It’s no surprise that Cape Town is home to a superb cocktail scene alongside its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and world-class dining. Whether you’re a gin enthusiast, a tequila lover, or a fan of experimental mixology, the Mother City has a bar for you. Featuring anecdotes, detailed reviews, and practical tips to help you plan your night out, we’ll guide you through the 15 best cocktail bars in Cape Town.
1. The Gin Bar
Hidden Gem Behind a Chocolate Shop
Location:Â Behind Honest Chocolate, 64A Wale Street, Cape Town
Opening Hours:
- Monday – Wednesday: 5pm – 1am
- Thursday – Saturday: 3pm – 1am
Contact: 071 241 2277, [email protected]
Instagram:Â @theginbar_ct
Tucked away behind Honest Chocolate, The Gin Bar is a speakeasy-style haven for gin lovers. Housed in a heritage building that once served as a mortuary, this bar offers a unique atmosphere with its Chapel Room and charming courtyard.
What to Try:
- Dry Gin Martini:Â Garnished with pickled kelp for a local twist.
- Negroni with Kapokbos:Â A South African take on the classic, featuring wild rosemary.
- Honest Chocolate Cocktail:Â A must-try for chocolate lovers.
Personal Insight:
“Stepping into The Gin Bar feels like discovering a secret world. The dim lighting, the vintage decor, and the extensive gin menu make it a perfect spot for a quiet, intimate evening. Don’t miss the Bubbly Bar in the former embalming room – it’s a quirky touch that adds to the charm.”
Pros:
- Over 100 gins, including 80 local varieties.
- Unique, historic setting.
- Knowledgeable staff.
Cons:
- Limited seating; arrive early to secure a spot.
2. StrangeLove
Cocktail Lounge with a Distillery View
Location:Â 7 Hopkins Street, Salt River, Cape Town
Opening Hours:Â By appointment only
Contact: 021 447 1950, [email protected]
Instagram:Â @strangelove_ct
Perched above Hope Distillery, StrangeLove offers a front-row seat to the art of spirit-making. This bookings-only lounge is perfect for connoisseurs looking for a curated cocktail experience.
What to Try:
- Gin Alexander:Â Paired with a nutmeg macaron.
- Negroni Sour:Â Served with negroni jelly and Huguenot cheese.
- Vodka-Lime Cocktail:Â Accompanied by smoked almonds.
Personal Insight:
“The three-course cocktail menu at StrangeLove is a revelation. Each drink is paired with a bite-sized canapé, creating a symphony of flavors. Watching the distillery in action adds an extra layer of intrigue to the experience.”
Pros:
- Unique cocktail pairings.
- Intimate, exclusive setting.
Cons:
- Requires advance booking.
3. The Art of Duplicity
1920s Speakeasy with a Twist
Location:Â Secret location (disclosed upon booking)
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 6pm – late
Contact:Â [email protected]
Instagram:Â @theartofduplicity
Hidden in a 19th-century warehouse, The Art of Duplicity is a moody, atmospheric bar that channels the spirit of the 1920s. Access is granted via a password, adding to the allure.
What to Try:
- Coffee-Infused Gin: A nod to owner David Donde’s Truth Coffee.
- Butter-Washed Gin:Â A rich, velvety concoction.
Personal Insight:
“Finding The Art of Duplicity feels like being part of a secret society. The dimly lit space, vintage decor, and experimental cocktails make it a must-visit for anyone looking for something out of the ordinary.”
Pros:
- Unique, immersive experience.
- Creative cocktail menu.
Cons:
- Limited accessibility due to secret location.
4. The Blue Room
Jazz Club Meets Cocktail Lounge
Location:Â 103 Bree Street, Cape Town
Opening Hours:
- Happy Hour: 4pm – 6pm
- Dinner: 6pm – 8pm
- Shows: 8pm – 10pm
Contact: 087 153 5246, [email protected]
Instagram:Â @theblueroom_ct
The Blue Room combines top-notch cocktails, fantastic food, and live jazz in a speakeasy-style setting. It’s the perfect spot for a grown-up night out.
What to Try:
- Southside on Bree:Â A refreshing gin cocktail with grapefruit tonic.
Personal Insight:
“The Blue Room is where I go when I want to feel sophisticated. The live jazz, the candlelit tables, and the expertly crafted cocktails create an ambiance that’s hard to beat.”
Pros:
- Great live music.
- Excellent food and drink pairings.
Cons:
- Shows can get crowded; book in advance.
5. Aperitif
Italian-Inspired Cocktail Bar
Location:Â 227 Bree Street, CBD, Cape Town
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 12.30pm – 1am
Contact: 081 805 5312, [email protected]
Instagram:Â @aperitif_ct
Aperitif brings a touch of Italian aperitivo culture to Cape Town. With its chic decor and relaxed vibe, it’s a great spot for summer sipping.
What to Try:
- Cocoa-Nib Negroni:Â Served with caramelised orange dipped in chocolate.
- Turmeric Margarita:Â A golden, spicy twist on the classic.
Personal Insight:
“Aperitif feels like a little slice of Italy in the heart of Cape Town. The outdoor seating is perfect for people-watching, and the cocktails are always on point.”
Pros:
- Stylish, relaxed atmosphere.
- Great for groups.
Cons:
- Can get noisy during peak hours.
6. Asoka
Decadent Asian-Inspired Lounge
Location:Â 68 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 6pm – late
Contact: 021 422 0909, [email protected]
Instagram:Â @asoka_ct
Asoka has been a Kloof Street staple for over a decade, thanks to its intoxicating vibe and Asian-inspired cocktails.
What to Try:
- Hello Kyoto:Â Peach-infused Jameson with sake and lemon.
- Greenfields:Â Gin, elderflower, apple, cucumber, and lemon.
Personal Insight:
“Asoka is my go-to spot for a night of dancing and cocktails. The fairy-lit olive tree and live jazz create a magical atmosphere that’s hard to resist.”
Pros:
- Vibrant, lively atmosphere.
- Great for groups.
Cons:
- Can get crowded on weekends.
7. Tjing Tjing Rooftop Bar
Hidden Rooftop Gem
Location:Â 165 Longmarket Street, Cape Town
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 4pm – late
Contact: 021 422 4374, [email protected]
Instagram:Â @tjingtjing_ct
Perched on the third floor of a 200-year-old building, Tjing Tjing Rooftop Bar offers stunning views and Japanese-inspired cocktails.
What to Try:
- Maneki-Neko Margarita:Â With togarashi and yuzu kosho.
- Beetle Basil Smash:Â Gin-based with thyme, lavender, and shiso.
Personal Insight:
“Tjing Tjing feels like a hidden treasure. The rooftop terrace is small and intimate, making it the perfect spot for a romantic evening.”
Pros:
- Stunning views.
- Unique cocktail menu.
Cons:
- Limited seating.
8. Una Más Mezcaleria
Mezcal Haven in Sea Point
Location:Â 77 Regent Road, Sea Point, Cape Town
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 12pm – late
Contact: 076 705 8410, [email protected]
Instagram:Â @unamas_ct
Una Más is a cozy mezcaleria that serves up authentic Mexican cocktails and tapas.
What to Try:
- Mezcaloma:Â A smoky, spicy paloma.
- Classic Margarita:Â With a twist of watermelon or papaya.
Personal Insight:
“Una Más is my favorite spot for a casual night out. The mezcal cocktails are fantastic, and the tapas are the perfect accompaniment.”
Pros:
- Authentic Mexican flavors.
- Great for groups.
Cons:
- Can get noisy during peak hours.
9. The Drinkery
Speakeasy with a Modern Twist
Location:Â Heritage Square, 100 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town
Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday, 4pm – 12am
Contact: 079 329 7026, [email protected]
Instagram:Â @thedrinkery_ct
The Drinkery is a hidden gem above Heritage Square, offering premium cocktails in a speakeasy-style setting.
What to Try:
- Amasi Dream:Â A milk punch with coconut-washed gin.
Personal Insight:
“The Drinkery is the perfect spot for a quiet, sophisticated evening. The cocktails are expertly crafted, and the atmosphere is relaxed and inviting.”
Pros:
- Premium cocktails.
- Intimate setting.
Cons:
- Limited seating.
10. The Nines
Rooftop Lounge with Ocean Views
Location:Â Station House, 19 Kloof Road, Sea Point, Cape Town
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 11pm
Contact: 021 745 6609, [email protected]
Instagram:Â @thenines_ct
The Nines offers stunning ocean views and a plush cocktail lounge on the ninth floor.
What to Try:
- Tingling Lips: A jalapeño and dill margarita.
- Toasted Oat and Cherry Negroni:Â Made with Japanese gin.
Personal Insight:
“The Nines is the perfect spot for a special occasion. The views are breathtaking, and the cocktails are as impressive as the setting.”
Pros:
- Stunning views.
- Luxurious atmosphere.
Cons:
- Can be pricey.
11. Hacienda
Coastal Mexican Eatery
Location:Â 92 Bree Street, Cape Town
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10.30pm
Contact: 021 422 0128, [email protected]
Instagram:Â @hacienda_ct
Hacienda brings the flavors of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula to Cape Town, complete with fabulous margaritas.
What to Try:
- Tequila Tasting Flights:Â Three or five options.
- Margaritas:Â Half-price during happy hour.
Personal Insight:
“Hacienda is my go-to spot for a fun, lively evening. The margaritas are fantastic, and the atmosphere is always buzzing.”
Pros:
- Great for groups.
- Fun, lively atmosphere.
Cons:
- Can get crowded.
12. Vista Bar & Lounge
Elegant Rooftop Retreat
Location:Â One&Only Cape Town, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 11am – 11.30pm
Contact: 021 431 5888, [email protected]
Instagram:Â @vistabar_ct
Vista Bar offers elegant cocktails and stunning views of Table Mountain.
What to Try:
- Watchers’ Cocktails: Inspired by the elements.
Personal Insight:
“Vista Bar is the perfect spot for a relaxing evening. The views are stunning, and the cocktails are expertly crafted.”
Pros:
- Stunning views.
- Elegant atmosphere.
Cons:
- Can be pricey.
13. The Athletic Club & Social
Colonial-Meets-Modern Cocktail Bar
Location:Â 35 Buitengracht Street, Cape Town
Opening Hours:
- Monday: 4pm – 11pm
- Tuesday: 12pm – 11pm
- Wednesday: 12pm – midnight
- Thursday – Saturday: 12pm – 2am
Contact: 084 087 5566, [email protected]
Instagram:Â @theathletic_ct
The Athletic Club & Social offers a whimsical design and three unique bars.
What to Try:
- Paper Plane:Â Amaro herbal liqueur and lemon juice.
Personal Insight:
“The Athletic Club is a feast for the senses. The decor is stunning, and the cocktails are always on point.”
Pros:
- Unique design.
- Great for groups.
Cons:
- Can get crowded.
14. Rita’s Cocktail Club
Tequila Oasis
Location:Â Above Hudsons, 22 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Opening Hours:
- Tuesday – Thursday: 4.30pm – 2am
- Friday – Sunday: 3pm – 2am
Contact: 021 300 6695, [email protected]
Instagram:Â @ritas_ct
Rita’s Cocktail Club is a vibrant tequila bar with a 1950s vibe.
What to Try:
- Modern Margarita:Â With clarified citrus and lime-flavored air.
Personal Insight:
“Rita’s is my favorite spot for a fun night out. The margaritas are fantastic, and the rooftop terrace is the perfect place to enjoy them.”
Pros:
- Fun, lively atmosphere.
- Great for groups.
Cons:
- Can get noisy.
15. Chinchilla
Bohemian Rooftop Bar
Location:Â The Promenade, 201 Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town
Opening Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 4pm – 10pm
- Friday – Sunday: 12pm – 10pm
Contact: 021 286 5075, [email protected]
Instagram:Â @chinchilla_ct
Chinchilla offers stunning ocean views and a bohemian vibe.
What to Try:
- Purple Haze:Â Vodka, coconut, litchi, and pear.
Personal Insight:
“Chinchilla is the perfect spot for a summer sundowner. The views are breathtaking, and the cocktails are refreshing and delicious.”
Pros:
- Stunning views.
- Relaxed atmosphere.
Cons:
- Can get crowded.
FAQs
Q: What is the best time to visit Cape Town’s cocktail bars?
A: Evenings, especially during happy hours (usually between 4pm and 6pm), are ideal for enjoying discounted drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Q: Are reservations required?
A: For popular spots like StrangeLove and The Art of Duplicity, reservations are highly recommended.
Q: What is the average price of a cocktail in Cape Town?
A: Cocktails typically range from ZAR 80 to ZAR 150, depending on the bar and the ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
Cape Town’s cocktail scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Whether you’re looking for a hidden speakeasy, a rooftop bar with stunning views, or a lively lounge with live music, there’s something for everyone. So, grab your friends, pick a spot, and raise a glass to the Mother City’s incredible cocktail culture.
Disclaimer:
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors, such as price, cost, time, and location. Please verify details directly with the venues before visiting.
