Eats
Latin cuisine is about colour and flavour. Joburg is not short of colourful and flavourful dishes. These are our top choices.
The Royale
The Royale is a Cuban restaurant that is inspired by Havana. Situated on the famous Jan Smuts Avenue, The Royale looks like it could be a Latin dance club.
The simple exterior with the bright cursive LED signage under-sell the beauty that lives inside. As you walk into the restaurant, you will be wowed by this treasure. The restaurant makes you feel as if you're in Cuba, Ecuador or the Dominican Republic.
The food is to-die-for, holding to the colour, burst of flavour and creativity of Cuban cuisine. You can expect a variety of texture and flavour that will blow you away.
Perron
Perron is all about bringing the Mexican experience back to life, giving you a true and authentic Mexican feel.
The restaurant offers many elements that bring the Latin vibe together, from the food to the tequila. Their menu boasts a variety of Mexican favourites like tacos, burritos and a whole lot more. We recommend trying everything, as it's all so delicious.
Drinks
J.Rabbit Tequileria
Situated in Illovo, J.Rabbit Tequileria is an award-winning dining experience.
They pride themselves on their selection of tequila. This bar is also shrouded in mystery. Situated upstairs, you have to walk through a dry cleaner to enter this unique venue.
Entertainment
BailaAfrika
BailaAfrika brings together Latino flavour and African spunk. BailaAfrika is a mobile dance social that has taken Joburg over by storm.
The dance socials happen spontaneously at selected venues, you have to follow them on their social media pages to find them. The dance experiences include bachata, salsa and the African twist of kizomba.
And there you have it, a whole Latin experience in Joburg.
Where It All Began
The Bachata, Kizomba and Salsa dance genres have taken over Joburg with all their groovy moves. The Kizomba dance and music originates in Angola. Both Angola and Gabon have contributed greatly to the African dance party movement. Although very popular in Angola, the Bachata and Salsa dance styles come from the Latin family. These two dance styles are similar to African dancing.
Where To Dance
Rooftop Salsa
Rooftop Salsa is situated on the Rooftop above the Canteen in one of Johannesburg's most vibrant areas, Maboneng.
Every Sunday, put on your dancing shoes and enjoy the vibe of this dance party. It doesn't matter if you have danced before or not, as no experience is required. Those wanting to move to the groove can join the dance square. There, you can find a dancing partner who will take the lead.
Baila Afrika
Baila Afrika is a mobile dance experience. Check out their Facebook page to keep track of where they will be.
Baila Afrika often hosts dance parties and socials; bringing people together from all around Joburg. They also offer annual trips overseas, where you can get first-hand experience of what the Latino culture and dances are all about.
Beginners, who aren't yet ready to Salsa abroad, can learn the art of dance at Baila Afrika's beginner dance classes.
Let's Dance, Jozi
An African dance party awaits, so put on your dancing shoes and paint the town red.
What Is It?
They are back with a bang! The Open Warehouse presents Noche Latina – a night to explore the diverse and sensual sounds of Latin America. You will be treated to an impressive selection of rhythms by DJ Pablo, an Argentinian national who has a wealth of experience performing in a variety of venues in and around Latin America and South Africa. He is also a seasoned percussionist and his unique style blends live percussion with his sets, creating an extraordinary atmosphere that gets people moving. Yip, the hips don't lie when the music is that good! Come and join us – dancing makes everything better.
For those attending who are a little nervous about their sub-par (or amazing) dancing skills, never fear! Adrian, a Cuban national, will be facilitating group dance lessons (optional) and has got you covered. He will help you improve your dancing, swaying and steps for a variety of styles, including Salsa, Bachata, Merengue and Rumba. And to keep you energised, there will be drinks and light snacks available.
When Is It?
Saturday, 15 September 2018 from 20:00 - 02:00.
Where Is It?
The Open Warehouse, 326 Alwyn Street, Waltloo, Extension 1, Pretoria.
How Much Is It?
Tickets cost R80 per person and are available online on Webtickets. You can also get you tickets at the door for R100 per person.
For More Information
Visit their Facebook page or simply visit this Facebook event. Also be sure to visit this website for more information.
What Is It?
Dance Spirit SA is holding their weekly dance social on the Rooftop at Canteen in Maboneng, where they will be dancing Kizomba, Semba, Salsa, Bachata and everything in between. It's FREE, so there's absolutely no excuse not to come get tangled in some AfroLatin grooves! What are you waiting for?
When Is It?
Every Sunday from 01 July 2018 - Sunday, 29 July 2018.
Where Is It?
Arts on Main Maboneng Precinct, Maboneng, Johannesburg.
How Much Is It?
Free.
For More Information
Visit their Facebook page for more information.
What Is It?
The Johannesburg Afro-Latin Festival 2019 is the second annual event of its kind. Focusing on dance, music, education and entertainment associated with the Afro-Latin genres of Salsa, Bachata and Kizomba, the festival offers workshops for everyone, from beginners right through to seasoned and professional dancers, Latin music enthusiasts and aspirant DJs! The 2019 edition will introduce Tango and some additional modern urban Latin and African genres.
With four official social events, including two themed parties with local and international performances, the Johannesburg Afro-Latin Festival will showcase the best of South African, African and international Afro-Latin street and social dance talent. All will be able to enjoy some history and heritage discussions as well. Check it out and subscribe at www.afrolatinfestival.co.z
When Is It?
Friday, 15 March 2019 – Monday, 18 March 2019.
Where Is It?
Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel, Rivonia Road, Sandown, Sandton, Johannesburg.
How Much Is It?
To get your tickets, click here.
For More Information
Visit www.afrolatinfestival.co.za.
You can also check them out on Facebook.