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Why Olives & Plates at Wits Campus is One of Joburg’s Best-Kept Secrets

Published

4 months ago

May 16, 2025

Chiraag

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If you’ve ever strolled through the bustling heart of Braamfontein in Johannesburg, you’ve probably passed by the gates of Wits University without realizing one of the city’s most charming cafes lies hidden within. Olives & Plates, tucked away in a serene corner of the Wits Braamfontein campus, is far more than a student hangout – it’s a culinary escape that blends old-world charm with a surprisingly diverse and high-quality menu.

Housed in a quaint Cape-Dutch style building, the café exudes a quiet elegance that contrasts with its academic surroundings. While the setting might suggest simplicity, the experience is anything but. Whether you’re a Joburger looking for a unique lunch spot or a visitor in the area exploring the Origins Centre, Olives & Plates is well worth the detour.

Also read: Discover the Origins Centre at Wits: Where African History Comes to Life

A Feast for the Eyes and the Palate

The first thing that strikes you is the massive cake table – a centrepiece laden with over 20 decadent creations. From rich rocky road and layered red velvet gateaux to a memorable vanilla-chocolate mousse cake, every item is a visual delight and a treat for dessert lovers. Add to that the house-made marshmallows and peanut butter brittle cheesecake, and you’ve got a dessert table that competes with the best bakeries in Joburg.

But it’s not just about the sweets.

The menu is extensive and globally inspired. You’ll find Greek souvlakia, schnitzels, gourmet burgers, Middle Eastern salads, steaks, pastas, and even filo-topped pies. The vegetarian options are equally thoughtful, and each dish is generously portioned and beautifully plated – the kind of meal you’d expect from a top-tier bistro, not a university campus café.

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Image 1: Dineplan

A Place to Unwind

On warm afternoons, the courtyard seating is particularly inviting. Shaded by oak trees and bordered with blooming rose bushes, it offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s pace. It’s the kind of place where you might find university staff enjoying a quiet coffee or alumni reconnecting over brunch, offering a more relaxed atmosphere than the usual student buzz.

And with affordable prices starting at just R50, Olives & Plates manages to stay accessible without compromising on quality – a rarity in Johannesburg’s ever-evolving food scene.

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Image 2: Savile Row

Getting There

You’ll find Olives & Plates closest to the Yale Road entrance off Empire Road. While it’s about a 10-minute walk from the Origins Centre, the stroll through campus adds to the charm of the visit. Note that visitors will need to sign in at the gate and collect a visitor’s slip.

If you’re short on time, their second location – a more casual canteen-style version – is housed inside the Wits Art Museum just down the road.

Whether you’re after a quiet spot for a working lunch, a decadent slice of cake, or simply somewhere unique to impress out-of-town guests, Olives & Plates at Wits Campus is one of Johannesburg’s most delightful hidden gems. It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes, the best places are where you least expect them.