Spaces: The Hill Café

WORDS Malibongwe Tyilo PHOTOS Lauren Kim via laurenkimblog.co.za

Constitutional Hill in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, is known for its complex history dating back to 1892 to when it was built as an Old Fort.

Over the century that followed it has been both a military defence post and a prison. Mahatma Ghandi was imprisoned there in 1906, as was former president Nelson Mandela in 1962 while he awaited the Rivonia Trial. For the past decade, this national heritage site has been home to the highest court in the land. Now, there is a new and very pretty resident for you to visit at this historic location: The Hill Café.

This new addition makes use of a space in the Old Fort that used to be the warden’s office. Because it’s a national heritage building, and therefore could not be altered in any permanent way, the architects expanded on it by building a temporary wooden deck that extends out from the restaurant’s entrance. The deck’s covering is painted white and accented with gold lighting, giving the visitor a sense of calm that can easily make you forget you’re sitting in the middle of a bustling and chaotic city.

Aside from the spectacular views of Johannesburg, you’ll also find chessboards and a ping-pong table outside under the trees. The location also makes for easy access to the Constitutional Court, which houses a collection of 200 contemporary artworks, making this a beautiful venue to relax, work, meet friends or just take in a bit of history.

The Hill Café (11 Kotze Street, Braamfontein) is open from Monday to Friday. For reservations, please contact anthony@awethuproject.co.za.