The Hangout: Rockin’ the suburbs

Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about neighbourhoods - the ups and downs they go through, and the people and communities who do everything they can to uplift, support, and nurture their neighbours and surroundings. I’ve recently started frequenting the lovely suburb of Norwood again, and there’s a special kind of buzz about it. It’s the same kind of energy it had when I used to hang out there in the late ’90s and early 2000s. I’m not entirely sure what’s happened in the years since- most of the spots I used to visit have closed down- but that’s the nature of things: old places fade, new ones open, and the cycle continues. It takes a lot of love, passion, kindness, and vision to keep a community safe and thriving, and I really admire those who are doing just that.

I’ve also been hitting the streets of Melville for just as long, and I’ve seen it go through the same ups and downs. When it’s good, it’s really good. The streets are filled with happy people- some grabbing a morning coffee, others out for a cocktail (or three), all of them soaking in that feeling of community and belonging. And it’s not just good vibes-businesses flourish, and that positive momentum spreads. These are just my thoughts and feels, of course, but I want to give a big shoutout to the people doing the work. Whether it’s fixing potholes, starting soup kitchens, supporting the family-run bakery, or- because you know me- keeping live venues alive and kicking, it all matters. I’m always up for an adventure, discovering new spots and seeing them succeed. Right now, there’s definitely a buzz around Norwood, and I think The Factory on Grant has a little something to do with it.

Years ago, I went to a cool space on Grant Avenue when some friends opened a gallery there. That same gallery is now a fantastic bar called Hush Money x Streetbar, run by Daniel Aronis and his team, who are doing a brilliant job. It’s a stunning venue with great views, and they’re fully committed to creating a home for live entertainment- whoop whoop. Jason Grove, his right-hand woman, Belinda & Noah Roche are true powerhouses, organizing events and building a creative hub while also helping to keep the area safe and clean. The Factory has this magical courtyard right in the middle, surrounded by restaurants, bars, and food trucks- perfect for any kind of gathering. Whether you’re popping in for a meeting, grabbing a bite, or catching some of our amazing local talent live, it’s all happening there.

On the last Thursday of every month, things really come alive. They’ve hosted Dan Patlansky, Jasper Dan, Will Rayz, and coming up at the end of June, legends like Arno Carstens and Paul E. Flynn from Sugardrive will be rocking the top floor from 7 p.m. It’s wild to think I watched Arno and so many other incredible musos at a venue called 88 just off Grant Avenue over 20 years ago, and now I’ll get to see him again, along with the brilliant Paul E. Flynn, in just two weeks. That same space also played host to an amazing transformation when Bruce Walker, Chair of Pretoria LGBTQI Pride, turned it into The Village. It was absolutely fabulous: food trucks, five dance floors, DJs spinning everything from house to techno, plus all the singalong classics. It was such a beautiful, inclusive space- not just for the LGBTQI community, but for everyone. 

These events have been a huge success, and that ripple effect is so good for the entire area. Contact Hush Money and The Factory on Grant (or just check out social media) to find out when the next Village is happening and there’s exciting talks of a bit of a festival coming to town too. 

Norwood also has a few beloved staples. The Schwarma Co. has been there forever. Google says around 27 years, but it honestly feels longer. I have fond memories of going to Cosa Nostra with the gorgeous superstar Cindy Alter of Clout fame, back when Norwood was her hood before she moved to Nashville. That was one of her favourite spots. We also had a soft spot for some of the Chinese takeaways on the strip, and we’d make a whole day of it-exploring flavours, browsing quirky little stores, just soaking it all in.

Anyway, I hope this wave of positivity keeps building, and that the people of Norwood come out in full force to enjoy this vibrant collection of venues, food spots, and events. I hear there’s even a weekend-long celebration planned- extending into Monday- for Father’s Day. So today, I’m shining a light on Norwood, its colourful community, and the amazing entrepreneurs and businesses who are making it all happen. May the good vibes keep rolling.