Rivonia, Sandton

Rivonia is a suburb of Johannesburg in the Sandton area. Rivonia is one of the most affluent residential and business suburbs of Johannesburg, and regarded as the hub of start up IT companies.

It was in Rivonia at the location of Liliesleaf Farm where the accused in the 1964 Rivonia Trial were arrested. The Rivonia Trial was an infamous trial which took place in South Africa between 1963 and 1964, in which 10 leaders of the African National Congress were tried for 221 acts of sabotage designed to "ferment violent revolution". Liliesleaf Farm had been used as a hideout for the African National Congress. Among others, Nelson Mandela had moved onto the farm in October 1961 and evaded security police while masquerading as a gardener and cook.

The main road in the area, known as The Boulevard, is the location of the Rivonia Square shopping complex as well as many other shops and restaurants. This beautiful Square boasts a chain of shops, nightclubs and restaurants along the thoroughfare and includes the former Cloisters Shopping Centre. This square is always a buzz of entertainment and energy.

Rivonia is also home to the famous Browns Restaurant. Formerly a rambling old farmhouse, Browns is a Johannesburg landmark. This spectacular restaurant boasts one of the finest wine cellars in the country as well as offering total tranquility in its private gardens. The large, though intimate, dining area spills out onto an airy patio that is opened up or closed in depending on the weather. In addition, Browns is possibly the first South African restaurant to introduce a French Cheese room boasting over 30 varieties of international cheeses. This restaurant is not to be missed and will definitely add a unique dimension to your dining experience.