06 Aug 2013 | By Sun International
Joburg's Food Market Scene
The Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein (73 Juta Street), created by entrepreneurs Justin Rhodes and Cameron Munro, offers foodies two extensive floors of food, craft beers, homemade gin and a smattering of design. The second floor features an extensive rooftop area with views over Joburg’s downtown.
Come Saturday, rain or shine, there’s nowhere else I’d rather go. I kick-start the morning with a cinnamon croissant, washed down with a barista cappuccino, seated at the large wooden table that stretches the length of the main hall.
I then take a stroll through the stalls – be prepared for a crush – as you can easily trample on a kid or chi Wawa or bump into a stranger. I stock up on fresh eggs from Moo Berry Farms, organic chocolates from Honest, red velvet cupcakes from Rochelle’s, fresh wood fired oven bread, flowers from Tanglewood, and giant pink oyster mushrooms.
I then head back into the melee to grab a seat on the roof top – I usually have to succumb to sitting on the stairs as all the tables are taken. Its uncomfortable balancing a flatbread pizza on your lap, but, the atmosphere is great and the craft beer by some unknown to me independent brewer, slips down easily, as the sun beats down on my shoulders.
The market specialises in purveyors of artisanal produce, local and regional farmers, natural and organic merchants, and responsible and sustainable enterprises. There are also a few designer clothing stalls and footwear from Feiyue.
Get there early (it opens at 09h00), so you can get a good eating place. The market closes at 15h00.