Must-see nightlife in Gauteng

  • Beefcakes

    Johannesburg

    Yes it serves burgers, but really what most people turn up here for are the hunky waiters and the campy drag shows and entertainment. Miss Holly Diamond…

  • Foundry

    Johannesburg

    This place stands out for its impressive selection of craft beer from around the country. The bistro-style fare (try the maple-bacon and blue-cheese pizza…

  • Ubuntu Kraal Beer Garden

    Gauteng

    Occupying one corner of this quirky events venue (check out the giant statue of Jesus on the cross) is the shady beer garden of the Soweto Gold Brewery …

  • Kofi

    Gauteng

    Part of the Box Shop, a small shopping complex made out of shipping crates, Kofi is a cool cafe with an open balcony area overlooking buzzy Vilakazi St…

  • Wine Bar

    Gauteng

    After touring Soweto what could be more pleasant than a glass of wine on the terrace of this sophisticated bar at the top of Vilakazi St? Its list of…

  • Cockpit Brewhouse

    Gauteng

    The aviation-themed Cockpit Brewhouse serves at least six of its own delicious microbrew draught ales and decent bar food, including a tasty lamb and beef…

  • Cramers Coffee

    Johannesburg

    Some say the coffee served at this always-bustling, no-lingering joint west of Gandhi Sq is among the best in town. There's also an array of sweet…

  • Carfax

    Johannesburg

    Check online for details of events such as progressive/deep house and hip-hop parties, and the more interesting international acts, at this giant…

  • Brunch at Shadowboxer

    Shadowboxer

    Johannesburg

    This bar and brasserie features a cool warehouse-style interior and a balcony overlooking the leafy street. It specialises in tequila-based drinks, with…

  • 4th Avenue Coffee Roasters

    Johannesburg

    A Joburg institution, and the centre of Parkhurst's pavement-cafe culture. As boutique roasters featuring African beans have popped up all over town in…

  • Office

    Johannesburg

    Sharp-looking joint that appeals to fans of cocktails, craft beer, cool design and good music. The menu and vibe are upmarket and quite sophisticated,…

  • Nuno’s

    Johannesburg

    Less about the food – including decent-enough steak and chips and grilled fish (mains R40 to R110) – and more about the beer-sodden carpet, fiery banter,…

  • News Café

    Pretoria

    A popular yet noisy chain cafe, which does dependable burgers and salads and serves a wide selection of cocktails. The TV screens, fast wi-fi and laissez…

  • XaiXai Lounge

    Johannesburg

    Air your grievances loudly and proudly all day long at this left-leaning Mozambican pub that vies with Nuno's next door for the busiest tables on the…