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.
From Soweto to the ends of the world, Xoli Zondo’s passion for sport has taken her across the globe, exposing her to different cities, yet her heart remains in Johannesburg. The media and radio personality says that no matter where she travels, Joburg will always be home.
“Johannesburg is a vibrant and eclectic city. It’s a melting pot of different cultures. What also stands out is how varied the city’s landscape is; the North of Joburg is very different from the South, and it’s their uniqueness that makes living in this bustling city so enjoyable,” she says.
When asked to describe Johannesburg in three words, she chooses bustling, eclectic, and fast-paced.
Growing up in Soweto, the spots we considered restaurants were the places we went to for various kotas, delicious plates (which often featured pap, wors/tripe, or even braaied chicken feet cooked on an open flame). These were our go-to meals when we weren’t cooking dinner at home — and yes, I still support them to this day. The food is not only scrumptious but nostalgic too.
I love restaurants that offer not only well prepared meals but activities that ignite your creative juices and keep them flowing like Clay Cafe in Illovo.
Of all the matches played on Joburg’s fields, the stadium which holds the most memories for me is Orlando Stadium. It was the closest stadium to home, even though I grew up in a different township, Naledi. Going there for Soweto derbies is a memory that I cherish to this day.
The best pub in Johannesburg is The Balcony, whether in Randpark Ridge or Centurion, because of its wide variety of options.
It’s also my go-to spot for iplate. I love mogodu with samp or pap, and I’ll happily devour trotters — whether lamb, beef, or pork.
Fine-dining restaurants that I recommend in Johannesburg are Pappas on the Square and Mezepoli. Both serve delicious meals.
My favourite go-to family-friendly hangout spot in the city is Papachinos (hands down!) specifically the one at Clearwater. It is perfect for my son to enjoy games and make his own pizza while enjoy the food and views around me.
The Soweto Towers are my favourite landmarks. Standing at the highest point, overlooking the entire city, is quite magical, and then taking the big plunge, Bungee Jumping, is exhilarating.
Considering that the power station was commissioned in 1942 and now serves as an advertising billboard and a venue for recreation activities, it is a testament to its evolution.
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