Braamfontein is one of our favourite hangouts in the city. From premium coffee to rooftop gardens, this slick city suburb has something to offer people from all walks of life. We set out to find Braam’s best hidden gems, just for you. So, let’s dive right in and see all that this quirky neighborhood has to offer.
Bean There Coffee Company
Braamfontein is a coffee lover’s idea of heaven. With a number of quaint corner coffee houses and some of the best breakfast spots in the city, this is the place to get your morning brew. However, there is one Braamfontein coffee cafe that stands out from all the rest – Bean There Coffee Company. South Africa’s first roasters of Certified Fairtrade coffee, Bean There is all about ensuring a sustainable future for Africa’s coffee farmers and bringing you the best coffee the continent has to offer. Visit them on weekdays between 08:00 – 16:00.
Details: 111 Smit Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg | (Tel) 011 310 3100 | coffee@beanthere.co.za
Olives & Plates
Anyone who’s visited WITS University has most likely heard of the legendary Olives and Plates. Situated at the far end of WITS’ West Campus, this fine Greek restaurant is definitely a hidden gem. A glorious table of sweet temptations greet you in the foyer, filled with an assortment of cakes and pastries. If you can manage to skirt past without ordering a chocolate croissant or huge slice of carrot cake, take a seat in the restaurant’s elegant dining hall. Then take your pick from a wide variety of Greek and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Their “little plates” or tapas offerings are to die for. But don’t take our word for it, visit them yourself!
*Olives and Plates is open on Monday to Friday from 07:00 – 16:00, and on Saturdays between 08:00 – 15:00.
Details: (Tel) 011 717 9365/0 | WITS University West Campus, 1 Jan Smuts Avenue, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
The City Beach Club
Unwind, enjoy the inner city vibes and enjoy some refreshing cocktails at The City Beach Club, hidden within The Playground. This gem is the perfect spot for chill-out tunes, chilled drinks and fabulous fashionistas. This hot spot is open on Saturdays and Sundays, every week. Tickets to this must-visit are available from online from Tuesday each week for the upcoming weekend.
Details: 68 Juta Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg | 060 793 6107 | info@playbraamfontein.co.za
The Joburg Theatre
On the top of the Braamfontein Hill, you’ll find The Joburg Theatre! This is a historic gem in its own right, being a high-profile landmark within the area. Here, you can expect to experience the thrill of theatre. You can expect everything from opera and ballet to amazing productions that’ll have you coming back for more. It’s an experience you don’t want to miss.
Details: www.joburgtheatre.com | 011 877 6800 | info@joburgtheatre.com | 163 Civic Boulevard, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
Artivist/Untitled Basement
Artivist is where fashion, food, art and music meet in Braamfontein. This arts and culture hub hosts everything from fashion launches to underground jazz sessions, making it one of Braam’s most eclectic hidden gems. Put on your coolest pair of sneakers and vintage ripped jeans and head out here for a one-of-a-kind experience. P.S: Order the beer battered fish burger served on a charcoal bun and served with handcut chips for a marvelous taste adventure.
You can keep up to date with events and performances happening at Artivist/Untitled Basement on their Facebook page.
Details: 7 Reserve Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg | (Tel) 011 339 1647 | bookings@artivist.co.za
Do you know of any other hidden gems in Braamfontein? Let us know about them!
The Playground
One of the main highlights when visiting Braamfontein is The Playground! This is the ideal spot to do some shopping, delight your taste buds with delicious eats, grab refreshing drinks, and have a little bit of fun! Not really a hidden gem as it’s super popular, but it definitely has some hidden gems inside! Be sure to stop by this must-visit if you find yourself in Braam over the weekend.
Details: www.playbraamfontein.co.za | 060 793 6107 | info@playbraamfontein.co.za | 73 Juta Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
The Old Fort
Located at Constitution Hill, you’ll find Joburg’s first prison and military fort – The Old Fort. This is a remarkable piece of Joburg history, and well worth exploring. Built in 1893, this location is sure to have plenty of history within it’s walls. So, be sure to head to Constitution Hill to explore this hidden gem and experience our city’s history.
Details: www.constitutionhill.org.za | 011 381 3100 | 11 Kotze Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
