INITIALLY ASPIRING TO be a sportsman, a rugby injury at 15 led Sean to pursue accounting a path he found stifling for his creative spirit. After working in New York and London, however, Sean felt drawn to the dynamic restaurant scene, and in 2007, he opened his first restaurant, Rockets, without any formal hospitality training.
Rockets Bryanston, in Sandton, quickly became a top dining and nightlife spot, winning awards such as the RASA Award for Best Restaurant in the Country (2018) and The International Restaurant and Bar Design Award for Best Bar in Africa, the Middle East and Asia (2019). Sean expanded Rockets to 16 locations over 17 years, attributing success to his accounting discipline and focus on operations. Not only does Rockets include his acclaimed restaurants and clubs, but it also boasts male grooming salons and even a recording studio for their in-house record label, Dance Afrika. These various locations are all steeped in luxury and sophistication, so you'll feel spoiled the second you step through the door.
Looking ahead, Sean plans to grow Rockets into music and entertainment, staying committed to community support. Guided by his motto, "Be the best you can be," he balances his dedication to work and family.
What inspired you to start Rockets and how did you choose its concept?
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة December 2024 - January 2025 من GQ South Africa.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك ? تسجيل الدخول
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة December 2024 - January 2025 من GQ South Africa.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك? تسجيل الدخول
Katt Williams The Man Who Opened The Portal
In January 2024, the comic delivered an instantly iconic podcast interview that threw pop culture into crisis. He seemed to predict all messy celebrity gossip to come. At home on his farm, Williams explains why he said what he said - and why he'd do it again and again and again...
STAGE PRESENCE
Kat Sinivasan leaves a lasting impression with his magnetic performances in TV, music and live hosting
The Rockets Man
Founder of one of SA's top lifestyle brands, Sean Barber has made a unique mark in the restaurant industry with his determination and creativity
THE CALL OF THE OPEN ROAD
In South Africa's diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures and breathtaking natural wonders, the allure of a summertime road trip is impossible to resist
End of Year, End of Us
The holiday season may seem like an odd time to end things. Here's why so many relationships come undone in December, and how to make a graceful exit
Key Habits If You Want to Live a Longer, Better Life
These five practices by the longest-living people in the world will help you enjoy longevity and quality moments as the days go by
Master of the party!
The modern man's guide to being the ultimate host
Travel grooming essentials
Whether you're headed to the humid tropics or the cooler Mediterranean regions, remember to pack in your must-have products
Jet-set style
Whether you're heading abroad or exploring closer to home, these stylish picks ensure you'll be ready for anything, anywhere
Scripting success
Lungelo Tyson Mathonsi has had an eventful year. Joining the cast of three major productions, he is making his mark as a rising star in South African entertainment