Top 20 Bars in Cape Town For An Incredible Night

Cape Town, one of South Africa’s three capital cities, is quite a happening place both during the day and at night. It has several diverse bars and restaurants that are known for their food and drinks but also their wonderful ambience. While some are underground establishments, others are on rooftops and offer spectacular views of the city. Moreover, many hosts live shows, concerts and electrifying parties that are sure to leave you with countless memories.

Here are 20 bars in Cape Town that you must visit:

1. The Gin Bar

A must-visit bar for gin lovers, The Gin Bar in Cape Town’s CBD is famous for its five House gin, tonics, and casual vibes. It has Victorian-styled interiors and features a courtyard, wooden chairs, marble-top tables, patterned floor tiles, a charming wooden bar, hanging lights and lots of plants. If you want to experiment a little, you can also create your own gin and tonic, or you can pick something from their wine and beer menu. Make sure to grab a bite to eat, too, because they serve delicious food like pork belly, grilled chorizo, seared beef fillet and burgers. Moreover, you can also pop into the Bubbly Bar next door!

Address: 64A Wale St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
Timings: 5:00 PM - 1:00 AM (Monday to Wednesday), 3:00 PM - 1:00 AM (Thursday to Saturday), Sunday closed
Popular drinks: Basil Smash, The Heart, House Negroni, Martini, The Ambition, London Mule etc.
Average cost: Approximately R 150 - R 200 for two (including drinks)

2. The House of Machines

The House of Machines, often known as THoM, is a popular bar in Cape Town that doubles as a cafe, motorbike workshop and men’s apparel store during the daytime. It has a casual ambience owing to its eclectic interiors, including exposed brick walls lined with posters, wooden tables with red stools, lights hanging off wooden beams, and more. You would also find a bunch of bike equipment all around. You can choose to sit in their small outdoor area. Along with their drinks, make sure to grab a bite to eat; their menu comprises empanadas, avocado toast, hot dogs, grilled cheese sandwiches, salads etc. And don’t forget to attend one of their live music shows that are often organised in the evenings. 

Address: 84 Shortmarket St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
Timings: 7:30 AM - 11:30 PM (Monday), 7:00 AM - 1:00 AM (Tuesday to Friday), 9:00 AM - 1:00 AM (Saturday), Sunday closed
Popular drinks: Rusty Nail, Dark & Stormy, Negroni, Peanut Butter Manhattan, craft beer, tequila, rum, vodka etc.
Average cost: Approximately R 200 - R 250 for two (including drinks)

3. The Fireman’s Arms

One of the oldest pubs in Cape Town, The Fireman’s Arms was established in the 1860s and is famous for its variety of drinks and casual ambience. Its interiors resemble a sports pub owing to its wooden tables and long benches, flags of different countries hanging from the ceiling, posters, pictures and sports memorabilia on the walls and hanging lights. There is also an outdoor seating area. They serve mouth-watering food like homemade pork scratching, lamb and lentil soup, cheeseburgers, the Firearm’s pie, aubergine parmigiana etc. Furthermore, you can enjoy watching live sports while sipping on your drink and even participate in quiz night organised every Thursday.  

Address: 25 Buitengracht St &, Mechau St, De Waterkant, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Timings: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Tuesday to Saturday), 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM (Sunday), Monday closed
Popular drinks: Jelly Belly, Margarita, Bourbon Sidecar, Heineken, Jack Black, Moët, Smirnoff, Bacardi etc. 
Average cost: Approximately R 200 - R 250 for two (including drinks)

4. The Athletic Club & Social

A classy bar in Cape Town, The Athletic Club & Social is known for its splendid interiors and unique drinks that include homemade ingredients. This three-storeyed bar is located within a heritage building and features velvet chairs, leather booths, marble tabletops, wooden flooring covered with Persian rugs and rustic wallpaper. Several vintage sports memorabilia are also on display here. heir Mediterranean menu comprises dishes like chargrilled calamari, aubergine parmigiana, baked mussels, roasted lamb shoulder with pita etc. You can also try their yummy desserts like baklava cigars, baked cheesecake and lemon polenta cake. It is also known to frequently host live music performances. 

Address: 35 Buitengracht St, CBD, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Timings: 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM (Monday to Friday), 12:00 PM - 2:00 AM (Saturday to Sunday)
b Bosman Chardonnay, Longridge, Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, Margarita, Espresso Martini, White Russian etc. 
Average cost: Approximately R 1,000 for two (including drinks)

5. Banana Jam Cafe

If you are in the mood for yummy Caribbean food and craft beer, the Banana Jam Cafe is the place to visit! A well-known restaurant and bar in Cape Town, it boasts beachy-shack vibes with its colourful signboards, a massive bar with a multi-coloured roof, hanging coconuts, posters, trees and plants, hanging lights and more. There is also a garden and a brewery where you can watch them make beer. Along with serving 30 beers on tap, they are also known for delicious dishes like fresh west coast mussels, nachos, pulled pork tacos, jerk chicken pasta and burgers.  

Address: 157 2nd Ave, Kenilworth, Cape Town, 7708, South Africa
Timings: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM (Tuesday to Saturday), 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Sunday), Monday closed, 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM (Happy Hour)
Popular drinks: Stranger Haze, Bone Shaker, Belgian Pale Ale, Mojito, Margarita, Sauvignon Blanc, Bushmans Balls etc. 
Average cost: Approximately R 200 - R 250 for two (including drinks)

6. Roxy Late Night

Roxy Late Night on Dunkley Square is an excellent restaurant and bar to meet up with friends for drinks and snacks. The bar has simple decor with dark green and red walls, wooden tables and leather chairs, pictures and random memorabilia on the walls, a rustic bar etc. There is a fairly big outdoor seating area too. Don’t forget to try your hand at the pool table that is on the second floor. Their menu features mac & cheese balls, crunchy chicken and avocado wraps, nachos, buttermilk chicken stacks, crack bacon wings, brownies etc. 

Address: 14 Wandel St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Timings: 8:00 AM - 2:00 AM (Monday to Saturday), 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM (Sunday)
Popular drinks: House White, Brampton Rose, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Merlot, House Red, beers etc. 
Average cost: Approximately R 200 - R 250 for two (including drinks)

7. Utopia Cape Town

Utopia Cape Town, situated on the 15th floor of the Capital Mirage Building, overlooks the city, which looks especially beautiful post sundown. It is known for its Mediterranean-influenced dishes and its extensive drinks menu. You can choose to order from their À la Carte menu or their Tasting menu, which includes 5 courses along with drinks. Some of their most popular dishes include grilled line fish, springbok, rib eye, sweetcorn & basil risotto etc. Don’t forget to try something from their dessert menu, which features baked yoghurt, orange crème brûlée and death by chocolate. You must make a reservation prior to coming here. 

Address: 15th Floor, 40 Chiappini St, De Waterkant, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Timings: 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM (Monday to Saturday), Sunday closed
Popular drinks: Veuve Clicquot, Miss Molly Rose, Meerlust, Pinot Noir, Elevated Sour, Paloma, Watermelon G&T, Espresso Martini etc. 
Average cost: Approximately R 350 - R 400 for two (including drinks)

8. Gigi Rooftop at Gorgeous George

The Gigi Rooftop at Gorgeous George is a well-known upscale watering hole on the 6th floor of the Gorgeous George Hotel. Overlooking the skyline, this establishment is open from morning till night. It features wicker chairs, marble and tiled tables, lots of plants, leather couches and a massive wooden bar. There is also a swimming pool just outside that is open to guests. You can pick something from their extensive menu such as cauliflower risotto, beef fillet, mac n’ cheese, berry healthy bowl and pumpkin pancakes. 

Address: 118 St Georges Mall, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
Timings: 7:30 AM - 10:00 AM (breakfast), 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM (lunch, dinner, drinks)
b Basil Hayden’s, Casamigos Blanco, Grey Goose, Royal Mukombe, Bloody Mary, Pickle Back, Cynar etc. 
Average cost: Approximately R 700 - R 800 for two (including drinks)

9. The Art of Duplicity

A hidden speakeasy located within a Victorian warehouse, The Art of Duplicity is a deluxe establishment famous for its exceptional vibes and variety of unique cocktails. The bar is exclusive, and you must either make a reservation or know the secret password to enter! It boasts cosy yet luxurious interiors with mahogany furniture, velvet couches, a massive bar stocked with alcohol bottles, velvet curtains and more. Besides its special drinks prepared by the popular mixologist Brent Perremore, you can also have delicious food here. Furthermore, you can also attend live jazz performances on Fridays and Saturdays, making it a great place for date night!

Address: Coffee Ln, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
Timings: 6:00 PM - 12:00 AM (Tuesday to Saturday), Sunday to Monday closed
Popular drinks: Negroni, Bourbon, Sicilian Neck Tie, Bag o’ Brass Knuckles, Hillbilly Breakfast Flip etc. 
Average cost: Approximately R 1,000 - R 1,200 for two (including drinks)

10. Tjing Tjing Rooftop Bar

The renowned Tjing Tjing Rooftop Bar is located on the third floor of a 200-year-old building on Longmarket Street and is known for its Japanese vibes. Its decor features a bright red Japanese shrine-inspired bar, bar-height tables, indigo wallpaper with embroidered bathing Macaque monkeys, kokeshi doll tables and more. The bar serves a variety of tasty cocktails and Japanese liquor along with mouth-watering food like gyoza, pork crackling, cauli katsu don, chicken yakitori etc. And while you eat and take in views of the city’s skyline, you can enjoy the indie and electronic music that plays in the background. Keep in mind that its entry is on a first-come, first-served basis only. 

Address: 165 Longmarket St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Timings: 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Tuesday to Saturday) 
Popular drinks: Seven Samurai, Cotton Candy, Nigai Jin, Xmas in London, Jack Black Lager, Hunters Dry, Tiki Natsu etc. 
Average cost: Approximately R 500 - R 700 for two (including drinks)

11. Yours Truly/ Up Yours

One of the most popular bars in Cape Town, Yours Truly is located on Kloof Street and boasts relaxed vibes that make it an excellent place for drinks with friends. This cafe bar has simple yet aesthetic decor, including wooden furniture, wood flooring, a long bar and many plants. You can also sit out in the rooftop area. Their menu features drinks and tasty dishes like the Hit & Run sandwich, pulled beef sandwich, pizzas, pain au chocolat etc. Moreover, the rooftop terrace becomes the site of live music shows and parties in the evenings, where you would find local and international DJs and bands. 

Address: 73 Kloof St, Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Timings: 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Popular drinks: Tafel Lager, Savanna Dry, Seagrams Gin, Sauvignon Blanc, Patriot, Merlot etc. 
Average cost: Approximately R 200 - R 250 for two (including drinks)

12. The Drinkery

Located within a historical building in Heritage Square, The Drinkery is a popular and quirky bar that boasts a casual ambience and various experimental cocktails. The bar’s rustic interiors feature exposed brick walls, wooden beams on the ceiling, couches and wooden chairs, a small bar stocked with bottles, plants and a covered verandah. You can enjoy the soothing jazz music playing in the background while feasting on your food. There is also a small and funky art gallery at The Drinkery. 

Address: 100 Shortmarket Street Mezzanine Level, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
Timings: 4:00 PM - 12:00 AM (Monday to Saturday), Sunday closed
Popular drinks: Gin & tonic, Mojito, Margarita, Chardonnay, whiskey, beer, Herradura etc.
Average cost: Approximately R 200 - R 300 for two (including drinks)

13. Dust and Dynamite

Dust and Dynamite in Cape Town is located close to the District Six Museum and is a well-known bar resembling a Wild West Saloon synonymous with an electrifying atmosphere. Once you enter through its swinging double doors, you are met with the sight of a completely wooden interior, including furniture, cupboards, rustic chandeliers, red theatre curtains, dim lighting and cowboy memorabilia. Make sure to order some snacks with your drinks and if you have time, chat with the owner, who is a real cowboy. You can also dance to the music that plays in the background. 

Address: 27 Caledon St, District Six, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Timings: 5:00 PM - 2:00 AM (Tuesday to Thursday), 3:00 PM - 2:00 AM (Friday), 6:00 PM - 2:00 AM (Sunday), Monday closed
Popular drinks: Black Label, Corona, whiskey, brandy, tequila, Martini etc.
Average cost: Approximately R 200 - R 250 for two (including drinks)

14. Kloof Street House

Set within a Victorian building, Kloof Street House is a charming restaurant and bar in Cape Town. It comprises different rooms, including a garden area that is beautifully decorated and mostly features velvet chairs, carpeted and tiled floors, curtains, lots of plants, fairy lights, fireplaces stacked with decor, candles etc. They are known for their delectable brasserie-style menu that includes dishes like grilled salmon, Moroccan spiced lamb rump, baked camembert with onion marmalade, potato gnocchi and more. Try some desserts like salted caramel cheesecake, sticky malva pudding and coconut ice cream. 

Address: 30 Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8005, South Africa
Timings: 12:00 PM - 2:00 AM (Monday), 10:00 AM - 2:00 AM (Tuesday to Sunday), Kitchen closes at 10:30 PM
Popular drinks: Castle Lite, Amarula, Veuve Clicquot, Prosecco, Jameson, Kentucky Limestone, Bellini, Forbidden Fruit etc. 
Average cost: Approximately R 300 - R 350 for two (including drinks)

15. Black Sheep Restaurant

The Black Sheep Restaurant is a must-visit restaurant and bar in Cape Town that guarantees an unforgettable dining experience with its tasty food and drinks and its laid-back vibes. A three-storeyed establishment that overlooks Table Mountain, it consists of the main area, a mezzanine for parties and a street-side bar. Its decor includes beige and white walls, patterned tiled floors, hanging lights, wooden furniture etc. Some popular dishes you must try are Crisp Asparagus & Parmesan Rolls, Pork Trotter Crubeens, South Indian Coconut Fish Curry and Grilled Kudu Loin. They also serve delicious desserts like lemon cheesecake, sticky toffee pudding and chocolate brownie. Make sure to reserve a table since it does get crowded. 

Address: 104 Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Timings: 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM (Monday), 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM (Tuesday to Saturday), Sunday closed, Last order at 9:30 PM
Popular drinks: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Snow Mountain Pinot Noir, Spider Pig Rose, Chenin Blanc etc. 
Average cost: Approximately R 350 - R 400 for two (including drinks)

16. Darling Brew Tasteroom - Darling

One of South Africa’s first microbreweries, the Darling Brew Tasteroom in Cape Town, is quite well-known and serves craft beers and pub-style food. It has industrial-style interiors, including metal beams on the ceiling, wooden furniture, hanging lights, wooden flooring, etc. There is also an outdoor seating area along with a jungle gym. Along with trying their beers, you must also try some of their mouth-watering food like sticky chicken wings, nachos, SA cheese board, bacon & cheese burger, pork belly, chickpea curry etc. And if you’re interested in observing how they prepare their beer, you can opt for a guided tour of the brewery and also visit their pop-up shop.

Address: 48 Caledon St, Darling, 7345, South Africa
Timings: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Monday to Saturday), 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Sunday), the kitchen closes an hour prior to closing time. 
Popular drinks: Slow beer lager, Gypsy Mask red ale, Darlington gin, Arrowhead Russian imperial stout, Jagermeister etc. 
Average cost: Approximately R 250 - R 300 for two (including drinks)

17. Chinchilla

One of Cape Town’s most popular rooftop bars, Chinchilla in Camps Bay, is an elegant establishment overlooking the water. The unique cocktails prepared by the in-house mixologist make it an ideal place for drinks with friends. Its boho-chic interiors feature a shack-like roof, cushioned chairs, wooden tables, fairy lights, plants and a long wooden bar. Some of their must-try dishes are oysters, beef burgers, pan roast baby squid, crudités platters etc., along with desserts like chocolate brownies and crème brûlées. For the best time, visit over the weekend when Chinchilla has a DJ on site playing fun music from late afternoon till sunset. People below the age of 18 are not allowed. 

Address: The Promenade, Victoria Rd Shop 120, Second Floor, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8005, South Africa
Timings: 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Monday to Friday), 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Saturday to Sunday), No entry for people below 18 post 4:00 PM
Popular drinks: Tropical waves, Purple Haze, Litchi & Basil, Caipirinha, Dom Perignon NV, Le Lude Brut, Iona etc. 
Average cost: Approximately R 250 - R 400 for two (including drinks)

18. The Piano Bar

The Piano Bar, located on the corner of Napier Street and Jarvis, is a New York-inspired music revue bar perfect for a relaxed night out. It overlooks Devil’s Peak and De Waterkant village and has a casual ambience; its minimalistic interiors include wooden floors with rugs, green walls, wooden chairs and tables, a big wooden bar and pictures on the walls. There is also a massive piano where local artists often perform in a corner. Don’t forget to try out something from their modern tapas menu and drinks such as lamb racks, tuna tartar, crispy baby squid, risotto and corn ribs. 

Address: 47 Napier St, De Waterkant, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Timings: 3:00 PM - 12:00 AM (Tuesday to Saturday), Sunday to Monday closed
Popular drinks: Blank Space, Cuba Libre, Santa Baby, Monkey Shoulder, Ardberg, Negroni, Belvedere etc. 
Average cost: Approximately R 300 - R 500 for two (including drinks)

19. RED Roof at the Radisson Red Hotel

The RED Roof Bar at the Radisson Red Hotel is located on the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town and is a trendy bar overlooking Table Mountain. It is the perfect choice if you’re in the mood for a day of relaxing by the pool. The decor is simple: tiled floors, a bright red drinks van, pool chairs and bright yellow chairs around round tables. You can enjoy the stunning sunset while you dip in your drinks and feast on delicious food like spiced cauliflower wings, firefly wings, porky bowls, beef tortillas, pizzas etc. 

Address: ​​No. 6 Silo, Silo Square, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Timings: 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM 
Popular drinks: Jack Black lager, Victoria, Vondeling petit blanc, Laphroig, Grey Goose, Mojito, Sumbodiya etc. 
Average cost: Approximately R 150 - R 250 for two (including drinks)

20. The Silo Rooftop

Situated on the V&A Waterfront, The Silo Rooftop at The Silo Hotel is a popular bar that offers beautiful views of the city and is an excellent place for drinks with friends or family. It has simple yet charming decor, including wooden chairs and tables, couches, artificial grass carpeting and a few plants. The best time to visit is around sunset when the views are exquisite! You must try something from their food menu, which features cheese & za’atar man’oushe, beef espetada, citrus salmon poke bowl, pulled pork buns etc.

Address: Silo Square, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Timings: 12:00 PM - Sunset
Popular drinks: Rose Ginvino, Kalahari Safari, Spicy Mary, Krug Grande Cuvée, Meerlust, La Bri, Lanzerac, Hunters Dry etc.
Average cost: Approximately R 300 - R 500 for two (including drinks)

Cape Town’s countless bars and restaurants offer you the chance to fully experience the city’s nightlife scene and make many fun memories on your trip. Whether you are looking for something exciting like a party or something low-key like a meal with friends or family, you will undoubtedly find something in this city!