Piccolo Mondo
Boutique wines exclusive to the Michelangelo Hotel in Sandton can be savoured with some of the most beautifully crafted dishes around. The Michelangelo Hotel has a secret weapon when it comes to pairing fine wine with fine dining. Executive Chef Trevor Boyd concocts dishes off the top of his head and, like a mad scientist, he makes obscure combinations sing together in perfect harmony on your plate. The menu changes at a moment's notice, but the one thing that stays consistent is the quality of the experience.
Details: Piccolo Mondo
DW Eleven-13
Dunkeld West is full of surprises. The biggest one by far is DW Eleven-13's wine pairing menu. Dégustation is the careful, appreciative tasting of various foods, focusing on the gustatory system, the senses, high culinary art, and good company. That's the name of the game at Martinus Ferreira's pride and joy. Patrons can expect eight courses (five with pairings) with this menu. Be sure to book in advance as there's a reason why this is one of the best wine pairings in Johannesburg.
Details: DW Eleven-13
Clico Hotel
Opened in 2006, Clico Boutique Hotel is a haven of tranquillity in the middle of Rosebank. The Clico Restaurant is known for its fine dining qualities, which are exploited when it comes to their six-course wine pairing menu. The food is beautifully crafted in both taste and plating, and diners can expect gems such as roasted tomato soup, roast veg gnocchi, sea bass with leaks and other treats.
Details: Clico Hotel
Est Est Alea (Formerly Cube Tasting Kitchen)
Fine dining leaps to a new level at the Cube Tasting Kitchen in Maboneng. At the time of writing, a 12-course progression menu, you get to experience food and drink presented in a way that mixes science with art, like the pea-mint mousse, salmon carpaccio, and wild mushrooms served with black olives and caviare. These items are all paired with boutique wines from SA's infamous wine route.
Details: Est Est Alea
Restaurant Mosaic
Mosaic at the Orient has one of the finest cellars in the country with some of the best and rarest wines from both South Africa and the world. Not surprisingly, it has been the recipient of numerous awards and accolades. Its cellar goes hand in hand with the cuisine that comes from Restaurant Mosaic's kitchen. Award-winning chef Chantel Dartnall – voted SA’s Chef of the Year – has enhanced South Africa’s status as a gourmet destination on the international culinary map, thanks to her beautiful approach to modern fine dining and ability to marry her food with the Orient's wine cellar. Taryn Nortje acts as Restaurant Mosaic's head sommelier and has dedicated her expertise and passion to working alongside Chef Chantel to create a beyond par pairing menu.
Details: Restaurant Mosaic
Ten Bompas Winehouse
When it comes to teaming up a good bottle of vino with a great dish, it's a bit more complex than "white wine goes with chicken and red wine goes with beef." But that's not something you have to concern yourself with when dining at the uber-pretty Ten Bompas Winehouse. They also have their very own wine club which gives members access to vintages not found anywhere else, paired with dishes created by Chef Johannes.
Details: Ten Bompas Winehouse
White and Red Wine Cellars At The Saxon Hotel
The Saxon Hotel has been voted the best boutique hotel in the world, and its Wine Cellars have a big part to play in that accolade. Recently (well, to writing this anyway), The Saxon's sommeliers won international awards for their progress in their respective fields. Though the wine cellars are not open to the public, the Saxon is more than willing to organise private events here, which makes for a more unique way around a food and wine pairing evening.
Details: Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa
oneNINEone
One of our personal favourites at which to pair a glass of shiraz with some springbok would be oneNINEone in Rosebank. We highly recommend their Kitchen Parties, which are a mixture between a chef's table and a night of fine dining topped with a dollop of live music. Keep an eye on Joburg.co.za and the Hyatt Regency Johannesburgfor details.
Details: oneNINEone
By Shawn Greyling
Have you been to any of these wine pairings? Let us know in the comments below. Sharing is caring, so show this to a wine-drinking buddy or three.
The Sandton Sun Spa
The award-winning Sandton Sun Spa is “an oasis of relaxation, rejuvenation and indulgence”. Their signature treatment, the Sea Whisperer, which is a fusion of massage styles from around the globe, will leave you feeling pampered and relaxed. The spa also boasts dual treatment rooms, which are perfect for couples wanting to celebrate an anniversary with an indulgent afternoon of distressing treatments.
Renaissance Day Spa
Situated high above the busy streets of Sandton. The Renaissance Day Spa is a serene haven in the heart of SA’s financial hub. The professional therapists will tailor the treatments – massages, body treatments, facial, manis and pedis – to suit your needs and concerns. And don’t forget to take a look at their range of local and international skincare brands, which you can buy to take home to continue the well-deserved pampering.
The Michelangelo Spa & Gym
Nothing beats a relaxing treatment after busy work week. Head to the luxurious Michelangelo Hotel to indulge in a treatment that’s guaranteed to destress and revitalise. Their menu is extensive, offering massages, facial treatments, hand and foot treatments, tinting, grooming and spa packages. They also offer specials regularly, so check out their Facebook page for updates.
Lavana Day Spa
Located in the central and convenient Benmore Gardens Shopping Centre, Lavana Day Spa will spoil you with 5-star treatment and professional service. They only use the best brands – think Dermalogical, Environ, Lamell, Mama Mio, Lillian Terry and Matsimela – so that your skin feels and looks its best. What we love? You can book your appointment online, making your day so much easier and stress-free.
Africology Spa
Unwind at the tranquil Africology Spa at The Maslow Hotel in Sandton. Their award-winning treatments, using Africology products, which are natural, holistic and eco-friendly, will leave you recharged and refreshed. Try out the 90-minute Maslow Journey, a soothing massage treatment, or one of their half- or full-day spa packages.
Shopping
Nelson Mandela Square
A tourist attraction and home to the most exclusive stores and restaurants in the city, Nelson Mandela Square has everything you need for the perfect shopping experience. Start off by taking a stroll through their collection of shops, which includes Corthay Paris, Fabiani, Factorie and Forever 21, to pick up a few in vogue pieces to add to your wardrobe. Then end off your shopping spree with an afternoon dining on the square at Hard Rock Café, Tasha’s or Trumps.
Sandton City
A visit to Sandton is not complete without experiencing the shopping haven of Sandton City. Just a stone’s throw from Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton City has just about everything you could ever need – and want – all under one roof. Spend the day finding the latest fashion trends at Zara and H&M, purchasing the best makeup on the market from Edgars and Urban Decay, lunching at JB’s Corner or Walnut Grove, and spotting a few local celebs.
Hyde Park Corner
From sophisticated international fashion brands to fantastic dining options and speciality stores, Hyde Park Corner boasts a reputation for being the centre of luxury. Shoppers can expect a retail experience like no other, complete with over 500 of the globe’s foremost international brands and 130 iconic stores. You can also catch the latest blockbusters at their Nu-Metro cinema or delve into your favourite author’s latest novel while grabbing a cappuccino at the Social Kitchen in Exclusive Books.
Eat
If you're into fancy feasts and fine dining, then Sandton is the place for you. As the richest square mile in Africa, there's good food to be found around every corner.
Pappas On The Square
Everybody loves a classic. Sinatra singing Fly Me To The Moon, Sean Connery as James Bond in an Aston Martin from the 60s. You might not find any Sinatra or Connery or DB5s at Pappas On The Square in Sandton, but you will find that elusive quality found in the mainstay of what makes a classic. Their authentic Greek food is amazing. We suggest the lamb shank – the meat just falls off the bone.
The Bull Run
A butcher and restaurant combo, The Bull Run is conveniently located opposite the JSE (Johannesburg Stock Exchange) and a stone's throw from the Sandton CBD. It has fast built up a reputation as the business lunch or dinner restaurant of choice and serves perfectly matured South African beef.
Tashas
Nelson Mandela Square, Hyde Park, Melrose – there’s no problem finding a tashas in Sandton. This is just the restaurant if you want to tuck into something simple, fresh and comforting. Stop by for breakfast to start off your day on a good note, pick up a sarmie for lunch, or get together with the girls for some coffee and scrumptious desserts.
Café Del Sol Botanico
You don’t need to be outdoors to reconnect with nature. Complete with shades of green, aubergine, grey and white, Café del Sol Botanico brings nature indoors, making it a unique spot to grab an early lunch, a few cocktails or a fantastic meal. Their menu has a selection of colourful salads, comforting pasta, Italian classics, including risotto and gnocchi, and cheesy pizzas.
Sleeping Out In Sandton
Book yourself into one of the many luxurious hotels and suites in Sandton. The beds are soft, the views beautiful and the service stellar. Here are some of our favourite places to crash in Sandton.
Michelangelo Hotel
Known as one of the most popular hotels in Africa, the Michelangelo Hotel offers 242 suites and rooms, along with world-class facilities including conferencing space, in a magnificent setting. You can also look forward to easy access to some of Africa's finest shops, restaurants, cinemas and the theatre at Nelson Mandela Square.
DAVINCI Hotel
Guests can expect to receive world-class service at the DAVINCI Hotel and Suites at Nelson Mandela Square. The hotel features an immaculate infinity pool with cushioned loungers, and a full-service spa and a gym. The hotel's rooms have contemporary white and black décor, a wall-mounted flat-screen TV, and tea and coffee making facilities are provided in the room together with a mini bar. The DaVinci hotel also has an exclusive whisky, wine and cigar lounge.
The Maslow
If you're looking for luxurious accommodation with free WiFi and a swimming pool at a good price, then look no further than The Maslow. The hotel features contemporary decor, carpeted floors and is furnished with warm colours. Each room has a panoramic view of the city as an added bonus.
Entertainment
From the stage to the dance floor and everything in between, Sandton is not just a pretty sight to see but a great place to find entertainment. Here are some of the coolest places to check out when you're in town again.
A&G Theatre On The Square
Who would have thought that Sandton would be the place to go if you enjoy the stage? The Theatre on the Square is located on the northeastern corner of Nelson Mandela Square. There are a few low-price previews prior to the official opening of each new show, so keep your eyes glued to their official site to see what's cracking at the Theatre On The Square.
Taboo Night Club
Porches, Jaguars and Hummers line the pavement outside the Taboo Night Club. Beautiful people can be found inside having the time of their lives, donning designer outfits and sipping martinis. The atmosphere is altogether fun, and the décor is second to none, with red and black wallpaper, red lighting and white leather couches all over the place. It's the kind of place celebrities and politicians go to blow off some steam.
Maxim Lounge
Looking for the perfect whisky bar? Then head to the newly launched Maxim Lounge in Sandton. Maxim has collaborated with Scotch whisky stalwarts, Johnnie Walker, so the barmen's uniforms are branded with the iconic striding main motif on the cuffs and chest. Needless to say that the Maxim Lounge serves some of the most exclusive and rare whiskies in the world.
Go Outside
James and Ethel Gray Park
With some of the best sunrises and lovely views of the city, James and Ethel Gray Park is a small park ideal for early morning running sessions, walks with your beloved four-legged companions, or a relaxed stroll.
Sandton Central Park
Right in the heart of the hustle and bustle of Sandton’s financial district is the small yet beautiful Sandton Central Park. Not only does it give business people a place to relax during their lunch hour, but it’s also a lovely spot for dog walking, playing a few rounds of soccer or having a picnic with the family over the weekend.
Check out this cool drone footage shot by our homies P3 Drones:
By Shawn Greyling and Kim Brown
Have we left out any of your favourite spots in Sandton? Then let us know all about it in the comments section below. Also, sharing is caring, so show some love by posting this on social media for us.
Carlton Centre
Also known as the roof of Africa, at 223 m the Carlton Centre has been rocking the record books as the tallest office building in Africa since 1973. With 50 floors, the foundations are 5 m in diameter and extend 15 m down to the bedrock with nearly 50% of the floor area existing below ground. It used to house the luxurious Carlton Hotel and one of its most prominent guests was no other than Hillary Clinton. It takes only 45 seconds to go from the ground floor to the 5th, which is known as the Roof Of Africa.
Address: 150 Commissioner St, Johannesburg, 2001.
11 Diagonal Street
Designed by German-American architect Helmut Jahn, 11 Diagonal Street was designed to look like a diamond reflecting in the Jozi sky. With floor-to-ceiling windows, the 80-meter high building stands out among the other skyscrapers. Construction was concluded in 1984 and... come to think of it...it kind of looks 80s. Retro!
Address: 11 Diagonal St, Johannesburg, 2001.
The Anstey's Building
During the late 1930s, an art-deco styled building popped up in downtown Johannesburg. At the time, it was the tallest building in Africa and was owned by a guy called Norman Anstey. Anstey ran the Anstey's Department Store.
Address: 59 Joubert St, Johannesburg, 2001.
Hillbrow Tower
The most prominent structure in town is the Hillbrow Tower (no Jozi skyline tattoo is complete without it). Fun fact about this building is that it always needs to be higher than the tallest building in town so that the telecoms signals sent from it won't be interrupted. Pretty cool, eh? Unfortunately, it's closed to the public due to security reasons, though it used to host a revolving restaurant at the top.
Address: Hillbrow Tower, Banket St, Johannesburg, 2038.
Michelangelo Hotel
The most iconic feature of the Sandton skyline stands out like a spire on the horizon. The Michelangelo Hotel is where celebrities and world leaders stay when they visit the city, from Justin Bieber to Barack Obama and just about every other A-grade celebrity in between. At 140 m tall and between R30 000 and R60 000 per square meter per month, The Michelangelo Hotel is nothing but the most exclusive kind of real estate in Africa.
Address: 135 West St, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2196.
Ponte City
Last but not least, we have Ponte City. This high rise was almost turned into a vertical prison until developers snatched it from ruin. This once-upon-a-time slum of a skyscraper boasts a 100% upper-middle-class occupancy. Ponte is an iconic point of interest and acts as a beacon to the neighborhood of Hillbrow. Though the neighborhood itself has a bad reputation, it's seen an ample amount of upliftment since Ponte's redevelopment.
Address: Joe Slovo Dr, Johannesburg, 2198.
By Shawn Greyling
Have you been to any or all of these glass and concrete monsters? Let us know in the comments section below. Help us spread the love for Jozi by sharing this article on social media.