This is the definitive guide to the Mother City’s 50 best clubs and bars for all those nocturnal by nature.

From sleek and stylish lounges dripping with sophistication, to wild and raucous dance floors calling your inner party animal, we have curated a selection that caters to every taste and desire. Whether you’re looking for an intimate setting for an evening of heartfelt conversations, or a wild night of unabashed revelry, Cape Town’s nightlife scene has it all.

Be prepared to dance, mingle, and create memories that will linger long after the night fades away with our list of the 50 Best Clubs and Bars in Cape Town:

City Bowl

Halo

HALO is one of South Africa’s premier nightclub experiences, combining a world of opulent fantasy with unparalleled sound and visuals. This popular nightlife venue hosts weekly events for guests aged 21 and over.

Location: 71 Loop St, Cape Town City Centre
Contact:  +27 72 632 8163
Website: haloworldbeyond.com

 

Saint Champagne Bar & Lounge

Built for pleasure, Saint Champagne Bar and Lounge is a perfectly contemporary-styled venue to enjoy your night out in the Mother City. This sophisticated high-end nightclub has become a celebrity oasis for Africa’s top musicians, TV personalities and socialites.

Location: 37 Harrington St, Cape Town
Price: Free Entry
Contact:+27 77 384 9023 and +27 84 963 8405
Website: www.saintlounge.co.za

The Pink Candy Nightclub

Dubbed Cape Town’s premier LGBTQI+ nightclub, The Pink Candy (formerly Pink Panther Social Club) Night Club is a hugely popular party destination in the city. Get there early as this local hotspot gets packed. Expect resident DJs to deliver a mix of house, dance and the latest international hits. 

Location: 120 Strand St, Cape Town
Price: Cover charge R100
Contact: 082 332 9051
Website: www.facebook.com/ThePinkCandyNightClub

Mavericks Revue Bar

For high-end adult entertainment, there is nowhere in South Africa that approaches the level of Mavericks Revue Bar. Famous for fantasy shows, burlesque performances and exotic dancing in one of five lounges. With over 100 dancers from South Africa and around the world, Mavericks is an unforgettable Cape Town experience. Mavericks prides itself on world-class service, along with a mouth-watering menu, polished off with a wide selection of beverages and a collection of fine cigars.

Location:  68 Barrack St, Cape Town City Centre
Price: Cover charge: R100
Contact: Call +27 21 461 9988 or WhatsApp +27 63 261 2312 
Website: mavericks.co.za/
 

Club Paradise

Experience Cape Town’s latest premium nightclub, Club Paradise. Set in the east city precinct, feel pulsating beats reverberating through state-of-the-art sound systems, delivered by top-class DJ in a stylish atmosphere.

Location: 9 Albertus St, Zonnebloem, Cape Town
Price: Various depending on the event
Contact: 072 358 0626 Website: www.instagram.com/clubparadise_sa

District

Located in the heart of the CBD, District Night Club & Events Venue is an exciting nightlife destination for partygoers. The venue offers a variety of events including live music, DJ performances, themed parties and corporate functions. Featuring state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, multiple bars and a spacious dance floor with stylish retro booth seating.

Location: 61B Harrington St, Cape Town
Price: Various depending on the event
Contact: 078 916 7903
Website: www.harringtonstreet.co.za/district

TAP Bar

Take your seat at Table Mountain’s TAP Bar. Located at the lower Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, enjoy  incredible views over the Mother City while sipping on a selection of beer, wine, and delicious cuisine. This is the perfect spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy the Mother City at her finest. 

Location: 5821 Tafelberg Rd, Table Mountain (Nature Reserve), Cape Town
Price: Beer from R50
Contact: 021 424 0015
Website: www.tablemountain.net

Bascule Bar, The Cape Grace Hotel 

Unwind at Bascule Whisky, Wine and Cocktail Bar, located at the Cape Grace Hotel at the V&A Waterfront.  Bascule is where connoisseurs and social butterflies gather for signature sundowners, tasty tapas, and lively tunes after a long day. The location on the edge of the marina and the elegant, long bar set the scene for inspired evenings, from cocktail hours to jazz discussions over 20-year-old Scotch.  

Location: West Quay Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Price: Cocktails from R150
Contact: 021 410 7082
Website:bit.ly/4f2cxwv

Rick’s Café Americain

Situated in the heart of cosmopolitan Cape Town, you’ll find Rick’s Café Americain. Reminiscent of the 1942 movie classic “Casablanca”, this charming café is set in a 135-year-old Victorian building. Enjoy warm hospitality, delicious comfort food and over 500 beverage options on their balcony or spectacular rooftop terrace.

Location: 103 Kloof Street, corner Weltevreden Avenue, Gardens, Cape Town
Price: Drinks from R33
Contact: 021 822 1100 or 021 424 1100
Website: www.rickscafe.co.za

Arcade

Inspired by Schillers Liquor Bar in New York and Dandelyan Bar in London, Arcade offers Capetonians a spot to grab a drink or a bite to eat before or after a night out on the town. From their top-class DJs to the fully stocked bar, scrumptious organic food and pumping dance floor, Arcade guarantees a terrific time.

Location: 152 Bree St, Cape Town
Price: Cocktails from R100
Contact: 060 861 0511
Website:www.instagram.com/arcade_ct/

Tjing Tjing Rooftop Bar

Located off Long Street, Tjing Tjing Rooftop Bar is a peaceful hideaway after a long day. Enveloped in wooden mansards and set in a 200-year-old attic, their signature Japanese shrine-inspired red bar takes centre stage in this authentic space. Three kokeshi doll tables subtly infuse layers of Japanese subculture while soothing indie sounds drift throughout this unique setting. Expect a wide selection of bespoke cocktails, Japanese whisky, gin, and sake as well as an extensive wine list at Tjing Tjing’s Rooftop Bar.

Location: 165 Longmarket St, Cape Town
Price: Drinks from R75
Contact: 021 422 4374 or 021 422 4920
Website: www.tjingtjing.co.za

The Village Idiot

The Village Idiot is a vintage neighbourhood bar and restaurant celebrating South African braai culture. The Village Idiot is where glasses are raised to foolish renegades, adventurous idiots and all the people who refuse to live by the rules of conformity. During the colder months, a charming fireplace warms up this intimate space, while live music and in-house DJs create a vibe that carries the party well into the night.

Location: 32 Loop St, Cape Town
Price: Drinks from R35
Contact: 021 418 1548
Website: www.thefirmct.co.za/the-village-idiot

Zepi Grill & Bar

This modern bar and restaurant is located at SunSquare Cape Town Gardens. Arrive early, grab a drink on their terrace or order one of their popular dishes off the menu, such as Bazaruto chicken and fillet, rump steak, or grilled lamb chops. With an emphasis on hearty home-style meals and a vibrant ambience, visit Zepi Grill & Bar for a memorable time. 

Location: 10 Mill St, Gardens, Cape Town
Price: Drinks from R75
Contact: 021 465 1311
Website: bit.ly/49k3Jk6

The House of Machines

The House of Machines (THoM) aims to bring people and machines together. Combining the love of motorcycles, live music, solid cocktails, cold craft beer and classic apparel, THoM creates a truly unforgettable experience.

Location: 84 Shortmarket St, Cape Town
Price: Drinks from R120
Contact: 021 426 1400
Website: www.thehouseofmachines.com

Locâl at RED Roof

Locâl at RED Roof at Radisson RED Hotel is your go-to sunset spot in the stylish Silo District. Sip on refreshing signature cocktails or ice-cold beers on tap while enjoying a selection of gourmet burgers and tapas-style bites. With its epic views and vibes, it’s the perfect place to socialise and unwind as the sun goes down. 

Price: Cocktails from R100
Contact: 087 086 1578
Website: www.raddisonhotels.com

The Waiting Room

What started out as a waiting room for the ever-popular Royale Eatery has turned into one of Cape Town’s coolest bars. Mix in some of the freshest music from top local musos, well-priced drinks and a rooftop deck, and you’ve got a recipe for a rocking party waiting to happen.

Location: 273 Long St, Cape Town
Price: Cover charge from R100
Contact:+27 747447636
Website: www.instagram.com/thewaitingroom_ct

Asoka Restaurant, Bar and Lounge

Known for its legendary olive tree rooted in the restaurant and its tantalising culinary and cocktails offerings, Asoka on Kloof Street continues to enthral and excite all who enter.

Location: 68 Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town
Price:Drinks from R95, bar snacks from R65
Contact: 021 422 0909
Website: www.asoka.za.com

The Gin Bar

Originally a small passion project between four friends, The Gin Bar has become one of the most loved locations in the city. Accessed only through Honest Chocolate Cafe, guests need a password to enter. The heritage building housing the bar was once a mortuary, which inspired their playful cocktail menu of “quack” medicinal remedies to cure all manner of ills.

Location: 64A Wale St, Cape Town
Price: From R80
Contact: 071 241 2277
Website: www.theginbar.co.za

Yours Truly

Recently Cape Town’s hottest local music hub, Yours Truly is the perfect spot to kick back and experience live DJs and acoustic sessions every weekend. This venue is ideal for after-work drinks with breathtaking Cape sunsets. Once a backpackers, Yours Truly has crept into the hearts and minds of both locals and international visitors alike.

Location: 73 Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town
Price: Drinks from R75
Contact: 021 426 2505
Website: www.allyoursco.com/yours-truly 

The Fireman’s Arms

Established in 1864, Fireman’s Arms is one of the oldest pubs in Cape Town, serving fine wines, cold beers, and delicious light meals. Get there early, especially on game days as the popular pub gets packed. With nine 46-inch flat screens and two big screens, you won’t miss a single pass, tackle or boundary shot at The Fireman’s Arms.

Location: Corner Buitengracht and Mechau Street, Cape Town
Price: From R50
Opening and closing times: Tuesday to Saturday 11am–12am; Sunday 12pm–8pm
Contact: 021 419 1513
Website:www.firemansarms.co.za

Mamacitas

Inspired by the vibrant spirit of Los Angeles and the delicious flavours of Mexico, Mamacita’s is renowned for its extensive Margarita menu, perfectly complemented by mouthwatering dishes. With live music on weekends, it’s the ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a lively atmosphere.

Location:  75 Harrington St, District Six, Cape Town
Price: Drinks from R90
Contact: 083 660 5515 or email mamacitasza@gmail.com

Website: https://mamacitas.co.za/

 

Gigi Rooftop Restaurant and Bar

Perched on the Gorgeous George Hotel, the Gigi Rooftop is a chic intimate 80-seater lounge to let your hair down and conversation flow. Order wild tiki-inspired cocktails, courtesy of in-house mixologist Jody Rahme. Their wide array of dining options is sure to satisfy even the most decerning palate from sunrise to sunset. The Gigi Rooftop is a place where overstaying is welcome.

Location: 118 St Georges Mall, Cape Town
Price: Cocktails from R75
Contact: 021 612 0999 or gigi@gorgeousgeorge.co.za 
Website: www.gigirooftop.com

Harringtons Cocktail Lounge

Pumping tunes and velvet booths, Harringtons is a classic cocktail lounge, restaurant and upmarket bar. With a distinct air of sophistication, the dedicated smoking lounge and boutique DJ booth complete a sense of opulence and good fortune. Slide into one of the plush velvet booths and order tantalising tapas with an extravagant craft cocktail. Then get ready to party the night away.

Location: 61B Harrington Street, Zonnebloem, Cape Town
Price: Drinks from R35
Opening and closing times: Wednesday to Friday 4pm till late; Saturday 6pm till late
Contact: 078 916 7903 or bookings@harringtonstreet.co.za 
Website: www.thefirmct.co.za/harringtons

Mødular

Mødular is the first of its kind in the city to have a no photos allowed policy. Why? This ensures complete music and dance emersion. The 350-capacity music venue delivers the best in forward-thinking house and techno music. Artists have the complete freedom to experiment, create and push the boundaries with extraordinary pulsating sounds. If it’s pure underground electronic music you’re looking for, then head over to Mødular in the CBD.

Location: 34 Riebeek St, Cape Town
Price: Cover charge from R100
Contact:Call +27 72 327 5926 or emailbookings@modularclub.com

Website: www.facebook.com/Modularnightclub

Cubaña

Embrace Latino heritage at Cubaña, a social dining experience offering an innovative menu, lip-smacking cocktails and premium cigars. This attraction features luxurious lounges, VIP areas and award-winning DJs delivering rhythmic tunes.

Location: 89 Hertzog Blvd, Foreshore, Cape Town
Price: Cocktails from R59
Opening and closing times: 11am–4am
Contact: 021 421 1109 or foreshore@cubana.co.za
Website: www.cubana.co.za

Atlantic Seaboard

Café Caprice

Combining artisanal cocktails with a café-style menu, Caprice’s relaxed lounge vibe epitomises Cape Town’s cosmopolitan social scene. This stylish bar on the Camps Bay strip is a prime location for supreme sundowners and superb sunsets.

Location: 37 Victoria Rd, Camps Bay, Cape Town
Price: Cocktails from R85
Opening and closing times: Monday 12pm–12am; Tuesday to Thursday 9am–12am; Friday to Sunday 9am–1am
Contact: 021 438 8315 or reservations@cafecaprice.co.za
Website: www.cafecaprice.co.za 

The Grand Africa Café & Beach

With iconic style and playful luxury, The Grand Africa Café & Beach embraces the essence of free-spirited beach café culture. Hugging the shoreline, this quaint relaxing escape offers a choice of five bars, ocean-view decks, nine private function areas and on-beach dining.

This locale is hibernating during the winter months.

Location: 1 Haul Road, V&A Waterfront, Granger Bay, Cape Town
Price: Drinks from R85
Contact: 021 425 0551 or Beach@GrandAfrica.com
Website: www.grandafrica.com/grand-africa-cafe-beach

Cause and Effect

Kinda classy, kinda hood, Cause and Effect is a cocktail kitchen and brandy bar in Cape Town’s bustling Waterfront precinct. Voted one of the top 100 best bars in the world, grab a Cape inspired cocktail glistening with powerful flavours and scented aromas designed to play with the senses.

Location: 280 Dock Rd, The Rocket Shed, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Price: From R60
Contact: 021 422 0266 or 072 759 2560
Website: www.causeandeffect.co.za

South Peninsula

Aegir Project Brewery

Since opening in 2015, Aegir Project Brewery has been pushing boundaries in the craft beer industry. What started as a small passion-fuelled brewery has become a thriving family-friendly hotspot in the Noordhoek Valley. Tuck into their hand stretched, Neapolitan-style sourdough pizzas, while sipping on a cold one from their sundowner deck overlooking the beautiful Atlantic Cape Coast.

Location: 65 Beach Rd, Noordhoek, Cape Town
Price: Beer from R36
Contact: 066 587 9324 or manager@aegirprojectbrewery.com
Website: www.aegirprojectbrewery.com

Cape to Cuba

Established in 1999, Cape to Cuba is a well-known restaurant, bar and party venue on the main Kalk Bay strip. The Hemingway Bar is ideal for a casual drink or dining inside while gazing over the glistening ocean. Enjoy great atmosphere, good music, and a uniquely Cuban-inspired dining experience.

Location: 165 Main Rd, Kalk Bay, Cape Town
Price: Cocktails from R78
Opening and closing times: Monday to Thursday: 11am–11pm, and Friday to Sunday: 11 am–12 am
Contact: 021 788 1566 or email kalkbay@capetocuba.com

Website: www.capetocuba.com

The Toad in the Village

looking for a place to laugh with loved ones, then visit The Toad in the Village. Located at the foot of Chapman’s Peak, The Toad focuses on good food, cold beer and great service. It’s a popular hangout come match day with several screens. Try their loin ribs, springbok and Guinness pie or eisbein with crispy crackling should you feel a little bit peckish at half-time.

Location: Noordhoek Main Rd, Noordhoek, Cape Town
Price: From R49
Contact: 021 789 2973 or info@thetoad.co.za
Website: www.thetoad.co.za

Tiger’s Milk

“The best destination for dude food, made good.” Tiger’s Milk has quickly become one of the hangout hotspots in Muizenberg. Tiger’s Milk offers top-notch pizzas, killer burgers, succulent ribs and ice-cold craft beer.

Location: Corner Beach and Sidmouth Road, Surfers Corner, Muizenberg, Cape Town
Price:Beer from R38, cocktails from R85
Contact: 021 788 1860 or muizenberg@tigersmilk.co.za
Website: www.tigersmilk.co.za   

Jakes

Entertaining patrons for over 3 decades, Jakes in the Village has become a local institution. Nestled beneath the Tokai and Constantiaberg mountains, alongside the Steenberg golf estate, enjoy their al fresco lunches by day, or a stylish upmarket yet relaxed social dining experience by night. With fine wine, craft beers and exotic cocktails on their menu, book a table and unwind at Jakes today.

Location: Steenberg Village, Steenberg Road, Tokai, Cape Town
Price: Cocktails from R95
Contact: 021 701 3272
Website: www.jakes.co.za

Woodstock

Woodstock Brewery

Woodstock Brewery, known as one of the best craft breweries in the country, is located in the heart of hip Woodstock. Sample 10 different brews, including seasonal and speciality brews, while enjoying light starters, aged steaks or juicy burgers in their Bavarian Beerhall style restaurant.

Location: 252 Albert Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town
Price: From R60
Opening and closing times: Monday to Saturday 11am–10pm; Sunday 12pm–6pm
Contact: 021 203 3045
Website: www.woodstockbrewery.co.za

Jamaica Me Crazy

A Caribbean-inspired restaurant with a South African twist, Jamaica Me Crazy has been one of Woodstock’s most loved rooftop restaurants for over 15 years. With a beautiful ambience and an eclectic menu, Jamaica Me Crazy delivers good tunes and good times. Happy Hour takes place between 5-6pm daily.

Location: 74 Roodebloem Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town
Price:From R50
Contact: +27 21 448 0691 or jamaicamecrazycpt@gmail.com
Website: www.jamaicamecrazy.co.za

Southern Suburbs

Oblivion Bar and Kitchen

A European-style wine bar in the heart of the Southern Suburbs, Oblivion is a mainstay for those looking for after-dark drinks or simply a bite to eat. Enjoy their rooftop deck with stunning views of Table Mountain or cosy up on comfy sofas in front of a roaring fire with a glass of wine, draught beer or fabulous Mojito. Oblivion is also a firm favourite with sports fans looking to watch the game with fellow supporters.

Location: 22 Chichester Rd, Claremont, Cape Town
Price: From R50
Contact: 064 983 4045
Website: www.oblivion.co.za

Peddlars

A landmark since 1993, Peddlars has become one of the most recognised and beloved destinations in Constantia. Their modern bar area is the perfect spot for celebrations, after-work drinks or casual visits with friends. With a constantly evolving wine and cocktail list, popular craft beers on tap and exclusive gins and spirits available, here you’re absolutely spoilt for choice.

Location: 32 Spaanschemat River Rd and Brounger Rd, Constantia, Cape Town
Price: From R55
Contact: 021 794 7747 or info@peddlars.co.za
Website: www.peddlars.co.za

Banana Jam Café

Well known for its excellent craft beers, delicious island-style dishes and chilled dining atmosphere, Banana Jam Cafe is a Caribbean restaurant and brewery in Harfield Village. Join them for their Happy Hour between 5pm and 6pm daily and discounts on cocktails and craft beer 7 days a week.

Location: 157 2nd Avenue, Kenilworth, Cape Town
Price: Beer from R48
Contact: 021 674 0186 or info@bananajamcafe.co.za
Website: www.bananajamcafe.co.za

Foresters Arms

Did you know Foresters Arms is in the Guinness Book of Records for the most beer sold in the Southern Hemisphere? Established in 1852, Forrester’s Arms (fondly referred to as Forries), is one of the oldest pubs in South Africa. Guests can sit down, kick back and enjoy a fine draught accompanied by a delicious gastro-pub menu. This perennially busy spot is always packed with rugby fans hoping to catch the game on the big screen.

Location: 52 Newlands Ave, Newlands, Cape Town
Price: From R40
Contact: 021 689 5949 or info@forries.co.za
Website: www.forries.co.za

Jack Black’s Taproom

Based in Diep River since 2016, the geniuses behind the local craft beer Jack Black’s Brewing Co. have created a welcoming space at their brewery. Enjoy craft beers, a vibrant atmosphere and some seriously delicious grub. Their Food Truck Fridays (on the last Friday of every month) are super popular, while quiz nights, live music, open mic and wine and food pairing evenings draw eager crowds.

Location: 10 Brigid Rd, Diep River, Cape Town
Price: From R38
Contact: 021 447 4151 or info@jackblackbeer.com
Website: www.jackblackbeer.com

Northern Suburbs

The Hollow Tree

One of the most popular venues in the Northern Suburbs, The Hollow Tree at Old Oaks is all about hearty pub meals. Ranging from tapas to pizzas, pasta and even braai packs, The Hollow Tree features smoking and non-smoking areas and a stunning beer garden.

Location: 12 Old Oak Rd, Bellville, Cape Town
Price: Drinks from R39
Contact: 021 914 0186 or info@thehollowtree.co.za
Website: www.thehollowtree.co.za

Destino GrandWest

Your “Wild Side” awaits at Destino at GrandWest, the ultimate destination for epic party adventures and electrifying entertainment.

Location: 1 Jakes Gerwel Dr, Goodwood, Cape Town 
Price: Cover charge from R100 
Contact: +21 714 0389 or email grandwest@destino.co.za 
Website: https://destino.co.za/

 

Cape Flats

Rands

The place to go for a “premium chisa nyama” and party, Rands is an entertainer’s paradise in the heart of Khayelitsha. Their signature meat dishes accompanied by township-inspired sides like their popular chakalaka, creamy spinach and pap will have your palate screaming for more. Expect Rands to throw the “meanest” parties, frequented by the best local acts and bands. Visit if you are looking for good company, upscale entertainment and tasty food.

Location: 6 Makhabeni Rd, Khaya Bazzar, Khayelitsha, Cape Town
Price: From R100
Contact: 078 616 7550 or bookings.randscpt@gmail.com
Website:www.rands-cape-town.business.site

The Milk Restaurant and Bar

The Milk Restaurant and Champagne Bar overlooks the buzzing Khayelitsha skyline. The three-story rooftop venue is a lifestyle and entertainment boutique restaurant ready to serve up pleasurable experiences for curious palettes. Be sure to try their scrumptious dishes ranging from line fish of the day with fennel purée to sirloin with roasted bone marrow and gourmet burgers.

Location: 33 Zantsi St, Khayelitsha, Cape Town
Price: From R90
Opening and closing times: Monday, Wednesday to Sunday 10am–11pm
Contact: 081 414 8913
Website: www.facebook.com/TheMilkRestaurant

The Address

Focusing on creating a venue that is more than just a club, The Address is a premier nightlife destination for premium consumers. Their striking design and attention to detail create a luxurious 600 square metre multi-tiered entertainment space, equipped with 2 dance floors, VIP booths, a VVIP sky box and state-of-the-art sound and lighting to get the party started.

Location: 35 Aden Avenue, Athlone 
Contact: WhatsApp +27 73 758 8688 
Website: www.instagram.com/theaddressct/ 

 

Club Galaxy

Like a phoenix risen from the ashes, the Galaxy Club is back and stronger than ever. Groove to both old and new school hits, delivered by a star-studded lineup of local DJs. With superb discounts on selected drinks and FREE entry before 11pm, Club Galaxy is sure to be packed and pumping with partygoers.

Location: 104 College Rd, Athlone, Cape Town
Price: Various depending on the event
Opening and closing times: Saturday 8pm till late
Contact details: 021 637 9027 or 021 637 9132 or 081 849 6386

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