(CNN)There's a new scavenger hunt on the weekends in Johannesburg. Cars snake around the blocks as drivers slow down to peer through what could be the windows of an abandoned warehouse covered in graffiti. Or it could be the doorway to one of the city's gourmet food markets, havens of organic produce, Seussian cupcakes and fresh roasted coffees. Three major markets have turned into anchors of redevelopment in the city, driving Johannesburg's renaissance as the surrounding blocks become magnets for restaurateurs, artists, students and increasing numbers of tourists. The Neighbourgoods Market (73 Juta St., Braamfontein, Johannesburg; +27 11 403 0413) is a place people hear before they see it.Gourmet food markets are revitalizing Johannesburg's most depressed neighborhoodsMarkets offer a mix of local and global cuisines, along with clothing and art stalls
A step above the backpacking circuit is the nearby 12 Decades Hotel (286 Fox St., _; +1 866 332 3590), offering boutique-style lodging in 12 rooms decorated by artists to reflect each decade of Johannesburg's history.