This week on our My Joburg: The City Through The Eyes of a Local series, we'll be chatting to our very own writer, marketer, long-distance runner and Jack of all trades, Shawn Greyling. Keep reading to find out about Shawn, his favourite spots to visit within Joburg, where he gets the best coffee, and where he likes to dine and unwind during his free time.
About Shawn Greyling
I'm a writer, marketer, champagne socialist, and long-distance runner based in the west of Johannesburg. I’ve got a soft spot for punk rock, underground hip-hop, and Brenda Fassie.
Describe your ultimate night out
It used to be all about punk rock shows and sticky floors. These days, it’s a bottle of red wine by the fire, discussing art and philosophy with my wife, Bianca. But if it’s payday, we’re at Lucio’s in Blackheath – no questions asked. It’s our go-to, stitched into the fabric of the neighbourhood. A birthday tradition. Every time I’m there, I feel like Tony Soprano dining at Vesuvio.
Where can we find the best cup of coffee?
Forget Linden or Braamfontein. You’ve probably driven past it on your way to Harties or the Cradle. The best cup of coffee in Joburg is hiding in plain sight – at the Seattle Coffee inside the Astron Energy garage on Ruhamah Drive, Wilropark. The service is on point, the baristas know their beans, and the consistency is unmatched.
What is your favourite local store?
Randburg Runner in Linden. It’s more than a store, it’s a community. Everyone behind the counter is a seasoned runner who won’t upsell you but will give honest advice. Whether it’s socks or a full kit, they know what works because they’ve lived it (and ran the Pirates 21 to prove it).
What is your favourite spot for a date night?
The truth? The company matters more than the location. Back when we started dating, Bianca and I had McDonald's date nights. These days, we spoil ourselves at PRON in Linden – amazing food, lovely staff, and portions that deserve their own awards. Real Chinese soul food.
What is your favourite adrenaline-packed activity?
A runner’s high, right around the 30km mark of a marathon, when everything feels great just before it doesn’t. That, or skateboarding. I’ve been on a board since forever, and it still gets the heart racing. There’s a public skatepark that opened in Milpark a couple of years ago, which I’ve been meaning to try out.
What is a must-visit place for a first-timer?
It might sound odd, but I’d take a first-timer to Molitva Orthodox Mediterranean Restaurant in the Cradle of Humankind – Greek food in the bush, go figure. And if we’re still up for more, a show at the Market Theatre in Newtown always delivers.
Do you have any weekend traditions?
Friday nights are early to bed for Saturday’s long run. Saturdays are for grocery runs to CJ’s Supermarket in Cyrildene (top of Derick Avenue), and Sundays are either a family lunch or cocktails with mates at Brian Lara in Linden – especially when there’s a two-for-one special.
