Sip in style at these 18 unique & trendy bars in Cape Town
From speakeasies to rooftop gems, Cape Town has one of the most vibrant cocktail scenes, providing a playground for adventurous spirits. We handpick our fav cocktail hotspots in and around the city. Whether wanting a unique drinking experience in a distillery, prohibition-styled bar or simply a sophisticated setting for social gatherings, these trendy Cape Town bars offer that and more. Cheers to memorable nights and delicious libations!
Aperitif on Bree
Owned by Pizza Shed, this trendy bar is one of Bree Street’s newcomers. With a focus on Italian-inspired cocktails, patrons can expect the likes of Limoncello Spritz and Negronis. Be sure to visit on First Thursdays for G&Ts, and Aperol specials. It’s the perfect summer spot for enjoying good company, drinks and what they call “the best damn olives you’ll ever have”.
Location: 227 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre
Hours: Tues-Thurs: 16h00–23h00 | Fri-Sun: 12h00–23h00 | Closed Monday
Contact: 081 805 5312
Club Kloof
Photo credits: Ulrich Knoblauch
With stunning interiors and a vibey atmosphere, Club Kloof is the perfect place to paint the town red, or simply unwind with good company, food and cocktails. First-timers can expect sophisticated drinks from Negronis to espresso martinis, as well as vibrant cocktails. Don’t leave without trying their pizzettes or tiramisu – trust us. Make a booking in advance; this Kloof Street gem is pretty popular, and for good reason.
Location: 84 Kloof St, Tamboerskloof, Cape Town
Hours: Mon-Sun: Lunch from 12h00 | Dinner from 6
Contact: 072 415 3752
CAUSE | EFFECT Cocktail Kitchen
CAUSE | EFFECT Cocktail Kitchen & Cape Brandy Bar know how to make a drink! Owned by Kurt Schlecter, one of the most influential professionals in the local drinks industry, visitors can expect creative cocktails, Brandy-inspired treats and more. Visit on Wednesday evenings for their double drinks special.
Location: 280 Dock Road, The Rocket Shed, V&A Waterfront | 69 Victoria Rd, Camps Bay
Hours: Mon-Fri: 10h00–01h00 | Sat & Sun: 09h00–01h00
Contact: 021 422 0266
causeandeffect.co.za | Facebook | Instagram
fable
Located in the heart of the city, fable is the perfect Cape Town bar if you’re looking for cocktails with creative flair. With curated experiences, innovative flavour fusions and DJs to set the tone, you’re in for a fun night. They keep things interesting; each signature drink is inspired by the seasons and fabled stories, but if you prefer trendy cocktails, ‘the one with the effervescent tablet’ or ‘the one with the paintbrush’ is what you’re after.
Location: Corner Bree & Wale Street, Cape Town
Hours: Tues-Thurs: 17h00–02h00 | Fri & Sat: 16h00–02h00
Contact: 066 009 7786
fablecocktailbar.capetown | Facebook | Instagram
Gigi Rooftop Restaurant & Bar
Gigi needs no introduction. Those who have yet to meet her will go for the drinks and stay for the vibe. Gin lovers will appreciate their range of gin brands; live vinyl sets provide a gorgeous night filled with friends, drinks and dancing.
Location: Level 6 Rooftop, Gorgeous George Hotel, 118 St George’s Mall, Cape Town
Hours: Mon-Sun: 12h00-late | *R100 deposit per person required for groups of 6 or more
Contact: 021 612 0999
Grand Pavilion – Harry’s & Pavilion Bar
Grand Pavilion exudes an air of glamour. Their beach-styled Pavilion Bar is ideal for summer visits, while Harry’s Bar offers chic velvet interiors, dim lights and vintage cocktails for a charming night out. With an exquisite selection of premium spirits, wine and Champagne, Grand Pavilion is ideal for those wanting a luxurious drinking experience.
Location: 277 Beach Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town
Hours: Mon-Sun: 12h00–02h00
Contact: 021 206 6360
grandpavilion.co.za | Facebook | Instagram
Hacienda Coastal Mexican
Tequila and mezcal lovers will appreciate this Baja-inspired coastal Mexican restaurant and bar. With an extensive list of sought-after, imported tequilas and paired courses, Hacienda provides a memorable experience. Cosy up at the bar with their celebrity list of blancos, reposados or añejos, featuring George Clooney’s Casamigos, Dwayne Johnson’s Teremana or Kendal Jenner’s 818 tequila. Half-priced margaritas are also offered daily.
Location: 92 Bree Street, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
Hours: Mon-Sun: 12h00–22h30
Contact: 021 422 0128
hacienda.co.za | Facebook | Instagram
One Park
One Park has become an institution for locals seeking great drinks and music. Inspired by all things local, their drinks are authentic, with each featuring at least one prominent spice. The beautifully designed bar houses cocktails like the masala pine with whisky, a ginger and caraway-infused brandied drink, the 1p bompie – an ode to a childhood fav but with gin – and more. The intimate space and listening bar provide a promising night.
Location: 1 Park Road, Gardens, Cape Town
Hours: Wed-Sun: 16h00-late
Contact: 081 047 1248
onepark.co.za | Facebook | Instagram
Rita’s Cocktail Club on Kloof
Rita’s might be a new addition to Kloof Street, but they certainly know how to ‘stir things up’. The gorgeous interiors, warm lighting and inviting atmosphere make this a stellar spot for Friday night drinks with friends. Enjoy tequila cocktails and live DJ sets at this trendy bar. They might be packed, so call ahead and reserve a table in advance.
Location: 22 Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town
Hours: Tues-Sat: 16h30pm–02h00
Contact: 073 217 8827
StrangeLove Cocktail Lounge
Hope Distillery’s cocktail lounge, StrangeLove, opened earlier this year. Located in the distillery’s mezzanine-level tasting room, you can expect an interesting visit. Their three-course cocktail and mini-food pairing offers aperitifs, mains and digestifs like Sbagliato and gin-based drinks. Enjoy classic and cosmopolitan cocktails while overlooking copper stills at this unique cocktail bar.
Location: 7 Hopkins Street, Salt River, Cape Town
Hours: Thurs & Fri: 17h30–22h30
Contact: 021 447 1950
hopedistillery.co.za | Instagram
Talking To Strangers Cocktail Bar
Located on Loop Street, this upbeat bar serves clever cocktails and street food-inspired dishes. Indulge in conversation and tasty infusions crafted by their mixologists. A great spot to visit with friends if you love cocktails with a twist and the element of surprise.
Location: 61 Loop St, Cape Town City Centre
Hours: Mon-Sat: 18h00-late
Contact: 078 324 2450
The Art of Duplicity
This speakeasy-style bar exudes an air of mystery and intrigue, making it the ideal spot for a night of enchantment. Sip on craft cocktails and have an unforgettable evening filled with mixology magic. Jazz enthusiasts will love their live music sessions on Fridays and Saturdays.
Location: Book to find out
Hours: Tues-Sat: 18h00–00h00
Contact: Email
The Athletic Club & Social
Ideal for a night of refined drinking and socialising, The Athletic Club Social offers the perfect blend of class and comfort. This Cape Town bar is known for its elegant ambience, fantastic selection of signature drinks and classic cocktails like Whisky Sours and Manhattans. Teetotallers can enjoy drinks from their bespoke menu of alcohol-free drinks. Visit on Thursdays and Saturdays for their live jazz sessions.
Location: 35 Buitengracht St, CBD, Cape Town
Hours: Mon-Wed: 12 pm–23h00 | Thurs-Sat: 12h00–02h00 | Closed Sun
Contact: 084 087 5566
theathletic.co.za | Facebook | Instagram
The Drinkery
Photo credit: Crave Concepts
Nestled in the heart of Cape Town lies The Drinkery, a contemporary speakeasy. With its charm and atmosphere, it provides the perfect setting for a night of drinking in good company. Whether sipping on craft cocktails or local brews, The Drinkery is a haven.
Location: 100 Shortmarket Street Mezzanine Level, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
Hours: Mon-Sat: 16h00–late
Contact: 082 464 4866
The Gin Bar
The Gin Bar is a must for lovers of this aromatic spirit. Located in the heart the city, this intimate Cape Town bar boasts an impressive collection of local and international gins, expertly mixed with various botanicals. Whether you prefer a classic G&T or one of their famous House Remedies which are said to “cure all manner of ills”, The Gin Bar provides the ideal setting to unwind, catch up with friends and savour this beloved spirit.
Location: 64A Wale St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
Hours: Mon-Wed: 17h00–01h00 | Thurs-Sat: 15h00–01h00am *times may change
Contact: 071 241 2277
theginbar.co.za | Facebook | Instagram
The Nines
Dress up for a night to remember and take it to The Nines. Classic meets contemporary at this sophisticated rooftop bar located in Upper Sea Point. Indulge in vintage cocktails, modern classics or one of their mixology masterpieces, and fabulous fare to match. Their elevated interiors and captivating ambience are as mesmerising as their Atlantic sea views.
Location: 9th Floor, Station House, 19 Kloof Road, Sea Point, Cape Town
Hours: Mon-Sun: 12h00–23h00
Contact: 021 745 6609
thenines.co.za | Facebook | Instagram
The Willaston Bar at The Silo Hotel
Perched high above the Cape Town cityscape, The Willaston Bar at The Silo Hotel offers breathtaking panoramic views along with a luxurious drinking experience. This sophisticated bar is renowned for its stylish decor, impeccable service and carefully curated cocktail menu. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, The Willaston Bar has everything you could want and more.
Location: The Silo Hotel, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
Hours: Mon-Sun: 11h00–23h00
Contact: 021 670 0511
theroyalportfolio.com | Facebook | Instagram
Tjing Tjing Rooftop Bar
This trendy Japanese-inspired rooftop bar combines modern aesthetic with an inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a night of drinks and conversation. Tjing Tjing offers a relaxed yet vibrant environment; sip on refreshing cocktails or share a bottle of wine with friends.
Location: 165 Longmarket St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
Hours: Tues-Sat: 16h00–close | no reservations allowed – first come, first serve.
Contact: 021 422 4374 | 021 422 4920
tjingtjing.co.za | Facebook | Instagram
Want more? Get to know these signature gin cocktails and their origins.
Hungry for more? Subscribe to our Newsletter
Related Articles
