I am not a fan of the Johannesburg CBD. Driving is a bit of a nightmare with all the one-way streets (yes, Pretoria CBD has them too, and I don’t like that any better), and the thought of parking gives me heart palpitations. But I’ve heard so much about The Sheds@1Fox I decided to suck it up, and extend my discomfort to others by inviting a few friends to join me there for belated birthday celebrations (with a round of Happy.Me, of course).

Traffic (or the lack thereof, I should say) on a Saturday morning was rather pleasant, but as we approached our destination, the palpitations started. And disappeared just as quickly when I discovered that there is a secure parking area across the road from the venue, which only cost R10.

Apart from an artisanal food market, The Sheds@1Fox is a place of fusion and exchange, a place of conversation and storytelling where the amazing Joburg inner-city is revealed and discovered. It is at 1Fox that travelling routes, neigbourhoods, cultures and heritage merge into the melting pot that makes Joburg great.

There are a variety of food vendors, sure to suit every taste (I can definitely recommend the bacon and maple syrup waffle), fresh vegetables and flowers for sale (the latter at extremely reasonable prices – I had that confirmed by a friend that buys flowers weekly), and even a few craft stalls if you’re looking for unique, handmade gifts.

And there is plenty of space to sit down and catch up with friends.

The venue is currently closed for the holiday period and some refurbishments, and will reopen on Friday 23 January 2015.

Trading hours (2015):
The Sheds food emporium @1Fox:
Friday: 12:00 – 20:00
Saturday: 8:00 – 18:00
Sunday: 8:00 – 17:00

Restaurant and wine bar (from March 2015):
Tuesday – Sunday, 12:30 – 21:00

The Good Luck Bar (craft beer hall, food court and music venue):
Thursday: 16:00 – 21:30
Friday: 12:00 – 20:00
Saturday: 8:00 – 18:00
Sunday: 8:00 – 17:00

So if you are looking for a spacious venue for informal get-togethers and catering that will suit everyone, make sure you check out The Sheds@1Fox. Visit their website for updates on events such as live music and movie screenings.