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Jozi's trendy downtown market
Market on Main, Johannesburg
The bustling Market on Main in Jo’burg
© Maboneng Precinct
Did you know?
Famous South African artist William Kentridge has a studio at Arts on Main.
Market on Main was developed with Jozi’s trendy, inner-city lifestyle in mind. It's a space in the Maboneng Precinct where Gauteng-based food and design enthusiasts can hang out and sell their products, which range from indigenous plants and fresh produce to baked goods, preserves, fashion, accessories, original prints and books.
Taking place in converted warehouses at the Arts on Main complex in downtown Jo’burg, the market is proof of the success of ongoing inner-city rejuvenation projects – it now attracts visitors from around the city to what was once a no-go area.
At this Johannesburg market, held on Sunday mornings, you can sample chilli relishes, pickles, pâtés, cheeses, brownies, cupcakes and cookies as you browse the more than 40 stalls, curated by leading South African designer Jacques van der Watt of Black Coffee. There is also Ethiopian, Moroccan, Chinese, Italian and Indian food for sale, as well as fresh, African coffee on offer, a cocktail bar, artisanal beers, organic wines, free Wi-Fi and even kosher hotdogs.
The Arts on Main restaurant, Canteen, is also open during market hours.
The market provides overturned crates with comfortable cushions set amid the olive trees in the courtyard, where you can relax and enjoy your purchases with like-minded friends – with music from some of Jo’burg's best-known DJs in the background.
There is also a night market, which takes place on the 1st Thursday of every month (except in January and April) from 19h00 to 23h00, and which always features live music.
Owned and managed by Love Jozi, Market on Main is inspired by the idea of an equitable, urban market as a creative social space. As part of its sustainability mandate, the market also consciously supports small businesses that minimise the distances between producers and consumers of food.
The market has introduced a supervised, safe, fun and imaginative space where visitors can leave their kids while they shop. The Maboneng Precinct is also pet-friendly.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Market on Main
Tel: +27 (0)10 007 0080
Email: brandmanager@mabonengprecinct.com
How to get here
Take the M1 South and keep left as it forks onto the M2 towards the city, Durban and Selby. Follow the signs for M2 Durban. Take the Joe Slovo turn-off and keep right. There is a detailed map on the website.
Tours to do
Take a walking tour with Past Experiences and explore the arty side of the city.
What will it cost
There is so much on offer at Arts on Main, make sure you come prepared to spend.
Where to stay
The relatively new Hotel Lamunu in De Korte Street, Braamfontein, is making waves. There are 60 en-suite studio rooms to choose from.
What to eat
Try bunny chow, 'boerie rolls' or roosterbrood served with local fillings. These typical dishes will give you a taste of what South Africa has to offer.
What's happening
This mixed-use development to the east of Johannesburg is full of activity, with the galleries and studios at Arts on Main offering a line-up of regular events, including art exhibitions, movie screenings and theatre shows. Check the listed websites for up-to-date details.