Poelano Malema

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.  

From live music under city lights to art fairs, food markets, theatre, and cultural festivals – Johannesburg is alive with events that celebrate its creativity, diversity, and unstoppable energy. Whether you’re into jazz at sunset, rooftop parties, cutting-edge exhibitions, or family-friendly weekend plans, our curated guide brings you the best of what’s happening in the City of Gold. Stay plugged in and never miss a moment.RECOMMENDED🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg

There are few things better in life than rounding up your besties and heading for a brunch with mimosas and delicious eats. Then there is the wonder attached to a family breakfast in order to catch up on the latest happenings with some eggs benny or smashed avo on toast. Om nom nom. To help you decide on your next breakfast or brunch adventure, we've put together a guide of the best breakfast and brunch spots in Johannesburg. RECOMMENDED 📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg

Here’s hoping you like excitement because the best things to do in Johannesburg will have you on the edge of your seat. That isn’t true if you take the Red Bus tour, as you can sit back comfortably and enjoy everything this famous South African city offers.Johannesburg is one of the biggest cities in Africa and the biggest in the world not built on a water source. Joburg was actually built on a goldmine, so keep that in the back pocket of your pub quiz team for future reference. So come along with us as we take a look at the best things to do in Johannesburg, from catching a live sports match and taking in the cultural vibes to walking in the footsteps of historical figures of great importance. 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!

September is Heritage Month in South Africa, and what better way to celebrate than by indulging in some of Mzansi’s most loved street foods? Most of the dishes are paired with pap (maize meal), a popular staple in South African homes. Other people prefer ting ya mabele (fermented porridge), samp or steamed bread. To drink, the popular traditional drink is umqombothi (a South African traditional type of beer made from maize, maize malt, sorghum malt, yeast, and water) or ginger beer.  Street vendors often set up tables and chairs next to their mobile kitchens, creating a casual space for customers to enjoy their meals. These meals, commonly referred to as a “plate”, typically range from about R40 for pap with one type of meat and relish, to around R90 for a fuller option. Eating out on the street isn’t just about the food — it’s also a wonderful opportunity to mingle with locals and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.Below are some of the foods you can enjoy from local vendors who specialise in proudly South African dishes. TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 😋 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍸 The best bars and pubs in Johannesburg🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Johannesburg☕️ The best cafés and coffee shops in Johannesburg Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram!

Tag your little one along without worrying about paying extra for their dish. These Johannesburg restaurants have amazing deals that are sure to put a smile on every parent’s face. Please note that kids eat free when accompanied by a dining adult.  NB: Please note that these specials can change from time to time, and we have no control over if/when they do. We will do our best to keep the list as up-to-date as possible.

Who doesn’t love a great deal, especially when it involves good food and great company? Two-for-one meal specials have long been a favourite on the Joburg dining scene, giving us the perfect excuse to head out for a delicious bite without breaking the bank. So, if you’re craving a meal out but keeping an eye on your budget, don’t worry, we’ve got you. These buy-one-get-one-free or two-for-one specials make dining out feel like a proper treat (without the splurge). If you feel we've missed anything, please pop over to our social pages and let us know - Facebook. Let's share the good deals with everyone! NB: Please note that these specials can change from time to time, and we have no control over if/when they do. We will do our best to keep the list as up-to-date as possible. RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook!    

Let’s face it, Joburg’s dining scene can get pricey, especially in the glitzier corners of Sandton. But eating out doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet. In fact, with a bit of savvy, you can score seriously delicious meals that are big on flavour and light on the budget. This National Savings Month, we’re spotlighting spots where great food meets great value. We’re talking sit-down gems (no drive-thrus here) where you can tuck into everything from cult-fave shawarma to hidden Italian treasures, all for under R150, and sometimes even under R100. Here’s where to eat well without breaking the bank or your appetite.   RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍸 The best bars and pubs in Johannesburg🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Johannesburg☕️ The best cafés and coffee shops in Johannesburg

Pizza, glorious pizza. In the spirit of all things pizza and cheese pulls, we've put together a guide to the best pizza restaurants in Johannesburg, because if you are anything like us, we could eat these glorious circles of deliciousness all day long! RECOMMENDED 📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg  

Welcome to Local Intel, your ultimate guide to experiencing Johannesburg like a true insider. In this series, we sit down with local personalities, tastemakers, and city enthusiasts to unlock their most cherished spots, their go-to experiences, and the untold stories that make this city so utterly captivating. Forget the guidebooks, this is your direct line to authentic Joburg. J Ross is a star from Soweto, the iconic township where two of South Africa's Peace Nobel Prize winners, Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu, lived. The 42-year-old is a local and international award-winning singer, music producer, and songwriter. He has R&B, Kwaito, and Gospel albums. The singer has been flying the South African flag high and has produced music for the likes of Brenda Fassie, Lebo Mathosa, and Arthur Mafokate. His radio show, The Foreign Exchange Show, which he co-presented alongside international star Arlen "GRIFF," featured South African and American artists sharing their stories, music, and art.  Today, Ross works alongside his wife, Megan Vuma, to change the lives of children and the youth in and around Gauteng through art. The celebrity couple works with schools and other institutions for their charity organisations. Ross sat down with us to share some of his favourite spots in Johannesburg and why he is proudly a Joburger.  

South African schools are closed for the winter break. While the holidays mean plenty of fun and mischief for the kids, we know keeping them entertained can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve put together a list of top adventure spots to help you make the most of the break. These fun-filled outings are sure to give your little ones something exciting to brag about when school starts up again. RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook!

From fresh produce to artisanal finds, markets are where Johannesburg’s local flavour truly shines. Whether it's a long-standing street-side stall or a trendy weekend spot, these markets offer a chance to support small businesses, connect with local makers and enjoy the city's vibrant energy. Here's our pick of the best markets in and around Johannesburg. 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!

When I first stepped into The Maslow Time Square, I was utterly blown away by the interior décor. I couldn’t believe such a stunning hotel was tucked away in Pretoria. It made me reflect on all the times I travelled out of the province searching for luxury hotels, while something this exquisite was only 30km from home. Calling it “beautiful” almost feels like an understatement – modern, elegant, and effortlessly stylish. I arrived quite late in the evening (after 9pm), but the check-in process was seamless. Even before reaching reception, I was left impressed - as soon as I drove into the parking lot, the security guard already had my details from the booking, so there was no need to produce documents or dig through my luggage. At reception, I was warmly welcomed with a smile, and despite my late arrival, the staff made me feel completely at ease. The hotel itself is vast, and its scale alone impressed me. Another plus is its accessibility - even by public transport. Why stay at The Maslow Time Square Hotel? This hotel offers more than just luxury – it provides peace of mind and a homely feel. It provides a calm and relaxing environment. It is beautifully designed and boasts breathtaking city views. The service throughout my stay was excellent, with staff genuinely committed to making guests comfortable. It is also the ideal place to meet up with business associates or spoil yourself with a break. What are the rooms like at The Maslow Time Square Hotel? I slept in the median

Prison Break Market in Johannesburg is not only beautiful, but it has a huge variety of services including crafter stalls, restaurants, and crockery painting. It also boasts sprawling lawns and landscapes, making it the perfect spot to take beautiful photos for Instagram. What to expect during your visit: The market features nine sheds that accommodate a wide variety of products and services available at the market, including: Harvest Pantry Enjoy the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread from the onsite bakery. Pick up farm-fresh produce, seasonal fruits and authentic dairy products. • Wednesday to Friday: 9 am to 3 pm• Saturday and Sunday: 9 am to 5 pm The Yard Eatery A vibrant spot serving up everything from sweet indulgences to savoury meals. Ideal for a casual bite or a relaxed dining experience. • Thursday to Sunday: 10 am to 9 pm Crafters Shed Browse a wide array of arts and crafts, or take part in interactive workshops ranging from woodworking to jewellery making. • Wednesday to Friday: 9 am to 3 pm• Saturday and Sunday: 9 am to 4 pm Create Lonehill Let your imagination run wild at this ceramic painting shed – fun for all ages and perfect for a creative day out. • Tuesday to Sunday: 9 am to 5 pm Pourhouse Quench your thirst with a selection of craft beers, fine wines and artisan spirits in a relaxed setting. • Wednesday: 11 am to 7 pm • Thursday to Saturday: 11 am to 9 am Good to know: • Entry to the market is free. • The market is completely cashless.

Riversands Farm Village is a sought-after market in Johannesburg, providing locals with fresh produce and great entertainment.  It is environmentally friendly and an ideal place to go with your friends or family.  What to expect during your visit: Riversands Farm Village is a vibrant destination known for its organic food and lively weekend atmosphere, attracting over 850 visitors every weekend. At the heart of the village is its bustling market – a hub for fresh, preservative-free produce supplied directly by local farmers. The market also offers a variety of artisanal stalls, craft bars, and food vendors, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed and flavorful outing. The venue is dog-friendly – welcoming around 400 furry friends each weekend – and fully wheelchair-accessible, ensuring an inclusive experience for all. Health-conscious visitors can enjoy the scenic trails ideal for hiking or mountain biking, while those looking to unwind can sip on a glass of craft beer or wine at one of the many bar stalls. Families are especially welcome. The market features a dedicated kids’ play area with fun games, as well as exciting activities for all ages including a water park, treetop adventures, a zip-line, and paintball. To top it all off, live music from local artists adds to the festive atmosphere, creating the perfect soundtrack for a day of shopping, eating, and exploring. Operating hours: • Saturday: 8:30 am to 4 pm • Sunday: 8:30 am to 5 pm Price: • Entry is free

The Johannesburg City Library, situated in the city's central business district, houses millions of books, audiovisual materials, and offers engaging services such as literacy classes and storytelling sessions. What to expect during your visit: The library boasts a collection of over 1.5 million books and serves more than 250,000 members.   The premises also house several specialist libraries, including the Central Reference Library, Children’s Library, Michaelis Art Library, Multimedia Library, Music Library, Harold Strange Library of African Studies, and the Newspaper Reading Room. Good to know: To use the library, you must present your identity document and proof of residence upon entrance. You can also take out a membership card, which allows you to borrow four books or fewer for free.

Enjoy a unique drive-through movie experience on Father's Day. Enjoy an unforgettable day filled with laughter, stars, classics, and quality time with the special man in your life. Watch action on camera while indulging in delicious food, snacks, and beverages.  The event is held at the livery stable, Inanda Country Base, in Kyalami.  It starts with Finding Nemo film followed by Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back at20:30.  The following day, Saturday, features two movies - Sing and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.   

Located in the heart of downtown Johannesburg, Bridge Books is more than just a place to find your next great read. Whether you're looking to explore new stories, host an event, or even publish your own writing, Bridge Books offers a welcoming space for readers and writers alike. What to expect during your visit: Bridge Books hosts events including book launches, Silent Reading Clubs, and live readings. It's also a family-friendly space, with dedicated areas for children to enjoy storytelling sessions and educational games. The store features a diverse and thoughtfully curated collection of books, ranging from contemporary fiction to titles in African languages, celebrating local voices and global perspectives. Operating hours: • Monday to Friday: 9 am to 5 pm • Saturday: 10 am to 4 pm • Sunday: closed 

Join award-winning actor, director and children’s author Upile uThixo Bongco at Bridge Books as she reads and tells the story of a young boy with two dads. Her book, Big Shoes to Fill, is the basis for the storytelling event.  The book talks about the enormous amount of love the young man receives from his fathers.  The books are translated into isiXhosa, isiZulu, and Afrikaans.  It will be a storytelling event featuring fun activities for the kids, including building their treasure box.  Upile will be joined by multi-talented artist Donovan Yaards.  The book is currently selling for R185 and can be purchased here. Bridge Books The venue, Bridge Books, is a bookstore with hundreds of books in different languages and is based in downtown Johannesburg. So after the event, feel free to explore Johannesburg. Here are the 27 best things to do in Johannesburg.   

It is often said, 'the way to a man's heart is through his stomach'.  Spoil dad with a tasty meal from Le Bon Goût café in Olifantsfontein. The Father's Day event features a live perfomance from a surprise guest artist.  What's on the plate?  - Welcome drink -  Bread, butter and jam- Main meal ( Potatoes, onions and mushrooms, lamb and chicken roast)  - Dessert (Malva pudding and custard).  The meal costs R380 per person and under 13s pay R150.     

Carnival City and Entertainment World is hosting a great Father's Day lunch event this Sunday.  Dads will be pampered with delicious food, gifts and a welcoming drink. What's cool about the event is that children are welcome, ensuring that dad doesn't have to spend the day alone. Children aged 4-12 pay only R200 per meal.  Carnival City and Entertainment World is loved for its vibrancy. The entertainment venue has stunning interio, ideal for taking Instagram worthy photos with dad.  The venue also has varied selection of eateries which sell traditional to international dishes.  You can also seal the night with a movie at one of the cinemas on the premises.   

Golf is one of the popular sports for men, so why not show dad how special he is by taking him to the World of Golf ? Whether he is a good golfer or a beginner, he is in for a great time.  The venue is hosting a variety of activities planned to ensure dad has the best day of his life.  Apart from golf, dad will be spoiled with delicious lunch. The venue is hosting a braai.  There will also live entertainment and live music, alongside other surprises.  

A way to a man's heart is through the stomach, so why not spoil dad with delicious lunch at Grande View Prime View Adventure and Leisure in Midrand this Father's Day?  For only R185, dad will enjoy 500g T-Bone steak with fried egg and chips. The lunch is from 11:00 - 18:00.  If T-bone is not dad's favourite, you can also spoil him with other variety of meals served at the restaurant.  The venue has several eateries and a large area for chilling while overlooking a dam. Dad can bond with loved ones while admiring the beautiful outdoor setting.   After eating lunch, dad can go fishing on the premises while the little ones get entertained at the large kids' play area.   Quinch the thirst with non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages available at the restaurant. The venue also hires a live DJ from time to time, so prepare for surprises.   

Give dad an experience of a lifetime by heading to the Kyalami Equestrian Park for a stargazing event. The stargazing is done in a secure, quite, dark park.  Let dad connect with nature while looking at the stars.  The laser-guided sky tour will include seeing the Orion’s Belt.  According to Quicket, the event will feature a laser-guided sky tour and a turn at our powerful telescopes as attendees explore: The mighty Jupiter, and hopefully a few of its moonsThe Moon’s incredible craters and surface detail (after 9pm)The warm, steady glow of MarsOrion’s Belt and other deep-sky surprises you never knew were out there! This is definitely a nice and unique gift for dad! 

Step into style and comfort — Birkenstock has officially opened its doors at The Zone in Rosebank, marking a new chapter for Johannesburg’s beloved German footwear brand. Located in the vibrant and trendy suburb of Rosebank, the new Birkenstock store promises to deliver the brand’s signature premium-quality shoes to local shoppers who appreciate fashion paired with exceptional craftsmanship. The store’s arrival in Rosebank marks another exciting milestone in Birkenstock’s African expansion, offering Joburgers the chance to experience authentic German craftsmanship firsthand. The new store showcases Birkenstock’s full range of styles, from classic Arizona and Gizeh sandals to modern sneakers and Boston clogs, catering to every lifestyle and age group. A perfect fit for the Joburg fashion scene Joburg is home to many international brands, and Birkenstock is a perfect fit, especially because Joburgers love fashion and style.  Since its founding in 1774 in Germany, Birkenstock has become a global symbol of comfort and enduring style. With stores in major cities around the world, Birkenstock has perfected the art of creating shoes for all generations — from grandparents to Gen Z and even kids. Its designs continue to stand the test of time. Over the centuries, the brand has evolved from orthopaedic craftsmanship to a modern fashion essential, celebrated for blending wellness with effortless elegance. So, whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the brand, the Birkenstock store at T

Memories... that’s what Dvsn (pronounced division) is ready to serve Joburgers this December. The R&B duo, comprised of vocalist Daniel Daley and producer Nineteen85, is heading to Johannesburg to perform at the Once Upon a Time in Joburg event, scheduled for December 7. The announcement follows the duo's earlier tease about a “One Night Only 2025” concert tour, where Johannesburg was listed as a potential stop. Although producer Jermaine Dupri ultimately chose Washington, D.C., the news that the duo is coming to the City of Gold was confirmed when Once Upon a Time in Joburg announced their inclusion on its social media pages. The show will take place at Fourways Farmers Market, promising a night filled with soulful energy and nostalgic R&B vibes. Since the announcement, tickets have been selling fast, and the duo also promised to treat their Cape Town fans to a live show. South African fans are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to experience the duo live.  Now the question remains: 'Hallucinations,' 'Too Deep,' or 'Don’t Take Your Love' — which of these fan favourites will the Drake-affiliated duo perform?   @dvsndvsn ONE NIGHT ONLY 2025 CONCERT…. based on your votes and random pick out the cup from @Jermaine Dupri so don’t come for us lol NOV.30TH. TICKETS ON SALE TMRW ➗#dvsn ♬ original sound - dvsn Why this show is a must-attend If you’re already a fan, you know that Dvsn never disappoints; their performances are pure R&B perfection. If you’re

More travellers can now look forward to exploring the vibrant city of Johannesburg as Airlink introduces a new route connecting Johannesburg and Zanzibar. Johannesburg remains one of the most sought-after holiday destinations and a major commercial hub on the African continent, making it an ideal destination for both tourists and investors from across the globe. Airlink announced the new service over the weekend - flights between Johannesburg (JNB) and Zanzibar (ZNZ). The new flights will commence on 3 June 2026, with tickets already available for purchase. What's also exciting is that passengers will enjoy flying in the airline's brand-new state-of-the-art Embraer E195-E2 flagship aircraft on this route. The aircraft accommodates up to 136 passengers. The flights will operate twice weekly, on Mondays and Thursdays, departing Zanzibar at 12:00 and arriving in Johannesburg at 14:55. Why visit Johannesburg? Johannesburg, affectionately known as Jozi, is one of the world’s most dynamic and culturally rich cities. It has an unmistakable energy, a warmth that captures the true spirit of the country. The city is home to the world’s largest man-made forest, featuring over 10 million trees, which adds a unique natural charm to its urban landscape. Beyond its beauty, Johannesburg is driven by the spirit of Ubuntu, a sense of community, compassion, and care that makes every visitor feel at home. This is one of the reasons people from all over the world have made Jozi their home.Food lo

In an effort to enhance the daily travel experience for both residents and visitors in the Lonehill suburb of Johannesburg, the Lonehill Residents Association (LRA) has introduced the Lonehill Live Street Cameras system. The innovative initiative provides residents with real-time access to traffic updates across some of the area’s busiest intersections, enabling them to make more informed travel decisions and enhancing safety in the suburb. Through the system, users can view live feeds from key roads, including Main and Witkoppen, Lonehill Boulevard and Mulbarton Circle, Lonehill Boulevard and Concourse Crescent, Lonehill Boulevard and Crestwood Drive, as well as Leslie and Turley Roads. By providing instant visual updates, the new system aims to ease congestion and help drivers plan their routes more efficiently, particularly during peak hours, when motorists often spend long periods stuck in traffic. The system is also expected to enhance road safety. According to The Citizen, the system records up to 14 days of traffic footage, which can be used for road safety analysis and incident reporting. This feature enables motorists to receive assistance sooner in the event of an emergency and can also support crime prevention efforts in the area. Another benefit is that it alerts motorists about routes affected by accidents, construction, or other disruptions that typically contribute to heavy traffic build-ups. “Lonehill is a notorious cut-through for motorists between Winnie Man

Big changes are on the horizon for South African commuters, as the Department of Transport (DoT) unveils plans for a new high-speed rail network. Transport Minister Barbara Creecy says the proposed line will connect Johannesburg and Durban, dramatically reducing travel times and ushering in a new era of modern, efficient intercity transport. Creecy shared the exciting news during a briefing held in Pretoria on Sunday, 26 October, where she announced that the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) had officially launched Requests for Information (RFI) to explore ideas and partnerships for the massive development.  According to the minister, the proposed high-speed rail line will feature faster, safer, and more frequent regional trains capable of reaching speeds of up to 200 kilometres per hour. “These lines will shorten travel times, reduce travel costs, take pressure off our roads, and stimulate new development in towns along each route,” Creecy said. “These regional projects are not possible without private sector partnership,” she added. The Johannesburg and Durban routes are among the busiest in South Africa; therefore, the proposed rail is expected to benefit the travel sector significantly. The high-speed connection aims to offer travellers an alternative to long drives, short-haul flights, buses, and trains that take over ten hours from Durban to Johannesburg. It is expected to provide a more sustainable and efficient mode of transport. The DoT’s plan aligns with

Passengers travelling to Johannesburg using Zambia Airways are now required to produce valid return or onward tickets, reports the Zambian Observer. The new rule follows an increase in passengers being denied entry by South African immigration for various reasons, which has forced the airline to assume liability for all associated costs. The new rule took effect on October 14. “Dear valued travel partner, effective immediately, all passengers travelling to Johannesburg (JNB), excluding South African nationals, must hold a valid return or onward ticket. This directive follows an increase in inadmissible passenger (INAD) cases at JNB and will be strictly enforced at the point of check-in. Only passengers holding a valid return or onward ticket will be accepted for travel to JNB,” read the notice quoted by the Zambian Observer. According to the notice, passengers carrying one-way tickets will only be allowed if they accept full liability for all INAD-related costs. “Passengers travelling on one-way tickets and indicating a return by road must: demonstrate the ability to purchase a return ticket should immigration deny entry; accept full liability for all INAD-related costs, including facility and repatriation charges; and sign the attached Indemnity Form before travel, confirming understanding and acceptance of these terms. Your strict adherence to these procedures is essential to ensure compliance and avoid inconvenience,” the statement added. In an interview posted by the Zamb

Thousands of people in South Africa rely on public transport to get to work, run errands, or move between neighbourhoods. According to a 2019 City of Johannesburg report, about 40.46% of the city’s population uses taxis to get to work. Using public transport in Joburg comes with plenty of benefits:• You save on fuel and parking costs. In these tough economic times, this is a big plus!• You get to relax and enjoy being driven by someone else.• You meet and engage with other locals — a great way to foster community.• You stay up to date with the latest mgozi (juicy neighbourhood gossip).• You witness the full “movie” that is South Africa — a mix of personalities, humour, and everyday stories. To help you make the most of your ride, here are some tips for safely and comfortably navigating taxis in Johannesburg. 1. Know where to catch your rideJohannesburg has several taxi ranks, designated streets, and pickup points. Not every street has taxis, so knowing which corners or routes to wait on is essential. A little research or asking locals will go a long way. 2. Know exactly where your taxi is headedNot all taxis go to the same place, so ensure you’re at the right rank or stop for your destination.At many ranks, you’ll find queue marshals, usually wearing reflector vests, who help commuters find the right taxi and tell you how much the trip costs. If you’re unsure, speak with the driver before getting in and let them know your destination.  3. Learn the hand signsEach taxi route h

Rosebank, one of Johannesburg’s most vibrant, multicultural, and cosmopolitan suburbs, is getting a new daytime restaurant, Rose Mill. Inspired by the rich history of the 1896 Rosemary Orchards farm, which later evolved into the now-thriving Rosebank suburb, the new restaurant will serve dishes made with the finest and freshest seasonal ingredients. The owner, Toerie van der Merwe, who also runs several other popular restaurants in the city, including Njam in Linden, spoke to Time Out Johannesburg about the exciting new eatery, which is set to open its doors before the end of the year. Toerie shared that the restaurant will specialise in breakfast and lunch, offering residents and visitors more dining options while fostering a sense of community.He added that Rose Mill will serve flatbreads, Middle Eastern-style fresh breads, and wood-fired Italian pizzas. A unique and exciting addition to Rose Mill Café will be the harvest table, where guests can choose from a wide selection of dishes and pay according to the weight of their meal. “What’s different is that there’ll be a harvest table where you can dish up and weigh your food. It’ll feature around 25 different dishes,” Toerie explained. The harvest table will showcase a mix of local favourites and international flavours.“We’re doing everything from pap, nyama (meat), lasagna, stew, and all sorts of goodies. It’s going to be a very exciting menu,” he said. The restaurant promises to be a cool and fresh daytime spot for food lo

Nestled in Linden — recently named one of the best neighbourhoods in the world —Njam is one of the coolest hidden gems in the city. The bistro, which opened its doors three years ago, was founded by Toerie van der Merwe, a well-known restaurateur with several other successful eateries nationwide. True to its name, Njam, the Afrikaans word for yum, this spot is all about experiencing delicious food in a great setting. The atmosphere Njam has a warm feel with greenery everywhere you look — lush plants breathing life into the setting and creating a soothing, fresh feel. The atmosphere is cosy and intimate — ideal for those who love a relaxed, personal dining experience. It’s also an excellent spot for casual business meetings; the restaurant offers fast internet, charging stations, and a calm energy, making it the perfect spot for remote work or brainstorming sessions over coffee. During my visit, the space was filled with a delightful mix of young diners and older regulars, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Time OutNjam decor The décor leans towards natural tones, adding to the calmness and comfort, and it has cushy seats.  Located on the corner of 3rd and 6th Street, Njam enjoys a steady buzz from the neighbourhood — busy enough to feel alive, but not overwhelming. The weather was perfect on the day I visited, and I chose a shaded table outside to soak up the sunshine and enjoy the friendly Linden atmosphere. The staff welcomed me with bright smiles and attentive servic

The Department of Home Affairs has announced a groundbreaking initiative set to bring relief to South Africans living abroad. From 1 November, South African expats will be able to have their passports delivered directly to their doorstep, eliminating the need for a second visit to an office just to collect their documents. The announcement was made by Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Amos Schreiber, during a speech to the South African community in The Hague, Netherlands, at the launch of the department’s latest dedicated service centre. “From 1 November, the option for courier delivery of passports will be available at all of the new Home Affairs service centres around the world,” the department confirmed on its site. Minister Schreiber described the move as a major step forward for the department.    “This bold reform not only promotes inclusivity by resolving long-standing problems experienced by South Africans abroad when applying for a Passport but also amounts to another watershed moment for #TeamHomeAffairs as we work with urgency to reform our department from a laggard to a world leader in identity management. Through our vision to deliver Home Affairs @ home, we are pushing forward relentlessly to eliminate the need for clients to travel large distances and stand in long queues to obtain enabling documents. Instead, our digital transformation journey means that we are using technology to decentralise access and bring our services to South Africans right where they l

Are you in and around Kyalami and looking for new flavours to try? The exciting news is that Piatto is cooking up something exciting at Kyalami Corner. The popular restaurant has officially found a new home at the vibrant Midrand shopping centre, bringing its signature flavours to the bustling retail and dining hub. "Kyalami Corner is a vibrant and fast-growing community hub, perfectly aligned with our brand’s vision of bringing people together over great food. The area’s diverse mix of families, professionals, and food lovers made it an ideal choice. We wanted to be part of this energetic neighbourhood and contribute to its thriving dining scene," says Piatto's marketing manager, Paulette Comninos.  Known for its mouth-watering ribs, tender wings, juicy burgers, and a wide variety of refreshing drinks, Piatto is ready to give Kyalami and the surrounding areas a serious flavour boost. The eatery is set to open its doors this November, just in time for the festive season.  "We’re thrilled to announce that our restaurant is scheduled to open its doors at Kyalami Corner around the first week of November. Final preparations are underway, and we can’t wait to welcome guests to experience what we’ve been cooking up," Paulette told Time Out Johannesburg.  Fans were treated to a sneak peek of the setup progress on Instagram.    View this post on Instagram A post shared by Piatto Restaurant & Grill (@piattoza) "Guests can expect a vibrant dining experience

Discover the sweet twist on Papachinos' menu.  The popular family restaurant, known for its warm, vibrant atmosphere and kid-friendly spaces, has added some sweet treats to its menu. It recently took to social media to unveil its newest summer menu additions. The new meals include the mouth-watering Brioche French Toast with Vanilla Créma, fluffy Flapstax, and the bold, flavour-packed Super Mario Loaded Burger. Speaking to Time Out, Papachinos Boksburg manager Robie Roberto says the new menu has landed well with consumers. He adds that people can’t seem to get enough of the Super Mario Loaded Burger. It features a 200g 100% pure beef patty, topped with grilled bacon, mushrooms, and melted cheese. The burger is served with loaded cheese and crispy bacon fries. Papachinos’ signature sauces take the flavour to the next level. If you want to kickstart your day with something refreshingly divine, then the Brioche French Toast is a must-try. It can be served with maple syrup and crispy bacon or banana, honey, and cinnamon drizzle. The Flapstax, on the other hand, are a nostalgic snack. They have Nutella, fresh berries, and whipped cream. Trust us when we say, you will be licking your fingers after indulging. The new additions to the menu give Joburgers the perfect excuse to gather their loved ones, enjoy the sunshine, and dig into something delicious. Judging by all the meals that Papachinos has been serving since its establishment, one can only expect the latest additions to be an