Melville radiates a bohemian vibe of trendiness with its fusion of culture, art, bars, coffee shops and music. It’s a booming suburb of creatives and small business owners that provide an authentic “off the beaten track” experience to its visitors. If you have a day or two to spend in Melville, this is what we recommend you do.
GO ANTIQUE SHOPPING
There’s something quite exhilarating about antique shopping – it gives you that distinct feeling of rediscovering the past through vintage items. At times it becomes hard to distinguish what is a true gem versus what is fake. That’s what makes the experience at Clyde on 4th so unique. It’s an authentic haven for visitors collecting Georgian, Art Nouveau, Art-Deco and 1950’s objects and a must-see for your Melville experience. Clyde on 4th is one of the leading antique dealers in South Africa. Visitors can be expected to be spoilt for choices of porcelain, decorative items, silver, pottery and an array of art pieces. The experience is also personalized, as the moment you step in you’re offered assistance to get exactly what you’re looking for.
When: Mon – Friday 9am – 5pm | Sat 9am – 3pm
Where: 75 4th Avenue, Melville, Johannesburg
Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 482 3266
Website: www.clydeon4th.co.za
Facebook: Clyde on 4th | Instagram: clydeon4th
PRACTICE YOGA
Nestled in the heart of Melville, Pure Peace Yoga offers classes for adults, children and pregnant women. Classes are crafted and small, curated by lovers of the practice. Pure Peace Yoga makes use of a combination of traditional Hatha and Ashtanga asanas (postures), organic movement, meditation, as well as pranayama (controlled breathing) and chanting or singing (because it’s fun). They also have Yin and Restorative Yoga on the menu for balance and rest. They have a holistic philosophy that yoga is more than your body, because “you are more than your body”. All levels are welcomed. Class schedules are posted on the website, and the first class is FREE (when you select complimentary class as payment on the website).
When: See website for class schedule
Where: 70 4th Ave, Melville, Johannesburg, Johannesburg
Email: [email protected] | Tel: 076 813 2825
Website: www.purepeaceyoga.co.za
Facebook: Pure Peace Yoga | Instagram: purcepeaceyoga2018
EAT AT THE COUNTESS
A gem among Melville restaurants, The Countess, provides authentic American smokehouse and Diner cuisine to the backdrop of the trendy 27 Boxes. It’s easy to see why they have appeared on the top 100 Restaurants of the Year award list three times in a row. Their signature chilli burger and Countess burgers are said to be the best in Joburg. Additionally, they have “out of the smoker” ribs, decadent pasta dishes (smoked brisket lasagna and truffle mac & cheese), vegetarian options and a comprehensive breakfast menu. Where some restaurants try and force western cuisine flavours, The Countess strikes the perfect balance of tangy and fragrant sharpness to their dishes. They also have a good wine selection, craft gins and tonics and coffees that are always double-shot and budget-friendly. Guests have the option to be seated inside or outside. The Countess has a quirky steampunk vibe and is ideal for fun events or small romantic lunches or dinners. The staff make it a happy environment, giving you the right amount of attention you need to enjoy your meal – a must-try in Melville!
When: Tues – Fri 11.30am – 10pm | Sat 8.30am – 10pm | Sun 8.30am – 6pm
Where: 27 Boxes, 75 3rd Avenue, Melville, Johannesburg
Tel: 076 813 2825
Website: www.thecountess.co.za
Facebook: The Countess | Instagram: the_countess_melville
HIKE UP MELVILLE KOPPIES
Melville Koppies is a nature reserve and heritage site that offers a great hiking trail and scenic views of Johannesburg. It boasts geology going back three billion years, and was once a site for the Early Stone Age men. Moreover, it is full of lush vegetation and offers a unique viewing point of the city centre. There are several ways to experience Melville Koppies, with the guided walking tours on the Central and West routes being quite popular. The tours include an educational experience of the flora and fauna as well as heritage sites. The East end is always open and dogs are welcomed.
When: Varies, please check website
Where: 4 Judith Rd, Emmarentia, Randburg,
Tel: 011 482 4797
Website: www.mk.org.za
Facebook: Melville Koppies
GET PAMPERED AT MELVILLE DAY SPA
Melville is a hub of activity, and there’s no better way to relax from the hustle and bustle than at Melville Day Spa. Also referred to as “An Oasis in the City”, it is truly a unique sanctuary of relaxation and personal rejuvenation. Soft, soothing music flows throughout the spa, giving you the escape and ambience that your mind, body and soul longs for. The signature All-in-One Spa Dream and Best Friends Forever Packages are the favourites with guests. Melville Day Spa also offers facials, chemical resurfacing treatments, dermapen treatments, radiofrequency treatments, microdermabrasion and natural Pure Smile teeth whitening. To top it off, there are also grooming services including waxing, manicures and pedicures.
When: Mon 8am – 4pm | Tue – Fri 8am – 6pm | Sat & Public Holidays 8am – 4pm
Where: 37 Arundel Road, Westdene, Johannesburg
Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 477 5866
Website: www.melville-wellness-centre.co.za
Facebook: Melville Wellness Centre and Day Spa | Instagram: melville_day_spa
A LITTLE PIECE OF ITALY IN MELVILLE
Café Picobella Trattoria is a little piece of Italy in the heart of Melville. Picobella boasts a menu filled with traditional Italian cuisine. The recipes originate from all over Italy – from Palermo to Modena and Milan to Florence – and ensures that there is a perfect dish for every taste. Along with an impressive selection of tapas, pizzas and pastas, there is also a variety of salads, steaks and seafood dishes on offer. Famous for its wood-burning oven pizzas, Picobella caters for patrons who require wheat- or gluten-free bases. Café Picobella is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and welcomes both individuals and larger groups. Bookings are recommended to avoid disappointment.
When: Mon – Sun 8am – 10pm
Where: 66 4th Ave, Melville, Johannesburg
Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 482 4309
Facebook: Cafe Picobella | Instagram: cafe_picobella
EXPLORE 27 BOXES
27 Boxes is arguably Mellville’s centrepiece. It is an innovative shopping experience constructed from recycled shipping containers showcasing artisan foods, local fashion and curated design. It’s geared towards small businesses and start up entrepreneurs, so you’re guaranteed an authentic experience. 27 Boxes houses approximately 80+ boutique stores and frequently hosts events based on themes such as Halloween, Night Markets or a Green week. The container has a park for children to play, parking is available and entrance is free.
When: Tues – Sat 10am – 6pm | Sun 10am – 4pm
Where: 74 4th Ave, Melville, Johannesburg
Email: [email protected] | Tel: 0860 109 237
Website: 27boxes.co.za
Facebook: 27 boxes | Instagram: 27_boxes
Saadiq Samodien
