You’ve finally made it. It’s been a long year of hustling to meet deadlines, never-ending meetings about other meetings, passive-aggressive emails that always seem “find you well” and casual chit-chat at the water cooler. You’ve worked hard and you saw it through to the bitter end ─ and for all of this and more reasons that we cannot even begin to fathom, you deserve to let off some steam.
The year-end party is arguably the most anticipated event on the corporate calendar and it’s often greeted with unanimous elation because it allows you the opportunity to get to know your fellow colleagues in a new light and socialise without the boss (or HR) looming.
Whether you want to drown the year’s sorrows or you’re simply looking to have a good time with the people who have been through it with you, here are the best spots to host your year-end get-together in Jozi.
Olives & Plates
If great aesthetics are what you’re after, then Olives & Plates is your best bet. Complete with beautiful interiors and a host of conference venues that can be used for private parties, this venue is ideal for a big crowd. Boasting a 3-course set lunch menu (that caters to more than 15 people) which includes mezze starter platters featuring homemade dips, antipasti, salads, breads and a choice of four mains, Olives & Plates ticks the affordable and trendy boxes well.
La Boqueria
Give everyone’s palates a wakeup call with La Boqueria’s cuisine. Affectionately dubbed a “love letter to Hispanic food”, La Boqueria’s extensive menu gratifies the spicy appetite (and then some). Set in a vibey area of Parktown North, this venue is decked with Hispanic pop art and colourful interiors, which add to the overall look & feel of the place.
Perron
Everyone loves a themed party and Mexican is the easiest (not to mention the tastiest) one to choose for your staff party ─ just ask Zando. Live it up at Perron in Bryanstown and take in the amazing views on their expansive summer deck. This venue is the ideal spot for a laid-back function, with a decorated interior and the capacity to accommodate up to 100 seated or 150 standing guests and the option to book out the patio for around 50 people, too. Their menu features authentic Mexican street food and affordable drinks, so you know that everyone is sure to have a good time.
A Streetbar Named Desire
Ironically named after the classic American play by Tennessee Williams, a Streetbar Named Desire is a vibey hipster haunt that can be found on the corner of Bolton Road and Jan Smuts Avenue in Rosebank. Boasting an open-air deck and gorgeous plush seating which mixes well with their tasteful choice of play-inspired decor, this spot is a gem among the upmarket crowd.
Urbanologi
Good food, good vibes and great service is what you can expect from Urbanologi. Located at the 1 Fox Precinct in Ferreirasdorp, this spot’s menu features “fresh Asian and local ingredients while harnessing the character of street food with an Avant Garde thought process”. Boasting a youthful and eclectic space filled with art and impressive low-lighting, Urbanologi is a great place to host a year-end function for creatives.
Related:
How to dress for your office party
What to wear to the office when you know you’re going out after
