, sophistication and design.

A symphony of flavours combined into one exceptional dish, Image Credit: Signature Restaurant

Details

a: Shop U13, Rivonia Rd, Morningsidet: +27 11 884 8888w: www.signaturerestaurant.co.zah: Monday to Saturday, 12h00‒00h00, Sunday, 12h00–16h00

Fermier

Fermier is an attempt to create a restaurant which in future can become completely self-sustainable by creating an entire “ecosystem” from the fish and vegetables to the livestock, that suits the restaurant’s idea of responsible, conscientious farming, where even “waste” is turned into a functional part of the cycle.

Why go?

Chef Adriaan Maree’s passion shows in everything. From the food to the service which is complemented by the performance art of the open kitchen theatrics.

Creating an entire “ecosystem” from the fish and vegetables to the livestock, Image Credit: Fermier

Details

a: 141 Lynnwood Rd, The Willows 340-Jr, Pretoriat: +27 76 072 5261w: www.fermierrestaurant.comh: Tuesday to Saturday, from 19h00. Reservation essential.

Pigalle Joburg 

Expect eclectic interiors, incredible views and simply divine shellfish. Their varied menu offers something for all palates and is the perfect spot for lunch as well as dinner. 

Why go?

This eclectic culinary experience is the ultimate escapism.

Exceptional seafood dishes in Johannesburg, Image Credit: Pigalle

Details

a: UO9, Michelangelo Towers, Maude St, Sandton, 2196t: +27 11 884 8899w: http://pigalle.joburg/sandtonh: Monday to Sunday, 12h00–22h00

Qunu Restaurant 

Qunu introduces an innovative menu with bold flavours and an honest approach to cuisine, using only the finest South African cuts of meat, the freshest fish, handpicked seasonal ingredients and carefully selected produce from local artisans.

Why go?

Qunu extends a warm African welcome, enticing you with its rich surroundings, woven lampshades and an ambient glow.

Locally inspired culinary delights, Image Credit: Qunu Restaurant

Details

a: 36 Saxon Rd, Sandhurstt: +27 87 375 7777w: www.saxon.co.za/restaurants-bars/qunu/h: Breakfast: Monday to Saturday, 06h30–09h30, Sunday, 06h30–09h00h: Lunch: Monday to Saturday, 11h30–14h00, Sunday, 11h30–14h00h: Dinner: Monday to Sunday, 18h00–20h00

Level Four Restaurant 

Level Four Restaurant at 54 on Bath in Rosebank boasts a fine dining menu combining classic cuisine and contemporary influences.

Why go?

Together with a bold signature style and distinctive flair, Level Four ensures a memorable and one of the best culinary experiences in Johannesburg.

Distinctive fine dining in Johannesburg, Image Credit: Level Four

Details

a: 54 Bath Avenue, Rosebankt: +27 11 344 8442w: www.southernsun.com/54-on-bath/dining/level-fourh: Breakfast: Monday to Sunday, 06h30–10h30h: Lunch: Monday to Sunday, 12h30–15h00h: Dinner: Monday to Sunday, 18h30–22h00 

Chapter 2/9

Featured image credit: Wouter Meijering

Casual Dining

Johannesburg Restaurant Guide,Travel Tips
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Chapter 3: Casual Dining – Updated 2022

Tashas

Tashas has successfully introduced a new, boutique café experience, which has a unique signature style and a point of differentiation from the existing, globalised, franchised model.

Why go?

The NYC-style breakfasts here include chilli eggs and hashbrowns, eggs Benedict and maple-bacon flapjacks.

Airy, contemporary café and coffee shop, Image Credit: Tashas

Details

a: Shop No. G28, The Zone, Oxford Rd, Rosebankt: +27 11 447 7972w: www.tashascafe.com/locations/johannesburg/rosebank/h: Monday to Saturday, 08h00–17h30, Sunday, 08h00–15h00

Dukes Burgers

The speciality is what the namesake suggests.

Why go?

Expect their signature Mielie Poppers, beef, lamb, ostrich, chicken, and veggie burgers, as well as a wide selection of wines, beers and more.

Gourmet burgers in Joburg, Image Credit: Dukes Burgers

Details

a: 5A 7th St, Melvillet: +27 72 733 5966w: www.dukesburgers.co.zah: Tuesday to Thursday, 11h45‒21h00, Friday & Saturday 11h30–22h30h: Sunday, 11h45–21h00

Rockets

Every aspect of Rockets’ sensory experience has been taken into detailed consideration ensuring that they do their part in transforming the art of a meal into a lifestyle.

Why go?

The cool, laid-back Haute, will virtually beg for long leisurely lunches on the deck, in the zen garden, or in the high-ceilinged restaurant. This one-of-its-kind space is versatile, providing a unique experience for every function type including casual cocktails on the rooftop, private dining and conferences or great coffee.

Celebrates authenticity and an unbridled passion for the exquisite, Image Credit: Rockets

Details

a: 86 Hobart Centre, Hobart Rd, Bryanston, Sandtont: +27 87 727 2777w: www.rocketslife.tvh: Monday to Wednesday, 11h00–00h00, Thursday to Sunday, 11h00–02h00

Chapter 3/9

Featured image credit: Valeria Boltneva

Steak

Johannesburg Restaurant Guide,Travel Tips
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Chapter 4: Steak – Updated 2022

Butcher Shop and Grill

The busy 600-seater meat emporium has been serving great steaks to businesspeople, local celebrities, families and foreign visitors for 20 years.

Why go?

This old-fashioned butcher has traditions that run deep, with specialist blockmen who cut and prepare your meat as you like it.

Sample rump, sirloin, fillet, ribeye, T-bone and prime rib aged for 21-40 days, Image Credit: Butcher Shop and Grill

Details

a: Shop 30 Nelson Mandela Square, Sandtont: +27 11 784 8676w: www.thebutchershop.co.zah: Monday to Sunday, 10h30–22h30

The Grillhouse

For many years this has been one of the city’s most popular steakhouses. They were among the first to prove that steakhouses can be upmarket and sophisticated. Keeping it simple and also offering fish, poultry and vegetarian options

Why go?

Come for the meat, stay for the view.

Reminiscent of the classic New York Grillhouse, Image Credit: The Grillhouse

Details

a: Building 1, 11 Alice Ln, Sandhurst, Sandtont: +27 011 783 6132w: www.thegrillhouse.co.za/sandtonh: Monday to Saturday, 12h00–22h00

The Blockman

The Blockman’s service model is highly focused on offering a unique steak experience for meat lovers. It’s a place where the people who work there know you by name. It’s a place for parties, a place to dine with family and friends.

Why go?

The Blockman cut out the middlemen and focus on the process of breaking down and ageing all their meat using the whole animal in celebration of its flavours and textures.

Unique steak experience for meat lovers, Image Credit: The Blockman

Details

a: 33 on 4th Ave, Parkhurstt: +27 10 900 3130w: www.blockman.co.zah: Monday to Thursday & Saturday, 12h00–23h00h: Friday & Sunday, 11h00–23h00

Rodizio Brazilian Grill & Tapas

Designed with a new tropical feel, Rodizio Brazilian invites the fun vibe of Festa Fridays and Salsa Saturdays accompanied by live entertainment and a cocktail list that won’t disappoint. Enjoy laid back weekday dining or opt for a quieter dinner or celebration.

Why go?

The restaurant’s signature dish, the meat Rodizio, will be a carnivore’s dream come true, as diners can feast as much as they like on various cuts of slow-roasted prime beef, tender chicken, traditional chouriço, succulent pork or a leg of lamb.

Meat carvers slice and serve the meat off large skewers at your table, Image Credit: Rodizio Brazilian Grill & Tapas

Details

a: Melrose Arch, 10A, The High St, Melrose North, Sandtont: +27 11 483 1910w: www.rodiziogrill.co.zah: Monday to Saturday, 11h30–22h30, Sunday, 11h30–19:h30

Chapter 4/9

Featured image credit: Valeria Boltneva

Seafood

Johannesburg Restaurant Guide,Travel Tips
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Chapter 5: Seafood – Updated 2022

Fishmonger

A brilliant spot to have a lovely meal, with service that’s consistently attentive. Add in a Portuguese-based cooking style and you have a premier seafood experience that doesn’t disappoint.

Why go?

Expect a variety of quality seafood, a choice of fresh linefish daily, tender calamari and the best Mozambique prawns, langoustines and lobsters to choose from.

You’ll be hooked on their fresh ocean dishes, Image Credit: Fishmonger Rosebank

Details

a: The Firs Cradock Avenue &, Biermann Ave, Rosebankt: +27 11 447 2320w: NAh: Monday to Sunday, 12h00–21h00

Codfather

A pioneer for exotic fish dishes, meze, sushi and Vietnamese food, The Codfather offers wonderful seafood on display for diners to select from and have cooked exactly as they like it.

Why go?

A truly tranquil space for both indoor and outdoor dining, The Codfather provides al fresco dining under the shade of the trees during the day and by intimate candlelight at night.

Sourcing only the finest seafood all the way from the East to West coast, Image Credit: The Codfather

Details

a: Sandton Skye, 3 Stan Road, Morningside, Sandtont: +27 10 020 0286w: www.thecodfather.co.zah: Monday to Saturday, 08h30–22h00, Sunday, 08h00–21:h00

Rodizio Brazilian Grill & Tapas

Designed with a new tropical feel, Rodizio Brazilian invites the fun vibe of Festa Fridays and Salsa Saturdays accompanied by live entertainment and a cocktail list that won’t disappoint. Enjoy laid back weekday dining or opt for a quieter dinner or celebration.

Why go?

Expect every meal to be a fiesta. Seafood, shellfish, steak, chicken and even pasta have been tweaked to add a Brazilian flavour to the dish.

Fish fiesta, Image Credit: Rodizio Brazilian Grill & Tapas

Details

a: Melrose Arch, 10A, The High St, Melrose North, Sandtont: +27 11 483 1910 w: www.rodiziogrill.co.zah: Monday to Saturday, 11h30–22h30, Sunday, 11h30–19:h30

Chapter 5/9

Featured image credit: Sweet Ice Cream Photography

Italian

Johannesburg Restaurant Guide,Travel Tips
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Chapter 6: Italian – Updated 2022

Saint

The latest venture of the team behind Marble takes shape in Saint, a crazy Italian concept that certainly lives up to its heavenly name.

Why go?

The menu features clever little takes on classic Italian dishes, while still keeping it simple and sophisticated.

Fire-top and perfectly hand-made pizza from scratch, Image Credit: Saint

Details

a: The Marc Corner Rivonia &, Maude St, Sandtont: +27 10 594 5888w: http://saint.restauranth: Monday to Sunday, 12h00–23h00

Tortellino d’Oro

The name translates to golden pasta shaped like a belly button – a reference to owner Dante’s memories of growing up eating real Italian food that only his mother could make. Upon stepping inside, a real sense of old-world charm comes over you.

Why go?

This small, unpretentious restaurant and deli has legendary Italian food, especially pasta.

Real Italian food curated by real Italians

Details

a: Oaklands Shopping Centre, Pretoria Road & Victoria street, Oaklandst: +27 11 483 1249w: www.tortellino.co.zah: Monday to Saturday, 09h00–22h00, Sunday, 09h00–15h00

Stelle Restaurant

The philosophy is simple, with food inspired by the finest, freshest ingredients and the most authentic vibrant flavours available.

Why go?

Large trees, an old homestead and a few personal touches create the magic that Stelle is well known for.

Finest, freshest ingredients and the most authentic vibrant flavours, Image Credit: Stelle

Details

a: 61 Rivonia Rd, Sandhurst, Sandtont: +27 64 140 2119w: www.stellerestaurant.co.zah: Tuesday & Wednesday, 12h00–17h00,h: Thursday & Friday, 12h00–21h00h: Saturday, 12h00–22h00, Sunday, 12h00–16h00

Chapter 6/9

Featured image credit: Eaters Collective

Mexican

Johannesburg Restaurant Guide,Travel Tips
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Chapter 7: Mexican – Updated 2021

Perron

With vibrant shades of pink and turquoise abound, it’s all about burritos, guacamole and tequila shots at this self-proclaimed “Mexican appreciation society”.

Why go?

Perron brings a slice of Mexico to the lovely superb of Bryanston.

Authentic Mexican cuisine, Image Credit: Perron

Details

a: Hobart Grove Shopping Centre, Cnr Hobart & Grosvenor Rd, Bryanstont: +27 11 706 7841w: www.perron.co.zah: Monday, 17h00–21h00, Tuesday to Saturday, 12h00–22h30, Sunday, 12h00–16h00

La Rosa

On the surface, it looks like a funky take on an authentic Mexican restaurant. But if you look closer, you start to realise that there’s more to this place than meets the eye. It’s like getting lost in a Georges Seurat painting—the longer you look, the more you discover.

Why go?

Expect fresh, high-quality ingredients to create exciting and tastebud tingling dishes.

Prepared for a nuclear attack on your senses, Image Credit: La Rosa

Details

a: Honeydew Village Centre, Christiaan de Wet Rd, Weltevredenpark, Roodepoortt: +27 11 675 2544w: www.larosamexican.co.zah: Monday & Sunday, 11h00–21h00, h: Tuesday to Saturday, 11h00–22h00

Chapter 7/9

Featured image credit: Leslie del Moral

Drinks

Johannesburg Restaurant Guide,Travel Tips
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Chapter 8: Drinks – Updated 2022

Marabi Club

The Marabi Club boasts cosmopolitan style and new-age African ambiance. And has been at the forefront of Johannesburg’s inner-city regeneration.

Why go?

Look forward to a tasting offering that takes inspiration from the illegal shebeens of the 1920s and 30s.

A Joburg waterhole that exudes “South Africanism” vibes, Image Credit: Marabi Club

Details

a: 47 Sivewright Ave, New Doornfonteint: +27 10 591 2879w: https://hallmarkhouse.info/dine/marabi/h: Thursday to Saturday: 18h00 till late

San Deck at Sandton Sun

The San Deck offers breathtaking views over Sandton and its surrounds. With three large fire pits and a number of luxurious couches, this terrace offers some of the best of Johannesburg’s beautiful sunsets in the heart of the CBD.

Why go?

Sandton’s best sundowner spot paired with sophisticated artisanal beverages and dishes crafted with creative flair.

A place for friends to gather in unique outdoor spaces, Image Credit: San Deck

Details

a: Corner Fifth and Alice Streets, Sandton , Gautengt: +27 11 780 5000w: https://www.southernsun.com/sandton-sun-hotel/dining/san-deckh: Monday to Sunday, 11h00–22h00

Saigon Suzy

This Asian BBQ and Karaoke bar channels authentic Asian-inspired cocktails and street food from all over South East Asia.

Why go?

The venue is split into three sections: The Market (main food hall and bar for the foodies), the Cherry Blossom Garden (for outdoor fun and cocktails in the sun), and the No Tell Motel (secret karaoke pods and dress-up boxes).

Inspiration from the vibey and sometimes rowdy back streets of Ho Chi Min, Image Credit: Saigon Suzy

Details

a: 144 Jan Smuts Avenue, Unit 1 Parkwood Mansions, Parkwoodt: +27 76 284 9786w: www.saigonsuzy.co.zah: Monday to Saturday, 12h00 till late, Sunday, 12h00–20h00

Zioux

Break free from Joburg’s urban jungle to an extravagant cocktail bar and champagne lounge situated in Sandton. Zioux strives to provide a dining experience that gives patrons an experience allowing them to “Break Free” from anything that holds them captive.

Why go?

Indulge in Champagne, cocktails and a menu featuring an extravagant selection of dishes designed to be shared.

A unique space fuses various patterns and prints influenced by South Africa’s wildlife, Image Credit: Zioux

Details

a: The Marc, Corner Rivonia and Maude Street, Sandtont: +27 10 594 5455w: https://zioux.com/h: Tuesday to Saturday, 12h00 till 23h00

Chapter 8/9

Featured image credit: Photo by wu yi on Unsplash

Markets

Johannesburg Restaurant Guide,Travel Tips
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Chapter 9: Markets – Updated 2021

Rosebank Sunday Market

Drop by the Sunday Market to gather organic ingredients for that dinner party, grab a takeaway or socialise and peruse through a collection of art that is ready for a spot on your wall.

Why go?

From colourful handmade baskets to wooden toys, tattoo artistry and a glorious collection of vintage clothing, this expansive rooftop market is a fun and relaxed spot and a great place to pick up gifts or souvenirs.

A true expression of South Africa’s vibrancy and dynamism, Image Credit: Rosebank Sunday Market

Details

a: 50 Bath Ave, Rosebankt: +27 64 735 4224w: www.rosebanksundaymarket.co.zah: Sunday, 09h00–16h00

The Playground Market

The Playground is a considered space, playing host to a regular artisan Market every Saturday with a menu of gourmet street food, cocktails, and live music performances

Why go?

This is not just a market space – it is as focused on the visitor experience as it is on creating a platform for exceptional young talent in Joburg.

New and exciting pop-ups on the regular, Image Credit: The Playground Market

Details

a: 73 Juta Street, Braamfonteint: +27 60 890 4501w: www.theplayground.co.zah: Saturday, 10h00–18h00

Chapter 9/9

Featured image credit: Andrew Itaga

5 Things You Didn’t Know About Johannesburg

South Africa,Top Lists
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Affectionately known in South Africa as the “city of gold” or eGoli, Johannesburg began as a gold mining endeavour. The city is densely populated, showcasing uniform cityscapes in the centre of town but just outside of the CBD, you will find rich cultural and natural sites. Johannesburg was also a platform for political events in the history of South Africa, with the beloved Nelson Mandela having lived here in several locations. Here are a few more facts you may not know.

1. Home to the Cradle of Humankind

Johannesburg
Photo Credit: South African Tourism

The Cradle of Humankind is a World Heritage Site consisting of Maropeng and the Sterkfontein Caves. These two sites have revealed several fossils and evolutionary evidence that life began in Africa. Move through the visitor centre to uncover a wealth of anthropological, geographical and archaeological knowledge. These finds include the recent discovery of “Lucy”, a missing link in the theoretical evolutionary chain, unearthed by local scientists.

2. World’s Largest Gold Deposit

Johannesburg
Photo Credit: Mark Hillary

According to geographical evidence, the greater Johannesburg area was struck by a meteor in prehistoric times which forced large gold deposits deep underground. Here the gold lay until settlers began a fairly recent excavation. Wealth accumulated here as a result, and the city is still regarded as the richest in the country, drawing much of the overall business.

3. Place of the Constitutional Court Inauguration

Johannesburg
Photo Credit: Kandukuru-Nagarjun

In the suburb of Braamfontein, a court was inaugurated on Constitutional Hill. The picture above shows “constitutional court” written in the nation’s 11 national languages. South Africa’s constitution is widely regarded as one of the most democratic in the world.

4. Held the 2010 Soccer World Cup Final

Johannesburg
Photo Credit: Andrew Moore

A proud moment for the history of South Africa is the 2010 Soccer World Cup. The buzz of the event heightened during the final match where Soccer City in Johannesburg filled up to the brim with supporters. The vuvuzela, pictured here, is seen as the symbol of South African soccer fanaticism.

5. Thought to be the Largest Man-Made Forest in the World

Johannesburg
Photo Credit: Francisco Anzola

Although there is no actual forest in Johannesburg, the city consists of over 10, 000, 000 trees! The effect is even larger than that of urban “lungs” such as Central Park in New York City. Although at first accidental, the amount of trees in the suburbs of this city have expanded to the surrounds with plans to completely populate the area of Soweto with greenery as well.

Are you surprised by these revelations about Jo’burg? Many of our tours stop in this historic city, allowing you to explore these lesser known parts and look at it through a new lens. For more, read our guide detailing the excellent restaurants in the city of gold.

A Guide To Johannesburg’s Best Restaurants | UPDATED 2019

Travel Tips
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Whether you’re visiting or a local, we know there’s nothing worse than a bad meal. You’ve seen our blog on the best restaurants in Cape Town, so with that in mind, we have compiled a list of our favourite restaurants in Johannesburg. In order to be sure, we’ve tried them all – how could we not? – and can safely say you’re in good hands. From tantalising tapas and perfectly roasted pork to succulent seafood and delightful wine pairings, there is sure to be something for everyone. Tried and tested by us, for you, here are Johannesburg’s best restaurants!

Please just click the link to view and download our exclusive guide.

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Johannesburg Restaurant Guide

Our Top Restaurants in Johannesburg