Welcome to Local Intel, your guide to Johannesburg from the people who know it best. We chat with local personalities, tastemakers, and city enthusiasts to unlock their favourite spots and untold stories. Forget the guidebooks, this is authentic Joburg.
In a city that moves as fast as Johannesburg, finding your footing between tradition and modern ambition is an art form. Enter Anika Dambuza, a social media star who is redefining what it means to be a "City Makoti."
As a cast member of Johannesburg’s latest reality TV show, The Real City Makoti, Anika is on a mission to give viewers an authentic look at her life as a wife in an intercultural marriage. From navigating the complexities of marriage and motherhood on screen to building her brand in the heart of Johannesburg, Anika does it with a blend of honesty, style, and a deep respect for her and her husband's roots.
She says she isn’t about the polished, "perfect" life; she’s about the real one. “Showing an authentic version of my life was important. If someone is watching and thinking, “Oh, I struggle with that too,” then I’ve done my job,” she explains.
Originally from Cape Town, Anika has embraced the high-octane energy of Gauteng and believes that Johannesburg has shaped her experience as a wife and mother by forcing her to find balance. “It's a city that demands ambition and independence, while still reminding you of your roots. It’s where I’ve learned that culture isn’t fixed; it adapts, and so do we.”
From her favourite local fashion labels to the history-rich caves of the Cradle of Humankind, Anika shares the spots that keep her grounded and the dreams that keep her reaching for more.
RECOMMENDED
🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg
🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg
🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg
🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg
Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram!
I skip breakfast most of the time, but I love starting my day with a lekker cup of coffee, and in my opinion, no one does it better than Seattle.
There is a Seattle at a Sasol garage down the road from where I stay, and I absolutely love going there for a takeaway cup, since I’m always on the road. The staff know me and my order by now - a tall cappuccino with 2 brown sugars.
I recently attended a high tea at Olives and Plates Wits Club and had an amazing experience. The food and treats are delicious, and it's a beautiful space… for content.
When I'm craving good food, I head for The Big Mouth in Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton. Their poke bowl and sushi!? The best. I also have a sweet tooth, and I love Paul’s Homemade Ice Cream.
I am originally from Cape Town, and one of my favourite neighbourhoods in Johannesburg is Parkhurst. I love Parkhurst - it has a Cape Town feel, with all the restaurants, shops and galleries where people actually walk around.
My dream neighbourhood to buy a home in is Northcliff. Beautiful homes with big back yards. And Sandton. When I’m driving around there, or walking in the mall, I feel like anything is possible and my dreams are attainable.
I do my best to support local brands. My current favourite fashion brands, which make it easy for me to express my style (colourful, cultural, unique), are Khosi Nkosi, ME&B, Angalia apparel and Kasi flavour.
To be honest, I love being at home. Even before I had a baby, my husband and I loved to spend the night at home, eating good food, watching good TV, or even listening to music. But when we do go out, it’s to concerts or festivals, like Kunye.
The Cradle of Humankind, where the now-extinct Homo Naledi fossil was discovered, is an experience that just never gets old. I love history and biology, and I think it’s amazing that this discovery was made in our country! There is so much to see and learn, and there is even a fun little boat ride in the cave.
I love going to Sandton City. The shops, the food, the people. And I love shopping. When I’m in Johannesburg, which is most of the time, I focus on work and family. I only really go out and have fun when I’m on holiday outside of Johannesburg.
Discover Time Out original video
