There is a golden glow that encompasses the entirety of Lou Lou’s Bar, and it’s not just the lighting. The warmth of the staff, the glowing fireplace, food fit for kings and the suave decor amalgamate to make Lou Lou’s one of Cape Town’s chicest bars.
Located in the Cape Quarter Square in dreamy De Waterkant, Lou Lou’s Bar is the perfect place to let your hair down.
Nestled in the corner of the square, my first instinct was to ask if we could sit outside. However, Cape Town weather was being unpredictable as per usual, and we opted to sit indoors instead.
Once inside, the warmth from the roaring fire quickly dissipated my desire to sit outdoors. We were swiftly shown to our table by a very friendly waiter who welcomed us as if we were family.
After gazing over the drinks menu and a whisky list that will leave one umming and ahhing for ages, we opted to build our own G or T. For Gin or Tequila, naturally.
The interactive bar allows you to take in Lou Lou’s speak-easy type decor: stylish, understated and suave. Lou Lou’s Bar has somehow managed to perfectly create an ambiance that is both sophisticated and relaxed.
Rather than displaying all the available booze at once like a traditional bar, Lou Lou’s has maintained its classy demeanour by showcasing one liquor at a time. We were fortunate enough to marvel over the impressive whisky selection all night.
After experiencing the build-your-own bar, we ordered starters. I can highly recommend the vegan platter, comprising of a mixture of roast veg and sweet potato crisps, dressed to perfection with olive oil and garlic. I have been assured the fried calamari and chorizo starter was delectable, too.
After starters, our thoughtful waiter noticed our glasses were looking half empty, and encouraged us to sample the cocktail menu. A Cosmopolitan and the whisky sours arrived in the blink of an eye. The efficiency of this establishment is impeccable.
The drinks went down like velvet and we were ready to order mains. I couldn’t resist ordering the penne pomodoro. Packed to the brim with flavour, this pasta tasted as if it came right out of Nonna’s kitchen. The wagyu beef burger was a slice of heaven for the palate.
At 9pm the live DJ started, setting the tone for the rest of the evening. We were half dancing, half eating the remainder of our meal.
After mains, I sipped down one last cocktail: The Rose of the Cape. A delicious gin-based cocktail that paired perfectly with the chocolate brownies we inhaled for dessert. The chocolate paired well with the fruitiness of the cocktail.
Lou Lou’s Bar is the queen of specials, with many options to experience this eatery no matter your budget.
From Monday to Saturday, Happy Hour is from 12-2:30 pm and again from 4-8 pm. Peroni draughts, house white and red wines, are on a buy 1 get 1 free deal. On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays there is a live DJ from 9 pm until midnight. Lou Lou’s only closes at 2 am, so the party doesn’t stop with the DJ. Thursday’s are for bubbles with 3 glasses for R99 from 4 pm.
On Fridays from 4 pm, all gin and tequila is half-priced. On October 31 there will be a Halloween party for all the groovy ghouls looking for a place to party. The DJ starts at 8pm for this event.
Whether you’re looking for a new date-night restaurant, a place to let your hair down after work or to enjoy live music, an evening at this fine establishment should be next on your to-do list.
For reservations call +27 21 418 0015 or visit Lou Lou’s Bar website here.
Address: 10 Jarvis Street, Cape Quarter Square, Green Point, 8005
Images: Imogen Searra