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Your next great night out is at these best bars in Cape Town

| Last Updated: September 2024

When the sun dips below the horizon in Cape Town, the city’s vibrant bar scene really starts to shine.

I’ve found that the best way to experience the city’s nightlife is by exploring its fantastic bars. From trendy cocktail spots to cosy hideaways, each place has its own unique vibe and a menu that’ll make you want to try everything.

Curious where to go for a great night out? Check out the best bars in Cape Town that I personally recommend.

Cause | Effect Cocktail Kitchen

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Website: https://causeandeffect.co.za/ 

Address: The Rocket Shed, 280 Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

Phone: +27 21 422 0266

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 1 AM
  • Saturday & Sunday – 9 AM to 1 AM

Cause & Effect is one of those places where you can’t help but be impressed by how they do cocktails. Their menu is full of creative touches and playful presentations, like a cocktail served in a mini swim ring with a tiny coconut tree sticking out.

My go-to drink here is ‘The Fulcrum,’ a cocktail made with Chivas 15-year-old whisky, raspberry, black tea, whey, and honeycomb. It has a rich, smooth taste with a perfect balance of sweetness and a touch of smoky, earthy depth.

Pro Tip:
For a distinctive experience, explore their sister locations in Camps Bay and Stellenbosch. Each spot has its own character and menu variations, giving you a chance to enjoy a different vibe and local flair.

The Athletic Club & Social

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Address: 35 Buitengracht St, CBD

Phone: +27 84 087 5566

Operating Hours:

  • Monday & Tuesday – 4 PM to 11 PM
  • Wednesday – 4 PM to 12 AM
  • Thursday to Saturday – 12 PM to 2 AM

The Athletic Club & Social is my go-to spot when I want to unwind in a stylish yet approachable setting. I love the vintage charm! It feels like stepping into a 1920s party, and the cocktails are fantastic for dancing the night away. 

I often order their signature Society Athletic, which has a smooth, refreshing taste with a citrus zing and subtle herbal notes. If I’m in the mood for something richer, I go for the 1988, which combines sweet honey with warm, spiced flavours.

Pro Tip:
Make sure to add a cultural twist to your itinerary. Just a 6-minute walk away is the Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum, a gem that offers a deep dive into the rich history and culture of the area. 

The House of Machines

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Website: https://thehouseofmachines.com/ 

Address: 84 Shortmarket Street

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 7 AM to 2 AM
  • Saturday – 9 AM to 2 AM

If you’re looking for a great Negroni in Cape Town, I recommend The House of Machines. I often visit when I want a change of pace from the usual spots. 

The focus here is on craft beer and well-made spirits rather than flashy garnishes. I appreciate the live music that adds to the atmosphere, and the bartenders are refreshingly straightforward.

Pro Tip:
Visit on a Tuesday. This is when their weekly Songwriters Fest takes place, offering a blend of inspiring music and creative energy from 8 PM to 11 PM. 

The Gin Bar

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Website: https://www.theginbar.co.za/ 

Address: 64A Wale Street

Phone: +27 71 241 2277 

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Wednesday – 5 PM to 1 AM
  • Thursday to Saturday – 3 PM to 1 AM

The Gin Bar has a speakeasy feel that’s well-known among locals. What sets it apart is its “medicinal” themed cocktails and the incredible selection of over 100 gins, with 80 of them being local.

My favourite is the Heart, a herby mix of rosemary and fynbos flavours with Inverroche gin. If gin isn’t your thing, there’s also wine, beer, and even a Bubbly Bar featuring local cap classics. 

Pro Tip:
Remember, the entrance is a bit of a secret passage: you’ll find it inside the Honest Chocolate Cafe. Just walk through the cafe and let the aroma of chocolate lead you to an evening of sophisticated gin tasting. 

Asoka

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Website: https://asoka.za.com/ 

Address: 68 Kloof St, Gardens

Phone: +27 21 422 0909

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Saturday – 5:30 PM to 2 AM
  • Sunday – 5:30 PM to 12 AM

Asoka has a high-end vibe but remains welcoming and enjoyable. I prefer quieter nights, but if you like lively dance parties, their Tuesday DJ nights are worth checking out.

I always order the Moksha Martini. It’s made with Stolichnaya orange vodka, fresh ginger, pineapple puree, torn basil, lemon, and sugar. I love how the tangy orange and lemon mix with the sweet pineapple and the refreshing basil. 

Pro Tips:
Make the most of Mondays with their 3-course dinner special.

Don’t miss the live music sessions every Sunday starting at 8:30 PM for a relaxing end to your weekend.

The Dark Horse

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Website: https://darkhorsebar.co.za/ 

Address: 145 Kloof St, Gardens

Phone: +27 

Operating Hours:

  • Tuesday to Thursday – 4:30 PM to 12:30 AM
  • Friday & Saturday – 1 PM to 1 AM

If you’re looking for a place that’s not too flashy but still has great bar food and a good selection of local wines and craft beers, The Dark Horse is a solid choice. The small rooftop area is a nice spot to unwind, offering lovely views of Table Mountain.

I tried a few drinks from their menu. The lemon drop martini was a refreshing pick with its zesty kick, while the whiskey sours had just the right balance of sweetness and tang. 

Pro Tip:
Confidently request a cocktail by detailing your preferred flavours or ingredients. If you’re undecided, rely on the bartender’s skill to concoct a bespoke beverage that suits your palate.

Una Más

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Website: https://unamas.co.za/ 

Address: Shop 2, 77 Regent Rd, Sea Point

Phone: +27 76 705 8410

Operating Hours:

  • Sunday to Thursday – 12 PM to 12 AM
  • Friday & Saturday – 12 PM to 1 AM

Una Más is a trendy spot that’s quickly become popular for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious Mexican cocktails. It features a solid selection of over 90 agave spirits, including a range of premium imports and local varieties.

When I visit, I always go for the spicy paloma cocktails for their fiery kick that makes me want “one more.” I also recommend trying the premium sipping tequila, served in traditional clay copitas, instead of sticking with the usual salt and lemon.

Pro Tip:
Indulge in the loaded nachos. With their irresistible mix of queso fresco, hearty beans, and signature house salsas, they offer a delightful crunch and a burst of flavours that shouldn’t be missed.

Gigi Rooftop Restaurant and Bar

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Website: https://www.gigirooftop.com/ 

Address: 118 St Georges Mall

Phone: +27 21 612 0999

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 7 AM to 12 AM

Gigi Rooftop offers a stylish setting with a great view of the city. Their small sharing plates are worth trying, and the setting is elevated by their beautiful glass ceiling and swimming pool.

The cocktails are well-crafted, and the vibe is both chic and inviting. When I’m there, I usually go for the Bloody Mary, a cocktail that balances savoury, spicy, and umami flavours.

Pro Tips:
Make sure to visit from Thursday to Sunday after 7 PM for live DJ sets that will set the mood. For music lovers, “The Jam” on Tuesdays is a must-attend for an electrifying night of impromptu musical magic.

Tjing Tjing Rooftop

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Website: https://www.tjingtjing.co.za/rooftop-2/ 

Address: 165 Longmarket Street

Phone: +27 21 422 4920

Operating Hours:

  • Tuesday to Saturday – 12 PM to 1 AM

Hidden in a 200-year-old building in the city centre, Tjing Tjing is one of those places you feel lucky to find. The small, cosy terrace gives it a private, almost exclusive vibe, which I love for catching up with friends over drinks. 

The cocktails are a highlight for me, especially those made with Japanese whisky, gin, or sake, offering a blend of smooth and slightly spicy flavours. If you’re more into wine, their selection of boutique South African wines is well worth a try too.

Pro Tip:
Start with casual Japanese street food at Tjing Tjing Torii on the ground floor, then consider booking Momiji for an exclusive sushi omakase on Saturday nights.

The Art of Duplicity

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Website: https://170120.co.za/ 

Address: 1 Coffee Lane

Operating Hours:

  • Wednesday – 12 AM to 2 AM
  • Thursday to Saturday – 6 PM to 2 AM

The Art of Duplicity is one of those places where the experience starts even before you walk through the door. You have to use a password to get into this hidden 19th-century warehouse, which adds to the excitement. 

The cocktails are far from ordinary. I tried one with butter-washed gin, another with grape air, and even one with a quail egg! The bartenders clearly enjoy experimenting with unique spirits and flavours.

Pro Tip:
For a timeless evening, visit on Fridays and Saturdays at 9:30 PM to experience live jazz that will whisk you away to a bygone era. 

Fable

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Website: https://fablecocktailbar.capetown/ 

Address: Corner Bree &, Wale Street

Phone: +27 66 009 7786

Operating Hours:

  • Tuesday to Thursday – 5 PM to 2 AM
  • Friday to Sunday – 4 PM to 2 AM

Fable Cocktail Bar offers a lively atmosphere with experimental cocktails and great comfort food. The bar features eight unique cocktails, each paired with a local fable that adds a touch of storytelling to your drink

I love choosing drinks based on their flavour profiles; for instance, the Kronendal Lovers is a floral delight, and the Flying Dutchman is ideal if you’re into fruity flavours. Plus, the real fun starts when the DJs play, turning the vibe up.

Pro Tip:
Maximise your visit by hitting their happy hour where you can indulge in a 2-for-1 deal on selected cocktails. It runs from 5 PM to 7 PM on weekdays and from 4 PM to 7 PM on weekends.

Openwine

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/openwineza/ 

Address: 72 Wale Street

Phone: +27 21 422 0800

Operating Hours:

  • Tuesday to Saturday – 12 PM to 11 PM
  • Sunday – 2 PM to 11 PM

Openwine is a fantastic spot for wine lovers who want a relaxed and informal setting. The bar area is great for enjoying a wine tasting, complete with a range of delicious nibbles and treats from their expert kitchen team.

They even have a wood-fired pizza oven for those who crave a slice with their wine. The vibe here encourages you to unwind and really enjoy your wine in a stylish, laid-back space.

Pro Tip:
Openwine doesn’t allow patrons to bring in a bottle of wine they already offer, but they welcome new, high-quality bottles if you’re willing to share and enjoy it with the owners.

The Leopard Bar

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Website: https://12apostleshotel.com/dining-and-drinks/the-leopard-bar 

Address: The Twelve Apostles Hotel And Spa, Victoria Rd, Oudekraal (Nature Reserve)

Phone: +27 21 437 9029

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 7 AM to 2 AM

The Leopard Bar is a top pick if you’re after a memorable sundowner experience. The open-air terrace offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the best sunsets in Cape Town.

I love relaxing here with one of their signature cocktails, which are expertly crafted by talented mixologists. The bar also has a great selection of South African wines, craft beers, and spirits.

Pro Tip:
Visit around sunset. The views are stunning, and it’s a great time to enjoy a drink while watching the sky change colours.

Publik Wine Bar

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Website: https://publik.co.za/ 

Address: 11d Kloof Nek Rd, Tamboerskloof

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 4 PM to 11 PM
  • Saturday – 3 PM to 8 PM

Publik Wine Bar is a standout spot for anyone passionate about wine. The focus here is on showcasing a wide range of wines from sustainably farmed vineyards, crafted with minimal intervention.

What I find exciting is the chance to explore unique and lesser-known wines like Touriga Nacional, Colombard, Tinta Barocca, and Melon B. Each visit offers a new selection, making it a bit of an adventure in wine discovery.

Pro Tip:
The bar doesn’t take reservations and doesn’t have a phone, as they prefer to focus on chatting with guests about their wine. Plan to arrive early to secure a spot and enjoy the personal touch of their wine experts.

Grand Africa Cafe & Beach

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Website: https://grandafrica.com/cafe-beach/ 

Address: V&A Waterfront, 1 Haul Rd, Granger Bay Blvd

Phone: +27 21 425 0551

Operating Hours:

  • Thursday to Sunday – 12 PM to 12 AM

Grand Africa Café & Beach has a relaxed beach vibe, and I loved being able to sip my drink with my toes in the sand while taking in the sea views. At night, the place really comes alive with live music and DJ sets that give it a lively, energetic feel. 

If you’re looking for a refreshing drink to enjoy, I recommend the Grand Pimms & Lemonade. The sweetness of the strawberries and orange is balanced nicely by the coolness of the cucumber and mint, giving it a crisp, light taste.

Pro Tip:
Visit The Grand Gallery Shop, located on the same premises as the bar, for a variety of impressive items, including garments, accessories, swimwear, and trinkets.

Rick’s Café Americain

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Website: https://rickscafe.co.za/ 

Address: 103 Kloof Street Crn, Weltevreden St, Gardens

Phone: +27 21 822 1100

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 11 AM to 2 AM

When I visit Rick’s Café Américain in Cape Town’s city centre, I enjoy the lively vibe where both locals and tourists come together to watch sports. The rooftop terrace is my go-to spot, with its great views of Table Mountain and two TV screens for the game.

I usually order the Lourensford River Garden Sauvignon Blanc; its tropical fruit notes and creamy finish always hit the spot. They also feature live music on certain nights, adding to the energetic vibe of the place.

Pro Tip:
Head to the bar for live jazz sessions at 7 PM every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. 

Cafe Caprice

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Website: https://cafecaprice.co.za/ 

Address: 37 Victoria Rd, Camps Bay

Phone: +27 21 438 8315

Operating Hours:

  • Monday – 12 PM to 12 AM
  • Tuesday to Thursday – 9 AM to 12 AM
  • Friday to Sunday – 9 AM to 1 AM

Café Caprice, located on the vibrant Camps Bay sunset strip, offers a relaxed yet lively ambience perfect for enjoying Cape Town’s nightlife. The bar’s sidewalk seating provides stunning views of the beach and sunset.

The drink selection is quite varied, including classic cocktails and a range of craft beers. One standout option is the Crafted Paloma, which has a smooth, slightly peppery taste that complements the fresh grapefruit juice’s tanginess. 

Pro Tip:
Arriving early is a great way to snag a spot on the popular sidewalk seating. Afterwards, take a refreshing dip at nearby Camps Bay beach.

The Tiki Tomb

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Website: https://thefirmct.co.za/tiki-tomb 

Address: 107A Bree Street

Phone: +27 76 070 4474 

Operating Hours:

  • Wednesday to Saturday – 8 PM to 2 AM

If you’re looking for a tropical escape in the city, Tiki Tomb is worth a visit. I loved how the bar, tucked downstairs from Boma on Bree, embraces retro tiki culture with its hand-built, vintage-inspired setup and eclectic décor. 

You might find your cocktail served in a bowl shaped like a shrunken monkey skull, a tiki head, a parrot mug, or even a coconut, all topped with a paper umbrella. The drink menu includes classics like the Zombie, Painkiller, and Scorpion Bowl. 

Pro Tips:
For VIP bottle service at The Tiki Tomb, book the Chieftain’s Hut booth by calling them or sending a direct message through their Facebook.

Don’t forget to join “tiki-oke” (karaoke) on Wednesdays for some extra fun.

Taj Lobby Bar + Lounge

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Address: Taj Cape Town, 2 Wale Street

Phone: +27 21 819 2000

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 8 AM to 10 PM

At the Taj Lobby Bar + Lounge, I was impressed by their extensive drink menu. They offer a wide range of classic and signature cocktails, each crafted with precision. 

I particularly enjoyed their selection of mocktails, which were as thoughtfully made as their alcoholic options. If you’re into craft gins or draught beers, they have a solid selection to choose from. 

Pro Tips:
Take some time to explore the Whisky Lounge’s impressive collection.

Be sure to ask about the special tastings at 3 PM for a chance to savour some unique whiskies.
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