Poelano Malema is an expert writer with over 15 years of experience producing work for some of the biggest radio station websites in South Africa. She holds a degree in Journalism with experience in print, digital and radio.

Her passions lie in food, travel, music and bringing people’s stories to life  something she has done successfully for more than a decade.

Her favourite saying is that your life is a book that is being read and will continue to tell a story even when you have transcended to the next life.

Poelano Malema

Poelano Malema

City Writer, Time Out South Africa

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News (15)

Johannesburg restaurants shine at 2025 Eat Out Awards

Johannesburg restaurants shine at 2025 Eat Out Awards

Johannesburg's top restaurants stole the spotlight at this year's Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards. The awards ceremony took place at the Baxter Theatre Centre in Cape Town on Monday, 31 March, and industry leaders, chefs and restaurant owners gathered to honour the finest in the culinary field.  Restaurants were awarded with one, two or three stars based on their dining experience, food quality, technique, service, ambience and value. Restaurants that scored over 90 out of 100 got a three-star rating, those that scored between 80 and 89 received a two-star rating, while those who scored between 70 and 79 received one star. The Les Créatifs Restaurant in Bryanston, Johannesburg received a one-star rating. It was established in 2019 by Chef Wandile Mabaso. The restaurant serves four course meals for R1250 which consists of Hout Bay tuna, Midlands beef tongue, vegetable tartare, duck leg and calamari, goat and Karoo lamb loin. Wine pairing is R2050 while cocktail pairing is R1750. See the menu here.Marble Restaurant in Rosebank also received a one-star rating. Read more about it here.Culinary Table in Lanseria was also awarded with a one-star rating. This unique restaurant serves a variety of dishes that are made using ingredients picked from its own garden. So, there is no set menu. The dishes are seasonal, based on what is in their garden.Zioux in Sandton received one star for its Asian dishes coupled with amazing cocktails that are sure to impress anyone who is a food fa
Rea Vaya introduces free Wi-Fi for commuters

Rea Vaya introduces free Wi-Fi for commuters

Joburg commuters who use the Rea Vaya buses will now enjoy free Wi-Fi at Rea Vaya stations across the city. The free Wi-Fi service kicked off this week, with the launch taking place at the Soccer City Rea Vaya station on Monday, 31 March 2025. The Joburg Metropolitan Trading Company (MTC), which is a leading Johannesburg-based Broadband and Technology Company, is the service provider of the free internet connection. 'The initiative forms part of the City of Johannesburg's vision to connect our residents - whether they're commuting, working or staying in touch with their loved ones,' announced Rea Vaya.  The launch was attended by MMC for Transport, Cllr Kenny Kunene, and MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela.  “MTC is proud to deliver this essential service to Joburg’s commuters,” said MTC CEO Thedi Moropa in a statement. “We are committed to leveraging technology to improve the urban experience, and this rollout is a testament to that commitment. It’s about making Johannesburg a more liveable, efficient, and connected City for all,” Thedi added.  Cllr Kunene stated that providing commuters with complimentary internet access will empower them to thrive, especially in the days of technology where access to information is crucial.  “This initiative is about more than just internet access; it’s about building an inclusive and smart city where every commuter has the tools to thrive in the 21st century. It aligns with our vision of a modern, interconnected Johannesb
DJ Sbu to open online-only Johannesburg restaurant

DJ Sbu to open online-only Johannesburg restaurant

New restaurant alert for the people of Johannesburg.  Celebrity entrepreneur DJ Sbu is ready to serve you some flavour!  More than ten years after DJ Sbu launched his MoFaya energy drink, he has ventured into the culinary business. You can now enjoy his beverage alongside a hot, fresh meal from his restaurant.The media personality announced the opening of Mzakes Kitchen this week on social media. Taking to Instagram, he shared photos showcasing some of the food options that his restaurant will be specialising in. From wings and ribs to chips and steak, there is something for everyone!  He also announced that Mzakes Kitchen specialises in African flavours.  Renowned chef Simele Shange, who is the co-founder of Jozi Cloud Kitchens, is the main man behind the meals.   The entrepreneur announced that the restaurant will begin operating from the Easter weekend. Delivery will be available on Uber Eats throughout Johannesburg.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by DJ Sbu (@djsbulive) View this post on Instagram A post shared by DJ Sbu (@djsbulive)   Recommended 📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg🏨 Where to stay in Johannesburg☕️ The 11 best burger restaurants in Johannesburg
Gautrain announces R1 a day parking special from April until July

Gautrain announces R1 a day parking special from April until July

Gautrain has announced a four-month special for rail users in Gauteng.  The high-speed rail service, which operates in Johannesburg, Pretoria and Ekurhuleni, is currently running a R1 a day parking special from 1 April 2025 to 31 July 2025. This will see customers save big on their monthly parking fees at the stations. The normal parking rate ranges from free for 0-15 minutes to R134 a day.  The special is valid at any Gautrain parking facility and is subject to parking space availability and the provision of commuters completing a return train journey. Read more info here.  The news comes after the rail service announced in March that it would be 'adapting its products and services to make travel more accessible for a diverse range of passengers'.  According to the rail network's statement on their website, hybrid working has increased since the COVID-19 pandemic, which has had an impact on the number of people who commute to work daily. “The days of a predictable 9-to-5, Monday through Friday commute are over. Passengers are demanding that we run a frequent service throughout the day and offer dynamic pricing to suit their hybrid work schedules. And with the rising cost of living, cost is increasingly becoming the sole determinant when choosing a mode of transport,” said Gautrain Management Agency CEO, Tshepo Kgobe. As a result, the operator announced that it will be introducing new services to meet the needs of its customers.  “The rapid rail extensions from current Gautra
Johannesburg Heritage Foundation to reopen Blockhouse Museum

Johannesburg Heritage Foundation to reopen Blockhouse Museum

After closing in January, The Blockhouse Museum is ready to open its doors to the public. The Johannesburg Heritage Foundation has announced that the museum, located 57km from the central business district (CBD), will officially reopen on Saturday, 7 June. The event will feature prominent guests, including Prof Kathy Munro, the chair of the Heritage Association of South Africa. The museum was closed due to renovations. “We were closed for exciting upgrades and additions to the property,” says Herman Venter, the property manager. He adds that the public must visit to see the thrilling additions to the property, including the new shops. Tickets for the re-opening cost R150 per person. All proceeds will be donated to the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation. The museum offers a journey through history. The Blockhouse Museum’s website states that ‘During the Anglo-Boer War, the British constructed “The Blockhouses” with the primary mission of safeguarding critical military structures, including railway lines, bridges, military bases, and essential supply routes.’ There is a 6km circular trail to undertake that passes by an original blockhouse, which has remained intact for over 120 years. The trail leads onto the Mule Trail, which was constructed by the British Army during the Anglo-Boer War to provide supplies to the blockhouses situated atop the Kalkheuwel hills. The hike is pet-friendly. The museum has an on-site pub and restaurant where visitors can enjoy delicious meals and drin
Experience Africa's first zipline over crocodiles

Experience Africa's first zipline over crocodiles

Picture ‘soaring above’ crocodiles - excitement at its peak! Crocodile and Reptile Park is reportedly the first park to offer such an experience in Africa. The park has guided tours that ensure the safety of everyone who embarks on activities at the venue. What’s cool about visiting the park is that you not only get a chance to ‘fly over’ crocodiles, but you can spend time in close proximity, holding baby crocodiles. The park is also home to exotic snakes that you can touch. Other creatures at the park include tarantulas and tortoises. Visitors are afforded the opportunity to feed the tortoises. Slither into an unforgettable adventure if you are in Johannesburg and make memories that will last forever.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Raeesah Noor-Mahomed (@pure.rae.of.sunshinee)   📍 The 11 best museums and galleries in Johannesburg to explore🏨 The 13 best hotels in Johannesburg☕️ The best cafés and coffee shops in Johannesburg
Travis Scott ready to dazzle Johannesburg

Travis Scott ready to dazzle Johannesburg

Multi-award-winning international star Travis Scott will be hitting the stage in Johannesburg later this year.  The rapper took to social media to announce that he would be performing in Johannesburg as part of his Circus Maximus World Tour.  His show will take place on 11 October 2025 at the First National Bank Stadium, which has a capacity of over 90,000.  The musician has also announced that he would be performing in India, South Korea, China and Japan. The shows will take place from October until November across the different countries. Travis' world tour started in October 2023.  The star has already performed at 76 sold-out shows across North America, Europe, UK, Latin America, Australia and New Zealand throughout 2023 and 2024, reports the Big Concerts.  According to the article, he sold 1.7 million tickets and earned $209.3 million (approximately), making it the highest-grossing rap tour in history.  "Joburg/ Asia we otw soon I wanna see something," he wrote on Instagram. The rapper will be bringing the house down with some of his popular hits. Over the years, he has produced hits such as 'Mamacita', 'Nightcrawler', and '90210'. Judging by the success of every show on the tour, the Johannesburg concert is anticipated to be an electrifying and mind-blowing concert. THE CIRCUS MAXIMUS TOUR CONTINUES SOUTH AFRICAINDIASOUTH KOREACHINAJAPANOCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2025 pic.twitter.com/wO4cx9sEl4 — CIRCUS MAXIMUS (@TRAVISONTOUR) March 25, 2025 Tickets go on sal
Jazz music meets the wild at this Johannesburg festival

Jazz music meets the wild at this Johannesburg festival

Music lovers around Johannesburg are in for a treat! Close off the month of March with a music festival like no other. The Jazz in the Light Festival, previously known as Jazz on the Lake, is happening at the Johannesburg Zoo on 29 March 2025. The zoo is a popular local and tourist attractions founded in 1904 and is home to 2,000 animals, including lions, leopards, giraffes and monkeys.  This year’s festival promises to be fun, with live performances from local stars. The event will feature over ten artists, including award-winning musicians such as Thandiswa Mazwai, Amanda Black and Carlo Mombelli. The festival will also offer attendees a zoo experience. Tickets range from R100 for children up to R250 for adults. Engaging with animals at the zoo while enjoying wonderful music and company is the perfect way to cap off the month! The event will last 12 hours, from 10:00 to 22:00, so prepare for uninterrupted fun. Read more about the event here. Recommended🏨 Where to stay in Johannesburg☕️ The best cafés and coffee shops in Johannesburg
Johannesburg City Library partially re-opens after five-year hiatus

Johannesburg City Library partially re-opens after five-year hiatus

A city library is one of the best facilities for empowering people and fostering a sense of community learning. The City of Johannesburg prides itself on having multiple libraries, which also serve as multi-purpose facilities. It recently marked the partial re-opening of one of its libraries, the Johannesburg City Library, which provides residents with access to literature, audio-visual materials and other engaging services like literacy classes and storytelling.The opening took place on 21 March 2025 - which was Human Rights Day - to demonstrate the city's commitment to the fundamental human rights of learning and access to information. The partial reopening comes five years after the library was closed due to COVID-19 restrictions and much-needed renovations. “Post the lifting of the COVID-19 restrictions was an opportune time to attend to the building as it had unmanageable water leaks which affected the operation of the building and caused water damage to books and artefacts,” Nthatisi Modingoane, City of Johannesburg Deputy Director of Media Relations at City of Johannesburg, told Time Out Johannesburg. “Moreover, around February 2022 Emergency Management Services issued a non-compliance notice and an order to comply. The building wasn’t fire-compliant; it did not have the necessary systems (fire detection, protection, evacuation and pressurised water system in case of a fire) in line with the City’s by-laws, and the building was non-compliant with national building regu
Celebrate Human Rights Day with memorable activities at Bryanston Market

Celebrate Human Rights Day with memorable activities at Bryanston Market

South Africans will be commemorating Human Rights Day on 21 March. Various activities will be held in different parts of the country to reflect and appreciate the freedom South Africa enjoys today due to the countless sacrifices freedom fighters have made.The Bryanston Market is hosting a family event to mark the day. There is a lineup of entertaining activities, including live music.The market will bring together farmers selling their products directly to the public. Visitors can treat themselves with wholesome food, fresh produce and delicious cooked meals.The activities for the little ones include:- A children’s puppet show.- Secret Sunrise- A live Irish Fiddler- Easter Egg Hunt The fun day will feature artists selling their artisanal crafts to the public.Come ready to eat, mingle and dance the day away with your loved ones.The event is scheduled for Friday, March 21st, from 09:00 until 15:00, and tickets are sold on Quicket. 📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg🏨 Where to stay in Johannesburg☕️ The best cafés and coffee shops in Johannesburg View this post on Instagram A post shared by BryanstonMarket (@bryanstonmarket_)
A journey through South Africa’s Human Rights story at Constitution Hill

A journey through South Africa’s Human Rights story at Constitution Hill

Constitution Hill (ConHill) is a World Heritage Site based in Johannesburg. It is a former prison where South Africa’s first democratic president, Nelson Mandela, was held for fighting for the liberation of the people of this country. Journey with me as I reveal the behind the scenes of this important part of South Africa’s history…The site is enormous - 95,000 square meters - and has a parking basement that can hold up to 2,000 vehicles. As you walk through ConHill, the sounds of emotionally-charged struggle songs play from speakers, filling your ears. The songs help set the tone for the day and evoke all sorts of emotions; a sense of Ubuntu, unity and pride, making you feel like an authentic African.Before the tour started, I was fortunate to be taken to the Old Fort Prison complex, where Mandela was kept in December 1956 following his arrest for treason. He was later released after being found not guilty. In August 1962, he returned. Though he was not sick, Mandela was kept in a sickbed as authorities suspected he was planning to escape. He was the only black person held at the Old Fort Prison. A bed, radio, drawer and loads of Mandela’s old letters are on display in the cell. iStockMandela cell at Constitution Hill iStockMandela cell After leaving the Old Fort Prison complex, I was taken on the regular tour of ConHill, which takes an hour in total. The first stop on the tour was a room where visitors watch a promotional video about ConHill. The next stop was the famou
Johannesburg Zoo celebrates 121 years with fun activities

Johannesburg Zoo celebrates 121 years with fun activities

It’s been a whopping 121 years since the Johannesburg Zoo was established. The iconic landmark is celebrating the milestone with several fun activities. From 50% discounts on entrance fees to special guided tours; visiting the zoo during March will be an unforgettable treat. History of Johannesburg Zoo The Johannesburg Zoo, which is also called Jo’burg Zoo, was established in 1904. The land was previously owned by the firm of the late Hermann Eckstein, who donated it to the city. Since then, the landmark has been one of Johannesburg’s favourite recreational venues. Thousands of people from all different parts of the world visit the zoo. The zoo initially had one lion, one leopard, one giraffe, two Sable antelope bulls, one baboon, one genet, one pair of Rhesus monkeys, one pair of porcupines and one Golden eagle. It has since expanded to be a home to thousands of animals. It is home to 36 bird families, including the South American screamer, Mandarin ducks and Shuckeducks. Wildlife at the zoo includes the big five, snakes, monkeys and lots more. The zoo has been a place of fun and learning for many locals and tourists for many years. A nice zoo feature is visitors can have a braai or picnic on the premises. Ticket prices for Joburg Zoo To celebrate, the zoo is offering a 50% discount on all daily entry fees from 1 March 2025 to 28 March 2025. On Human Rights Day, 21 March 2025, the entrance fee will be R21. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jo