Johannesburg

Rand Steam Shopping Centre – a visitor's guide

24 Nov 2025
Nestled at the corner of Barry Hertzog Drive and Napier Street in Richmond, just a stone’s throw from Wits University and 44 Stanley, Rand Steam Shopping Centre is a boutique shopping centre with rich character and history. Opened in 2019, it sits on the former site of the early 20th-century Rand Steam Laundries, where Joburg’s amawasha, Zulu men who washed mineworkers’ laundry in a nearby stream, once worked. The centre pays homage to this heritage with water-themed elements and architecture that echoes the original stone and brickwork. The old white filtration tower and a majestic century-old pepper tree add to its quirky charm. Whether you’re popping in for quick errands or taking a stroll, Rand Steam blends heritage, convenience, and an easy-going shopping experience.

To make the most of your visit, we’ve put together a guide of key highlights to help you navigate this historic space.

1. Where to eat  

A world of flavours under one roof at We Sell Flavourz Market at Rand Steam Shopping Centre. Photo: Supplied.

WE SELL FLAVOURZ MARKET
A mini food court, We Sell Flavourz serves up an irresistible variety of international cuisine from a central kitchen, to suit every appetite, mood, and craving. 

Curry Up dishes up Indian favourites like biryani and lamb curry; we’re also obsessed with their milk tart samosa and chicken tikka samosa. Thai Me Up brings the heat with a highly recommended Thai green curry. There's also Nacho Daddy, serving Mexican goodness, with the beef burrito a favourite of ours. Slamwich keeps things classic with hearty lunch staples like chicken mayo or a bacon, blue cheese, and sundried tomato combo.

Pasta Worx has your Italian cravings covered; the alfredo is a crowd favourite. And, if you’re sticking to the basics, Monster Burger delivers the kind of burger you simply can’t go wrong with. Meanwhile, The Capri serves up delicious coffee, creamy cappuccinos, and rich hot chocolate. Feeling indulgent? Treat yourself to their sorbet, available in a variety of tasty flavours.

MANAKA COFFEE
Enjoy all-day breakfast and great coffee at Manaka Coffee at Rand Steam. Photo: Manaka Coffee. 

For coffee-to-go, a hearty lunch, or an office away from home, Manaka Coffee ticks all the boxes. This welcoming cafe has limited indoor seating that opens up onto a large courtyard. Here you can get speciality-grade coffees brewed to perfection, and an extensive menu of locally-inspired eats. Breakfasts such as easy avocado toast, power oats, salmon scramble, shakshuka, and omelettes are available all day. Light lunches include the signature Manaka magwinya (vetkoek) – we tried the Cape Malay lamb version with atchar, mint, and lime. It's delicious. There's also an assortment of freshly baked treats: take your pick from butter, almond, and Nutella croissants, a selection of muffins, and cakes. The traditional milk tart made in-house is light and lovely.

2. Beauty and lifestyle

Get a summer glow with bath salt and bath bombs from Rain Skincare.
Photo: Johannesburg In Your Pocket.

NAP LIVING
Nap Living was created from a love of black, white, and every neutral in between, along with a deep appreciation for simple, honest materials. Their collection covers everything from fragrance oils and candles to bags, baskets, mats, and towels – all the pieces that turn everyday living into something a little more spa-like. Their Nap Oudh fragrance oil is a definite standout, adding an instant sense of richness to any room. We’re also big fans of their Spekboom fragrance oil, which brings a fresh, citrusy lift that brightens any space.

RAIN NATURAL SKINCARE
Rain began in the small village of Ladybrand on the Free State-Lesotho border and has since grown into a proudly South African international brand. Their skincare is inspired by the ancient botanical wisdom of tribal Africa, infused into everything from moisturisers and soaps to room mists, diffusers, bath bombs, and salts. Expect niche scents like mint and mulberry or soothing Rooibos, all crafted with care to minimise their environmental footprint.

TAPENADE & FRIENDS
A collaborative lifestyle store celebrating South African craftsmanship, Tapenade & Friends brings together standout local designers and makers. Browse wonderful kitchen accessories like aprons, oven mitts, chilli sauces, and artisanal salts; fashion finds such as leather wallets and bold earrings and necklaces from local jewellers like Miss H and Aurora; a cute little kiddies’ corner filled with fashion for small humans; and home décor treasures, including wine-scented candles from Chard & Co.

... AND MORE
You can also stop by local favourites like Sorbet, where you can treat yourself to manicures, pedicures, nail rehab, massages, and rejuvenating skin treatments; Clicks for all your beauty essentials and toiletry top-ups; and Pick n Pay Clothing if you’re after a great T-shirt or some quality socks to give your wardrobe a quick, stylish refresh.

3. Pet care

All your pet care needs sorted at About Cats & Dogs. Photo: Johannesburg In Your Pocket.

From everyday essentials to gourmet spoils, About Cats & Dogs has your furry friends covered. Speciality offerings are sure to go down a treat; pick up Montego dog sauces to add flair to any bowl and Karoo slow-cooked stews for a hearty mealtime alternative. You can also find all the pet accessories you need here, from leashes to plush toys. 

4. Everyday convenience

Enjoy some of the best local produce from Woolworths Food.
Photo: Rand Steam Shopping Centre.

Pick n Pay has you covered for all your grocery needs, while Woolworths Food offers plenty of delicious dairy-free and vegetarian or vegan options. Value Co. is your go-to for affordable, stylish homeware, storage solutions, and everyday essentials, while The Crazy Store is perfect for those quirky-but-necessary finds, whether you’re prepping for game night, a birthday party, or buying Christmas decorations. You’ll also find ATMs from Absa, Nedbank, and Standard Bank for quick convenience.

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