It’s all about the buzz, ’bout the buzz, ‘bout the buzz; no treble!
A “buzz” is the magic ingredient that makes a dining and drinking experience memorable – a fresh twist, divine food, creative cocktails, cool beats, exquisite interiors, an interesting or spectacular setting…
In a city known to be just a tad fickle in terms of “it” places (who can blame us?), there are some hotspots locals never tire of. Some are relatively new on the block; others are perennial hangouts with an undeniable X-factor that draws people back again and again, like moths to a flame…
The Athletic Club & Social
One of the city’s hottest spots for live music, The Athletic is also much more than that. Entering this grand old building on Buitengracht Street, your curiosity leads you upstairs and downstairs, through a moody labyrinth of spaces each more sumptuous and “extra” than the next – a whimsical design fantasy of colonial-meets-modern and plush gentleman’s club. There’s the Trapezaria (a dining room serving fantastic Greek and fire-roasted fare), three glorious bars (with a separate canapé menu), a balcony with views of Signal Hill, and a speakeasy-like basement, The Trophy Room, where live jazz creates sexy magic. This is a place with a story… get to know it and you’ll understand the name.
Good to know Live jazz performances in a range of styles, Wednesday to Saturday from 8pm.
Opening times Lunch: Thursday – Saturday, 12pm – 3pm
Dinner: Monday – Wednesday, 4pm – 12am
Thursday – Saturday, 4pm – 2am
Contact 084 087 5566, info@theathletic.co.za
Where to find it 35 Buitengracht Street, Cape Town
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Blondie
This day-to-night hangout remains a headliner on perennially buzzy Kloof Street – no mean feat! As effortlessly cool for lunch (on the sunny outdoor deck) as it is for sundowners or a party night out, Ma’or Harris (chef and DJ) has perfected the secret sauce here. Laidback vibes, brilliant decor (with lots of quirky, retro-ish details – even a portrait of Princess Di) and a menu that’s big on satisfaction and ingredient-forward flavour, alongside colourful cocktails. Think delicious Eastern Mediterranean-style food to be shared (with lots for vegetarians): charred whole cauliflower, whole baked fish, fire potatoes, and the storming Pita Please (beef and lamb baked into a home-made pita). The soundtrack gets louder and more fun as the afternoon progresses, the vibe spilling out onto the pavement so that whatever you’re after – a meal, drinks, music or/and a party – you’ll get what you came for. Blondes do have more fun…
Good to know If food is your focus (and the food here is way more than party-fuel) come for lunch, when you stand a chance of bagging a table and a laid-back conversation.
Opening times Tuesday – Sunday, 12pm – 12am
Contact 072 169 8671, capetown@blondie.bar
Where to find it 71 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
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Nikkei
Japanese-Peruvian cuisine is having more than a moment in Cape Town… Nikkei is the name of this fascinating fusion, and also of a sophisticated restaurant on Bree Street. Occupying the high-ceilinged first-floor space that was once a cabaret theatre, Nikkei carries a flair for the dramatic from the decor to the food. Think ceviche, dishes from the Josper oven, an authentic grilling experience on the tableside robatayaki, new-style sushi like you’ve never seen before… Chef Justin Barker worked with chef Rikku Ó’Donnchü to create this fresh and interesting culinary journey, presented in multi-course chef’s menus (wine-paired if you like), bento boxes or à la carte sharing style, and plated with finesse (and the occasional bonsai tree). Be sure to order a few pisco cocktails, and swing by for the vibey Sushi & Sake Sundays, with a DJ on the decks.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10.30pm
Contact 021 109 0081, capetown@nikkei.co.za
Where to find it 87 Bree Street, Cape Town
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Anthm
The Big Apple meets Tokyo in Cape Town! This cocktail bar is the new home of ace mixologist (and fine artist) Tetsuo Hasegawa, who has brought a historic innercity building back to life with the energy and pizzazz of his former hometown of NYC. Mixing cultures and cocktails is what he does – with new inspiration he’s found at the southern tip of Africa. These are “classic” cocktails with a big twist, using shrubs and washes made in-house; your drink might be infused with Japanese cherry-wood smoke or mphepho or Durban masala. A fan of 50s and 60s jazz, soul and rock ’n roll, his vinyl collection inspired the cocktails’ names – and serves as the soundtrack to a night out. From the umami-rich Japanese bar snacks to the vintage glassware and exquisite candlelit decor (inspired by timber kominka houses), this is a special immersive experience.
Opening times Tuesday, Wednesday + Saturday, 5.30pm – late
Thursday + Friday, 4.30pm – late
Contact anthmcpt@gmail.com
Where to find it 63 Loop Street, Cape Town
Bascule Bar
There’s a secret speakeasy glamour to the marina-side Bascule Bar, an intimate whisky and cocktail bar hidden below Cape Grace at the V&A Waterfront. A Cape Town icon since the early days, with a tradition of late-night cocktails (or 20-year old Scotch), well-loved local DJs and live music sessions on weekends, it recently underwent a top-to-toe refurb that’s added another layer of sophistication to the ambience. In summer, the breezy terrace looking over the yachts towards Table Mountain is the ideal spot for afterwork drinks; in winter, the cosy alcoves, velvety banquettes and long bar beckon. Plus there’s an art collection of established and emerging local artists worth its own visit! Trailblazing bartender AJ Durow has injected her fearless creativity into a menu of superb signature cocktails and classics to complement one of the largest whisky collections in the southern hemisphere. A casually sophisticated menu of small plates goes down a treat.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 12am
Contact 021 410 7069, capegrace.bascule@fairmont.com
Where to find it Cape Grace, West Quay Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
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Culture Wine Bar
On bustling Bree Street, overlooking Heritage Square, Culture is the spot to unwind (or warm up for a night on the town) over a glass or two of vino. The vibe is cosy, candlelit, grown-up… And, while you’ll find some of SA’s finest vintages, including rare gems and cult classics, there’s not a hint of wine snobbery. Sit back and sip superb varietals with classic platters or gourmet “snacky bits” from the Grub & Vine kitchen – chef Matt Manning’s adjoining bistro. Or ask to peek at the “Wanderlist”, a leather-covered menu of wines from around the world that takes you on a journey in the glass (and imagination) through some of the best wine regions around the globe. Look out for regular events, like wine tastings, live music, bar takeovers, and more.
Good to know Downstairs, The Blue Room is a cocktail and live music lounge with sets by some of the country’s best musicians and an intimate speakeasy style.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 12pm – 2am
Contact 021 216 0035, sommelier@culturewinebar.com
Where to find it 103 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre
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Ariel
This enticing, rosy-hued space, where Naples meets New York, is the perfect place to wind down the day – whether it’s negronis with a side bite in the mellow bar-lounge at the back, or a fabulous meal with someone special among the bella vita buzz of the airy main restaurant. Combining the energy of the two cities with authentic ingredients, the menu is a contemporary interpretation of the classics: antipasti of flatbreads with burrata or ricotta, marinated anchovies, ravioli arrabbiata, truffley mushroom tagliatelle, a wagyu burger with provolone, chicken piccata, and Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizzas. The neon wall light “Baci Bella” says it all…
Good to know Ask for directions to Nightcap, the secret speakeasy across the way for those in the know. It’s moody, glam and very grown-up, with a variety of clever cocktails made with premium spirits and fresh ingredients. Open Wednesday to Saturday from 7pm.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10pm
Contact 021 023 3643, info@nonamehg.com
Nightcap: 021 100 1602
Where to find it 90 Regent Road, Sea Point, Cape Town
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Asoka
This vibrant bar-lounge-restaurant has that special X-factor (or Feng Shui blessing) that can’t be recreated anywhere else, which is why it remains one of Kloof Street’s most long-lived haunts. Open seven days a week, Asoka has become known for its decadent cocktails: shaken, stirred and served with a seductive soundtrack of progressive house on weekends (or live jazz on Tuesdays and Sundays). The Asian-flecked menu of sharing plates is themed around the five elements of earth, fire, air, water and nirvana (aka desserts) – and the kitchen closes at midnight. At the heart of the venue is a 150-year-old, fairy-lit olive tree; glowing candles and lanterns add to the magical atmosphere of possibility… Where will the night take you?
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 6pm – late
Contact 021 422 0909, info@asoka.za.com
Where to find it 68 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
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Club Kloof
Lobster-red walls, burnt-orange banquettes, a lemon-yellow Amalfi-esque bar in the back courtyard… Bold colour is the signature of this cool Kloof Street eatery and bar from the duo behind nearby favourite (and Jamie Oliver-approved) Our Local. They call their food “Italian-ish”, focusing on simple but excellent ingredients for small-plate-sharing. The in-house bakery has a prized 103-year-old Italian starter from Bergamo to make their pizzas, side-plate-sized with exciting toppings like meatballs with salsa verde or mortadella with pistachio and green-olive butter. Add a few salads, grilled prawns on skewers, beef fillet and triple-fried wedges, plus a cocktail or two (and a banging playlist), and you’re all set for an afternoon or evening of retro Italian(-ish) dolce vita.
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 12pm –11.30pm
Sunday, 12pm – 5pm
Contact 072 415 3752, contact@clubkloof.com
Where to find it 84 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
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Yatai
Stepping off Bree Street into the dark and moody interiors, with sizzling-hot beats and a buzz emanating from the open kitchen, it’s clear that Yatai (which opened in November 2024) is already on the list of the Mother City’s must-visit hotspots. Immediately below sister restaurant Nikkei, it shares the same contemporary Japanese inspiration, but here chefs Rikku O’Donnchu and Warwick King put the spotlight on ramen, streetfood and a sparkle of sashimi. There’s a superb chef’s set menu that takes you through sashimi, gyoza, ramen, robata and more, or you can pop in to simply slurp a bowl of next-level ramen. With a vibey bar delivering house cocktails, sakes and Japanese whiskys, a late night happy hour Thursday to Saturday and a playlist of hot beats, Yatai adds another dimension to Bree Street’s nighttime vibe.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10.30pm
Contact 021 109 8094, capetown@yatai.co.za
Where to find it 87 Bree Street, Cape Town
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Kloof Street House
Sean Gibson
Hidden by thick shrubbery, the fairy-lit courtyard is one of Kloof Street’s most romantic haunts, with its rattan chairs and classical statuary. Inside, the decor sets a fantastical Gatsby-esque scene through a series of rooms. It’s a restored Victorian house… think pressed ceilings, chandeliers, deep sofas and dark-wood floors (plus three fireplaces for winter). The brasserie-style menu has all the classics, from whole baked camembert and steak tartare to lamb, ostrich, seafood and a pasta of the day. There’s also a tapas menu if it’s just drinks and snacks you’re after. Toss in brunch (with bottomless mimosas) and live jazz on Sunday afternoons, and you’re sorted for every occasion.
Opening times Tuesday – Sunday, 10am – 12am (kitchen closes at 11.30pm)
Monday, 12pm – 12am
Contact 021 423 4413, info@kloofstreethouse.co.za
Where to find it 30 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
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Aperitif
At this cool, understated bar in a heritage cottage on Bree Street, the focus is on relaxed cocktails and classic aperitivo spritzers and negronis. With its marble-topped tables, leather seats and crystal decanters, it’s a Cape Town incarnation of la dolce vita that spills out onto the wide pavement for stylish streetside sipping. There’s also a winelist of small-scale producers and prosecco (of course) – served by the glass or bottle – a small selection of craft beers, and a snack menu (bruschetta, spanish olives, charcuterie). The house signature is a cocoa-nib negroni served with caramelised orange dipped in chocolate; the golden turmeric margarita is also a tempting choice.
Good to know Immediately below the main bar is a dedicated sandwich bar (the entrance is around the corner on Orphan Street) serving toasted sandos that redefine the term, made with their signature slow-fermented breads.
Opening times Monday – Thursday + Saturday, 12pm – 11pm
Friday, 12pm – 12am
Sunday, 12pm – 9pm
Sandwiches: Monday – Sunday, 12pm until sold out
Contact 076 249 6328, info@aperitif.co.za
Where to find it 227 Bree Street, Cape Town
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Hugo
This ninth-floor restaurant and bar – with views of Lion’s Head in one direction and the ocean in the other – is where the Sea Point set gather. Its wraparound balcony is a fabulous spot to enjoy one of the city’s technicolor sunsets… If a day spent lounging and sipping cocktails is your desire, head straight to the sparkling rooftop pool and sundeck. The drinks on offer are cocktails (classics and specials, such as pho-spiced tequila with ginger and lime) and wine. There’s a small-plates menu in the lounge, and the restaurant serves a concise but delicious menu of crowd-pleasers (steak frites, burgers, seafood, salads).
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10pm
Breakfast/brunch: 7.30am – 11am (no bookings)
Contact 021 286 9332, book@hugosocialclub.com
Where to find it Latitude Aparthotel, 2 Kings Road, Sea Point, Cape Town
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Caprice
Caprice has been a Camps Bay landmark for over two decades, pulling crowds and setting the standard for the hottest beach bar on the strip. A crowd-pleasing café menu moves from an array of breakfasts through burgers and sushi to steaks, salads, club sandwiches and calamari. And whether you’re after bubbly or a pornstar martini, the bartenders shake or stir the perfect pour for every occasion. The terrace, main bar-lounge and dining area are always pumping. With DJs providing the finest house beats from Thursday to Sunday, Caprice also transitions seamlessly into party central.
Good to know For something a little swankier, head upstairs to Victoria – a bar totally devoted to South African cap classique. There are more than 30 labels, to be sipped in style with sushi, oysters, even caviar… and, of course, cocktails and wines too.
Opening times Monday – Thursday, 12am
Friday – Sunday, until 1am
Contact 021 438 8315, reservations@cafecaprice.co.za
Where to find it 37 Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town
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Una Más Mezcaleria
For “cócteles” mixed with mezcal (tequila’s underground cousin), head to this cool little Sea Point saloon. Dressed in wood panelling, moody lighting and the odd potted cactus, it’s a vibey spot for a drinks gathering, and the Mexican-style tapas make it a tasty dinner spot, too. On the menu you’ll find ceviche, grilled corn ribs, soft shell tacos, empanadas, loaded nachos and burrito bowls. And of course churros with chocolate mole for dessert. The substantial cocktail menu is all about classics with a twist – you’re bound to have “una más” (“one more”). Window seats opening onto the pavement let you people-watch, and you better believe it gets interesting.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – late (kitchen closes 10pm)
Contact 076 705 8410, hola@unamas.co.za
Where to find it 77 Regent Road, Sea Point, Cape Town
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Salt
This small eatery, which started life as the entrance to the movie house, the Olympia Picture Palace, has gone through a number of incarnations – but Salt is sticking. That might be due to the food – so-called “global small plates” (don’t even ask, just order the yellowtail ceviche practically straight off the boat, and butternut and burnt sage butter ravioli now, quickly). Or it could be the drinks (great boutique wines and, as owner Nicolas Macleod puts it, “secret-ingredient margaritas that are very, veeeeeery good”). Or maybe it’s the atmosphere – cosy, friendly, relaxed – courtesy of the exposed-brick wall and bar counter-like tables. Combine all that with vibey staff and you have a place that’s always buzzing, from the moment it opens at 5.30am (they serve R15 coffee until 9am on weekdays) to when it closes, party depending.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 5.30am – 11pm (kitchen closes 10pm)
Contact 063 019 8300, hello@saltkalkbay.co.za
Where to find it 136 Main Road, Kalk Bay, Cape Town
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