How to tackle this part of ‘the fringe’? Fuel up with a flat white and spend a morning perusing its eclectic collection of boutique clothing, book and furniture stores before stopping for a bite to eat and perhaps indulging in a little tipple at a hidden gin gem.

East City Eatery, 79 Roeland St

Begin by grabbing a häzz flat white from East City Eatery and pair it with a breakfast wrap while you catch up on your emails on their free Wi-Fi or surreptitious people watching over one of their interesting zines. This little hole in the wall spot does all-day brekkies and some delicious cold-pressed juices, but is only open during weekdays, so you’ll have to settle for Vida E if you head out on a weekend.

East City Eatery
East City Eatery

Margot Molyneux, 69 Roeland St

Check out this local clothing designer’s gorgeous Art Deco-styled store with luxe brass detailing and swoon-worthy terrazzo flooring — the perfect setting to showcase her classic collection of ladies’ wear. The friendly store assistants complete the boutique experience by offering all their customers a spot of tea or coffee to be enjoyed on their custom-made velvety seats. 

Margot Molyneux
Margot Molyneux

The Book Lounge, 71 Roeland St

This independent book store is one of Roeland Street’s original gems and a truly magnificent spot that could suck you in for a good long while. Enjoy the quiet ambiance, original wood finishing and delectable home-made cakes and teas on offer down in the basement where ‘story time’ for the little ones takes place. They champion local authors and frequently hold launches and other exciting events. Chat to one of the staff to find out what’s happening next.

The Book Lounge
The Book Lounge

Famke Concept Store, 79 Roeland St

While not technically on Roeland Street, this jewellery designer’s new concept store is worth the short walk up to 79 Buitenkant Street. The jewel-coloured walls and copper finishes play host to her collection of sleek, modern jewellery as well as House of Gozdawa Fragrances and the Wass Skincare range. If that’s not enough to tempt you, their professional barista makes a mean Deluxe cappuccino.

Famke Concept Store
Famke Concept Store

Anouk Furniture Store, 37 Roeland St

Looking for that perfect vintage drinks trolley, or perhaps and old print to round off your Scandi-mod aesthetic? Anouk might just have what you’re after. And if not, they’ll help source or restore that special something- so much better than shopping at a chain. 

Anouk
Anouk

The Raptor Room, 79 Roeland St

Satiate your appetite at the newest and quirkiest diner on the block. Grab a spot at one of their tropically coloured booths and tuck into their F*ck Bread — a stack of corn fritters slathered in jalapeno butter and topped with heirloom tomatoes. If you’re still feeling peckish, sample their chicken pops and consider washing it all down with a Beyoncé float made with fresh sparkling watermelon juice and a scoop of vanilla ice-cream.

The Raptor Room
The Raptor Room

Pienaar & Son Distilleries, 1 Roeland St

Finish off your Roeland St ramble at this father-son-owned distillery. Their sublime packaging alone is enough to make you feel lightheaded, notwithstanding their two varieties of lip-smackingly good gin and brand new vodka. Remember to phone ahead to book a tasting with master distiller, Andre Pienaar. Read more about Pienaar & Son.

Pienaar & Son
Pienaar & Son
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