4 top events for autumn
Known as ‘Antique Alley’ back in the 80s, Parkhurst’s Fourth Avenue has turned into one of the city’s key entertainment and shopping destinations. Shop owner Harry Fokker gives us a local’s tour
Owner of Tshirt Terrorist
Harry launched his parody and pop culture T-shirt label online in 2004, but now has a shop on Fourth Avenue. ‘There’s plenty of vibe and bustle here. See and be seen, but with a laid-back feel. Parkhurst is fondly referred to as ‘ The Village’ by residents and regulars. It’s in the heart of the green belt and geographically quite secluded, given the boundary formed by the Braamfontein Spruit. You’ll often find me out on the cycling trails between Delta Park and Joburg Botanical Gardens. The parks in general have some amazing trails, and the suburbs are all cyclist-friendly. Joburg is a sprawling, rangy cacophony with a true, cosmopolitan heart and I love it.’ 13 Fourth Avenue, tshirtterrorist.co.za
UNIQUE FINDS
‘ Hunter Gatherer has vintage pieces focused mainly on men’s interests and decor. It’s a must-see. You’ll understand when you walk in.’ 11 Fourth Avenue, 011-880-3036. ‘Macedonia-born Pepi Dimevski started SA Hardcore Tattoos, one of Joburg’s best, a decade ago. You’ll need to book well in advance.’ 011-327-2812
PLACE TO PLAY
‘ Rockets. It rocks! The vibe is incredible, the staff are on the ball and the food, importantly, is fantastic. It has two bars and on weekends Rockets quite literally takes off. I love the fillet au poivre, my wife enjoys the gravadlax of salmon.’ Corner of 10th Street, 011-880-6102
QUENCH YOUR THIRST
‘ Taphouse has a sterling spread of craft beers, on tap and bottled. My favourite right now is No. 3 Fransen Street Cream Ale, SAB’s craft offering. Taphouse calls itself a “pint-sized pub” but there’s a big, hearty atmosphere here.’ 7 Fourth Avenue, 011-026-8968
GRAB A COFFEE
‘I’m a straight-up espresso kinda guy. No frills, no fuss. At 4th Avenue Coffee Roasters they make it strong. It’s just such a cool and refreshing space in the classic street-café style.’ Cobbles Centre, corner of 11th Street, 082-378-2109