A trip to the Rosebank Sunday Market (every Sun from 09:00 – 16:00) isn’t just about hunting for colourful gifts, quirky vintage finds, or local fashion – it’s also a street food playground, with stalls to satisfy every palate and craving. Perched on the rooftop of Rosebank Mall, this market serves up everything from South African-style pancakes filled with chakalaka or mince, to sizzling braaivleis (barbecued meat), spicy Indian samoosas, curries, biryani, and authentic Lebanese shawarma. And best of all, most of these treats are sold at budget-friendly prices (for R120 you can feast on a more than generous portion of freshly made food). Hungry yet? We wandered, tasted, and rounded up the food stalls we think you should seek out on your next visit.
Drink
Photo: Afya Hibiscus via Instagram.
Choose from classic hibiscus, hibiscus with zesty lemon and lime, hibiscus with ginger, or cool mint. Or go bold and mix them all for the ultimate summer cooler, like we did. Afya Hibiscus brings a burst of flavour to Rosebank Sunday Market with their refreshing homemade hibiscus iced teas. You can also take the goodness home with their syrups or dried petals to brew your own cup of tea.
Snack
Photo: Johannesburg In Your Pocket.
It’s almost impossible to pass Dhoda’s Dried Fruit & Nuts without giving in. The colourful spread of seeds, nuts, alternative flours, and dried fruit immediately catches your eye. From chewy Goji berries and tangy dried orange cubes to chocolate-covered peanuts, there’s something for those wanting a slightly healthier snack option or treats you might not find in the supermarket. Based in Lenasia, Dhoda’s also stocks honey, flours, and bulk supplies, plus gift baskets, which make wonderful thank-you gestures.
Savoury food
Curious about or hankering for Nigerian cuisine? Mama J’s Naija Food is a must-stop at the Rosebank Sunday Market. From traditional egusi, pepper, and okra soups with fufu, beans, and yam, to beginner-friendly favourites like jollof rice (which we enjoyed), fried rice, wonderfully seasoned chicken, and rich tomato stew, your Pan-African Sunday lunch is sorted.
Craving Middle Eastern flavours – we are fans of Abuasa Libnan, who serve up authentic Lebanese shawarma. Meat-eaters rejoice – try the lamb kofta, sirloin or rump steak, or chicken fillet. They have something for just about everyone. Gluten-free? Order the falafel. Meat-free, go with the grilled haloumi cheese. The fresh vegetables and homemade sauces – from tzatziki to garlic sauce add a punch of flavour.
Looking for Asian spice – Indian Chicken Tikka will have you coming back for their flavoursome samoosas, priced at R60 for four. Varieties include mutton, cheese and corn, potato and chicken. Skip the mince if you are not a fan of heat. Then there are main dishes like chicken biryani, butter chicken, and dhal. Pair with roti and you have yourself a meal.
Sweets
What’s a market visit without a sweet treat? Munchkin Donuts, serves up freshly made mini doughnuts that are soft, pillowy, and perfectly crisp on the outside. Order them by the half-dozen or dozen, and pile on your favourite sauces and toppings, whether that be sprinkles, nuts, or crushed Oreos. They also do waffles on a stick, and pancakes, because why stop at just one treat?
Photo: The Fudge Kitchen SA via Instagram.
The Fudge Kitchen by Nayna Danya is a sweet little spot redefining what fudge can be. Forget sugar overloads, these wonderfully balanced, generously-sized squares come in inventive flavours for every palate. Favourites include Salted Macadamia & White Chocolate (which we tried and loved!) and Pistachio with Roasted Himalayan Sea Salt, while the Lindt 80% Chocolate is a crowd-pleaser. The whisky-and-chocolate combo keeps the gents coming back, and kids can’t get enough of the Milo with Whispers fudge. It’s nostalgia but elevated.
The Rosebank Sunday Market takes place every Sun from 09:00 – 16:00, at Rosebank Mall.
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