Nothing beats the good vibes and intoxicating bursts of creativity of a good market and these two offerings in Pretoria just keep growing in popularity – and it’s easy to see why!
Market on main
012 central, 385 Helen Joseph Street
Parking: At the State Theatre; or at 216 Sisulu Street
Entrance: R20 per person
Held every Saturday from 10am to 3pm, this “upmarket” market features the handiwork of a diverse range of sought-after local designers and crafters and there’s plenty of bespoke handbags made from authentic African textiles, funky ties, and even bites like flourless Nutella brownies to tuck into. Other highlights include rare perfumes, sublime leather goods and craft beers and cocktails to sip on. It’s an eclectic melting pot of vendors and shoppers and one of the mainstays at each markets is the selection of specialty foods on offer. From Mozambique prawns and succulent prego rolls to banting-friendly sweets – you name it, it’s there.
As an offshoot of Market on Main Johannesburg – which literally took Jozi by storm with its runaway success – Pretoria’s Market on Main has become an entity in its own rights and is now part of an urban renewal project that’s made a huge contribution to making this city space safe and alive with creative possibility and energy.
Shopping on Duncan Yard
1204 Prospect Street, Cnr Duncan and Prospect Street
With its cobbled stone walkways and castle turrets, Duncan Yard resembles all the best features of a market and a trendy lifestyle centre alike and the bespoke stores in this open-air shopping feast has unique offerings from 15 top-notch eateries to high-end clothing, jewellery, designer decor, carpets and even florist services. There’s even a beauty and hair salon to complete the picture and ensure the most luxurious way to complement a day of retail therapy. The distinct Italian atmosphere of this village-style market is amplified with the presence of eateries like Papa’s Real Food-restaurant and Deli on Duncan – all the more reason to linger longer and make a day of an outing to this delightful enclave! Open Mondays to Fridays from 9am to 5pm; on Saturdays and public holidays from 9am to 3pm and on Sundays from 10am to 2pm.
Words: Riekie Human | Images: Supplied
