From secret sunrise spots to tucked-away vegan cafés, actor and filmmaker Jonathan Boynton-Lee reveals his favourite ways to soak up Johannesburg’s beauty, energy and charm.
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 this edition, we're handing over the reins to Jonathan Boynton-Lee, a man who has made a career of capturing the world's most incredible stories. You know him from his globe-trotting adventures on Top Billing and his award-winning work behind the camera, but today, he’s giving us a personal tour of his home turf.
He believes that locals often take for granted the city's hidden beauty. "It’s got as much beauty as Cape Town," he says, "You just have to look a lot harder."
The city's unique energy has been a significant influence on his work. "Joburg is a thriving hub of fast-paced creativity and inspiration," he explains. "It has an energy that other cities can't match."
From tucked-away treasures to city staples, Jonathan shares his insider secrets for navigating Johannesburg like a true local. Get ready to see the city through his eyes, the good, the great, and the utterly unforgettable.
The views from Northcliff Hill are some of the best in the city, so my favourite spot for a cup of coffee is my balcony. However, the Northcliff Ridge Eco Pak is also a great place to reset, reflect, and connect with nature. I think a great day in Joburg for outsiders would always start at Northcliff Tower for a 360-degree view of the city.
I started my career in theatre, so it has a very special place in my heart. I love the smaller, more intimate theatres like Pieter Torien at Montecasino. Went to watch my great friend Jason Goliath there last week. And then, of course, I love taking the fam to the Teatro to see all the favourites like Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, which is currently playing.
Fresh Earth Café in Blairgowrie is one of my favourite spots in the city. It's more than just a restaurant, it’s a full-on health-conscious experience. The menu is full of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options that are anything but boring. My favourite meal is the Eggs Benedict with vegan bacon on an English Sourdough muffin with a cortado.
For anyone in need of some serious pampering, I recommend a visit to The Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa. It's the perfect place for some luxury and indulgence. It's a sanctuary of tranquillity with its soothing water features and healing therapies. It's a true escape from the city's fast pace, offering a chance to recharge and experience the kind of opulent relaxation that Johannesburg is famous for.
A great spot for dinner in the city is the Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg. The reason their fine dining restaurant, Flames, is such a great spot to dine in Johannesburg is definitely the complete experience. With a view of the city and the sound of lions just across the road, what's not to love?
The Vegan Hippie market at Pirates Sport Club is one of my favourite markets in Johannesburg, and I find myself going back to it time and time again. It has this cheerful, relaxed atmosphere. There's a real sense of community, with live music, a kids' play area, and a variety of stalls selling tie-dyed clothes, crystals, and handmade crafts. It's also incredibly dog-friendly, which adds to the laid-back, inclusive vibe. It's a great place to spend a Sunday, whether you're a vegan or just curious to try something new and soak up the positive energy.
One lesser-known spot in Joburg that I think deserves more love is Leafy Greens Café on the Casalinga premises. It’s just such a special little spot, tucked away between all the vegetable gardens and free-roaming chickens. Grab a meal there, then go for a walk on the beautiful farm.
I live next door to a nature reserve on the mountain, so I’m spoiled with a lovely “back yard” but Joburg also has some lovely parks for running, walking or hiking, Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens is definitely one of my favourites.
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