On 6 December 2025, the Oranjezicht City Farm (OZCF) Market officially opened the doors to its new permanent home at Granger Bay. Located just a few hundred meters from its previous site—now tucked behind the Breakwater Parkade near the Cape Wheel—the market has transitioned from a temporary tented village into a sophisticated, weather-proof timber barn that redefines the urban market experience.
From Abandoned Bowling Green to Global Icon
The OZCF story did not begin with views of the Atlantic, but rather in the shadow of Table Mountain. In 2012, founder Sheryl Ozinsky and local residents transformed an abandoned, litter-strewn bowling green in the suburb of Oranjezicht into a community garden. This project, aimed at reconnecting city dwellers with the soil, quickly birthed a small Saturday market.
By 2013, the market’s popularity outgrew residential streets. After a brief stint at Leeuwenhof, it found a home at Granger Bay in 2015. What was intended as a short-term winter solution lasted a decade, during which the market became a cultural phenomenon, eventually named one of the top 10 farmers’ markets in the world.
A New Standard for Urban Markets
Designed by StudioMAS architects and constructed using sustainable cross-laminated timber, the new venue offers a more robust experience. The “new” OZCF Market features permanent wooden pergolas, upgraded facilities like running water and extraction fans for traders, and an elevated bridge connecting it directly to the Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre.
Beyond the architecture, the site is a major step forward for sustainability. It features integrated grease traps and continues its strict plastic-free policy, supported by the Bokashi Brigade composting program. The structure also ensures the market is truly “all-weather,” with translucent roofing that shields visitors from the Cape’s wind while offering panoramic views of Table Bay and Robben Island.
Specialised “Deli” and “Design” Barns
The new timber structure is divided into specialised zones that feel like a high-end village:
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The Fresh Produce Section: A dedicated area for the market’s core mission—farm-to-table shopping with organic goods from over 40 local farmers.
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The Deli Barn: A space for take-home items, including artisanal cheeses, ethically sourced meats, and organic dairy. It even includes an expanded section for gourmet pet accessories.
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The Design Barn: A permanent retail space for local makers, featuring high-quality ceramics, textiles, and skincare.
A Global Culinary Cookout
Despite the upgrades, the market remains a “glorious multicultural cookout.” Visitors can explore over 120 stalls offering everything from Jason Bakery pastries and Vadas pies to Ethiopian injera, Japanese yakitori, and fresh oysters. The focus on conscious eating remains strong, with abundant vegan and gluten-free options alongside a bar serving natural wines and craft beers.
Social Impact: The Blueprint for South Africa
Perhaps the most important “new feature” is the market’s role as a “Proof of Concept.” The Goal: Founder Sheryl Ozinsky has stated that the Granger Bay site is now the flagship for a larger mission: to seed 100 similar markets across South Africa. Backed by a R20-million investment from London-based supporters who believe in the model, the team is now offering mentorship to help other communities build their own local food hubs based on this successful, permanent landmark.
