A look at the 5 best spots to chill and kick it with your friends in South Africa… Gen Z approved of course. 

Korean Kitchen, Cape Town 

Side-step right-left to this beat! The K-pop mania, the normalization of 12-step skincare routines, K-drama marathons and a hunger for Korean cuisine, Korean Kitchen feeds the needs of K-culture lovers and Koreaboos.  

This vibey eatery is popular to many in the Muslim community too, because of the non-pork meals being prepared separately from pork-containing foods. The restaurant also hosts karaoke for pop and K-pop songs alike, so you can be fully immersed in Korean-culture without leaving the country.   

Where: Claremont & Sea Point, Cape Town
Instagram: koreankitchencpt  

Braamfontein, Jozi  

If you’re ‘not like the other kids’, then Braamfontein may be your scene. This neighbourhood is Joburg’s hub for alternative fashion, quirky cafes and zesty restaurants.   

The Wits Art Museum is also one of the jewels found here, and is home to 15 000 artworks. We’re sure their walls are much more interesting to look at than those of school or university.  

Check out: Playground Market, Kitcheners Carvery Bar, The Wits Art Museum, Artivist/ Untitled Basement  

Egagasini & Mondise Mvg Underground, Durban

They’re a 10, but giving 11. Egagasini & Mondise MVG Underground is known for its top-tier service and friendly staff. Showing off indoor pools, it still gives a comfortable, homey décor and prices that won’t make your pocket cry.  

And being near the beach it’s the perfect summer spot. Events like the November 2021 Heineken Summer Tour and the more recent ‘EGAGASINI HENNESSY EXPERIENCE’ are held at this underground club.  

Where: Durban Central egagasinimondise  

Nanaga Farmstall, Gqeberha 

Humble beginnings are a timeless crowd favourite. This homely farmstall started in 1969 with Lynn Lake selling cabbages from the boot of her car.  

The story of the farmstall’s origins encourages many young adults to persevere through the challenges on their own success journeys. Being famous for their ‘roosterkoek’, fresh juices and hearty meals, Nanaga is a great visit for a chilled cultural experience.  

Where: Gqeberha
Website: nanaga.co.za
Instagram: nanagafarmstall_ec  

Grounded At Echo  

The former community café has grown with the launch of Grounded Work – a coworking space – and offering their catering services. Grounded at Echo is also a socially responsible business in partnership with ECHO Youth Development (NPO).   

The organisation aims to provide a support system for vulnerable youth across South Africa – so you can enjoy your coffee or meal and know that your money will go to a good cause.   

Where: Villeria, Pretoria
Website: groundedat.co.za/ grounded_at_echo 

Words by Sahrah Enous 

Photography: Pexels, Courtesy Images