Neighbourgoods Market

The Neighbourgoods Market transforms a three-story decommissioned parking garage in Braamfontein into a high-energy Saturday sanctuary of street food, craft liquor, and local design.

What to expect

Spread over multiple levels, the market functions as a sensory-heavy urban piazza. The ground floor is dedicated to artisanal food stalls: think slow-roasted lamb rolls, freshly shucked oysters, Ethiopian coffee, and rows of decadent artisanal doughnuts. As you ascend the industrial concrete ramps, the focus shifts to retail. You will find racks of locally manufactured streetwear, hand-poured soy candles, and vintage vinyl records.

The crown jewel is the open-air rooftop bar. On a clear Saturday, the sightline spans across the downtown skyline, dominated by the brutalist architecture of the central business district. It is the premier spot to sip a local gin or a craft beer while the Nelson Mandela Bridge looms nearby, framing the industrial grit of the city against a piercing blue Highveld sky.

History & significance

Launched in 2011, Neighbourgoods Market was the primary catalyst for the urban renewal of Braamfontein. By converting a derelict structure into a premium communal space, the founders successfully drew suburbanites and international tourists back into the city center after decades of commercial exodus. It is widely credited with establishing the blueprint for the contemporary "neighborhood-first" market scene in South Africa, proving that high-quality, locally sourced commerce could thrive in a previously neglected urban hub.

Practical tips

Operating Hours: Every Saturday, 09:00–15:00.
The Golden Hour: Arrive by 10:30. By 11:30, the narrow hallways move at a crawl, and finding one of the communal wooden benches becomes a competitive sport.
Entry: Entrance is usually free or carries a nominal fee; no tickets are required, but a physical card or mobile payment app is recommended, as many stalls are increasingly cashless.
Environment: It is loud, crowded, and vibrant. If you suffer from social anxiety, aim for the 09:30 slot to enjoy the market before the bass of the live DJ sets reaches volume capacity.

Getting there

The market is located at 73 Juta Street, Braamfontein. If you are staying in the northern suburbs, use an e-hailing service (Uber or Bolt); it is the safest and most efficient way to reach the entrance. Do not attempt to walk from Park Station unless you are accustomed to the city’s pace; the area is generally safe for pedestrians during market hours, but stick to the main thoroughfares like De Korte or Juta Street. Parking is available at nearby paid parking lots, though these fill up quickly by midday.

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