5 Best Bars in Cape Town, South Africa

Conjuring the atmosphere of a high-pedigree sports bar, this multistory eating-drinking-schmoozing establishment was formerly owned by sports enthusiast Herbert Tothill; it was once a kind of speakeasy that flew in the face of apartheid-era discrimination by welcoming patrons from across the color spectrum. Its new owners have taken inspiration from that era and used the walls and antique cabinets to curate memorabilia, newspaper clippings, and photographs that tell tales of South Africa’s often unsung athletes. Plush leather- and velvet-covered chairs, embossed wallpaper, Persian rugs on herringbone floors, and marble countertops bring a touch of sophistication, as do the canapés and snacks, tapas, and more substantial Greek and Mediterranean dishes. Their cocktails make use of barrel-aged spirits, and they are known to push the edges a bit, so ask the bartenders to see if they can surprise you. They regularly have live music.

Across the road from its sibling restaurant, The Black Sheep, this is the kind of neighborhood bar that every neighborhood wishes it had. Utterly eclectic, with mix-n-match decor and a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere, it's the kind of place where you can cozy up on a sofa or make friends at the bar. Head to the rooftop to enjoy your drink while staring at an unparalleled view of Table Mountain and Lion's Head, and an entire panorama of Cape Town. There's an excellent wine, beer, and cocktail selection, and some seriously tasty, slightly upscale bar food that could easily result in a decision to skip dinner.

Walk into this hipsterish contemporary take on an inner-city biker bar for a daytime caffeinated pick-me-up, or join the cross-the-board crowd for barrel-aged liquor, stirred and shaken into cocktails by a savvy team behind the bar. A smoky old fashioned or two and you’ll be good to join the after-dark crowd that gathers for free live music.

By day, this timeless neighborhood hangout is a vintage-style coffee shop with old-school vibes and a good breakfast and light meals to get you through the afternoon. Come evening, the atmosphere turns totally rock-n-roll and continues on well after midnight most nights. Expect a good list of wines (check the chalkboard), artisan beers, and a vibrant mix of people.

Styled with large leather benches and dark wooden tables, this evocation of a vintage bar is laid-back and jovial. A pool table, music, and a menu full of comfort foods draw crowds on the weekends, although under-21s are not allowed in.