Soweto favourite Makubenjalo Restaurant & Pub—known to regulars as “Njalos”—is set to return with a major VIP setup at the Hollywoodbets Durban July, promising an experience built for a discerning crowd and designed to be talked about long after the finish of the day.
Key takeaways
- Makubenjalo Restaurant & Pub, nicknamed “Njalos,” will be back at the Hollywoodbets Durban July.
- The marquee will run at Greyville Racecourse with Martell and Omoda as collaborators.
- A preview event highlighted the kind of food, drinks, entertainment and hospitality guests can expect.
- The music programme is led by major South African names, plus the legendary kwaito act Boom Shaka.
- Tickets start at R5,650 and top out at R45,000 for a VIP table, with access to the official Njalos July afterparty included.
“Njalos” brings modern elegance to Durban July
Makubenjalo—regularly referred to as “Njalos”—will once again take centre stage at Greyville Racecourse, teaming up with premium cognac brand Martell and futuristic Chinese automaker Omoda for the Makubenjalo Durban July Marquee.
Guests got an early look at what’s in store during a recent preview gathering, giving attendees a clear sense of how the marquee will come to life on July 4.
Built around the race day’s “Country Allure” theme, the concept is positioned as a high-gloss showcase of modern South African style. Expect all-day gourmet dining, carefully curated cocktails, standout hospitality from beginning to end, comfortable plush seating areas, VIP-focused services, and live music throughout the event.
Star-studded entertainment and a high-profile guest list
The entertainment will be anchored by a lineup featuring Kabza De Small, Kwesta, DJ Sox, Uncool MC, DJ Bongz, Leehleza, Vetkuk vs Mahoota, DJ Stokie, DJ Amanda, and the legendary kwaito group Boom Shaka.
As the day unfolds, the roster is set to provide a lively soundtrack—carrying guests from early arrivals right through to the last moments of the late-night afterparty.
On top of the music, the Makubenjalo Durban July Marquee is also expected to draw a strong mix of celebrities, tastemakers, media figures and lifestyle influencers, adding to the marquee’s buzz and visibility.
Dudu Mokholo, chief marketing officer for Africa and the Middle East at Pernod Ricard (the owner of Martell), praised the brand’s impact, saying Makubenjalo has created more than a premium hangout—it has developed a cultural signature that is bold, proudly South African, and unmistakable.
She added that Martell, Makubenjalo and Omoda are bringing “audacity, elegance and distinction” to one of Africa’s most iconic race-day celebrations.
The Makubenjalo Durban July Marquee is already being tipped as one of the most talked-about lifestyle stops at Durban July 2026, with attendees encouraged to join the conversation online using the hashtag #MartellNjalosJuly2026.
Pricing and tickets
Ticket options for the Makubenjalo Durban July Marquee range from R5,650 for a single pass up to R45,000 for a VIP table accommodating 10 guests. Packages include entry to the official Njalos July afterparty.
This article was sponsored by Martell.
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