15 Unique & Trendy Wine Bars in Cape Town
Not long ago, gin was all the craze, but a quick jaunt through the city will tell you that everyone’s back to guzzling wine. Wine bars are everywhere, from trendy curbside bars to shoebox studios, underground cellars and upscale jazz lounges. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply looking to expand your palate, visit these top wine bars in Cape Town.
Arthur’s Mini Super
With a super loyal fan base and a magnificent wine offering, Arthur’s is a one-stop shop for tastemakers and locals. Order one of the delish bites from the menu and pick out a bottle of wine to savour at the Mini Bar; you’re bound to find a new fave.
Location: 15 Arthurs Rd, Sea Point
Hours: Tues-Sat: 16h00–22h00
Contact: 087 702 7470 | Email
arthursminisuper.co.za | Instagram
Belthazar Restaurant & Wine Bar
Another wine institution is Belthazar. This restaurant, offering beef and seafood, houses a formidable collection with approximately 600 wines, sold by the glass. Listed by region, the wine list boasts a comprehensive range of varietals, including Cape Bordeaux blends and South African icons, all served in Riedel glasses. Enjoy their Springbok Carpaccio, Burrata, exceptional steaks or one of the delicious options on the menu.
Location: Shop 153, 19 Breakwater Blvd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Hours: Mon-Sun: 12h00–23h00 | *Booking advised
Contact: 021 421 3753 | 021 421 3756 | Email
belthazar.co.za | Facebook | Instagram
Bo-Vine Wine & Grill House
Take a trip to Camps Bay for a sophisticated dining experience at Bo-Vine. This Grill House has a stellar selection of local classics and rare wines, as well as imported bottles from various countries. Whatever you choose, pair it with something from the bar snacks menu; you can’t go wrong with the roast beef or vegetable bruschetta with aubergine and Gran Padano. For cocktail lovers, check out The Attic by Bo-Vine, above the Wine & Grill House.
Location: Shop 1, The Promenade Shopping Centre, 85 Victoria Rd, Camps Bay
Hours: Mon-Fri: 12h00–23h00 | Sat: 12h00–23h00 | Sun: 12h00–22h00
Contact: 063 712 6310 | Email
bovinegrillhouse.com | Facebook | Instagram
Cooper Wine Bar
Located in Church Square, this trendy wine bar specialises in international and local wines. Part owned by the founder of the Joburg wine bar, Mr Pants, its cousin bar is equally popular. Visit Cooper to taste their premium wines on offer; they also frequently host collaborations with some of the city’s most loved restaurants and chefs.
Location: City Chic at The Piazza on Church Square, 32 Parliament St, Cape Town City Centre
Hours: Tues-Sat: 16h00–22h00 | Closed Mon & Sun
Contact: 081 703 2214
cooperwinebar.co.za | Instagram
Culture Wine Bar
With its classy interiors, brick walls and brown leather booths, Culture Wine Bar has become a favourite for wine aficionados and jazz lovers. Enjoy wines from their curated selection or join their wine members’ club for the latest offerings and hidden gems from the country’s most respected winemakers. Vine Nights keep locals in the loop with weekly wine tastings, while First Thursday events and live performances by contemporary musicians ensure immaculate vibes. Try chef Matt Manning’s small plates for an exceptional pairing.
Location: 103 Bree Street, Cape Town | Pop-up Locations: Time Out Market Cape Town, V&A Waterfront, The Old Power Station, Dock Rd; Grub & Vine Norval, The Norval Foundation, 4 Steenberg Rd, Tokai (Culture pop-up at Norval closes after 31 April 2024).
Hours: Mon-Sat: 12h00–Late
Contact: 087 153 5246 | Email | *A deposit of R 150 is required to book a booth.
culturewinebar.com | Facebook | Instagram
CellarClub
For a truly magical wine-tasting experience, visit the CellarClub. Located in the V&A Waterfront Clock Tower Mall, guests are seated in a 160-year-old underground cellar tunnel, making it one of the most unique wine bars in Cape Town. CellarClub hosts exclusive wine tastings on Thursdays, where a limited number of guests can try a selection of wines curated by their sommelier. Call ahead of bookings, as it’s pretty popular.
Location: Shop 11, Clock Tower Retail Centre, Portswood Rd, V&A Waterfront
Hours: Mon-Sat: 09h00–19h00 | Sun: 11h00–17h00
Contact: 081 488 1007 (WhatsApp for deliveries) | Email
cellarclub.co.za | Facebook | Instagram
Intravinous Wine Lounge & Bar
Indulge in conversation, delicious wines and food at Intravinous, a wine lounge and bar situated on Loop Street. Their Tasting Series highlights exquisite wines, produced by recognised and budding winemakers. Regular live jazz performances ensure a fantastic jaunt in the city.
Location: Glaston House, 110 Loop St, Cnr of Church Street, Cape Town City Centre
Hours: Closed Sun & Mon | Tues-Thurs: 12h00–19h00 | Fri & Sat: 12h00–20h00
Contact: 082 774 1588 | Email
Jack@SKYE Rooftop Bar, the Hyde Hotel
Perched atop the 6th floor of The Hyde Hotel in Sea Point, Jack@SKYE boasts a stunning panorama. This stylish rooftop bar offers a unique drinking experience, including wine flights from their comprehensive Bruce Jack wine offering, and paired canapés. With plenty of seating options to match your vibe, guests can choose between relaxed indoor seating, socialising in the dining area or lounging in casual cocktail nooks. This trendy spot is ideal for enjoying good wine with friends and watching romantic sunsets.
Location: Jack@SKYE Rooftop Bar, 6th floor, The Hyde Hotel, 13 London Road, Sea Point
Hours: Mon-Sun: 12h00–22h00
Contact: 021 434 0205
thehydehotel.com | Facebook | Instagram
Judd’s Local
At Judd’s Local Eatery and Wine Bar, newbies and regulars-turned-family are treated to a winning selection of food and local and international wines. Pop in to join their Tuesday Tastings, hosted by a different winery each week. Small plates featuring tasty dishes like snoek tacos, charcuterie boards, beetroot salad, and more are available. Check their social media platforms to stay up to date with special offerings and set menus.
Location: 141 Kloof Street Gardens, Cape Town
Hours: Mon: 16h00–23h30 | Tues-Sat: 10h00–23h30 | Closed Sun
Contact: 064 527 1272 | Email
juddslocal.co.za | Facebook | Instagram
Openwine
Positioned in the heart of the city, Openwine is one of the most popular wine bars in Cape Town. The stellar wine selection boasts popular and new labels. Visitors are encouraged to try their wine selection of the week, which highlights some hidden gems. Experience live jazz performances on Thursdays and Sundays for an exceptional wine-tasting experience.
Location: 72 Wale St, Cape Town City Centre
Hours: Closed Mon | Tues-Sat: 12h00–23h00 | Sun: 14h00–23h00
Contact: 021 422 0800 | Email
Leo’s Wine Bar
This brother-owned wine bar is loved by locals for its thriving wine culture. Located in the middle of Max’s Bagels, they specialise in natural and low-intervention wines. Sign up for their monthly boxes to taste some of the latest and greatest wines on the local market, and keep your eyes peeled on their socials for exciting collaborations.
Location: Shop 28, De Oude Schuur, 120 Bree Street, Cape Town City Centre
Hours: Mon-Sat: 17h00–23h00
Contact: 0760420224 | Email
leoswinebar.com | Facebook | Instagram
Pavement Special
New to the Cape Town wine bar scene is Pavement Special, located at The Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock. With a divine selection of natural wines and Neapolitan pizzas, they already have a dedicated fan base. Live DJ sets and selected sounds ensure a fantastic visit.
Location: The Old Biscuit Mill, 373 Albert Rd, Woodstock
Hours: Sun, Mon & Tues: 08h30–18h00 | Wed-Sun: 08h30–23h00
Contact: 021 447 6505
Publik
For a stunning wine experience, visit Publik. Explore lesser-known, organic, natural and sustainable wines produced by local, independent producers. The menu features artisanal, small-batch wines made with a minimal intervention approach. If you’re not the biggest wine aficionado but want to get more familiar with the world of wine, Publik is the perfect locale; they’re all about exploration and supporting the underdogs in the industry.
Location: 11D Kloofnek Road, Tamboerskloof
Hours: Mon-Fri: 16h00–23h00 | Sat: 15h00–20h00
Contact: Email
publik.co.za | Facebook | Instagram
The Drinkery
While recognised as a cocktail bar, this speakeasy celebrates more than just exceptional Highball drinks and Gin Fizzes. The Drinkery’s wine menu is updated regularly, but customers can expect a few classics listed between unique wines made with a modern approach. The trendy interiors and green velvet couches make it the ideal spot to catch a drink with friends.
Location: Heritage Square, 100 Shortmarket Street Mezzanine Level, Cape Town City Centre
Hours: Mon-Sat: 16h00–Late
Contact: 082 464 4866 | Email
The Wine Studio at One&Only Cape Town
With an impressive wine collection featuring approximately 700 labels, The Wine Studio is one of the most popular wine bars in Cape Town. Elegant and sophisticated in design, the establishment often hosts paired dinners and enlightening tastings by their sommelier, Luvo Ntezo. Indulge in vintages and rare wines or create your signature blend at The Wine Studio.
Location: One&Only Cape Town, Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront
Hours: Mon-Sun: 16h00–19h00
Contact: 021 431 4511/021 431 5888 | Email
oneandonlyresorts.com | Facebook | Instagram
Prefer cocktails? Visit these trendy cocktail bars in Cape Town or Joburg.
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