Gautrain Rosebank Station. Image Courtesy GautAd at en.wikipedia
Rosebank represents some of the most sought after Johannesburg property, and is known for its affluent residents and high-end shopping. However, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. There is much more to Rosebank than the elite and wealthy. Currently, it is being compared to Sandton, which is located to the north of Rosebank and is the business and financial centre of Johannesburg. It has become a sought after option for small to medium-sized companies that, when compared to the very high rental rates fetched in Sandton, are looking for lower office space rental rates.
Close to Rosebank is a cluster of other suburbs known as “The Parks.” The Parks consist of the suburbs of Parktown North, Parkhurst, Greenside, and Craighall Park. Also to the north of Rosebank is Morningside and Hyde Park.
Art Hub of Johannesburg
Rosebank could very well be called the art centre of Johannesburg or of South Africa. There are many art galleries and art stores around the neighbourhood. In fact, one could say, Rosebank is a place where art and wealth thrive. For visitors to Rosebank, the African Art Market is where one can get superb African art and crafts. Sunday is usually the busiest day of the week because a few steps away from residents’ doorways is a car park that has been converted into a flea market.
Transportation
In June 2011 the Gautrain became fully operational. It can take you from Johannesburg to Rosebank in one direct trip. Before the Gautrain, anyone travelling to Rosebank would have to get off at the station in central Johannesburg and take a bus to Rosebank. This latest infrastructure is a plus factor for the suburb and has helped boost access to Rosebank, pitting it even more strongly against Sandston.
Life in Rosebank: Secrets Only a Resident Would Know
Rosebank is cosmopolitan and rich. The people enjoy a laid-back lifestyle with many of the modern amenities not found in the majority of South African suburbs. Here are some of the secrets:
The favourite pastime of many residents and tourists is people-watching. One can sit at a sidewalk café like Vida E, at Cranks, or at one of the fabulous hotels around the neighbourhood, all day long and take in the sights of passers-by. The best Italian pasta and pizza can be enjoyed at Doppio Zero or at Mimmo’s. If you drop by Mimmo’s on Mondays or Tuesdays, you could partake in their half-price promo. Fournos has the best baked goods and one must-try specialty is their croissants.
If you want to enjoy a lively night life, the hotels in Rosebank always have something up their sleeve. You could also try Latinova for dancing, Liquid Chef or My Bar for drinks, or Katzy’s for some live jazz band music.
If you have time, visit the Johannesburg Zoo which is 5 minutes away from Rosebank. Across the zoo is Zoo Lake. Take a leisurely walk, go boating, or drop by the famous Moyo Restaurant for brunch or an African buffet meal.
Life in Rosebank is idyllic. It has a wonderful ambience; it’s safe, and very family-oriented.