Bryanston Organic Market

On Thursday we had a public holiday in South Africa. It was Women’s Day, which commemorates the day in South Africa’s history when 20 000 women marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest against the proposed amendments to the Urban Areas Act (the ‘pass laws’).

After sleeping in a bit, the three of us went to the Bryanston Organic Market. The market is held every Thursday and Saturday at the Michael Mount Waldorf School in Bryanston. It was started in 1976 and is all about organic produce and hand-made crafts.

First, I have a confession to make. I am not a big fan of typical South African crafts markets. They are just not my cup of tea. I prefer the new wave of funky, more modern versions. In Johannesburg I love the food markets at Market on Main and the Neighbourgoods Market, and the design markets such as Kamers vol Geskenke and the FoodWineDesign Fair.

But, in spite of myself and my preconceived ideas :-), I really enjoyed the Bryanston market. The reasons are actually obvious. The range of organic food, including gluten free, fair trade and handcrafted products, are just splendid. It is the type of place where you will build friendships with the exhibitors if you come on a regular basis to stock up on organic meats, cheeses and other deli products. The teagarden provides wholesome food in a very laid-back environment. The handcrafted goods are all unique and of excellent quality. It is very clear walking through the stalls that this is a very thoughtfully put together establishment, one that after 35 years clearly is comfortable in its own skin.

Below are a few photos of the curios available at the market.

You can visit their website here or like them on Facebook.