Categories > Guides and Tips
Our Favorite Rooftop Bars in Johannesburg
Ever tried sipping a cocktail while dangling your feet off the edge of a skyscraper? Well, in Johannesburg, you might not have to risk life and limb for a thrilling night out.
This city, once a no-go for fun seekers, has flipped the script and is now the Gatsby of South African nightlife.
Let this guide be your treasure map to the rooftop bars of Johannesburg where the nights are long, the views are high, and the memories? They’re just waiting to be made.
Alto234
Website: https://www.alto234.co.za/
Address: 57th Floor, The Leonardo 75 Maude Street, Sandton
Phone: +27 87 536 0000
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 12:30 PM to 11 PM
Alto234 is Africa’s highest urban bar located on the 57th floor of The Leonardo in Sandton. When I visited, I was blown away by the stunning 360-degree views of the city and its surroundings.
The bar’s sleek and modern decor perfectly complements the panoramic views, creating an atmosphere that’s perfect for a romantic evening out or a night out with friends.
The menu features an array of mouth-watering dishes that are perfect for sharing like the luxury tapas menu. To wash down those delicious bites, Alto234 offers an impressive selection of signature cocktails, premium spirits, and wines.
| Pro Tips: Make a reservation in advance, as Alto234 is a popular spot. Guests are also required to pay an R300 entrance fee, which includes a complimentary glass of champagne. |
Artistry JHB
Website: https://thisisartistry.co.za/
Address: 22 Fredman Dr, Sandown, Sandton
Phone: +27 60 847 5713
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 7 AM to 9 PM
If you’re looking for a bar that offers more than just drinks, Artistry should be on your list. I visited this place last weekend, and it was a blend of culinary, cinematic, theatrical, and musical worlds.
The street-level lounge bar had a cozy and intimate vibe, perfect for a quiet drink. The middle level had live performances, and the top-floor restaurant and bar were the highlights of the place.
The rooftop was a breath of fresh air—literally. The lush greenery, modern decor, and plenty of sunlight made it perfect for a sunny lunch or a romantic dinner.
| Pro Tips: Don’t miss out on the breakfast bagel, which can be easily customized into a vegetarian delight. It’s the perfect poolside companion to energize your morning with its savory flavors and the added pleasure of a refreshing dip. |
Copper Bar
Website: https://copperbar.co.za/
Address: Corner Main Office Park, 2 Payne Rd, Bryanston, Sandton
Phone: +27 71 516 4846
Copper Bar is an exclusive and trendy rooftop venue located in Bryanston. The terrace has a beautiful garden set-up and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, particularly during sunset behind the Magaliesberg mountains.
Although Copper Bar is primarily a private event space, it’s open to the public on Thursdays and Sundays. I visited on a Thursday, and it was buzzing with energy.
The live DJs had everyone on their feet, and the vibe was electric. The drinks were top-notch, and the bites were delicious. I particularly enjoyed the sliders and the crispy calamari.
| Pro Tips: Dress in smart casual attire to blend seamlessly with the bar’s chic environment. |
E|Bar at Thaba Eco Hotel
Website: https://www.thabahotel.co.za/ebar/
Address: Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve, 46 Impala Rd
Phone: +27 11 959 0777
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday & Thursday – 12 PM to 8 PM
- Friday – 12 PM to 9 PM
- Saturday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 6 PM
E|Bar is a luxurious rooftop bar and terrace located in the majestic Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve area. This beautiful bar offers a lush and natural environment, surrounded by panoramic views of the reserve.
I visited on a night when there was live music, which added to the already excellent ambiance. I found myself tapping my feet and nodding to the beat.
If you’re looking for an exclusive experience, you can even book the entire E|Bar and surrounding area for private use.
| Pro Tips: If you want to snag a seat with the best views, come early. |
Elevate
Website: https://elevatevenue.co.za/
Address: 58 Anderson St, Marshalltown
Phone: +27 11 689 1000
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 3 PM to 12 AM
I recently got a chance to visit Elevate, a trendy rooftop bar and lounge in Johannesburg, and it was an experience to remember.
As I made my way to the 16th floor of the Reef Hotel, I couldn’t help but feel excited about the 360-degree view of the city skyline. The stylish indoor lounge and terrace, complete with white lounge furniture, added to the ambiance of the place.
As the night went on, the bar took on a club lounge atmosphere, making it a great spot to let loose and dance the night away.
| Pro Tips: Don’t forget to bring your camera and arrive in time for the sundowner hour to capture the beautiful sight of the setting sun illuminating the city’s glass skyscrapers. |
Flames
Website: https://www.flamesrestaurant.co.za/
Address: 67 Jan Smuts Ave, Westcliff, Randburg
Phone: +27 11 481 6000
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 6:30 AM to 9 PM
Flames is one of my favorite rooftop bars in Johannesburg, located just a stone’s throw away from the city’s famous zoo. When I walked in, I was greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere with ambient lighting and cozy indoor seating.
But it was the outdoor terrace that really took my breath away. The stunning views of Johannesburg and the surrounding greenery were truly mesmerizing.
Flames offers an extensive selection of cocktails and champagne, perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic date. But what really stood out to me were the grilled steaks and seafood.
| Pro Tips: Make sure to try the Chef’s Playground, an ever-changing selection of quiches, salads, and bruschetta, complemented by a tempting array of petit fours and desserts. |
Katy’s Palace Bar
Website: https://katyspalacebar.co.za/
Address: 6 Desmond Rd, Kramerville, Sandton
Phone: +27 72 607 4235
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday – 4 PM to 12 AM
- Thursday – 12 AM to 12 PM
- Sunday – 2 PM to 10 PM
Katy’s Palace is a spacious and grand venue that has become an institution in Johannesburg. Its minimalist glass-and-metal design and large halls and courtyards make it perfect for events of all kinds.
But even if you’re just there for a casual night out, you won’t be disappointed.
On Bar Night, the place buzzes with locals who come to unwind with a drink in hand, listen to funky beats, and watch the sunset.
| Pro Tips: Elevate your weekend by experiencing the unique Sunday lunches offered on the first Sunday of every month. Unlike any other day, these events promise a fresh culinary adventure with live music. |
Living Room Jozi
Website: https://www.livingroomjozi.co.za/
Address: Living Room, 5th Floor, Main Change Building, 20 Kruger St
Phone: +27 82 370 9284
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday & Thursday – 12 PM to 8 PM
- Friday – 12 PM to 9 PM
- Saturday – 11 AM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Living Room is a rooftop café and event venue situated in the Main Change Building, at the heart of Maboneng. It’s located on the 5th floor and offers breathtaking views of the Johannesburg skyline, especially at sunset.
The natural and fresh ambiance of the café caught my attention instantly.
The food and drinks menu offers a wide variety of options to satisfy any food lover’s cravings. As a vegetarian, I was thrilled to see that they had a great selection of plant-based dishes on their menu.
Living Room is also a fantastic venue for private events during the week. On the weekends, it transforms into a lively party spot with live DJs and an exciting atmosphere.
| Pro Tips: Reservations for weekend events are highly recommended, as they are mighty popular. |
San Deck, Bar & Restaurant
Media from miguelchan1
Website: https://www.southernsun.com/sandton-sun-hotel/dining/san-deck
Address: Sandton Sun Hotel Corner Fifth Street and, Alice Ln, Sandhurst, Sandton
Phone: +27 11 780 5000
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 12 PM to 11 PM
San Deck is a chic rooftop terrace on the 6th floor of the Sandton Sun Hotel. It offers stunning views of Johannesburg’s skyline and multiple outdoor spaces to dine and drink.
The food was exceptional, and I loved the fresh take on South African flavors. I found the sliders and sharing plates to be delicious with portions that were perfect for sharing.
The drink menu is also impressive with a wide selection of beer, wines, and spirits mixed into signature SAN cocktails. I also appreciated the fact that the bartenders were attentive, making recommendations based on my preferences.
The rooftop bar has multiple outdoor spaces to dine and drink, including regular dining tables, front-row bar stool seats, lounge sofas, and cozy bean bags. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day and watch the sunset over the city.
| Pro Tips: Book a stay at the Sandton Sun Hotel and enjoy the exclusive 6th-floor rooftop pool. |
Sir James Van Der Merwe
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SirJamesvanderMerwe/
Address: 6 Desmond Rd, Kramerville
Phone: +27 72 607 4235
Operating Hours:
- Wednesdays – 4 PM to 12 AM
Sir James van der Merwe is a unique function venue located in Kramerville, Johannesburg, and is part of Katy’s Palace Bar. The venue is typically used for events but opens up to the public on Wednesday nights for after-work drinks.
The interior boasts a mix of minimalist glass-and-metal design and retro items and features an open-air terrace with impressive views over the Sandton skyline.
The bar is fully stocked with all your favorite drinks, but what really caught my attention were the bottles of champagne. I couldn’t resist ordering a bottle and toasting to a great night out.
The tasty buffet-style snack boards were the perfect complement to the drinks. From charcuterie and cheese boards to fresh veggies and dips, there was something for everyone.
| Pro Tips: Occasionally, they also host events, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye out on their Facebook page to see what’s coming up next. |
The Ivy Champagne Garden
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheIvySA/
Address: 2 Arbroath Rd, Bedfordview, Germiston
Phone: +27 10 203 9054
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 7 AM to 5 PM
- Thursday – 7 AM to 11 PM
- Friday – 7 AM to 12 AM
- Saturday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 10 PM
The Ivy Champagne Bar is an elevated social space and dinner bar located at the HQ Building in Bedfordview, east of central Johannesburg.
The 3rd-floor rooftop has a retractable roof and infrared heating. It offers stunning views of the Johannesburg skyline and the world’s largest urban forest, regardless of the weather.
Personally, I can’t get enough of the sushi here. The fish is always fresh, and the rolls are beautifully presented.
But if you’re not a sushi fan, I highly recommend the tapas. They’re perfect for sharing with friends over a few drinks.
| Pro Tips: Catch a glimpse of the sunset from the rooftop. It’s absolutely breathtaking. |
Red Rooftop Bar & Terrace
Media from mosh.seema
Website: https://www.radissonhotels.com/
Address: Cnr of Oxford and, Oxford Parks, 4 Parks Blvd, Dunkeld
Phone: +27 10 023 3580
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 12 PM to 11 PM
Red Rooftop Bar & Terrace is known for its creative aesthetic, great music, and signature cocktails. The space offers 360-degree panoramic views of the city skyline, complete with chic al fresco furnishing and fairy lighting.
When I visited Red Rooftop Bar & Terrace, I settled into a slouchy poolside seating and watched the sun sink over the suburbs in the evenings. It was such a peaceful and calming experience.
And if you’re a brunch lover like me, you should definitely try their mimosa brunch next to the pool. The small menu of shared plates and drinks list is impressive.
| Pro Tips: If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, visit on a Saturday afternoon when the bar hosts live DJs and the cocktails flow freely. |
The Roof Fourways
Website: https://theroof.co.za/
Address: Coachmens Office Park, 2 Brian St, Bryanston, Sandton
Phone: +27 72 609 7785
Operating Hours:
- Thursday to Saturday – 1 PM to 10 PM
The Roof Fourways is a stylish and contemporary rooftop venue situated on the second floor of the Infinity Serviced Office Park in Fourways, offering a 180-degree view of Fourways and magical sunsets over Broadacres.
The menu at The Roof Fourways is diverse and includes options such as granola bowls, avocado toast, burgers, pasta, and salads.
I went for the burger, and boy was I not disappointed! The patty was perfectly cooked, and the toppings were fresh and delicious.
And did I mention that they’re open to the public for breakfast and lunch on weekdays? Plus, they’re open for evening visits on the first Thursday of every month.
| Pro Tips: Visit on Thursdays and order any 4 different tapas to receive a complimentary bottle of wine. |
