Once a rite of passage for nightclub newcomers and tourists, Long Street has lost its charm, but with Nkula Cocktail & Wine Boutique as its latest resident, that reputation might just change. Founded by filmmaker and Mama Africa restaurant owner Simbi Nkula, the speakeasy-style cocktail and wine bar champions Black Consciousness, with Black and Coloured South African winemakers at the forefront. Their focus? Supporting marginalised producers. More than your average wine bar, “Nkula gives these creators a platform where their talent, heritage and craft are celebrated, not overlooked. It’s about visibility, equity and rewriting the narrative in the wine world,” says Simbi. We chat with him about the inspiration behind Nkula and challenging old-world perspectives within the industry.
What was the inspiration behind Nkula?
Nkula was inspired by a desire to create something deeply intentional – a space that celebrates our roots, honours African excellence and offers a premium experience for wine and cocktail lovers. It came from recognising a gap in the market for a venue that was not only proudly Black-owned but also curated with soul, story and sophistication.
Why did you want to champion black winemakers?
Black and Brown winemakers have long been underrepresented in an industry they’ve contributed to for generations. For us, championing their work isn’t a trend – it’s a mission. Nkula gives these creators a platform where their talent, heritage and craft are celebrated, not overlooked. It’s about visibility, equity and rewriting the narrative in the wine world.
More wine bars have opened in Cape Town. What makes Nkula’s offering unique?
Nkula stands out because it’s rooted in cultural storytelling. Every detail, from the drinks menu to the interiors to the music, is curated with intention. We’re not just serving wine – we’re serving an experience. We’re also proudly and unapologetically Black in ownership and aesthetic, and we make space for conversations, creativity and community.
What inspired the interiors and the menu?
The interiors are a fusion of Afro-chic elegance and urban sanctuary. We wanted it to feel like stepping into a lush, modern oasis – a place that’s calming, warm and culturally rich. The menu follows the same ethos: it’s rooted in African ingredients and global inspiration, offering something that feels both familiar and elevated.
Tell us about some standout drinks.
Nkula Merlot – Smooth, rich and proudly local. Our house red is perfect for cool Cape Town evenings, offering depth and warmth in every sip.
The Biko Cocktail – Our reimagined take on an Old Fashioned. It’s complex, smoky and layered with African spices – a drink that embodies the spirit of resilience and refinement.
Magna Carta Orange Wine – It isn’t just another pour; it’s a bold expression of natural winemaking and a testament to freedom in every sip. Crafted by Mphumeleli ‘Mphumi’ Ndlangisa, founder of Magna Carta Wines, this amber-hued marvel embodies both radical technique and deep storytelling.
Long Street was once the heart of Cape Town’s nightlife. How is Nkula reclaiming that title?
Long Street has always been a cultural hotspot, but its reputation has changed over time. We chose it intentionally – to reclaim space and bring back a sense of pride and quality. Nkula is part of a revival – we call it #LongStreetRewritten. We’re offering a premium, culturally grounded alternative that feels safe, soulful and special. We want to remind people of what Long Street can be.
What experience do you hope guests leave with?
We hope they leave feeling seen, inspired and at home. Nkula is about connection – to self, to community and to culture. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, we want you to walk away with a sense of having experienced something intentional and unforgettable. It’s a place that holds space for joy, story and celebration.
Visit Nkula Cocktail & Wine Boutique at 188A Long Street, Cape Town. Open Mon-Thurs from 16h00–02h00 and Fri-Sun from 13h00–02h00. Follow Nkula on Instagram for upcoming events and tastings.
