2019 Archives | Best Of Ekurhuleni

2019

Best Store for Baby Essentials: Baby City

Our readers are fans of Baby City as they stock just about every essential item you need for your child. From strollers and prams to clothing and wipes – everything under one roof.

Best Barbershop: Plato’s Beard

They strive to offer their clients excellent service in an upmarket, stylish and welcoming barbershop. They have an array of men's beard grooming, shaving and hair-styling products.

Best Hair Salon: Bobs & Beehives

Renowned boutique hair salon in Boksburg, Gauteng. They pride themselves on being professional, accurate and having your best hair interest at heart. They are the epitome of hair pop culture and constantly keep up with the latest hair trends.

Best Place to Buy Beauty Products: Dis-Chem

Browse their wide range of health and beauty products. Shop at Dis-Chem today.

Best Accessories Shop: Lovisa

Lovisa was established in April 2010 and has quickly grown to be one of the leading specialist fast fashion jewellery retailers.

Best Nail Bar: Sorbet

Sorbet is your nationwide beauty therapy hub with over 200 stores countrywide and stores in the UK. From manicures to pedicures, skincare and body massages, good hair days and bad hair days (and unwanted hair days), they’re here to serve up a double scoop of...

Best Jewellery Store: American Swiss

With its dedication to gorgeous jewellery and fine fashion, American Swiss has been South Africa’s leading jeweller since opening its doors in Cape Town in 1896. For more than 100 years, they have been growing their business and providing South Africa with the very best...

Best Clothing Store for Him: Edgars

Pair a blazer with a stylish pair of chinos for a classic look. Make a statement with bold colours such as red, white and navy. Edgars is the shop for the guys who want to look sophisticated every day of the week.

Best Clothing Store for Her: Woolworths

Stylish basics, trendy corporate pieces and chic casualwear are what you can expect when shopping at Woolworths. With all the top brands, you are definitely set to look your best – every day!

Best Capital of Beauty: Octavia’s Day Spa

From Hot Stone Heaven to Body Revival Journey, this is the go-to spot situated in Emperors Palace. For all things massages and facials plus body treatments, Octavia’s Day Spa is a win among readers!

Best Exclusive Boutique: Missy Boutique

They love doing the best and most stylish brands. They're exclusive; they do local brands as well as imported brands.

Best Vegetarian Restaurant: Kaylee’s Eatery

Whether you’re a yoga-loving sort of girl or a run-in-the-park-with-your-dog kind of guy, there is something here that is good for your body, mind and for the planet. At Kaylee's, they try to use only the freshest and most seasonal ingredients to create their flavourful...

Best Banting Food Spot: Sandwich Baron

With more and more people jumping onto the Banting lifestyle wagon, Sandwich Baron has perfected their Banting menu. Their famous Banting soup, which consists of creamy leek and sweet potato, will leave any Banting lover satisfied.

Best Coal-grilled Fish: Catch

From dim sum to delicious steamed dumplings, sushi, new-style sashimi and a wide variety of other seafood favourites, Catch caters to every palate. Non-seafood options include traditional Japanese udon noodles, the Catch Sizzling Beef with Asian Vegetables, deboned baby chicken and Peking duck.

Best Steak Restaurant: Turn ’n Tender

Fancy a juicy, mouth-watering steak or rib platter which will leave you wanting more? Turn ’n Tender is the place to go. Not only is it the region’s most popular grill house, but the quality of their meat and sauces speaks for itself.

Best Upmarket Restaurant: Fahrenheit

Why put a price tag on the finer things in life? Fahrenheit promises its patrons not only fine dining, but also value for money. The restaurant’s modern styling allows for both intimate, romantic dates and gives enough privacy for business lunches.

Best Affordable Restaurant: Spur

Spur Corporation is a steakhouse franchise restaurant chain originating in South Africa. Spur caters for the whole family and has earned a reputation for tasty, nutritious, value-for-money meals.

Best Spot to Head for Brunch: Wimpy

Wimpy is a leading South African quick-service restaurant with a wide range of burgers, breakfast and coffee. There's a Wimpy moment in every day!

Best Seafood Restaurant: Ocean Basket

If you are after a taste of the sea, your local Ocean Basket is the best place to satisfy your taste buds. Their famous fish and chips is the must-have meal.

Best Restaurant for a Little Romance: Villa Bianca

Dinner at an intimate table with you and your loved one is what Villa Bianca is all about. It has been operating for over 20 years, with delicious meat, chicken and health options available.

Best Restaurant for a Business Lunch: Turn ’n Tender

Fancy a juicy, mouth-watering steak or rib platter business lunch which will leave you wanting more? Turn ‘n Tender is the place to go. Not only is it the region’s most popular grill house, but the quality of their meat and sauces speaks for itself.

Best Restaurant for a Burger: RocoMamas

The restaurant has a cool vibe and ambiance that make customers feel at ease. Patrons are also given the opportunity to be their own boss and build their own burger.

Best New Restaurant (JOINT WINNER): Fin & Fillet

Fin & Fillet tastefully and tastily combines the best of land and sea into an eclectic dining experience amid welcoming surroundings.

Best New Restaurant (JOINT WINNER): George’s Bread & Co

Their mission is to provide the community with a warm, casual space to connect and enjoy exceptional-quality pastries, bread and desserts as well as coffee and café fare. Because they bake from scratch, they can control every aspect of the baking process and produce superior...

Best Neighbourhood Restaurant (JOINT WINNER): On Sixth

On Sixth is all about taste. Executive chefs in an open-plan kitchen, friendly staff, hands-on management, vibey ambience, all of this based on Benoni's history.

Best Neighbourhood Restaurant (JOINT WINNER): Fahrenheit

Why put a price tag on the finer things in life? Fahrenheit promises its patrons not only fine dining, but also value for money. The restaurant’s modern styling allows for intimate, romantic dates and gives enough privacy for business lunches.

Best Place to Get an English Breakfast: Wimpy

Wimpy is a leading South African quick-service restaurant with a wide range of burgers, breakfast and coffee. There's a Wimpy moment in every day!

Best Hotel Restaurant: Aurelia’s

Aurelia’s Restaurant at Emperors Palace is more than fine dining. Food is a gateway to the world, and your palate can take you to far-off places. Aurelia’s five-star cuisine is a fusion of the latest international trends expertly blended with bold African flavours. Paired with...

Best Mexican Restaurant: Salsa

Authentic Mexican food using traditional cooking methods. Expect a modern, inspired twist to each of their signature dishes.

Best African Hot Spot: Tribes

African-themed grill and steakhouse. If you are looking to dine out, then Tribes is the place. Whether it is a celebration, an intimate meal for two, a business meeting or a corporate event, they will cater to your needs.

Best Portuguese Restaurant: Papa Boa

In the year 1488, Bartolomeu Dias discovered the great, Dark Continent of Africa. Upon landing on a beautiful sunny day, he declared a feast, to celebrate the great discovery. According to a shipmate’s diary that was discovered on a shipwreck, Bartolomeu was famous for standing...

Best Italian Restaurant: iL Gusto

An edgy fusion of intimate wine and pasta emporium, this ristorante dishes up authentic Italian and Mediterranean food that's good for the soul.

Best Greek Restaurant: Mythos

For the past decade, Mythos has provided Gauteng with a menu that boasts a variety of delicious Greek specialities, such as moussaka, pastitsio, soutzoukakia, kleftiko and baklava. Take the time to appreciate great Greek food in an idyllic Mediterranean-style setting, perfect for a sit-down sharing,...

Best Indian Restaurant: The Classic India

Don’t have time to cook your favourite Indian meal? Then this Indian restaurant is the next best thing. Cuisine fit for a king is what The Classic India is all about, ranging from spicy, tangy chicken dishes to mouth-watering wholesome platters.

Best Sushi: Yamitsuki

Calling all sushi-lovers. If you would like to be spoilt for choice, then Yamitsuki is the best hot spot to go to. Customers are treated to sushi that is laid out on a conveyor belt, allowing them to choose their favourite dishes.

Best Chinese Place in Town: Kung-Fu Kitchen

Kung-Fu Kitchen restaurants enjoy a reputation for impeccable service with a variety of delicious Chinese and Japanese cuisine and a friendly Oriental atmosphere. If you are craving the bold flavours of Asian cuisine, then Kung-Fu Kitchen is the place to go.

Best Asian Restaurant: Simply Asia

In staying true to the value of balance in the Thai culture, at Simply Asia they pride themselves on nourishing ingredients to create a variety of fresh, well-balanced meals from scratch.

Best Thai Restaurant: Simply Asia

In staying true to the value of balance in the Thai culture, at Simply Asia they pride themselves on nourishing ingredients to create a variety of fresh, well-balanced meals from scratch.

Best Bottle Store to Buy Wine: Liquor City

Not only are the best wines, spirits and beers stocked at Liquor City, but they are also sold at the most competitive prices. The store stocks a wide variety of whiskeys, beers, Scotch, brandy, liqueurs and wines. Liquor City is the largest independent liquor group...

Best Bottle Store to Buy Beer: Liquor City

Best Nightclub: Nicci Beach

In the heart of Wild Waters above the beautiful wave pool, amid swaying palm trees and warm sunny breezes, this beach-themed club is the hidden jewel of Ekurhuleni. It is no wonder the youth of Ekurhuleni voted Nicci Beach the best nightclub. Nicci Beach is...

Best Neighbourhood Pub: Grapes Pub & Restaurant

Established in August 1994, Grapes Pub & Restaurant has been serving up excellence for more than 21 years. Julie and George have been busy with a new look and feel, bringing a timeless restaurant into the modern era.

Best Craft Gin Bar: The Green Craft Bar

A relaxed, upbeat, amazing place to drink and eat, with many craft gins to choose from. It’s no surprise Ekurhuleni residents have chosen The Green Craft Bar as the place to be when in the mood for a gin.

Best Craft Beer Pub: The Green Craft Bar

A relaxed, upbeat, amazing place to drink and eat, with over 40 craft beers to choose from. It’s no surprise Ekurhuleni residents have chosen The Green Craft Bar as the place to be when in the mood for a few craft beers.

Best Cocktail Bar: News Café

With its modern, trendy look and classy but casual vibe, it’s no surprise News Café has been chosen by Ekurhuleni residents as the place to be when in the mood for a few cocktails. With over 50 cocktails to choose from, no one is leaving...

Best Place to Buy Fresh Produce: Food Lover’s Market

No other place offers the freshest produce like Food Lover's Market. With its wide range of fruits, veggies, cheeses, breads, pestos and sauces, Food Lover’s Market is the number one go-to place.

Best Butchery: Meat World

With its great beef, steaks, chops, chicken and lamb, it is no wonder that Meat World is Ekurhuleni’s favourite for another year!

Best Place to Buy Biltong: Meat World

What’s better than watching rugby with friends and family and snacking on dry wors and sliced biltong? Meat World has the best in Ekurhuleni.

Best Chips: Steers

Steers has become one of South Africa’s most recognisable quick-service restaurant brands. The company is well known for serving handmade chips. Recently the franchise added new flavours to its chips and now offers cheesy chips as well as spicy chips.

Best Takeaway Burger: Steers

Steers is South Africa’s leading burger brand and has served South Africans its legendary 100 per cent pure beef, flame-grilled burgers for almost 60 years.

Best Supermarket for All Your Essentials: Pick n Pay

Delectable meats, cheeses from around the globe and a variety of goodies ensured that Ekurhuleni residents voted Pick n Pay the best supermarket. Again. And no matter what you need, you can be sure to find it at your local store.

Best Takeaway Pizza: Roman’s Pizza

Roman's Pizza was founded in 1993 when Arthur Nicolakakis bought over a struggling pizzeria. He had a vision to provide the best-quality product at the lowest price. Many have tried to imitate their concept, but few have succeeded.

Best Spot to Go for Pizza: Panarottis

Panarottis is well known for its generous portions, handmade pizzas, freshest ingredients and warm, family-friendly atmosphere.

Best Deli: Satellite Bakery

Are you looking for the best freshly baked bread and confectionery? Satellite Bakery offers all that and more! Biscuits, savoury pies and cakes for special occasions. If it can be baked, they sell it

Best Coffee Shop: George’s Bread &Co

Their mission is to provide the community with a warm, casual space to connect and enjoy exceptional quality pastries, bread and desserts as well as coffee and café fare. Because they bake from scratch, they can control every aspect of the baking process and produce...

Best Franchised Pub: Keg

Since 1990, Keg has been the destination of choice for a night out with friends, offering patrons an authentic pub atmosphere and a traditional pub dining experience. Expect good food that’s made to perfection and always affordable. Stocking a wide range of beers and spirits,...

Best Tea Garden: The Victorian Secret

Set in a charming building that traces its origins to early Johannesburg, The Victorian Secret is an independent artisan bakery and patisserie based in Benoni, Johannesburg

Best Milkshake: Kota Joe

Not only does Kota Joe serve breakfast, lunch, dinner and coffee, but they also serve the best milkshakes in Ekurhuleni.

Best Chocolate: Beyers Chocolates.

Beyers Chocolates have been supplying the South African market with quality chocolates and chocolate products for more than 25 years. The company was founded in 1987 by Kees Beyers, a Belgian-born confectioner who identified a gap in the South African market for high-quality confectionery that...

Best Local Chocolatier: Beyers Chocolates

Best Place for Party Platters: George’s Bread & Co

Best Pies in Ekurhuleni: George’s Bread & Co.

Best Bakery: George’s Bread & Co.

Best Craft Bakery with Café: George’s Bread & Co

Best Law Firm: Hammond Pole Attorneys

The firm has a well-established tradition of providing superior legal outcomes in respect of property-related transactions, unsecured and asset-based debt recovery alternatives as well as a wide variety of corporate and commercial services.

Best Medical Facility: Medicross

Medicross Family Medical and Dental Centres offer their patients the benefits of convenience, top-quality healthcare and affordability.

Best Courier Company: DHL

International express deliveries; global freight forwarding by air, sea, road and rail; warehousing solutions from packaging to repairs, to storage; mail deliveries worldwide and other customised logistic services. With everything DHL does, they help connect people and improve their lives.

Best Car Insurance Company: Outsurance

Back in 1998, the Outsurance founders realised that insurance only benefited those who claimed and that there was no real price difference between low- and high-risk people. So they launched a business that changed INsurance to OUTsurance, promising that clients will always get something out!

Best Panel Beaters: MF Autobody

MF Auto is not your average panel-beating company. They are head and shoulders above the rest because they strive for excellence. MF Auto is approved by all leading insurers and manufacturers and adheres to strict processes to ensure the validity of their clients' warranties and...

Best Financial Institution: FNB

The FNB brand philosophy is based on the desire to help. They have a strong conviction and unwavering belief in help and the potential it has to forge a bridge that changes “can’t” to “can”; their values are consistent with this credence. The financial institution...

Best Motorcycle Dealership: Harley-Davidson

Throughout the world, Harley-Davidson unites people deeply, passionately and authentically. From town to town and country to country, H-D’s ideals of freedom and self-expression transcend cultures, gender and age. Being recognised as an iconic brand is gratifying, but igniting the fire within people on the...

Best Vaping Store: H2vape

They provide high-end electronic cigarettes and vaping products. An extensive range of e-liquids to satisfy any palate. MODS and upgrades also available.

Best Local Factory Shop: Beyers Chocolates

Best Online Shopping Site: Takealot.com

Click here, click there and a few days later (depending on availability) your parcel has arrived. For everything from fashion, books, gaming, audio, home and stationery to toys and vouchers, the readers have voted Takealot.com the best online shop.

Best Car Dealership: Hyundai

Hyundai Automotive South Africa in partnership with Motus Corporation will ensure that the needs of all its customers are met and that the highest level of service is provided. Hyundai SA will ensure that every aspect of the motor ownership experience is in place, from...

Best Sporting Goods Store: Sportsmans Warehouse

From major trends to minimal must-haves, Sportmans Warehouse has it all for ladies, guys and kids. They stock a wide range of sports equipment, clothes, shoes and accessories.

Best Shopping Mall: East Rand Mall

East Rand Mall is definitely our go-to mall and it’s in close proximity to the airport and easy to navigate. There are over 175 stores to choose from, with ample parking available. Parking facilities consist of 1 500 undercover and 3 000 open bays, while...

Best Outdoor/Camping Store: Cape Union Mart

Stocking everything one needs for outdoor pursuits, including hiking, camping, trail running, mountain biking, snow sports, travel and more – Cape Union Mart is an essential first step in every adventure.

Best Arts and Crafts Store: PNA

For those looking for great value arts and crafts, whether for home or school use, PNA offers an exceptional range. They also stock an extensive array of good-quality stationery. So whether you are creating your own party, wedding invitations or simply writing notes, you’ll be...

Best Hardware Store: Builders

Not only do they stock trendy home décor, books and bits and bobs from the hardware store, but they also stock garden furniture and a gorgeous array of blooms, herbs and trees, all under one roof. Open seven days a week.

Best Garden Centre: Hecker Nursery

This is a family-owned nursery where they provide excellent service and top-quality plants and is the only place where you can find the premium Hecker Homegrown range.

Best Furniture, Décor and Home Essentials Store: Mr Price Home

They aim to delight their customers with well-designed contemporary homeware and furniture at great value! Follow them @mrp_home or call them on 0800 212 535.

Best Florist: NetFlorist

Bouquets, arrangements, gifts and jewellery is what NetFlorist has to offer its customers. With a click of a button you can have your delivery within the same day or scheduled for a special day. Flowers and gifts have a way of brightening up anyone’s day.

Best Computer/Electronics Store: Matrix Warehouse

They offer IT support and services, as well as customer tech support. Their team is on standby with tailor-made support and solutions, focused on your unique technology needs. 011 869 2613/4.

Best Book Shop: Exclusive Books

Exclusive Books is one of the largest bookselling chains in the country, so it’s no wonder it was voted the best book shop twice in a row! Many stores also offer in-house coffee shops, which is definitely why book lovers of all genres enjoy the...

Best Veterinarian/Animal Hospital: Boksburg Animal Hospital

At Boksburg Animal Hospital they strive to provide a service of high quality, keeping in mind that alongside every pet is its owner. They strongly believe that a one-on-one relationship with their clients is essential and believe that approachability and honesty are the keys to...

Best Local Pet Store: Pet Masters

Pet Masters offers its fellow animal lovers everything from expert advice to a full range of food, pet care products, toys and livestock. Pet Masters caters to all pet lovers and believes that animals are not just something you have; they are there to love...

Best Local Band: The Parlotones

Award-winning rock group The Parlotones have been entertaining Ekurhuleni residents for a number of years. They have achieved multi-platinum-selling status and continuously travel the world. They have been described as rock, pop, indie and alternative. www.theparlotones.co.za

Best Hire Venue/Conference Centre: Birchwood.

Minutes from OR Tambo International Airport, walking distance to a variety of shopping precincts and close to restaurants and recreational facilities. Their free Johannesburg airport shuttle departs hourly from Birchwood at 30 minutes past every hour (starting at 5.30am), and OR Tambo International bus terminal...

Best Outdoor and Indoor Activities: Carnival City

With so many fun activities, including arcades, tenpin bowling and outdoor go-karting, the kids (and parents) are bound to have a fun day out!

Best Venue for International and Local Artists to Perform: Emperors Palace

Renowned for entertaining and catering. Emperors Palace is a favourite of hotel restaurant visitors and offers elegant dining. Visit them at 64 Jones Road, Kempton Park, email them at [email protected] or call them on 011 928 1000.

Best Entertainment Destination for Parties and a Night Out: Emperors Palace

Best Weekend Getaway: Sun City

What is more calming than an escape to the mountains or bush? Unwinding and connecting with Mother Nature at Sun City is absolute bliss. Wine, food and family, outdoors – the best remedy for a tired soul.

Coolest Place to Live: Serengeti Estates.

Serengeti Estates is all about living life to the fullest and offers the very best in leisure and lifestyle.

Best Travel Centre or Travel Agent: Flight Centre

Flight Centre is South Africa's leading travel retailer, offering cheap flights (domestic and international), holiday packages, cruises, ski holidays, last-minute hotel deals, travel insurance and much more.

Best Casino: Emperors Palace Casino

Gaming at Emperors includes a multitude of winning opportunities. Friendly table rules, strategy cards and “How to Play” brochures are available to assist players in making the right calls

Best Venue for Private Functions: Birchwood.

Best Getaway Destination: Sun City

Best Theatre: Barnyard Theatre

The Barnyard started as a homely, rustic farm theatre in Plettenberg Bay, where friends and family could be entertained and eat, drink and talk into the small hours of the morning. It proved to be such a winner that more Barnyard Theatres started popping up...

Best Local Real Estate Agency: RE/MAX

RE/MAX of Southern Africa, which was founded in 1994, is regarded as the pioneer of the RE/MAX international expansion as it was the first country franchise to be sold outside North America. RE/MAX of Southern Africa was recognised as the top RE/MAX region in the...

Best Local Blog: Cook &Culture

Cook & Culture is a local blog and column that shares recipes, tips and tricks with the community bi-weekly and has quickly exploded into a striking and shining beacon of information and trends.

Best Local TV Programme: Isidingo

Isidingo is the hit SABC 3 daily drama following the lives of the people of Horizon Deep.

Best Place to Watch the Big Game – Benoni Country Club

The club is home to a par-72 parkland golf course along with a variety of sporting codes, including bowls, squash, tennis and cycling. The club strives to provide a relaxed, family-orientated environment, creating an enjoyable experience for both members and visitors alike. Visit the club...

Best Place to Take Out-of-Towners: Emperors Palace

Best local TV Personality: Trevor Noah

Trevor Noah is a South African comedian, writer, producer, political commentator, actor and television host. He is the current host of The Daily Show, an American satirical news programme on Comedy Central.

Best Local Sports Presenter: Naas Botha

His skills in rugby have long been the focus of biographies and documentaries. Naas is a rugby commentator on SuperSport and continues to support his passion for the sport.

Best Local Sports Hero: Chad Le Clos

Chad is a South African competitive swimmer who is an Olympic, World and Commonwealth Games champion, as well as the Commonwealth record holder.

Best Local Radio Station: 947

Described as “think Joburg, you think 947”. From the towering skyscrapers of Sandton to the dusty mine dumps, 947 broadcasts the heartbeat of the city. Visit them at Primedia Place, 5 Gwen Lane, corner of Gwen Lane and Fredman Drive, Sandown, Gauteng, or call them...

Best Local Radio Personality: Anele

Anele Mdoda is a South African radio DJ best known for her on-air partnership with Grant Nash. She keeps audiences thrilled on the 947 Breakfast Club show.

Best Local Hotel: Birchwood

Best Local Radio Show: 947 Breakfast Club

They’re full of laughs and are impossible not to love. In fact, you’re going to be obsessed with them. They’re the 947 Breakfast Club, and you’re more than welcome to join the club every Monday to Friday from 6am to 9am. Every morning they will...

Best Gym: Virgin Active

To enjoy an energising, stress-busting pastime, the gym is definitely the place to go. And with Virgin Active’s helpful staff you can achieve your dream body (with maximum effort and dedication). Call them on 0860 200 911

Best Golf Course: Benoni Country Club

Best Cinema Complex: Ster-Kinekor

Grab the popcorn, drinks and friends – after all, movies are much better on the big screen. With the latest tech you can enjoy 3D movies, and Ster-Kinekor has movies galore to offer all. Visit Ster-Kinekor at www.sterkinekor.com, email them at [email protected] or call them...