From underground basement venues where selfies are forbidden to swanky rooftop terraces overlooking the city’s skyline, here’s 50 of the best bars and coolest clubs in Cape Town:
City Bowl
- Tap Bar
Take your seat at Table Mountain’s newest addition, TAP Bar. The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway (TMACC), in partnership with Newlands Spring, has created a brand-new brewery experience. Boasting incredible views over the Mother City, TAP bar offers a selection of beer variants as well as wines, spirits, and appetising cuisine. This is the perfect spot to sit back, relax and enjoy the Mother City at her finest.
Location: Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, 5821 Tafelberg Road, Gardens
Price: Beer from R45
Contact: 021 424 0015 | info@tablemountain.net
Website: tablemountain.net
- Bascule Bar
Unwind at Bascule Whisky, Wine and Cocktail Bar, located at the V&A Waterfront’s yacht marina.
Choose from more than 400 internationally acclaimed whiskies or indulge in a glass of the Cape’s finest wines. Bascule is where connoisseurs and social butterflies gather for signature sundowners, tasty tapas, and lively tunes after a long day.
Location: West Quay Road, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Price: Cocktails from R65
Contact: 021 410 7100 | info@capegrace.com
Website: capegrace.com/culinary-delights/bascule-bar
- Rick’s Café Americain
Situated in the heart of cosmopolitan Cape Town, you’ll find Rick’s Café Americain. Reminiscent of the 1942 movie classic “Casablanca”, this charming café is set in a 135-year-old Victorian building. Enjoy warm hospitality, delicious comfort food and over 500 beverage options on their balcony or spectacular rooftop terrace.
Location: 103 Kloof Street, Gardens
Price: Drinks from R32
Contact: 021 822 1100 / 021 424 1100 | info@rickscafe.co.za
Website: rickscafe.co.za
- Arcade
Inspired by Schillers Liquor Bar in New York and Dandelyan Bar in London, Arcade offers Capetonians a spot to grab a drink or a bite to eat before or after a night out on the town. From their top-class DJs to the fully stocked bar, scrumptious organic food and pumping dance floor, Arcade guarantees a terrific time.
Note: Arcade will be renovated between mid-June and August 2022.
Location: 152 Bree Street, Cape Town
Price: Drinks from R30
Meals from R100
Contact: hello@arcadecafe.co.za
060 861 0511
Website: arcadect.com
- Tjing Tjing Rooftop Bar
Located off Long Street, Tjing Tjing Rooftop Bar is a peaceful hideaway after a long day. Enveloped in wooden mansards and set in a 200-year-old attic, their signature Japanese shrine-inspired red bar takes centre stage in this authentic space. Three kokeshi doll tables subtly infuse layers of Japanese subculture while soothing indie sounds drift throughout this unique setting. Expect a wide selection of bespoke cocktails, Japanese whisky, gin, and sake as well as an extensive wine list at Tjing Tjing’s Rooftop Bar.
Location: 165 Longmarket Street, Cape Town
Price: Drinks from R32
Contact: 021 422 4374 | 021 422 4920 | info@tjingtjing.co.za
Website: tjingtjing.co.za
- Grand Daddy
Home to the only designer Rooftop Airstream Trailer Park in the world, the Grand Daddy is a well-known boutique hotel in the CBD. Head to their intimate Sky Bar to admire the astonishing views of the city skyline while sipping drinks with friends under a rooftop Bedouin tent.
Location: 38 Long Street, Cape Town
Price: Drinks from R30
Contact: 021 207 8888 | info@granddaddy.co.za
Website: granddaddy.co.za
- The Village Idiot
The Village Idiot is a vintage neighbourhood bar and restaurant celebrating South African braai culture. The Village Idiot is where glasses are raised to foolish renegades, adventurous idiots and all the people who refuse to live by the rules of conformity. During the colder months, a charming fireplace warms up this intimate space, while live music and in-house DJs create a vibe that carries the party well into the night.
Location: 32 Loop Street, Cape Town
Price: Drinks from R30
Contact: 021 418 1548 | info@thevillageidiot.co.za
Website: thefirmct.co.za/the-village-idiot
- Zepi Grill & Bar
A modern bar and restaurant, Zepi Grill & Bar, is located in the Gardens area. Arrive early, grab a drink on their terrace or order one of their popular dishes off the menu, such as Bazaruto chicken and fillet, rump steak, or grilled lamb chops. With an emphasis on hearty home-style meals and vibrant ambience, visit Zepi Grill & Bar for a memorable time.
Location: 10 Mill Street, Gardens
Price: From R160 per person
Contact: 021 465 1311 | zepi@tsogosun.com
Website: southernsun.com/sunsquare-cape-town-gardens/dining/zepi
- The House of Machines
The House of Machines (THoM) aims to bring people and machines together. Combining the love of motorcycles, live music, solid cocktails, cold craft beer and classic apparel, THoM creates a truly unforgettable experience.
Location: 84 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town
Price: Drinks from R35
Contact: 021 426 1400 | workshop@thehouseofmachines.com
Website: thehouseofmachines.com
- Kennedy’s & Dubliner
At Kennedy’s & Dubliner, enjoy Guinness and Pilsner on tap and your favourite sport on flat-screen TVs. This vibey spot usually has live music every night of the week. The menu aims to bring a little piece of Ireland to the Cape.
Location: 251 Long Street, Cape Town
Price: Cocktails from R45
Contact: 021 111 0692 | bookings@kennedysonlong.co.za
Website: instagram.com/kennedys_dubliner/
- Beerhouse
Looking for a beer? How about 99? Boasting over 25 taps and 99 bottles of beer on the wall, Beerhouse has become a place to enjoy your pint in their contemporary beer hall. The carefully crafted cuisine menu is designed to complement your ice-cold brew.
Location: 223 Long Street, Cape Town
Price: Burgers from R45
Beers from R15
Contact: 079 369 8990 | onlong@beerhouse.co.za
Website: beerhouse.co.za
- RED Roof @ Radisson
RED Roof at Radisson Red Hotel offers refreshing cocktails and beers on tap (from a red truck casually parked poolside) and tasty burgers and tapas-style dishes. The RED Roof is the perfect sunset meet-up spot in the stylish Silo District.
Location: Silo 6, Silo Square, V&A Waterfront
Price: Drinks from R35
Snacks from R40
Contact: 087 086 1578 | baxter@radissonred.com
Website: raddisonhotels.com
- The Waiting Room
What started out as a waiting room for the ever-popular Royale Eatery has turned into one of Cape Town’s coolest bars. Mix in some of the freshest music from top local musos, well-priced drinks and a rooftop deck, and you’ve got a recipe for a rocking party waiting to happen.
Location: 273 Long Street, Cape Town
Price: Cover charge from R50
Contact: waitingroombookings@gmail.com
Website: facebook.com/WaitingRoomCT/r
- Asoka
Known for its legendary olive tree rooted in the restaurant and its tantalising culinary and cocktails offerings, Asoka on Kloof Street continues to enthral and excite all who enter.
Location: 68 Kloof Street, Gardens
Price: Drinks from R85
Bar snacks from R55
Contact: 021 422 0909 | info@asoka.za.com
Website: asoka.za.com
- The Gin Bar
Originally a small passion project between four friends, The Gin Bar has become one of the most loved locations in the city. Accessed only through Honest Chocolate Cafe, guests need a password to enter. The heritage building housing the bar was once a mortuary, which inspired their playful cocktail menu of “quack” medicinal remedies to cure all manner of ills.
Location: 64a Wale Street, Cape Town
Price: From R60
Contact: 071 241 2277 | hello@theginbar.co.za
Website: theginbar.co.za
- Yours Truly
Recently Cape Town’s hottest local music hub, Yours Truly is the perfect spot to kick back and experience live DJs and acoustic sessions every weekend. This venue is ideal for after-work drinks with breathtaking Cape sunsets. Once a backpackers, Yours Truly has crept into the hearts and minds of both locals and international visitors alike.
Location: 73 Kloof Street, Gardens
Price: Drinks from R26
Contact: 021 426 2587 | info@yourstrulycafe.co.za
Website: yourstrulycafe.co.za
- The Fireman’s Arms
Established in 1864, Fireman’s Arms is one of the oldest pubs in Cape Town, serving fine wines, cold beers, and delicious light meals. Get there early, especially on game days as the popular pub gets packed. With nine 46-inch flat screens, and two big screens, you won’t miss a single pass, tackle or boundary shot at The Fireman’s Arms.
Location: Cnr Buitengracht and Mechau Street, Cape Town
Price: Food from R80
Drinks from R15
Contact: 021 419 1513 | info@firemansarms.co.za
Website: firemansarms.co.za
- Gigi Rooftop Restaurant and Bar
Perched on the Gorgeous George Hotel, the Gigi Rooftop is a chic intimate 80-seater lounge to let your hair down and conversation flow. Order wild tiki-inspired cocktails, courtesy of in-house mixologist Jody Rahme. Their wide array of dining options is sure to satisfy even the most decerning palate from sunrise to sunset. The Gigi Rooftop is a place where overstaying is welcome.
Location: 118 St George’s Mall, Cape Town
Price: Cocktails from R65
Contact: 087 898 6000 | hello@gorgeousgeorge.co.za
Website: gigirooftop.com
- Stella Cafe & Bar
Best described as al fresco dining with a relaxed atmosphere, Parisian-inspired Stella Café & Bar is on the ground floor of The Cullinan Hotel. Experience South Africa’s finest wines while their resident sommelier takes you on an exquisite journey of unique tastes in an intimate wine room. Don’t forget to indulge in afternoon drinks around their stunning pool terrace before requesting something from the fresh seasonal menu.
Location: 1 Cullinan Street, Foreshore
Price: Meals from R80
Wine from R45
Contact: 021 415 4000 | stella.bar@southernsun.com
Website: southernsun.com/the-cullinan/dining/stella-cafe-and-bar
- The Piano Bar
The Piano Bar, located at the corner of Jarvis and Napier Streets, is a trendy New York-inspired music revue bar and eatery known for its tempting tapas, signature cocktails and fine wines. Note: Booking is essential.
Location: 47 Napier Street, Cape Town
Price: Drinks from R44
Contact: 021 007 5212 | bookings@thepianobar.co.za
Website: thepianobar.co.za
- The Station on Bree
Situated in upmarket Bree Street, this London Underground-inspired bar called The Station is a place you need to see to believe. From familiar sounds of the subway playing over speakers (while you’re in the bathroom) to station maps covering the ceiling and a giant platform clock above the bar, hop aboard The Station for an awesome night to remember.
Location: 207 Bree Street, Cape Town
Price: Food from R55
Drinks from R28
Contact: 021 422 0566 | support@stationonbree.co.za
Website: thestation.capetown
- Harringtons Cocktail Lounge
Pumping tunes and velvet booths, Harringtons is a classic cocktail lounge, restaurant and upmarket bar. With a distinct air of sophistication, the dedicated smoking lounge and boutique DJ booth complete a sense of opulence and good fortune. Slide into one of the plush velvet booths and order tantalising tapas with an extravagant craft cocktail. Then get ready to party the night away.
Location: 61B Harrington St, Zonnebloem
Price: Drinks from R35
Contact: info@thefirmct.co.za
Website: thefirmct.co.za/harringtons
- Mødular
Mødular is the first of its kind in the city to have a no photos allowed policy. Why? This ensures complete music and dance emersion. The 350-capacity music venue delivers the best in forward-thinking house and techno music. Artists have the complete freedom to experiment, create and push the boundaries with extraordinary pulsating sounds. If it’s pure underground electronic music you’re looking for, then head over to Mødular in the CBD.
Location: 34 Riebeek Street, Cape Town
Price: Cover charge from R100
Contact: 071 163 5991
Website: facebook.com/Modularnightclub/
- Coco
Described as “The pinnacle of nightlife excellence,” Coco features high-end bottle service, excellent customer attention, beautiful clientele, and incredible music. Set in a sexy glammed-up environment, move your body to everything from deep house tunes to the hottest hip-hop beats. Coco frequently has well-known guest DJs on the decks delivering incredible sounds to keep you moving well into the evening.
Location: 70 Loop Street, Cape Town
Contact: 078 591 1813 | info@cococpt.co.za
Website: cococpt.co.za
- Utopia
Utopia is the prime hotspot for a night on the town. The eatery has a string of accolades under its name, including the winner of Africa’s Best Rooftop Restaurant (2021), Top 5 Best Cocktail Spots in Cape Town (by Chapter22 in 2022), and Top 15 Rooftop Bars & Restaurants (The Inside Guide 2021). With 360-degree views, a well-balanced menu and award-winning boutique wines, this hideaway above the city is worth adding to your bucket list.
Location: Floor 15, 40 Chiappini Str, Cape Town
Price: Cocktails from R70
Contact: 021 418 3065 | info@utopiacapetown.co.za
Website: utopiacapetown.co.za
Atlantic Seaboard
- Café Caprice
Combining artisanal cocktails with a café-style menu, Caprice’s relaxed lounge vibe epitomises Cape Town’s cosmopolitan social scene. This stylish bar on the Camps Bay strip is a prime location for supreme sundowners and superb sunsets.
Location: 37 Victoria Road, Camps Bay
Price: Cocktails from R75
Contact: 021 438 8315 | reservations@cafecaprice.co.za
Website: cafecaprice.co.za
- Cafe Manhattan
Known for its amazing cocktails, delectable burgers and charming waiters, Cafe Manhattan is the eating, meeting, and chilling spot in De Waterkant Village.
Enjoy a quick bite to eat, a cheeky afternoon cocktail on the terrace or a late-night rendezvous at the bar.
Location: 74 Waterkant Street, De Waterkant
Price: Meals from R65
Cocktails from R65
Contact: 021 421 6666 | manhattan@madamezingara.com
Website: manhattan.co.za
- The Grand Africa Café & Beach
With iconic style and playful luxury, The Grand Africa Café & Beach embraces the essence of free-spirited beach café culture. Hugging the shoreline, this quaint relaxing escape offers a choice of five bars, ocean-view decks, nine private function areas and on-beach dining.
Location: 1 Haul Road, V&A Waterfront, Granger Bay
Price: Cocktails from R85
Beers from R40
Contact: 021 425 0551 | Beach@GrandAfrica.com
Website: grandafrica.com/grand-africa-cafe-beach/
- Cubana
Embrace Latino heritage at Cubana, a social dining experience offering an innovative menu, lip-smacking cocktails and premium cigars. This attraction features luxurious lounges, VIP areas and award-winning DJs delivering rhythmic tunes.
Location: Somerset Road, Greenpoint
Price: Cocktails from R59
Contact: 021 421 1109 | greenpoint@cubana.co.za
Website: cubana.co.za
- DecoDance
Go back in time with DecoDance. This retro club spins the best old school music from the ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s and 2000s. DecoDance features 3 bars, plenty of space, smoking and non-smoking dance floors, a banging sound system and funky lighting.
Location: 120 Main Rd, Sea Point
Price: Drink specials from R48
Contact: 081 396 8160 | admin@decodance.co.za
Website: decodance.co.za
South Peninsula
- Aegir Project Brewery
Since opening in 2015, Aegir Project Brewery has been pushing boundaries in the craft beer industry. What started as a small passion-fuelled brewery has become a thriving family-friendly hotspot in the Noordhoek Valley. Tuck into their hand stretched, Neapolitan-style sourdough pizzas, while sipping on a cold one from their sundowner deck overlooking the beautiful Atlantic Cape coast.
Location: 65 Beach Road, Noordhoek
Price: Pizza from R90
Beer from R25
Contact: 066 587 9324 |manager@aegirprojectbrewery.com
Website: aegirprojectbrewery.com
- Cape to Cuba
Established in 1999, Cape to Cuba is a well-known restaurant, bar and party venue on the main Kalk Bay strip. The beach bar is ideal for a casual drink or dine inside while gazing over the glistening ocean. Enjoy great atmosphere, good music, and a uniquely Cuban-inspired dining experience.
Location: 165 Main Road, Kalk Bay
Price: From R50
Contact: 021 788 1566 | kalkbay@capetocuba.com
Website: capetocuba.com
The Toad in the Village
looking for a place to laugh with loved ones, then visit The Toad in the Village. Located at the foot of Chapman’s Peak, The Toad focuses on good food, cold beer and great service. It’s a popular hangout come match-day with several screens. Try their loin ribs, springbok and Guinness pie or eisbein with crispy crackling should you feel a little bit peckish at half-time.
Location: Noordhoek Main Rd, Noordhoek
Price: Meals from R70
Wine from R60
Contact: 021 789 2973 | info@thetoad.co.za
Website: thetoad.co.za
- Tiger’s Milk
“The best destination for dude food, made good.” One of many successful venues from the Harbour’s House Group, Tiger’s Milk has quickly become one of the hangout hotspots in Muizenberg. Tiger’s Milk offers top-notch pizzas, killer burgers, succulent ribs and ice-cold craft beer.
Location: Corner Beach and Sidmouth Rd, Surfers Corner, Muizenberg
Price: Cocktails from R55
Contact: 021 788 1860 | muizenberg@tigersmilk.co.za
Website: tigersmilk.co.za
- Jakes
Entertaining patrons for over 3 decades, Jakes in the Village has become a local institution. Nestled beneath the Tokai and Constantiaberg mountains, alongside Steenberg golf estate, enjoy their al fresco lunches by day, or a stylish upmarket yet relaxed social dining experience by night. With fine wine, craft beers and exotic cocktails on their menu, book a table and unwind at Jakes today.
Location: Steenberg Village, Steenberg Road, Tokai
Price: Cocktails from R65
Contact: 021 701 3272Website: jakes.co.za
Woodstock
- Woodstock Brewery
Woodstock Brewery, known as one of the best craft breweries in the country, is located in the heart of hip Woodstock. Sample 10 different brews, including seasonal and speciality brews, while enjoying light starters, aged steaks or juicy burgers in their Bavarian Beerhall style restaurant.
Location: 252 Albert Road, Woodstock
Price: From R60
Contact: 021 203 3045
Website: woodstockbrewery.co.za
- Jamaica Me Crazy
A Caribbean-inspired restaurant with a South African twist, Jamaica Me Crazy has been one of Woodstock’s most loved rooftop restaurants for over 15 years. With a beautiful ambience and an eclectic menu, Jamaica Me Crazy delivers good tunes and good times. Happy Hour takes place between 5-6pm daily.
Location: 74 Roodebloem Road, Woodstock
Price: Drinks from R30
Contact: 076 241 4371 | www.jamaicamecrazycpt@gmail.com
Website: jamaicamecrazy.co.za/
Southern Suburbs
- Oblivion
A European-style wine bar in the heart of the Southern Suburbs, Oblivion is a mainstay for those looking for after-dark drinks or simply a bite to eat. Enjoy their rooftop deck with stunning views of Table Mountain or cosy up on comfy sofas in front of a roaring fire with a glass of wine, draught beer or fabulous Mojito. Oblivion is also a firm favourite with sports fans looking to watch the game with fellow supporters.
Location: 22 Chichester Road, Harfield Village
Price: Drinks from R31
Contact: 064 983 4045
Website: oblivion.co.za
Jerry’s Burger Bar
This New York-styled venue has it all: a delicious menu, craft beers and whiskey. Jerry’s Burger Bar pays homage to Norman Collins (aka Sailor Jerry, the founder of modern-day tattooing) with his classic swallow and monkey designs splashed across the restaurant’s interior. Open till late every night, Jerry’s is a local favourite.
Location: 123 Lower Main Road, Observatory
Price: Burgers from R94
Beers from R28
Contact: 021 447 8554
Website: jerrysburgerbar.co.za
- Peddlars
A landmark since 1993, Peddlars has become one of the most recognised and beloved destinations in Constantia. Their modern bar area is the perfect spot for celebrations, after-work drinks or casual visits with friends. With a constantly evolving wine and cocktail list, popular craft beers on tap and exclusive gins and spirits available, here you’re absolutely spoilt for choice.
Location: 32 Spaanschemat River Road and Brounger Road, Constantia
Price: From R55
Contact: 021 794 7747 | info@peddlars.co.za
Website: peddlars.co.za
- Banana Jam
Well known for its excellent craft beers, delicious island-style dishes and chilled dining atmosphere, Banana Jam Cafe is a Caribbean restaurant and brewery in Harfield Village. Join them for their Happy Hour between 5pm to 6pm daily and discounts on cocktails and craft beer 7 days a week.
Location: 157 2nd Avenue, Kenilworth
Price: From R60
Contact: 021 674 0186 | info@bananajamcafe.co.za
Website: www.bananajamcafe.co.za
- Foresters Arms
Did you know Foresters Arms is in the Guinness Book of Records for the most beer sold in the Southern Hemisphere?
Established in 1852, Forrester’s Arms (fondly referred to as Forries), is one of the oldest pubs in South Africa. Guests can sit down, kick back and enjoy a fine draught accompanied by a delicious gastro-pub menu. This perennially busy spot is always packed with rugby fans hoping to catch the game on the big screen.
Location: 52 Newlands Avenue, Newlands
Price: Drinks from R31
Contact: 021 689 5949 | info@forries.co.za
Website: forries.co.za
- Jack Black’s Taproom
Based in Diep River since 2016, the geniuses behind the local craft beer Jack Black’s Brewing Co. have created a welcoming space at their brewery. Enjoy craft beers, a vibrant atmosphere and some seriously delicious grub. Their Food Truck Fridays (on the last Friday of every month) are super popular, while quiz nights, live music, open mic and wine and food pairing evenings draw eager crowds.
Location: 10 Brigid Road, Diep River
Price: Drinks from R23
Contact: 021 447 4151 | info@jackblackbeer.com
Website: jackblackbeer.com
<
