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Maiphephi Lounge Review
Setlhanka Mothibi
mothibis@thevillagemag.co.za
In the past so much time and money was wasted in traveling to family restaurants in nearby towns because there was very few offerings in and around our villages. This is now a thing of the past as Maiphepi has since rebranded, renovated and reintroduced itself as Maiphepi Bar Lounge.
Marapyane has always been ahead of the curve – some even refer to it as the economic hub of Moretele/Mathanjane magisterial unit of the Dr. JS Moroka Local Municipality. This is because since the dawn of democracy, it had always been flourishing with big business investing heavily in this village, big supermarket chains such Spar, Score, Barnetts, Pep just to name a few has always seen this tiny village as hype of activities and well placed to do business. Most recently with the demolition of Khutsong Shopping Centre and subsequent construction of Katale Square – this was informed, without a doubt about the need to adapt to new urban lifestyle.
Maiphepi (tavern) has always been a part of Marapyane’s history, some of us who were born and bred here can never think of Marapyane without Maiphepi. It came as no surprise that the owners decided to renovate the establishment back in May 2018 (a project with many hurdles that left many wondering whether it will see completion) this was to up the ante and also try to accommodate and take advantage of this new village-urban lifestyle trajectory our community is now taking.
The newly revamped establishment opened its doors mid-last year, at first as expected there instant issues with everything, from the pricing to customers now being forced to park their vehicles outside the premises – a move that was unprecedented but necessary everything considered.
Marapyane has always been ahead of the curve – some even refer to it as the economic hub of Moretele/Mathanjane magisterial unit of the Dr. JS Moroka Local Municipality. This is because since the dawn of democracy, it had always been flourishing with big business investing heavily in this village, big supermarket chains such Spar, Score, Barnetts, Pep just to name a few has always seen this tiny village as hype of activities and well placed to do business. Most recently with the demolition of Khutsong Shopping Centre and subsequent construction of Katale Square – this was informed, without a doubt about the need to adapt to new urban lifestyle.
Maiphepi (tavern) has always been a part of Marapyane’s history, some of us who were born and bred here can never think of Marapyane without Maiphepi. It came as no surprise that the owners decided to renovate the establishment back in May 2018 (a project with many hurdles that left many wondering whether it will see completion) this was to up the ante and also try to accommodate and take advantage of this new village-urban lifestyle trajectory our community is now taking.
The newly revamped establishment opened its doors mid-last year, at first as expected there instant issues with everything, from the pricing to customers now being forced to park their vehicles outside the premises – a move that was unprecedented but necessary everything considered.
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Of course the owners made the necessary changes in effort to meet the needs and requirements of their clientele. Prices were toned down, car guards and bouncers were employed to beef (yes pun intended, LOL) up security.
Friendly staff – Source Facebook
My first experience of the newly renovated Maiphepi Lounge was a month after it’s reopening in November, 30th 2019 and as one walks in, you get searched by securities at the main west gate, to check for any concealed weapons. And then you are allowed to walk in, the first thing I saw was the deck surrounding the old jacaranda tree on the right.
You are then greeted by one of the friendly waiters/waitress. I remember vividly that on the day we were served by Jimmy, despite not having menu’s printed out at the time, he really tried to answer questions posed to him about the type of food and drinks served – prices included of course.
Since its opening I have been there no less than 9 times, this is perpetuated by the excellent service, the food and good music. As a family, we have been there once for dinner/supper (whichever comes first), and this included 3 minors.
I love the fact that Maiphepi Lounge makes its patrons feel like they are not only part of the family but take pride in knowing that their business is highly valued. During the festive season we have seen big name dj’s such as Glen Lewis on the ones and two’s. One can only see this place growing and leading the pack.
At this Lounge they offer cuisines that one is normally acustomed, prices of the food is also well within most people’s reach – with meal prices ranging from R55 to R120, platters form part of their menu with the most expensive todate being R560.
Drinks is another section of the restaruant that really surpassed my expectations. They have invested heavily in ensuring that customers are treated to a taste one can only expect from big restaurant chains in the big cities.
The mighty Sex on the Beach – Source Facebook
My partner for the day odered a drink named Sex On The Beach, and as the name suggest, after some few sips she was feeling some “type of way”. Also on offer for those with deep pockets and need for privacy – they also have a VIP Lounge with which in order to gain access one needs to buy one of their whiskeys (not sure about the pricing). Minimum spend requirement is R550.
It is a place worth visiting, I am definitely going back. It is so peaceful, one gets to relax and enjoy themselves. As part of their offerings, one can book the place for a private party or corporate function. As seen with the successful 2019 inaugural annual picnic party, the organizers and staff sure can mould andtransform that small spaced area meet the needs and expectation of any customer.
In another twist, another South African love story much like the KFC Wedding which took South African by storm last year – Mr TJ Kgole from Lefisoane went down on his knees and proposed to his girlfriend Ms MD Moumakwe on the 08th of February 2020 (the month of love). A beautiful video capturing that moment has since went viral on social media. And of course she said yes, a beautiful moment and a good story to tell. From all of us here at The Village Mag we wish the newly engaged couple a life beautiful memories and a happy marriage.tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
The couple that set tongues wagging after getting engaged on the 08th of Feb. 2020 – Source Facebook
Go check it out for yourself, it really is a game changer, also check their Facebook page – Maiphepi Lounge – for more info and upcoming events.