Cyrildene isn’t a place you hear of people visiting often. But after a little exploration, walking and nibbling, we realised that it should be! Because it is definitely something you should experience at least once when your in Joburg. Here’s what you need to know about Johannesburg China Town in Cyrildene. And we have some insider tips to share with you!
The New China Town
“Why?” you ask. “What could possibly be in Cyrildene? Where is Cyrildene?”. We weren’t too sure ourselves, but somehow, we managed to find it!
Anyone remember China Town on Commissioner Street? Barely, right? Well, as the popularity of that area decreased, a great trek occurred. The majority of the restaurants and supermarkets moved all the way down to the now-famous Derrick Avenue in Cyrildene. Dubbed the New China Town.
About Derrick Avenue
Derrick Avenue has a worn feel to it. But, take a second to admire the towering red pergola or ‘paifang’ which is quite breath-taking. Soon enough you will hear the siren song beckon you in. This street will most certainly teleport you to China, with all of their stores, restaurants and offerings.
Oriental Cuisine To Sample & Savour
Venture down past the shop fronts and stop for a meal at Shun De. This place is adored by both locals and visitors. Shun De is famous for its Zhao Cha, which roughly translates into ‘morning tea’, but is more commonly known as Dim Sum. There is also the unique Chong Qing Hot Pot, which offers traditional Chinese food, but on another level. Definitely a must-visit.
A handy tip before grabbing some food would be to either bring along a Mandarin speaking friend or arrive with a recommendation, as not all the menus are in English and many staff can’t speak the language either.
Entertainment In Cyrildene
I must highlight the most notable form of entertainment that Cyrildene offers: KTV, the karaoke bar, which is a hidden gem worth discovering. Once again the exterior does need to be overlooked just a little. But, once you are inside, all is forgotten. It’s a different world entirely. In the past it was compulsory to reserve a room before arriving, but now you can just show up – ideally with an Asian friend. Not only for the camaraderie, but also to help you decipher the karaoke machines. If you don’t have a friend on hand, try to remain cognisant long enough to get inside and to figure out how to select your jams and push play. From there your waiter will start the machines and you can begin ordering drinks.
Shop at The Oriental City
Finally, onward to The Oriental City in Bruma – the shopping mecca close to the highway on-ramp. Look out for the ‘Much Better” store which you will enter needing nothing, but leave having purchased everything. In fact, the same thread runs throughout the entire shopping complex. Crazy cheap prices on crazy items. From pellet guns to party décor – I generally shop at these malls when attending costume parties or buying obscure gifts for friends.
Insider Tips To Chinatown Cyrildene
At the top of Derrick Avenue, there’s a massive super market that stocks Chinese, Korean and Japanese items. Everything from food ingredients, instant noodles and snacks to fresh produce, cutlery and other tools. All at affordable prices.
Next door to the super market, there’s a smaller food store that sells fresh tofu (make sure to use the provided glove when you select your tofu).
A block down from that, on the corner of Derrick and Janelea, there is a small fresh produce store that sells fresh fruit and vegetables often used in Chinese cuisine (think daikon radish, eggplant, mushrooms, custard apples, and chilli to name a few).
Right above that fresh produce store is Chong Qing Huo Guo Hot Pot Restaurant. This is a very popular spot, so bookings are essential as they are always full.
Inside the Hang Cheng Palace (the traditional Chinese architecture building) – about halfway down Derrick Avenue – there’s the boba kiosk which sells a variety of boba tea and mochi.
In the building right of the boba store, is where you’ll find”Chinese fine dining”. Diao Yu Dao is an elegant restaurant that serves a selection of Chinese teas, snacks and mains. You’ll find it by going up the stairs.
Closer to the bottom of Derrick Avenue, you’ll find Mongkok Chinese Restaurant. They are known for their pecking duck and dumplings.
Lastly, three stores down from Mongkok Chinese Restaurant, there is an AMAZING bakery that serves traditional Chinese baked goods like stuffed steamed buns, moon cakes, and other stuff.
Have you been to Cyrildene before? Let us know what you think of it in the comments section below. Maybe plan a Chinatown mission and share this article with your crew.
