Fourways Farmers Market Archives - Nowhere to go? Know where to go!

Where It All Began

Landscape Architect and Horticulturist, Greg Straw developed the Fourways Farmers Market in 2013. His vision was to create a space where artisans and crafters could sell to the public. Set within a beautiful outdoor garden, this was to be an intimate market experience. However, as the market made its debut at the Fourways Farmstead, it became increasingly popular. Drawing in hundreds of visitors to their weekly Sunday market, the Fourways Farmers Market is undoubtedly one of the most popular weekend craft and food events in the city.

With over 107 vendor stalls, selling an array of cheese, sweets, gourmet meals and drinks, the market is a hive of activity. Visitors are welcome to take a seat under the Jacarandas, or on the famous hay bales. Surrounded by plant life, under the glorious Joburg sun, the market is an idyllic retreat from busy city life. However, space has become limited, often causing frustration among visitors. With limited parking available onsite and cramped market space, the Fourways Farmers Market was in need of a new home.

Image from Fourways Farmers Market.

The Modderfontein Nature Reserve

In 2019, the Fourways Farmers Market announced the location of their new home! The former Val Bonne Country Estate at the Modderfontein Nature Reserve now hosts your favourite weekly market. A short trip from Fourways, the Modderfontein Nature Reserve offers ample outdoor space. The surrounding views are also quite spectacular. This family-friendly venue is sure to be a welcome change for both the vendors and regular visitors of the market. However, you can still find all the fresh, local goodness you have come to expect from the Fourways Farmers Market.

The market made its official debut at the Modderfontein Nature Reserve in March 2020, giving them a few months to prepare the venue to accommodate all their vendors and you, of course. If you can't wait, then take a trip to their sister market, the Waterfall Market at the Mall of Africa in Midrand. Featuring the same collection of vendors, this market is a must-visit for artisan products.

Click here to find out when the next Fourways Farmers Market will be held. Click here for the upcoming Waterfall Farmers Market dates.

Why You Need To Visit Fourways Farmers Market

Now, if you need further convincing as to why you need to visit Fourways Farmers Market other than the fact that it has a brand-new location and you're curious, we've got a few additional pointers to convince you.

It's the most beautiful outdoor market in the city. The market's brand-new location is absolutely breathtaking. You can find them on an estate within the 265-hectare Modderfontein Reserve. You can expect plenty of animal life, nature, as well as a splendid view of the Reserve Lake.

It's a farm-style escape just 10km away from Sandton. It's the perfect place to go if you're looking to escape the noise and rush of the city and just unwind and relax for a few hours. Be sure to take a stroll down the flower and olive tree-lined path to their hay bale picnic lawn.

Gourmet treats galore! This is just the place if you're looking to delight your taste buds with a variety of divine and diverse gourmet goodies, ranging from locally made cheeses, cured meats and sweet treats to flavourful jams, freshly squeezed juices, preserves and much more.

You can shop unique handcrafted items. Whether you're looking for a unique gift for someone special, or are simply on the hunt for a statement piece to add to your wardrobe, this market is sure to have it. Here, you'll find also sorts of treasures, from beautifully handcrafted jewellery and clothing to beauty products and décor.

There's plenty of entertainment for all. Whether you're looking to enjoy some of the best live local music performed by talented and up-and-coming artists or need something to entertain the kids while you shop, there's bound to be something fun and exciting here for all.

Image from Fourways Farmers Market.

The Little Details

Now that you're revving to visit the next Fourways Farmers Market, here a few little details to keep in mind before you go:

The market is open every Saturday and Sunday from 09:00 to 17:00.
There is an entrance fee of R10 per person, however, pensioners and children get in for free.
There are numerous play areas and kids activities on offer to keep the little ones entertained.
Your four-legged companions are also extremely welcome to the market, however, you need to follow these rules.
Most of their vendors have credit card facilities as well as a variety of mobile payment solutions.
There is no ATM on the premises, so be sure to bring cash just in case.
There are baby changing facilities in all of their bathrooms.
There is ample parking available. Reserved handicapped parking is available at the entrance of the market.

Image from Fourways Farmers Market.

For More Information

For more information, visit the Fourways Farmers Market website for more information, or you can follow their social media pages for updates and upcoming events:

Facebook - www.facebook.com/TheFourwaysFarmersMarket/
Instagram - www.instagram.com/fourwaysfarmersmarket/
Details: +27 11 465 0877 ( Wednesdays and Fridays only ) or +27 10 534 6622 ( Monday to Friday during office hours ) | [email protected]
Address: Taroko Farm (Modderfontein Reserve) Norfolk Lane, Klipfontein 12-Ir, Lethabong.

Bedfordview Night Market

The Bedfordview Night Market brings the biggest and best markets in the city under a canopy of stars. At this market, you can find a variety of stalls selling a range of hand-crafted items and delectable food. Offerings include finger food, delicious hearty meals, unusual street food and sweet treats, as well as gardenware, art, esoteric items and fresh flowers, just to name a few. This market takes place on the last Friday of every month at 17:00.

Contact details: 79 Boeing Road East, Bedfordview | [email protected] | www.thenightmarket.co.za | Facebook

East Rand Crafters Market

Based in Benoni, the East Rand Crafters Market is one of the biggest in the East Rand. Offering buyers a convenient place to shop for all their needs, this market is a must-visit. With free entrance, there is no better place to shop, browse and enjoy a day out in the sun. This market also offers a range of activities to keep the kids busy, so you can bring along the whole family.

Contact details: 49 Aerodrome Drive, Benoni | www.eastrandcraftersmarket.co.za | Facebook

Bedfordview Night Market

Crafts In The Park

Crafts In The Park hosts markets and car boot sales on the first Saturday of every month at Bokkie Park in Boksburg and the last Saturday of every month at the newly re-opened Bunny Park in Benoni from 09:00 - 14:30. At this market, you can expect to find quality handmade goods and yummy treats, surrounded by beautiful gardens and farm animals.

Contact details: 072 713 3332 | Bokkie Park, Southvale Road, Parkdene, Boksburg / Bunny Park, Pretoria Road, Rynfield, Benoni | [email protected] | craftsinthepark.co.za | Facebook

Modderfontein Farmers Market

Located in the old mining town of Modderfontein, this market is set on the picturesque grounds of Franz Hoeing Haus. Stop by on an early morning to get your fill of fresh bread, sweet preserves, delicious cheese, gorgeous gifts and produce. If this wasn't enough, soon Modderfontein will play home to a second market. The Fourways Farmers Market will be moving to the Modderfontein Nature Reserve in March 2020, so you'll be able to source even more farm fresh produce in this quiet town.

Contact details: 073 234 9994 | Franz Hoenig Haus Gardens, High Street, Modderfontein | [email protected] | Facebook

Modderfontein Farmers Market

Country Fair, Carboot Sale & Food Court

Tucked away at Uncle Tim's Centre in Benoni, the Country Fair, Carboot Sale and Food Court occurs on the first Sunday of the month from 09:00 - 15:00. At this market, you can look forward to finding a wide selection of toys for the kids, secondhand bargains, jewellery, books and arts and crafts. There's also a selection of tasty goodies on offer to keep your hunger at bay.

Contact details: 083 310 6138 | 40 High Road, Brentwood Park, Benoni | [email protected] | uncletims.co.za | Facebook

Antique, Arts and Crafts Market

Another one of Uncle Tim's offerings, the Antique, Arts and Crafts Market is the perfect place to hunt down bargains for antique furniture, books, trinkets, china sets, figurines and collectables. And true to the ethos of the centre, this market also sells beautifully handcrafted items, fresh homemade produce and unique giftware. These markets are held on the second Sunday of the month.

Contact details: 083 310 6138 | 40 High Road, Brentwood Park, Benoni | [email protected] | uncletims.co.za | Facebook

Uncle Tim's Centre

Do you know of any markets in the East Rand we missed? Let us know about them in the comments section below!

Monday, 16 December 2019, the Day of Reconciliation, is a public holiday all about unity and togetherness. Also known as the 'biggest day in retail', this national holiday offers the chance to catch up on all you have been missing while managing the year-end rush. Take advantage of this long weekend to get out and about in the city. Whether it's family fun you are after, a couple of drinks or a little sophistication at the theatre, there is a ton happening over this long weekend.

Joburg Zoo Festival Of Lights

Joburg Zoo have partnered with the Joburg Theatre to bring you a merry Christmas light festival. Come and see all your favourite animals lit up in brilliant colours. There will also be classical live entertainment, food and craft stalls. This is perfect for the whole family!

The Festival of Lights will run over the long weekend, between 07:00 - 22:00 daily.

Click here for more information.

Fourways Farmers Market Christmas Edition

The Fourways Farmers Market is one of the most popular foodie markets in the city. Their final series of markets for the year takes place over the Reconciliation Day weekend, bringing you awesome food, live music and Christmas festivities for all ages. This will be the final Fourways Farmers Market held at their current location, as they will be moving to a bigger premises in March 2020. Don't miss out!

Visit the FFM Christmas edition on Friday, 13 December 2019, Saturday, 14 December 2019 or Sunday, 15 December 2019.

Click here for more information.

The 12 Pubs Of Xmas

Silly season is officially open! Come through to the 1 Fox Precinct for the epic 12 Pubs of Xmas event. This is Joburg's most outrageous drinking event of the year, so you don't want to miss out on the fun. There are a number of group activities which you must complete, including drinking while standing on one foot, crawling your way to the pub and wearing your shoe as a glove!

The 12 Pubs of Xmas event will take place on Saturday, 14 December 2019.

Click here for more information.

Maboneng Pride Art Festival

Celebrate your pride at the inaugural Maboneng Pride Art Festival. Bringing together queer-indentifying artists, tattooists, fashionistas, sculptors and gamers, this event aims to encourage queer visibility in the arts. There will be a number of participating venues around the Maboneng Precinct, where you can mingle, dance and express your authentic self. It's the perfect way to kick off the long weekend, so don't miss it.

The Maboneng Pride Art Festival will take place on Saturday, 14 December 2019.

Click here for more information.

A Christmas Carol

The Charles Dickens classic Christmas tale returns to the Pieter Toerien Theatre at Montecasino this December. With the refrain of Bah, Humbug! from Jason Ralph as Ebenezer Scrooge, you will be transported to a world of Christmas past, present and future. Bring older kids to see this heart-warming story of redemption.

Show times:

Friday, 13 December 2019 at 19:30.

Saturday, 14 December 2019 at 16:00 and 19:30.

Sunday, 15 December 2019 at 15:00 and 18:00.

Monday, 16 December 2019 at 15:00.

Click here for more information.

I Love Soweto Festival

Soweto Theatre is the place to be this long weekend. Hosting the I Love Soweto Festival, they bring you a feast of live music, food, entertainment and much more, kicking things off with an outdoor movie screening for the kids and cheese and wine for the older folk. The following evening sees the I Love Soweto Night Market set up their stalls, offering you handcrafted goods and a magical performance by the Soweto String Quartet. To wrap things up, the Seven Colours Sunday food market will fill your belly with delicious South African treats.

This event is not to be missed, so get your tickets as soon as possible.

Click here for more information.

The Crafters Fair

The Crafters Fair is an East Rand must-visit. Taking place alongside the Emperors Palace Garden of Lights, this Christmas market is the ideal place to pick up handmade gifts and stocking fillers. Bring the little ones to visit Santa's Village and see the merry elves in action. Afterwards, you can take them on a thrilling carnival ride or for some delicious ice cream melts. All in all, it's a family fun affair, so make sure to head on over this long weekend.

The Crafters Fair takes place from 09:00 - 21:00 daily.

Click here for more information.

Lazy Days And Lawn Blankets

Finally, we have the Lazy Days and Lawn Blankets event at Fairlawns Boutique Hotel. For a relaxed Sunday afternoon in the summer sun, free welcome drinks, gourmet finger snacks and live entertainment, get your tickets to the final Lazy Days event of the year. Dress up in your best Christmas attire to stand a chance to win a prize for best dressed! Kiddies are welcome too, so bring the whole family along.

The Lazy Days and Lawn Blankets event takes place on Sunday, 15 December 2019.

Click here for more information.

It's A Stay-Cation

Sometimes all you need over a long weekend is a little rest and relaxation in the comfort of your own home. It's also a perfect excuse to host a family braai. Check out our Braai Essentials Guide for tips and tricks on perfecting your braai skills. Or, bond with the kids by getting into the spirit of Christmas baking.

Whatever you choose to get up to over this weekend, we hope it's fun, refreshing and all that you need to get through the final stretch of 2019. Happy holidays!

Where It All Began

With over 107 vendor stalls, selling an array of cheese, sweets, gourmet meals and drinks, the market is a hive of activity. Patrons are welcome to take a seat under the Jacarandas, or on the famous hay bales. Surrounded by plant life, under the glorious Joburg sun, the market is an idyllic retreat from busy city life. However, space has become limited, often causing frustration among visitors. With limited parking available onsite and a cramped market space, the Fourways Farmers Market was in need of a new home.

View this post on Instagram

Announcement!!! 🏡 🌲 🏡🌲🏡🌲🏡🌲 Location! Location! Location! We’re moving, but not too far!!! In March 2020, Fourways Farmers Market will be relocating to our new venue at the the old Val Bonne Estate in the Modderfontein Reserve near Sandton. _ After a long search for the perfect location, our hearts have settled on this exquisite lakeside setting. It’ll take us a couple of months to get ready so please join us every Sunday at our sister market @waterfallmarket for the same local vendors, delicious food and special vibes. _ Stay tuned to social media for exciting updates. _ We are so excited! Bring on 2020! #BESTOFJOBURG2018 #bestofjoburg2019 #christmasatthemarket #christmasinjozi #wearemoving #fridaysatfarmers #acoustic #ENTERTAINMENT #familytime #streetfood #THEFOURWAYSFARMERSMARKET

A post shared by Fourways Farmers Market (@fourwaysfarmersmarket) on Nov 22, 2019 at 9:14am PST

The Modderfontein Nature Reserve

On Friday, 22 November 2019, the Fourways Farmers Market announced the location of their new home! The former Val Bonne Country Estate at the Modderfontein Nature Reserve will now host your favourite weekly market. A short trip from Fourways, the Modderfontein Nature Reserve offers ample outdoor space. The surrounding views are also quite spectacular. This family-friendly venue is sure to be a welcome change for both the vendors and regular patrons of the market. However, you can still find all the fresh, local goodness you have come to expect from the Fourways Farmers Market.

For More Information

Visit the Fourways Farmers Market website for more information, or you can follow their social media pages for updates and upcoming events:

Facebook - www.facebook.com/TheFourwaysFarmersMarket/
Instagram - www.instagram.com/fourwaysfarmersmarket/
Details: +27 11 465 0877 | [email protected]

What Is It?

In true Christmas spirit, The Fourways Farmers Market will be hosting the merriest market south of the North Pole. Celebrate the season with family and friends and enjoy a festive feast. They've selected the finest Christmas vendors who are bringing an authentic range of festive goodies. Enjoy delicious food, gifts, decor, handmade treats, carols and Christmas lights. Pets are welcome too, so bring your reindeer (or dogs)! We'll see you there.

When Is It?

Friday, 06 December 2019 and Friday, 13 December 2019 will be night market events.

Saturday, 07 December 2019; Sunday, 08 December 2019; Saturday, 14 December 2019 and Sunday, 15 December 2019 will be daytime market events, from 09:00 - 17:00 on Saturday and from 10:00 - 17:00 on Sunday.

Where Is It?

Fourways Farmers Market, Longmeadow Farm, Cnr Of William Nicol Dr And Monte Casino Blvd, 2191 Sandton, Fourways, Johannesburg.

How Much Is It?

Entry is R10 per person. Kids and pensioners enter for free.

For More Information

Follow them on Facebook for more information.

What Is It?

After two successful years of offering a meat-lover's dream, the Eat Out Steak Out will return to Joburg. Steak Out is where Jozi's top steakhouses will put their sharpest knives against each other to impress guests with their signature cut of steak and sides. The ticket gets you entry, a taster from each of the steakhouses at the event, a beautiful Tramontina steak knife and two free drinks.

Last year’s Steak Out included tempting tasters such as dry-aged sous-vide sirloin; picanha rump; Wagyu beef with a chimichurri sauce; sirloin with a truffled mushroom brandy sauce; and aged rib-eye with marrow bone. Steakhouses you can look forward to:

The Local Grill
Butcher Block SA
Chaplin's Grill
The Bull Run Restaurant Sandton
Che Argentine Grill
The Publican - Bar & Grill

When Is It?

Saturday, 05 October 2019 at 12:00 - 18:00.

Where Is It?

Fourways Farmer's Market, Corner William Nicol Drive & Montecasino Boulevard, Fourways, Johannesburg.

How Much Is It?

Tickets cost R350 per person (excluding booking fee). Children under 12 enter free. Tickets can be purchased here.

For More Information?

For more information visit the Eat Out website.

Freshouse Market

This fresh foods market provides crisp produce, fine cuts of meat and stunning flowers. They make an effort to stock fruit and vegetables that are a little more unusual so there is always a great variety. Their produce is well priced and they are also very active on their Facebook page for any queries, compliments or feedback. Open between 08:00 and 19:00, which is ideal if you need to squeeze in a little shopping after work.

Find more information here .

The Green Grocery

This is an online grocer offering not only convenience but delivery too. Their fresh, organic produce is sourced from local farmers, who use no synthetic fertilisers or pesticides. Over and about fresh fruit and veg, you can also find herbs and spices, gluten-free and artisan health bread, dairy, dried fruit, nuts and seeds on their site. They deliver on Thursdays and Fridays but check their website to see when they do your area.

Find more information here.

Impala Fruit & Flowers

Found at Lifestyle Crossing in Little Falls, this is one of the largest stores in the franchise. Opened in 2009, they offer fresh produce, choice-cut flowers, as well as nuts, jams and yoghurts. Their flower selection is impressive, particularly in the dry seasons. Apart from their fantastic quality produce, they also have daily specials:

Tuesday is pensioners day with 10% off fruit and veg, and 20% off cut flowers and pot plants
Wednesday 20% off fresh-cut flowers
Thursday offers 10% discount to any gym membership holders
And every weekend 20% off pot plants

Other Impala stores are in Northcliff and Craighall Park.

Find more information here.

IMPALA

Mary’s Country Fruit and Veg

Based in the Cresta area, this little store is always a treat to visit. The staff are friendly and prices on fresh produce are unbeatable. The best part is they often have specials where you can buy in bulk and save. They are a family-owned store and aim to have mostly organic produce but also supply freshly baked cakes and confectionery, created by local moms and bakers in the area — worth trying if you have a sweet tooth.

Find more information here.

Freshly Grown

This is another online fresh produce store specialising in organic and whole foods. In addition to fresh produce, dairy, eggs, meat and drinks, they make up boxes for you comprising various veggies for either two or four people. You can also choose salad or meat boxes, perfect for families. Everything is well priced and this solution is ideal if you don’t have time to sift through the site. They also have a bakery section which stocks unusual flours and baking aids, harm-free household products and their own hand and body range. Freshly Grown delivers different orders on different days.

Find more information here.

MARYS

Farm Fresh Online

This is the last online produce store on our list. They offer 100% South African-grown produce and there's no cold chain; the produce comes directly from the farm to your kitchen. Farm Fresh Online also offers farmers boxes of different sizes which include fruit or seasonal vegetables. It's quicker to simply choose a box but if you wish to add any extras, you can select items like honey, free-range eggs, milk and pantry fillers. Check out their site for delivery schedules.

Find more information here.

Bryanston Organic and Natural Market

This market is an institution and was Joburg's first organic market. It has a variety of other stalls with jewellery, clothing and bric-a-brac and is open Thursday to Saturday, 09:00 – 15:00. There are two organic fruit and veg stalls inside, the first being Christa’s Corner. Her farm is out past Lanseria, so the market is the best place to get her fresh produce. She also offers micro-greens, sprouts and wheatgrass and is involved in every aspect of the farming process.

The second stall in the market is Wensleydale Farm with their certified organic fruit and vegetables. Established in 1989, they supply many of the large supermarkets. The stall at the market offers a selection of their organic produce but you can also order boxes directly from their website and have them delivered to your house.

Find more information here.

Maledi Fresh

Maledi Fresh is a wholly black-owned family business that supplies fresh food products to restaurants, schools, as well as to the public. They are stationed at the Lifestyle Home Garden centre and their products are replenished daily, so you are always sure to get the freshest produce no matter what day of the week you visit. They offer organic and non-organic fruit and vegetables, dairy products and also dry goods.

Find more information here.

Fourways Farmers Market

The Fourways Farmers Market is one of the most popular food markets in the city, welcoming in hundreds of visitors to sample tasty treats from the vendors each Sunday. The market recently announced that they will be moving from their original premises to the former Val Bonne County Estate in Modderfontein. Look out for further news on their big re-opening, which is set to take place in March 2020!

Click here for more information.

Neighbourgoods Market

Braamfontein hosts one of the best foodie markets in town, the Neighbourgoods Market, which takes place every Saturday. From home cured meats to specialty cheese, it's all under one roof. Grab a craft beer and a panini and watch the sun set from the market's roof top.

Address: 73 Juta St, Johannesburg, 2000

Click here for more information.

Market On Main

The Maboneng Market on Main has become known for the wide variety of art and food it offers. If you want to sink your teeth into some North African food, then head to Arts on Main and have a bite or three. There is also an array of Portuguese, Indian, American and South African food to enjoy. After your main meal, pick up a moreish pastry or gourmet ice cream from one of their vendors. With its cool vibe and hearty food options, Market on Main provides an authentic city experience worthy of your company.

Address: 264 Fox St, Johannesburg, 2000

Click here for more information.

Yeoville Food Market

What used to be an inner city cinema is now the oldest running food market in the country. The Yeoville Food Market is a smorgasbord of African cuisine with Congolese food on top of the menu. Fresh fruit and veg from West Africa can be purchased at borderline cheap prices, so be sure to rock up with a handful of cash and an ample amount of boot space.

Address: Rockey Street, Yeoville, Johannesburg, 2000

Click here for more information.

The [email protected]

For gourmet grub in the heart of the city, head out to The Sheds at the Fox Precinct. Partnering with Mad Giant, Ginologist and The Good Luck Bar, this industrial-style venue hosts a monthly food and craft market. We've tasted some of the smoothest Oreo gelato and yummiest mini sliders here, so make sure to visit them.

Address: 1 Fox Precinct, 14 Alexander Street, Ferreirasdorp, Johannesburg

Click here for more information.

Melville Food and Farmers Market

The Melville Farmers Market takes place every Saturday morning from 09:00 - 14:00. Offering artisan bread, fresh vegetables, free range chicken, yoghurt and eggs, as well as delicious preserves. This food market is all about celebrating the local community and bringing people together through their love of good, fresh food. This is a real hidden foodie gem worth hunting down.

Address: Cnr Carlow & Rustenburg Roads, Melville, Johannesburg.

Click here for more information.

Night Market at 27 Boxes

Another Melville must-visit for foodies is the night market at 27 Boxes. On First Thursdays, this mixed-use precinct welcomes in hungry guests, offering them an array of gourmet street-style grub. While happily munching on a waffle on a stick or enjoying a moreish smoothie, browse around their stores to find the best crafts and vintage clothing.

Address: 75, 4th Avenue, Melville, Johannesburg

Click here for more information.

Bedfordview Night Market

The Bedfordview Night Market is one of the biggest multicultural food and craft markets in the city. With over 100 stalls, there is ample entertainment here. Their food vendors offer everything from traditional Greek moussaka, to loaded chips, gourmet coffee and ice cream. Settle down at one of their picnic tables to tuck into a feast for the eyes and the stomach!

Address: 73 Boeing Rd East, Bedfordview, Johannesburg

Click here for more information.

Bryanston Organic and Natural Market

One of the oldest food markets in Joburg, the Bryanston Organic and Natural Market specialises in organically grown fresh produce and delicious deli food, crafts, gifts, jewellery and clothing made from only natural materials. With four eateries on-site, this market is all about good food and family. They recently introduced a Moonlight Market edition on Tuesday evenings between 17:00 - 19:00. Check it out.

Address: 40 Culross Rd (off Main Rd), Bryanston, Johannesburg.

Click here for more information.

Linden Market

The Linden Market at the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens welcomes you with a glass of bubbly and an air of excellence. Follow the scent of gourmet food cooking away until you reach the dedicated food stall area. Here, you will find a wonderful selection of eats, from healthy salad bowls to cooling sorbets. Bring your furry friend along too, as the market is dog-friendly.

Address: 45 Thomas Bowler Street, Emmarentia, Johannesburg

Click here for more information.

Vegan Hippie Connection Market

Finally, we have the much-loved Vegan Hippie Connection Market. With all things vegan, this food market fills a huge gap in the market. Our resident vegan writer recommends that you stop by Vegeata's stall for the best Tofu Bao Bun in the city. Imagine a a fluffy activated charcoal infused bun, topped with wild rocket, creamy mayo, spicy sriracha and deep fried crispy tofu, yum!

Address: Pirates Club, 25 Breaside Road, Greenside/ Parkhurst, Johannesburg.

Click here for more information.

Do you know of any other awesome food markets in the city? Let us know about them!

Possums On Burnside

If you are looking for a peaceful, relaxed and comfortable space filled with arty elements, this is the perfect place. Not only is Possums on Burnside welcoming and serene, their gardens are so picturesque they’re sure to evoke only good conversation covered in laughter. Should either party’s conversational skills lack; they have various conversation starters – from the art pieces for sale, to the amazing tapas by The Dec. There is also a fine dining option at The Bistro. It’s a recipe for success! This spot is best for afternoon dates.

86 Public

Maybe you’re after a more vibrant yet cosy setting that still allows for good conversation while you and your date sip on some amazing sangria and munch on delicious pizza? In that case, 86 Public is calling your name! This restaurant is located in the vibrant area of Braamfontein, so a great vibe and a good time are almost always certain. What’s great about this location is that the atmosphere increases the chance of a successful date — in fact, it might even prompt the date to progress to a night of dancing in Braam. Dancing evokes happy hormones so it’s a win-win!

Milk Bar

Want milk? They’ve got milk. Well, not really, but I’m almost certain it can be arranged if you ask nicely. Milk Bar is great for afternoon and evening dates. However, if the main objective is to get know each other better, afternoons are recommended. The setting is comfortable, the décor rich with different cultural elements and they have an epic food and drinks menu. Plus, they’ve got soft music in the background by day, and louder music in the background at night. Evening dates at the Milk Bar can be advantageous if you want to go dance up in Katy’s Palace Bar after food and drinks – good vibes only.

Emmarentia Dam

So maybe you think going to a restaurant for a first date is too mainstream and overtly overdone? In that case, try a morning or afternoon picnic at Emmarentia Dam. Buy yourself a picnic basket, pack some yummy treats and drinks in there and you’re done. Have yourself a lovely picnic by the dam, enjoy nature, good conversation, and a peaceful atmosphere. This setting is also great for capturing memories, so pack your camera (or charge your phone) and have fun with it.

Nice On 4th

If you’d like to take your date to a place where you can share and enjoy literature, before or after indulging in some divine food and drinks, Nice on 4^th is a must-visit! Not only will your taste buds be tantalised, but your mind will also be pleased with all the amazing literature in the neighbouring Nice Books. So here’s what you could do – get there, grab a drink, chat a bit, go to Nice Books, pick out a book to read or browse through as a conversation starter, sit back at your table, grab a bite and let the conversation flow. Successful date, done and dusted!

Roll Egoli Roller Rink

When was the last time you went roller skating and had some good old fun with someone you really like? Why not go to Roll Egoli Roller Rink for your first date? It's the quickest way to bond and get to know each other in a non-conventional way, plus it's tons of fun! There's even a garden where you can sit and relax in-between skating sessions, which will give you the perfect opportunity to talk, laugh and people watch. And don't worry about refreshments, the rink has a self-service cafeteria with all sorts of yummy food, from wood-fired pizza to hot and cold beverages.

The Ice Rink

If roller skating isn't really your thing, try ice skating instead. There are several great Ice Rinks to choose from to have your perfect first date. Nothing like some skating fun to break the ice. For a first date, definitely book online or book ahead before showing up, you'll get a few brownie points to throw in the bag and win over your date's heart! The most central ice rink to give a try is the one located at Northgate. There is always a great vibe and tons of people enjoying themselves, and well, fun is contagious. Since the rink is located in the Northgate Mall, you can even grab a bite or catch a movie afterwards. Show your date how diverse your fun having can be!

Northcliff Hill

We might not be in the beautiful mountainous Cape Town but we still have some picturesque hills in Joburg where we can enjoy breathtaking views of our city. Why not treat your date to a lovely afternoon on Northcliff Hill and let the romance unfold? Pack a few treats and drinks and prepare to have your date admire the city in awe. The Hill is peaceful but, if you like, you can even take some music with you and, of course, capture a lot of photographs to remember the day.

Fourways Farmers Market

Open every Sunday from 09:00 until 16:00, the Fourways Farmers Market is a great pick for a successful first date. Located right across from the famous Monte Casino, the market is frequented by food lovers and social folks alike. The place has a great vibe and there is even a stage where live music gigs are usually held at the delight of regular and new-time customers. With great music, great food and a great atmosphere, the market definitely works in your favour for a successful first date!

Eat Your Heart Out

Lunch and dinner can be so overrated! Why not try to have a breakfast first date at Eat Your Heart Out in Maboneng? Catch the morning breeze and indulge in some delicious breakfast foods. And there's no cut-off time to the breakfast menu — it's all day! Lunch meals are also available should your breakfast turn into lunch because you're enjoying each other's company so much. To top it off, they also have scrumptious daily cakes and sweets, just to add some extra sugar to the date. Hot and cold drinks are available to cater to any weather conditions the city might throw at you.

Have we left out your favourite first date venue? Let us know which one below!

Remember that our “Top Picks” are not paid for and are compiled at the discretion of the journalist. We only write about what we love.

Neighbourgoods Market

In the heart of the city is the Neighbourgoods Market. Open every Saturday, come rain or shine, this market covers two floors and is filled with craft beer and cocktails, artisanal food and plenty of things to buy. Why not grab yourself a Balkan Burger before heading upstairs to browse through Asseblief's rails and see what second hand gems you can take home with you? Or simply head over early, secure yourself a table and admire the stunning views of our city from the rooftop area!

When: Opening times: Every Saturday – 09:00 to 15:00 and the first Thursday of every month – 17:00 until late.

Where: 73 Juta Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.