Markets are not just places where people sell and buy stuff. They are much more than that. In fact, markets have always been social spaces where people can exchange ideas and get a sense of what was trending in fashion, food, decor and design. With Joburg being the melting pot of South African cultures, we’ve put together a list of some of the best markets worth visiting in Joburg to give you a good sense of what’s happening in this already trendy metropolitan.
1.Locrate
Of all the listed markets, I am most excited to try this one out. And no, it’s not because I heard it’s Instagram paradise. This market hosts young entrepreneurs who showcase their work and are keen to interact with young enthusiastic South Africans right in the belly of Soweto. It promises a relaxing vibe away from the trendy and bustling Soweto spots. The market sells products ranging from food, fashion, art to lifestyle.
When to go: Open on the first Sunday of the month, from mid-morning to late.
Contact: locratemarket.co.za, 0735219035
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2. Bryanston Organic Market
Dating back all the way to 1976, this market prides itself on being one of Jozi’s oldest outdoor markets. The Bryanston Organic Market hosts over 140 stalls with deli foods, crafts and clothing made from natural materials. When you get tired from strolling around the stalls, there are four eateries where you can sit down and enjoy something to eat. They have live music and lots of kids activities.
When to go: They are open Thursday & Saturday 9am to 3pm and selected public holiday.
Contact: bryanstonorganicmarket.co.za, 0117063671
3. Fourways Farmers Market
The Fourways Farmers’ Market boasts over 100 stalls. The stalls offer a wide selection of vegetables, baked goods, preserves and handcrafted jewellery. You can also sit under Jacarandas, in the Maypole Ribbon Marquee area and enjoy a picnic.
When to go: Every Sunday 9am to – 4pm
Contact: ffmarket.co.za, 0114650877
4. Yeoville Food Market
Also known as the Congolese Market, you will find a variety of delicacies and items from across the continent. From culinary inspiration, spices, crafts and cloths, there is always something to discover from other parts of the continent. If there is a particular African spice or dish you want to try out, this is where you will find your answers. Or at least the inspiration. Unfortunately Yeoville is known for crime in the area which makes this a true hidden gem that’s not frequented enough; we’d recommend going in a group, during daytime.
5. Little Addis
Located in the trendy Maboneng Precinct, this market is a little Addis Ababa Joburg. They serve traditional Ethiopian delicacies and sell Ethiopian spices. This hidden gem is on Fox Street is a must for any foodie. Kassa’s kitchen is an Ethiopian restaurant within the market that serves up hearty Ethiopian meals from Tuesday – Sunday.
When to go: They are open on Sundays at Market on Main in Maboneng Precinct from 9am to 4pm.
Contact: littleaddiscafe.wixsite.com, 0826838675
6. Bamboo Farmers’ Market
The Bambo Farmers’s Market offers a variety of stalls with a wide range of products. The variety of items on sale range from food, décor, art, books, haute couture and vintage collectables. You will find an assortment of stores with a local touch. Most of the stores are run by owners which partly means you will find organic, custom-made local items.
When to go: The market is open every Saturday from 9h00-13h00.
Contact: bamboo-online.co.za, 0832846226
7. Market on Main
Market on Main is at Arts on Main which has been transformed from a 1900’s warehouse. A majority of stalls and store owners here are also young and aspiring entrepreneurs who get to showcase their work while offering visitors the chance to discover upcoming local designers. The space offers a relaxed and creative environment to experience the inner city lifestyle. You will find a variety of cuisines, plants, herbs, fresh produce, flowers, vintage items and local designers amongst others.
When to go: Open every Sunday at Arts on Main 10am to 3pm.
Contact: marketonmain.co.za, 0828681335
8. Neighbourgoods Market
This is probably the most popular market in Joburg, and is and it certainly sparked a love for markets for me. The Neighbourgoods market draws a variety of crowds matched by the variety of stalls and items on offer. This market is ideal for starting out your Saturday morning. You will find fresh food, craft beers, champagne, vegetarian options, biltong, and a variety of desserts. I like this market because you can dash across to Great Dane for a gay-friendly crowd or Kitcheners for an alternative crowd when they close. They also have live music and is ideal for grabbing something to eat and enjoying the vibrancy of Braamfontein.
When to go: Open every Saturday from 9am 3pm.
Contact: Facebook: Neighbourgoods Market, 0814162605
Also read: 17 awesome things to do in and around Braamfontein
9. The Sheds at 1 Fox
The location was part of one of the first mining camps that sprung up at the time of the discovery of gold in the 1880s. Today, this historic precinct is a cultural hub that hosts lifestyle businesses. There is an eatery, an event venue, a craft beer brewery and the Food Market Sheds. The Sheds shares the area with various food, clothing and lifestyle stores which makes it spacious and diverse in its offerings.
When to go: Open Friday, Saturdays and Sundays.
Contact: 1fox.co.za, 0832777272
10. Jozi Real Food Market
The Jozi Real Food Market is the perfect Saturday hangout for families and pet lovers. This spot is perfect if you love getting out and sampling local artisan food products and crafts. This spot is ideal if you are looking for a relaxed morning coffee – or if you want to start your weekend with a craft beer. There is entertainment in the form of live music, and dog owners can bring their dogs out to play.
When to go: They are open Saturdays 8:30am to 1pm and first Sunday Of every month from 9am to 3pm.
Contact: 0113277043, Facebook: Jozi Real Food Market
11. Rosebank Sunday Market
The Rosebank Sunday market hosts stalls with wares ranging from vintage items, craft items, clothing and food. Also, they offer an assortment of fast food options across a range of cuisines. Sometimes they host live DJ’s and live bands, check out their events page to see what’s on offer.
When to go: Sunday from 9am to 4pm.
Contact: rosebanksundaymarket.co.za, 0110287820
12. The Greensider
Greenside is becoming trendier and this market is no exceptions to these changes. The Greensider should be on your list when visiting this soon-to-be popular area. You will find craft beer, cocktails and wine. You can also enjoy wine or delicious food at Mish Mash which is right next to the market. If you are looking for a vibrant crowd, go in the evening from 5pm. Like many markets, their communal table setting makes it ideal for going out with friends.
When to go: Tuesdays from 6:30pm to 10pm. Thursday to Friday from 11am to 10pm. Saturdays 10am to 10pm and Sundays from 9am to 4pm.
Contact: Facebook: The Greensider, 0110262915
