When that time of the week comes calling and you find yourself in need of a spot to meet friends for good food and even better drinking specials, there’s nothing better than a curated list of watering holes to help you out.
So if you feel that hankering for a good evening out, here are a few unique, unusual and quirky places to try in Cape Town:
1. Cause Effect Cocktail Kitchen
If you’re looking for an especially Capetonian haunt and you’re not afraid to spend a little extra cash for a good time, Cause Effect is your place.
This experimental cocktail kitchen mixes up some seriously delicious drinks inspired by the Cape’s fynbos, oceans, vineyards and mountains.
The space is trendy and the perfect spot to cultivate a real vibe in.
Contact: 021 422 0266
Address: 2A Park Road, MLT House, Gardens Cape Town, Western Cape
2. Hank’s Olde Irish
Hank’s is a bar more for sipping than mixing and is best suited to those who prefer a simple drink in a classic pub setting.
You’ll be welcomed by a warm interior with marble tabletops, comfy booths and moody lighting perfect for an evening out with the gang.
Every Tuesday this spot lights up with live jazz so be sure to put aside some time to visit during the week, too.
Contact: 021 422 2770
Address: 110 Bree Street, Cape Town, Western Cape 8001
Website: www.Hanks.co.za
3. House of Machines
Known by many as the bar with “Don’t Be A D*ck” pasted on the window, The House of Machines is a must-visit.
This classic spot is bike-friendly so you can ride up and hang out in the outdoor seating area with friends.
Although it has the vibe of a bar, there’s also great coffee and food to be had so don’t be shy to visit during the day either.
Contact: 021 422 0946
Address: 84 Shortmarket St. Cape Town, Western Cape 8001
Website: www.thehouseofmachines.com
5. Bascule Bar
This bar is one for the fancy and sophisticated, with over 500 whiskies and fine wines on the menu.
Enjoy a five-star experience while visiting The Cape Grace’s Bascule Whisky, Wine and Cocktail Bar right at the edge of The Marina.
It’s the perfect spot for whisky connoisseurs and social butterflies with its lively and glamourous daytime vibe.
Contact: 021 410 7100
Address: West Quay Road, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront Cape Town, Western Cape
6. Raptor Room
If neon lights and serious drink specials are a major drawcard for you, be sure to make your way to The Raptor Room.
With frequent live music and specials that are more than just easy on your wallet this local spot is not to be missed.
Whether you find a spot at the bar, a table or one of the couches, The Raptor Room is a unique place for an evening out and we can highly recommend their Buchu gin.
Contact: 087 625 0630
Address: Shop 2, 79 Roeland Street, Cape Town, Western Cape
7. The Alexander Bar & Theatre
A ‘showy’ evening out requires a visit to The Alexander Bar & Theatre.
This unique bar with a theatre upstairs is filled with old-world charm and is the perfect spot for lovers of the theatre.
Serving sandwiches, salads, cheese and charcuterie boards served till midnight, you can chat the night away while visiting the swanky haunt and the classic drinks on offer are sure to please.
An extra quirk at this bar is the antique-looking telephones at each table which patrons can use to call the bar and place drink orders.
Address: 76 Strand Street Cape Town, Western Cape
Website: www.alexanderbar.co.za
8. Dust and Dynamite
Escape to the Wild West in this authentic saloon in the heart of the Mother City, complete with swinging doors at the entryway.
No bookings are accepted and you’ll feel like you’re walking into a gun-slinging Tarantino movie from the get-go.
The entire bar is candlelit and patrons can pick one of the many cowboy hats to wear and rock the night away to some old-school tunes. Grab your gang and mosey on down.
Contact: 021 461 2931
Address: 27 Caledon St, Cape Town, Western Cape
9. The Athletic Club & Social
One of the more recent additions to Cape Town’s social scene, The Athletic Club & Social is an experience.
This lavishly furnished vintage-style three-storey bar and restaurant offers a selection of cosy and attractive corners to drink and relax in.
The indulgent setting and casual ambiance is perfect for a drinking evening with some good pals especially when it’s cold outside.
Contact: 021 012 5331
Address: 35 Buitengracht Street, Cape Town, Western Cape
Website: www.theathletic.co.za
10. A Touch of Madness
Possibly one of Cape Town’s most-loved hangout spots if you ask a local, A Touch of Madness is the place to be for anything from casual drinks and board games to a lively night of carousing.
After its recent refurbishment it has a lot more to offer when it comes to the design and decor of the building, but still has the same much-loved service and specials.
Housed in a Victorian building, this watering hole is definitely one to tick off the list. Their drink specials are killer and so is their food so add a touch of madness to your next night out – you won’t regret it.
Contact: 021 447 4650
Address: 12 Nuttall Road, Observatory, Cape Town, Western Cape
Website: www.atouchofmadness.co.za
Picture: Facebook