I GOT SLAPS’ED ON A MONDAY NIGHT IN PARKHURST.

Parkhurst is going through a weird time. You might as well rename 4th Avenue “Gelato Pizza Street” with the amount of pizza and gelato spots opening literally next door to each other. Now, don’t get me wrong — I love seeing new businesses pop up, jobs created, and people chasing dreams. Competition is healthy and I’ll always try the new kid on the block. But there comes a point where it feels unfair.

Unfair because there’s no variety. Unfair because when the options are all the same, people get bored, and then those businesses close. Which means jobs are lost. And that’s the sad reality of 4th Avenue lately — in the past year or two, we’ve seen more places open and close than I can count.

And maybe this is just me being me, but I miss good restaurants in Joburg. I’ve been lucky to experience some really incredible spots in my life, but honestly? There’s nothing that excites me here anymore. Too many new-money cookie-cutter places opening left, right, and centre. And me? I’m a creature of habit. I stick to my same old favourites, and I’m fine with that.

That was… until this week.

SLAPS SANDOS opened with a soft launch on Monday night, and somehow, I cracked an invite from the legendary Marina Applebaum (thank you — you’re incredible, lovely, and honestly everything people should be more of). Obviously, I was late — CrossFit first, burgers second — but I rushed in anyway to see what SLAPS was all about.

It was busy. Like, really busy. And I’m not one for crowds these days — a Monday event filled with people isn’t normally on my calendar. But we walked into the chaos, and just like that, I got to be one of the firsts to experience the new SLAPS in Parkhurst.

Finally.

Finally, a new spot in Parkhurst that actually gave me joy. Stephan was busy flirting with the kitchen while ordering round two of burgers, and I sat there smiling, soaking in an atmosphere I haven’t felt in a long time. The little space is perfect. The burgers are moreish (read: you can’t stop at one). The brand is bold. And the whole vibe? Happy. Celebratory. Supportive.

That’s what stood out most. People weren’t just there for burgers — they were there to show love and excitement for Marina and her new venture. And that’s exactly how the world should be. People showing up for each other.

Listen, if you see me after CrossFit on 4th Avenue, mind your business — I’m probably heading straight for a SLAPS burger. And honestly? You should too.

I’m lucky to know Marina, and seeing her last night in her new spot made me smile even more. She’s beautiful inside and out, with a way about her that’s rare these days. Marina — thank you for this experience, and for bringing something that truly SLAPS to Parkhurst. You’re going to be a massive success. And don’t worry, you’ve already got a regular scoffing burgers at your counter.