Anthm pairs its Japanese-inspired food and cocktails with a soundtrack of jazz, blues and good old rock ’n’ roll. Set inside a 120-year-old heritage building on Loop Street, it’s an atmospheric choice for dinner, drinks and music under one roof.
SurfaRosa draws together Cape Town’s surf, psychedelic, punk and alternative scenes. Its programme includes an eclectic mix of DJs and live bands, while its colourful dive-bar personality makes it an easy choice when you want something energetic, informal and a little rebellious.
Part café, part cocktail bar and part neighbourhood meeting house, The House of Machines has long placed music at the centre of its identity. Come for the cocktails, coffee and late-night energy; stay for the welcoming community atmosphere and soundtrack.
Hidden behind the intrigue of a secret East City location, The Art of Duplicity channels the glamour of a Prohibition-era speakeasy. Expect hip-hop and jazzy energy, old-school flair, imaginative cocktail serves and an atmosphere that rewards dressing up for the occasion.
Art Deco interiors, velvet seating and warm golden lighting make Harringtons a polished setting for cocktails and a night out. Located in the East City, it balances old-world glamour with a lively, contemporary social atmosphere that carries on into the early hours.
Asoka has made Tuesday nights its own. While much of the city is still easing into the week, this Kloof Street institution is reliably buzzing, bringing locals and visitors together for live jazz from Mr Keys & The Funky Munks at 8pm, followed by progressive house from its resident DJs from 10pm. Come for dinner and cocktails; stay for one of Cape Town’s most consistently lively midweek nights.
Batanga combines Latin inspiration, street culture and Cape Town’s creative pulse. Its moody, plant-filled interior comes into its own after dark, while a playful but precise cocktail list makes it a strong stop for music, social energy and adventurous drinks.
With Mexican food, an extensive selection of agave spirits and a lively Gardens atmosphere, Chingadas is made for a sociable night out. Its music offering adds to the energy, while renowned flair bartender Decks Hartman brings an extra element of theatre behind the bar.
The Dark Horse is a relaxed Kloof Street favourite where carefully made classics meet unexpectedly good bar food. Its upstairs deck offers a striking view of Table Mountain, giving you an appealing setting for drinks before the evening gathers momentum.
High above the CBD, Trade Bar & Social offers both indoor and outdoor rooftop spaces, wide city views and a cocktail-focused menu. It’s a particularly good option when you want your evening’s drinks, music and Cape Town skyline in one place.
Located above Ouzeri, Akra is an intimate cocktail and wine bar inspired by Greek hospitality. Drop in for an aperitif, return after dinner for a digestif, or make the bar your destination for a refined evening built around conversation, music and thoughtful drinks.
With the Atlantic ahead and Lion’s Head behind, The Deck offers cocktails and light bites beside the pool. Its relaxed coastal setting makes it well suited to an easy-going afternoon that rolls into sunset drinks and an evening soundtrack.
Punch Room reimagines the sociable tradition of communal punch in an intimate, refined setting. Signature serves draw on South African flavours, botanicals and spices, while warm lighting and considered hospitality create a stylish environment for gathering over drinks and music.
Whether you’re after jazz, alternative bands, DJs or simply a bar with a strong soundtrack, Cape Town has a seat – and a drink – waiting for you. Explore the venue profiles before you go, then check each bar’s latest social updates for current performances and event times.
