There is something for everyone in Johannesburg’s nightlife, from secret speakeasies to rooftop lounges and wine sanctuaries. This guide features my top picks based on firsthand experience, insider recommendations, and undeniable vibes, whether you want skyline views, handcrafted cocktails, or karaoke with friends.
Why Trust This Guide?
I’ve explored Joburg’s nightlife from Melville to Bryanston. Listed here are carefully chosen spots that stood out for their atmosphere, quality, and experience. Your no-fluff guide to Johannesburg’s best bars and pubs.
Sin+Tax—Best Cocktail Bar in Johannesburg
Location: Rosebank (off Jan Smuts Ave)
Atmosphere: Sophisticated, artsy, and intimate
Sin+Tax is not just a bar; it’s a cocktail theater. The entrance is unmarked and low-key — almost like a secret. Once inside, the moody lighting, smooth jazz, and award-winning cocktails elevate everything.
My standout memory? A jazz night with Kopano Jazz Club filling the room with soul while sipping their smoky mezcal creation garnished with burnt rosemary.
What Makes It Special:
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Hidden entrance for a speakeasy feel
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Curated cocktail menu with seasonal ingredients
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Live jazz sets with incredible acoustics
Pros:
• Expert mixology
• Great for date nights or special occasions
• Unique, stylish ambiance
Cons:
• Pricey cocktails
• Seating is limited — arrive early
The Roof, Bryanston—Best for Sunset Views
Location: Bryanston
Atmosphere: Rooftop chic with an unbeatable skyline
I recommend getting here around 5:30 PM. You’ll watch Sandton’s skyscrapers catch the sunset while enjoying a mojito. The crowd is relaxed, the decor is crisp, and the vibe is all about escape.
They host live DJ sets, and it’s usually buzzing by 7 PM on weekends.
What Makes It Special:
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Panoramic rooftop views
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Great for after-work or weekend chill
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Laid-back yet trendy atmosphere
Pros:
• Beautiful photo-worthy backdrops
• DJ nights without the chaos of a club
• Decent food options
Cons:
• Limited indoor space in poor weather
Obscura Bar—Best Hidden Gem in Rosebank
Location: Rosebank
Atmosphere: Mysterious, cozy, and refined
Tucked away and intentionally small, Obscura Bar feels like discovering a secret. It’s dim, warm, and filled with artful design. I tried the Basil Smash here — vibrant, fresh, and served with a sprig of mint that made the whole experience pop.
Bonus: Try the “Curious Explorer” game — spin a wheel and let fate choose your cocktail.
What Makes It Special:
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Speakeasy aesthetics
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Elevated cocktail experience
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Highly personalized service
Pros:
• Quiet and intimate
• Consistently strong mixology
• Interactive drink selection
Cons:
• Hard to find unless you know where to look
Smoking Kills—Best for Live Music & Alternative Vibes
Location: Melville
Atmosphere: Punk rock meets indie haven
This is where I go when I want real music and a break from pretense. Think graffiti walls, red neon, and a crowd that loves its music loud. Their pulled beef with crispy chips? Seriously underrated.
Live gigs most weekends, with affordable beers and laid-back service.
What Makes It Special:
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Underground music scene
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Eclectic decor and unfiltered vibe
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Solid pub food menu
Pros:
• Affordable prices
• Regular live shows
• Cool, alternative crowd
Cons:
• Can get rowdy late at night
Streetbar Named Desire—Most Fun & Energetic Spot
Location: Parkwood
Atmosphere: Bold, vibrant, and always buzzing
Three floors, three vibes. Ground floor for dancing, third for chill drinks, second floor… just the bathrooms. It’s loud, confident, and full of energy.
Their Drag Brunches? Iconic. The DJs are top-tier, and their cocktails hit hard (in a good way).
What Makes It Special:
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Multi-level fun
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Inclusive, electric energy
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Weekly themed events and DJ sets
Pros:
• Always something happening
• Perfect for groups and celebrations
• Beautiful aesthetics and lighting
Cons:
• On the pricier side for drinks
Klein Bietjie Wyn—Best Wine Bar in Linden
Location: Linden
Atmosphere: Calm, rustic, intimate
If you love wine the way I do, this is your kind of place. Boutique bottles, wine cocktails, and expert pairings. Ideal for midweek catchups or lazy Sundays.
Their bar takeovers are a must-attend —you’ll meet local winemakers and taste exclusive blends.
What Makes It Special:
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Focused wine experience
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Quiet and sophisticated
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Great bar snack selection
Pros:
• Educational tastings
• Cozy and relaxed atmosphere
• Knowledgeable staff
Cons:
• Not ideal for big groups
MAMASAMBA—Tropical Getaway Vibes in the City
Location: Rosebank
Atmosphere: Immersive, jungle-luxe
MAMASAMBA doesn’t feel like Johannesburg. From the live-fire kitchen to the lush rooftop terrace, it’s like stepping into Tulum. The upstairs bar is my favorite — try one of their sipping tequilas while listening to world-class music acts.
What Makes It Special:
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Immersive decor and design
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Strong Latin American influence
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High-end cocktail experience
Pros:
• Unique decor and vibe
• Great for Instagram moments
• Rooftop terrace is magical
Cons:
• Pricey food and drinks
Kings Cross Bar—Top Pub Vibe with Cape Town Energy
Location: Parkhurst
Atmosphere: Lively and casual
Right next to The Station Parkhurst, this bar is a local favorite for a reason. Their nachos and burgers are great for soaking up the night, and the crowd is always welcoming.
They also run fun competitions with real prizes — perfect for midweek vibes or Friday nights out.
What Makes It Special:
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Consistently fun atmosphere
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Easy mix of locals and visitors
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Great food with a strong drink list
Pros:
• Affordable meals
• Consistent energy
• Ties in with The Station’s events
Cons:
• Can get packed quickly
Mr. Pants—Best Intimate Spot for Wine Lovers
Location: Blairgowrie
Atmosphere: Cozy, quiet, and refined
This is my go-to when I want a quiet glass of wine and some thinking space. It’s small, but that’s the charm. The semi-outdoor seating lets you enjoy a Joburg evening in peace.
Recently, they added a rooftop — perfect for those sunset wine moments.
What Makes It Special:
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Small, intimate setting
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Carefully curated wine list
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Ideal for solo visits or dates
Pros:
• Cozy and stylish
• Rooftop addition is a big win
• Quiet, unpretentious vibe
Cons:
• Small space fills up fast
Karaoke Kong—Best Place to Let Loose and Sing
Location: Melville
Atmosphere: Playful, energetic, community-driven
Sometimes, you just want to sing “Bohemian Rhapsody” at full volume. Karaoke Kong is perfect for that. The drinks are cheap, the staff is supportive, and the playlist is endless.
Arrive early if you want your song to make the list — it fills up fast on weekends.
What Makes It Special:
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Boutique karaoke experience
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Great for groups and parties
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No judgement, all fun
Pros:
• Budget-friendly
• Encouraging crowd
• Themed nights add variety
Cons:
• Limited seating during peak hours
Living Room—Best Sundowners in Maboneng
Location: Maboneng
Atmosphere: Green, airy, and effortlessly cool
Part jungle, part rooftop, part lounge — Living Room is the ideal blend of nature and nightlife. The DJ sets are always spot-on, and the drinks flow easily. Perfect for Sunday chillouts or daytime events.
Their terrace overlooks Joburg’s gritty skyline — a view you won’t forget.
What Makes It Special:
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Eco-conscious and plant-filled space
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Day-to-night venue flexibility
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Incredible city views
Pros:
• Great music curation
• Open-air comfort
• Excellent cocktails
Cons:
• Only open to the public on weekends
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re sipping a smoky cocktail at Sin+Tax or dancing under the stars at Streetbar Named Desire, Johannesburg’s nightlife offers more than you might expect. It’s not just about where you drink — it’s about the vibe, the people, and the moments.
As someone who’s experienced these spots firsthand, I can confidently say Jozi has something for every mood.
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 pricing, hours, or location details. Please consult official websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
