Local Intel: Lee-Roy Wright

I love a good old, chilled session at my local Olives and Plates at The Verge in Linksfield. It might start off with just a coffee, but trust me, I am going to indulge in their delicious selection of cakes. 

You will never believe it when I tell you this, but I am a
sucker for my local sushi spot in Grant Avenue called Hokkaido. It’s exactly what you would expect from your local sushi spot. It's a bit grungey and simple, but they make the best Chinese food and the most delicious and affordable sushi. Try the bamboo handroll when you go, it’s so fresh. 

I have always and will always be a massive fan of Montecasino,
especially when it comes to theatre, movies and live entertainment. The property holds a special spot in my heart, as when I first moved to Johannesburg to pursue my television dreams, it was the space that made me feel good, and there was always something to do on those lonely nights.

I love the outdoors, being in and around nature.
So any park or reserve, such as the Lion and Safari Park or the Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve, is a great spot to connect with nature and all of its beauty while marvelling at all the amazing creatures Africa has to offer.

I usually head for the Cradle when I want to showcase the Joburg I love. There’s magic surrounding the Cradle of Humankind area. It’s always a highlight and really shows off the Johannesburg highveld. Hartebeespoort is also great.  

I love a good kimchi, and my favourite place to stock up or shop is at my local Asian market, just a few blocks away from me in Cyrildene. Chinatown in Cyrildene has some of the best local Asian flavours and supermarkets for you to stock up on all your faves for your home. There are a lot of noodle varieties, fresh produce, and Asian snacks—and some of the best kimchi in town, too!

One of the best sunset sessions has to be on top of Northcliff Ridge Ecopark. I haven’t been for some time, but the sunsets from there, overlooking Johannesburg, are stunning! If you want to be fancy, another spot to enjoy a beautiful skyline or sunset is the top of Alto234 at the top of The Leonardo in Sandton. It’s gorgeous!

Taroko Trail Park is one of my favourite spots for hikes, and if you want to get outdoors for a bit. It’s also home to the Fourways Farmers’ Market, so a lekker hike in the morning and reward yourself with something delicious at the market afterwards. It’s one of the best Sundays out Johannesburg has to offer!

I am not a big drinker, but I do enjoy a great cocktail every now and then. There are many local hangouts in Rosebank and Illovo, and recently, I went to check out Democracy Bar in Illovo, and it had such a great vibe. Think industrial look and feel, with karaoke and great pub food. They have a great variety of cocktails, and it’s a great place to start your night before moving next door to Babylon for a night of boogieing.

Croc City Crocodile and Reptile Park is a highlight for the whole family and never disappoints. It’s an iconic place for interacting with the most amazing reptiles, lots of fun for the children, and the owner, Anton, is one of the most amazing hosts! If you’ve never been, I highly suggest you give this place a visit. Of course, who doesn’t want to test their adrenaline by zip-lining over massive crocodiles—it’s such a thrill!!