You don't always have to leave Johannesburg to feel like you've escaped it.

Tucked away on the Wits campus, The Club by Olives & Plates sits beneath enveloping oak trees, with Cape Dutch-inspired architecture and a garden setting that feels a world away from the city's busy roads. The restaurant itself describes the setting as “Cape Dutch grace” under the trees.

And that's what makes it interesting.

A Different Side of Joburg

The Club isn't trying to be another shiny restaurant in a shopping centre.

Its appeal is the setting: old-world architecture, mature trees, gardens and outdoor dining, all within Parktown.

There is also a cosy indoor fireplace for cooler days, while the venue offers space for dining as well as functions, conferences and events.

It is a reminder that some of Joburg's most interesting places aren't necessarily the newest ones.

And Then There's High Tea

If you're looking for an excuse to visit, this one is worth knowing.

The Club hosts its signature High Tea on the first Saturday of every month. Bookings are essential, with reservations required in advance.

That makes it a particularly appealing option for a Saturday afternoon when you want something a little more special than the usual coffee and cake.

Worth Knowing

• Where: 7 Yale Road, Parktown, Johannesburg
• Getting there: Use the Wits Yale Road entrance off Empire Road (North Gate).
• Trading hours:
  Monday to Friday: 07:30–16:00
  Saturday and Sunday: 08:00–16:00
• High Tea: First Saturday of every month
• Bookings: Essential for High Tea
• Contact: 011 303 9282
  Email: club@olivesandplates.co.za

Why You Might Want to Go

This is for those days when you want to do something different without going far.

Bring a friend for lunch. Meet someone for a catch-up. Or make a Saturday of it with the monthly High Tea.

The setting does much of the work. You're still in Joburg, but the oak canopy, garden and Cape Dutch character give the afternoon a slower, more old-fashioned feel.

And sometimes that's exactly what you want from a city outing.

The Bottom Line

The Club by Olives & Plates is worth putting on your Joburg list if you enjoy discovering places with character.

It's not just about going somewhere to eat. It's about finding a corner of the city that feels removed from the rush, without actually leaving Johannesburg.

And that monthly High Tea gives you a particularly good reason to finally go and see it for yourself.