The two areas in South Africa named among the coolest in the world
South Africa’s two largest cities are home to some of the coolest areas, with Time Out naming Linden and Kloof Street as among the coolest in the world.
Linden in Northern Johannesburg was named as one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world, claiming 17th spot in Time Out’s rankings.
The rankings are from Time Out’s global team of writers and editors and are based on a number of factors, including food, drink, nightlife, culture, community and nowness.
Time Out said that Linden is one of Johannesburg’s most charming suburbs, renowned for its leafy environment. It also mixes old-school charm with creative energy.
“What was once a sleepy suburb has transformed into a hub of artisan cafés, quirky boutiques, speciality coffee bars, and vibrant little eateries that make you want to linger,” said Time Out.
While Linden is often overshadowed by the city’s flashier suburbs, the lifestyle publication said that Linden is finally having its moment.
It noted that the people and a sense of community are central draws of the area, with friendly cafés such as The Whippet and Yield Coffee Bar.
Bakeries also serve up artisan treats, while popular restaurants include Gaucho and the Brian Lara Rum Eatery.
The area is also renowned for its boutique shops, co-op gift stores, art spaces and the popular Linden Market.
“It’s a neighbourhood where authenticity, culture, food and lifestyle collide, quiet streets brimming with a special kind of Joburg magic,” said Time Out.
Kloof Street
Kloof Street is another location named among the coolest streets in the world, ranking 22nd in Time Out’s rankings.
The street lies by Table Mountain. It is known for its creative vibe and stretches from the upper edge of Cape Town toward the Tamboerskloof neighbourhood.
The street is a lively strip, which Time Out said captures the CBD’s unexpected urban charm.
The publication noted that Kloof Street feels like the more refined sibling to the highly popular Long Street, with a host of new pop-ups and old-world character.
“Think Victorian façades with their broekie-lace balconies, concept stores, cocktail dens, boundary-pushing restaurants and just the right amount of after-dark mischief,” said Time Out.
“Ultimately, Kloof Street rewards those who stroll rather than speed through. Whether you wander uphill toward Table Mountain or drift down toward the city bowl, the charm is in the discovery. ”
Time Out named a host of popular Kloof Street locations, including:
- Kloof Konbini: A Japanese-inspired convenience store
- Blondie: A Mediterranean Restaurant
- Vadivelu: A Southern Indian Restaurant
- Kloof Street House: A Victorian manor house
- Our Local: A neighbourhood café with a plant-filled showroom
- Sweet Revenge: A Waffle Bar
- Rick’s Café: Modelled after Casablanca’s iconic bar, and features rooftop views
- Van Hunks: A Bar and Grill
- Asoka: A Victorian townhouse bar with an open-roof courtyard and Asian-fusion food and drink
South Africa has frequently been featured in the Time Out magazine rankings, with the City of Cape Town named the best city in the world in 2025.
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