For one thing, it's an amazing counter to the regular Sandton Central lifestyle – with wide walkable pavements, and al fresco dining along Maude Street, plus some of the hottest nightlife spots for when the sun starts to descend. It's also a great street to explore – across the road is the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) with its historic sculptures tucked into a courtyard, just down the way are some authentic street market vendors, and up the road, Sandton's tallest building with a sky-high deck.
The restaurants mostly face the street side, adding life to a corporate enclave that houses some of the city's biggest financial HQs.
Among the many dining options check out the always popular Tashas, perfect for a casual lunch meeting or to close off a business deal, the fun and friendly Wok n Roll for contemporary Asian cuisine, or for something more glamorous book a table at David Higgs sophisticated Saint which attracts a fashionable crowd and serves fantastic Italian food in glitzy surroundings. His other restaurant Zioux, with its otherworldly decor and highly styled cocktails is another swanky spot for the in crowd.
For a more casual lunch, Ribs & Burgers is an affordable option not only for a great combination of slow-cooked ribs and tasty burgers, but vegetarians and vegans will also love the meatless options on the menu. The excellent value Food Lover's Eatery food hall is a Sandton rarity (easy on the budget) – where you're spoilt for choice with gourmet sandwiches, pizza, a Poke Bar, and sushi, as well as the Food Junction for ready-made meals to heat and eat. Pass by the Artisan Bakery for freshly baked goods. Next to Food Lover's Eatery is Seattle Coffee for a good cuppa and yummy pastries.
For a spot of retail therapy check out Willberrys for luxury accessories, Levisons for designer men's clothing, shoes, and accessories, Tread + Miller for footwear, Cape Union Mart for essential camping and hiking gear, Elegântè by magnificent jewellery pieces, Africa on Thread for boutique men and women's African print clothing as well as Kryolan makeup products and services. For the most beautiful bespoke flower bouquets, Deco Bloom is available for orders and events.
This small shopping complex also has a Planet Fitness gym, and a branch of Kauai opposite, for that post-gym smoothie.
Ladies (and perhaps gentlemen, and everyone in between) we suggest you consider spending your next maintenance day at the MARC. Start at Zen Medi Spa, an aesthetic and laser clinic where you can get that glow on your skin with a rejuvenating facial, or opt for a full body massage. Flow Hair Designs is nearby, as is popular celebrity nail salon, Tammy Taylor Nails.
For convenience, there's a Pick n Pay and Pick n Pay Liquor for the grocery run, Nex Tech and Eden for electronic purchases and services, and Execuspecs and Spec Savers for eye tests and eyewear.
For a meal beyond the confines of the Sandton's giant mall complex this is a great option – with plenty of added conveniences, and loads of parking. Just make sure to note your floor number. It can be a little confusing. The elevators also can take you directly to the Protea Hotel Balalaika Sandton lobby.
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