If you’re craving an authentic Cape Town craft beer experience, you’re in the right place. From the urban buzz of Woodstock Brewery to the scenic charm of Soul Barrel in Simondium, Cape Town’s taproom scene is a treasure trove of fresh, innovative brews and great vibes. Whether you’re a hop-head, a sour beer explorer, or just looking for a solid pint paired with good food and company, this guide walks you through the top 12 taprooms where you can taste, learn, and immerse yourself in South Africa’s booming craft beer culture.
Why Cape Town’s Craft Beer Scene is Worth Your Visit
As a craft beer enthusiast who’s explored Cape Town’s brewing hubs extensively, I can tell you the city offers far more than just wine. The craft beer community here is vibrant and growing, supported by passionate brewers who blend tradition with innovation. Whether you want a laidback afternoon by the coast or a lively urban hangout with friends, Cape Town’s taprooms have got you covered.
Each taproom has its own vibe, signature brews, and unique features that make it stand out.
1. Woodstock Brewery — The Beer Hall Experience in the Heart of the City
Location: 252 Albert Road, Woodstock
Hours: Wed–Sun, 12 PM–10 PM (check website for sports event timings)
Pricing: Beers range from R30 to R45 per pint
If you want classic beer hall vibes, Woodstock Brewery is the place to start. Picture gleaming stainless steel tanks, towers of kegs, and a bustling crowd of locals glued to the big screen during rugby matches. I’ve spent many weekends here soaking up the energy and sipping through their lineup — from a crisp, refreshing lager to their hop-forward American IPA.
What I love most is the balcony area on a calm, windless day — it’s the perfect spot to unwind while tasting their eight permanent beers. The atmosphere is genuine, welcoming, and never pretentious. The local crowd makes it feel like your neighborhood pub, but with the perks of expertly brewed beer.
Why visit? Great for socializing, sports viewing, and trying dependable classics with a modern twist.
Pros:
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Wide selection of core beers
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Lively local crowd
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Sports screenings with big screen
Cons:
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Can get busy on game days
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Limited food options (bring a snack!)
Visit Woodstock Brewery Website | 📞 +27 21 448 5295 | Facebook
2. Afro Caribbean Brewing Company
Location: 157 2nd Avenue, Kenilworth
Hours: Mon–Fri 3 PM–9 PM; Sat–Sun 12 PM–10 PM
Pricing: Flights from R60; pints R35–R50
Banana Jam café has been a Kenilworth staple for great pizza and beers on tap, but the Afro Caribbean Brewing Company upstairs is where things get truly exciting. Since launching in 2015, they’ve become synonymous with innovation — from funky sours and rich porters to hazy IPAs and everything in between.
With around 30 beers on tap, I often find myself overwhelmed but thrilled to explore the vast array of flavors. The packaging alone is eye-catching, but the true magic is in the liquid. This taproom is perfect for those who want to dive deep into the spectrum of craft beers, especially if you enjoy trying new and experimental brews.
Why visit? Best spot for adventurous palates and variety lovers.
Pros:
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Massive selection of rotating taps
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Great food pairings with pizza
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Vibrant, trendy ambiance
Cons:
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Can feel crowded on weekends
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Limited seating upstairs
Afro Caribbean Brewing Company Website | 📞 +27 21 705 4989 | Instagram
3. Shackleton Brewery
Location: 23 Transvaal Street, Paarden Eiland
Hours: Tue–Sat 12 PM–8 PM
Pricing: Pints R40–R55
Named after Ernest Shackleton, the Antarctic explorer, Shackleton Brewery lives up to its namesake by boldly exploring new brewing frontiers. Their taproom is where you can sample their creative range of ales, stouts, and limited-edition IPAs fresh from the tap.
I appreciate that they also host private events, making it a versatile venue for beer lovers looking for an intimate experience. The industrial-chic setting adds to the brewery’s adventurous spirit, encouraging you to try something outside the norm.
Why visit? Ideal for experimental beer fans and private gatherings.
Pros:
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Unique, small-batch brews
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Fresh beer straight from the source
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Event-friendly space
Cons:
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Location in industrial area
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Smaller taproom capacity
Shackleton Brewery Website | 📞 +27 21 448 7710 | Instagram
4. LOCAL Brewery & Co
Location: 35 Sussex Street, Woodstock
Hours: Fri 3 PM–late; special events on weekends
Pricing: Beers from R35 per pint
LOCAL Brewery & Co stands out with its founder’s biochemistry background, resulting in one of Cape Town’s best lagers. Their industrial taproom feels authentic and raw — just how a craft brewery should be.
One highlight is the “Bottoms Up Beer Dispenser,” an innovative way to pour your own fresh beer straight from the barrel, which I found quite a fun experience. If you’re into clean, crisp lagers with scientific precision, LOCAL should be on your itinerary.
Why visit? For lager lovers and those curious about beer innovation.
Pros:
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Outstanding lagers
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Unique self-pouring system
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Authentic industrial vibe
Cons:
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Limited opening hours
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Small taproom
LOCAL Brewery & Co Website | 📞 +27 82 444 1234 | Facebook
5. Saggy Stone — Kloof Street’s Indie Craft Haven
Location: 18 Kloof Street, Gardens
Hours: Wed–Sun 3 PM–10 PM
Pricing: Pints R40–R50
Originating from the Robertson Valley, Saggy Stone brings mountain-brewed craft beer to the city in their vibrant Kloof Street taproom. It’s the perfect mix between a bar and restaurant, with a solid range of ales, small batches, and interesting experimental collaborations.
Their California Steam beer is a personal favorite — nicely balanced with a hint of smoky character. The relaxed, artsy atmosphere makes it a great place for after-work drinks or casual weekends.
Why visit? Perfect for those who want a mix of experimentation and social vibes.
Pros:
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Varied beer styles
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Relaxed, stylish venue
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Food menu available
Cons:
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Can get noisy on weekends
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Limited parking nearby
Saggy Stone Website | 📞 +27 21 422 2393 | Instagram
6. Aegir Project Brewery — Coastal Craft Beer in Noordhoek
Location: 65 Beach Road, Noordhoek
Hours: Thu–Sun 12 PM–8 PM
Pricing: Pints R40–R60
Tucked away in Noordhoek, Aegir Project Brewery is a hidden gem that combines quirky, quality craft beer with breathtaking coastal views. They’ve expanded from a small brewing operation into a full-service taproom and restaurant, but their dedication to craft remains front and center.
I highly recommend the scenic drive down for the full experience — sampling their range, including rare brews, paired with their thoughtfully crafted, beer-friendly menu. It’s a destination for beer and food lovers alike.
Why visit? For scenic views, quality craft, and great food.
Pros:
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Unique coastal setting
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Full-service taproom & restaurant
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Seasonal and niche beers
Cons:
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A bit of a drive from central Cape Town
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Limited public transport access
Aegir Project Website | 📞 +27 21 789 1234 | Instagram
7. Jack Black’s Brewing Co. Taproom — Old Biscuit Mill’s Legendary Brews
Location: 10 Brigid Road, Diep River
Hours: Wed–Sun 12 PM–8 PM
Pricing: Pints R40–R50; growler fills available
Jack Black’s journey from a keg in the Old Biscuit Mill market to a beloved city-wide brand is impressive. Their taproom in Diep River offers the original brews alongside limited releases, making it a must-visit for loyal fans and newcomers.
The atmosphere is unpretentious, and their burgers are excellent — perfect for pairing with a cold pint. Plus, they sell and refill growlers, ideal for taking your favorite beers home.
Why visit? A relaxed vibe with a hometown feel and great beer-food combos.
Pros:
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Iconic Cape Town brand
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Great food pairings
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Growler fills available
Cons:
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Outside the main city center
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Can get busy during peak times
Jack Black’s Website | 📞 +27 21 447 5724 | Instagram
8. Soul Barrel Taproom — Rustic Charm and Wild Ales in Simondium
Location: On the R45, Simondium (near Paarl)
Hours: Fri–Sun 12 PM–6 PM
Pricing: Flights R75; pints R40–R55
On the road between Paarl and Franschhoek, Soul Barrel is a rustic craft beer haven set on a working farm. I love this place for its laid-back, family-friendly vibe and a garden where kids can roam freely while you savor wild-fermented sours and hop-forward IPAs.
Their Ale of Origin, fermented spontaneously using wild yeasts, is an adventurous drink that perfectly captures their commitment to bold, local flavors. Don’t miss the scenic vineyard views that complement the tasting experience.
Why visit? For natural, artisanal brews and a relaxed farm atmosphere.
Pros:
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Focus on wild, local ingredients
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Family and pet-friendly
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Guided tours and tastings available
Cons:
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Limited opening days
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Requires a drive from Cape Town proper
Soul Barrel Website | 📞 +27 21 863 3456 | Instagram
9. Taproom Salt River
Location: 150 Cecil Road, Salt River
Hours: Mon–Sat 12 PM–10 PM
Pricing: Flights R80; pints R35–R50
Taproom Salt River is where Cape Town’s pioneering craft brand Devil’s Peak continues to shine. Despite their growth, their core brews and special releases remain true to craft roots.
The atmosphere is lively and urban, making it a perfect after-work hangout. The burgers are a local legend, but honestly, the real star is the beer — especially if you want to sample multiple styles with a flight.
Why visit? For solid core beers and a buzzing urban vibe.
Pros:
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Well-established brand
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Great food and beer combo
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Central location
Cons:
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Can get crowded
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Not ideal for quiet tasting sessions
Devil’s Peak Website | 📞 +27 21 448 1273 | Instagram
10. Hey Joe Brewing Co. — Belgian-Inspired Brews in the Winelands
Location: R45, Franschhoek outskirts
Hours: Fri–Sun 12 PM–8 PM
Pricing: Pints R45–R65
Bringing a slice of Belgium to the Cape Winelands, Hey Joe Brewing Co. serves up elegant Belgian-style ales and farmhouse brews. If you want a break from hops and IPAs, this taproom offers beautifully crafted saisons, dubbels, and tripels that delight the palate.
The tranquil Winelands setting pairs perfectly with their artisanal beer and cheese platters, making it a great day-trip destination.
Why visit? For lovers of Belgian styles and scenic wine country.
Pros:
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Unique Belgian-inspired brews
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Picturesque setting
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Food pairings available
Cons:
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Limited hours and days
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Not centrally located in Cape Town
Hey Joe Brewing Co. Website | 📞 +27 21 876 3345 | Instagram
11. Jack Black’s Old Biscuit Mill Taproom — The Original Market Brewery
Location: 373-375 Albert Road, Woodstock (Old Biscuit Mill Market)
Hours: Thu–Sun 11 AM–6 PM
Pricing: R30–R45 per pint
While their Diep River taproom is popular, don’t miss the original Jack Black’s spot inside the Old Biscuit Mill market. Here you get a relaxed, casual vibe with direct access to the market’s bustling food stalls.
It’s a great place to grab a quick craft beer while you explore other market delights or meet fellow beer fans.
Why visit? Ideal for a casual market stop with craft beer.
Pros:
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Central, easy access
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Vibrant market atmosphere
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Great for quick tastings
Cons:
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Smaller taproom
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Can be busy during market hours
12. The Brewing Room — Fusion of Food and Beer in Green Point
Location: The Silo District, V&A Waterfront
Hours: Daily 12 PM–10 PM
Pricing: Pints R50+
If you want a stylish taproom experience combined with upscale dining, The Brewing Room at the V&A Waterfront delivers. Their menu pairs beautifully with a wide range of craft beers brewed on-site.
It’s a perfect spot for those who want to experience Cape Town’s craft beer scene with a side of luxury and fantastic views of the harbor.
Why visit? For foodies who want craft beer with flair.
Pros:
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Great food and drink pairing
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Waterfront views
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Stylish ambiance
Cons:
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Pricier than typical taprooms
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Less focused on hardcore craft beer purism
The Brewing Room Website | 📞 +27 21 409 7014 | Instagram
My Top 3 Must-Visit Taprooms in Cape Town
If I had to pick just three to experience the essence of Cape Town craft beer, here’s my personal shortlist:
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Woodstock Brewery — Classic vibe with consistent, high-quality beers.
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Afro Caribbean Brewing Company — For adventurous drinkers craving variety and experimentation.
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Soul Barrel Taproom — For wild ales, rustic charm, and stunning vineyard views.
Final Tips for Your Cape Town Craft Beer Adventure
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Plan ahead: Many taprooms have special events or limited opening hours, especially outside the city center.
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Transport: Consider ride-hailing services to enjoy tastings responsibly.
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Food: Some taprooms have excellent food; others are BYO or food trucks nearby.
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Pace yourself: Flights or tasting paddles let you sample multiple beers without overdoing it.
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Meet locals: South African beer lovers are friendly and love sharing recommendations.
