Cocktail bars in Johannesburg set the standard, whether you’re unwinding after work, letting a Saturday dinner drift into late-night drinks, or stretching a relaxed Sunday from brunch to rooftop sundowners. The city’s bar scene is confident, creative and constantly evolving — easily among the best on the continent.
From trusted classics like espresso martinis, piña coladas and spicy margaritas to inventive, flavour-driven serves crafted by skilled mixologists, there’s something for every palate. Whether you stick to old favourites or chase a new signature sip, these are the cocktail bars in Johannesburg that define the city’s drinking culture and are well worth making plans around
Sin+Tax
You can’t be in Johannesburg long enough and not know about Sin+Tax. As with most speakeasy bars, the hipster-ish street exterior and edgy artwork are just a front. Because what lurks inside is an unpretentious cocktail bar in Rosebank that specialises in a world-class cocktail experience exclusive encounter.
Their signature is experimental cocktails crafted with precision by an expert bartender team, using the freshest ingredients.
Great for after-work drinks or date night, the industrial-chic mood at Sin+Tax promises a more intimate setting where cocktails of all varieties are served in a cosy space with stylish seats and moody lighting. A small courtyard space is also open for those balmy Jozi evenings.
The bar consistently ups the ante for South Africa’s cocktail scene by pushing the boundaries of innovation and attention to detail. Sin+Tax is the only bar on the African continent to make it into the World’s 50 Best Bars.
When: Tuesday to Saturday, from 3pm to 2am. Sunday, 12pm to 9pm. Closed on Monday
Where: Corner of Bolton and Jan Smuts Roads, Rosebank, Johannesburg
Website: sintaxbar.com | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 010 900 2559
Alto234
Found on the rooftop of The Leonardo in Sandton, Alto234 ranks as the highest urban bar in Africa. The name stems from the Latin word, Alto, meaning height and 234 references how tall it stands in metres. With sweeping 360-degree views, panoramic scenery has never seemed so vast and breathtakingly picturesque.
Relaxing and lounging around in the sun can really work up an appetite. So, for the peckish guests in need of sustenance, a luxury tapas menu with a range of bespoke snacks is available. Many of these delicacies have been paired with the bar menu.
When: Tuesday to Sunday, from 12:30pm – 11pm. Closed on Monday
Where: 57th floor of The Leonardo, 75 Maude St, Sandown, Sandton
Website: alto234.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 087 536 0000
Obscura Cocktail Bar
After a successful launch in the vibrant heart of Rosebank in early 2024, Obscura Cocktail Bar stands out as a modern and elegant cocktail bar in Johannesburg for those seeking an eclectic and warm atmosphere while sipping on the best cocktails in town.
From its unique selection of highly inventive cocktails and unconventional food plating offerings to its distinctive décor and impeccable service, the bar is here to take you on a fresh new journey of flavours.
When: Tuesday to Sunday, 12pm to 12am. Closed on Monday
Where: 199 Oxford Road, Rosebank, Johannesburg
Website: obscurabar.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 010 500 7573
Zioux
Zioux (pronounced ‘Zoo’) in Sandton captures the glamour and extravagance of Africa’s richest mile. ‘In a world that’s evolving, the desire for entertainment and enjoyment remains unchanged,” explains Gary Kyriacou, the visionary behind the restaurant. ‘We’ve noticed people yearning for an escape when they go out, and Zioux is poised to be that escape for them.’
This opulent bar and restaurant lounge invites guests to revel in champagne, craft cocktails, and an exquisite menu featuring a tantalising array of small, decadent plates.
When: Tuesday to Saturday, 12pm to 11pm
Where: The Marc Corner, Rivonia and, Maude St, Sandown, Sandton
Email: [email protected] | Tel: 010 594 5455
SINN Johannesburg
SINN Johannesburg is a stylish restaurant in Sandton where a fusion of Italian and South African cuisine meets. Think bold flavours, striking design, and immersive visuals that come together for a sensory experience. The atmosphere is ultra-modern, moody, and with a grungy-fashion edge, which means it’s perfect for dress-up date nights in Sandton.
When: Daily, from 12pm
Where: Shop 27, LXX, 70 Rivonia Rd, Sandhurst, Sandton
Website: sinn.restaurant | Email: [email protected]
Mamasamba
Mamasamba has two impossibly stylish levels of food, music, smashing cocktails and maximalist interior design from the team who brought you Proud Mary and Fugazzi. Ascend the captivating spiral staircase, journey through the lively cocktail bar, and enter our supper club lounge.
Here, dine to the rhythms of Samba, enjoying a unique perspective of Rosebank Square. The Gorilla Bar offers a delightful selection of sipping rums, tequilas, and exquisite cocktails. As night falls, step out onto the enchanting jungle terrace, where live acts transform the evening into a memorable experience.
Expect fiery dining that has turned the spot into one of Joburg’s hottest jewels in the late-night eatery scene, with samba-style sharing dishes, a selection of small plates and Peruvian-style sushi flying off the pass.
When: Daily, from 2pm till late
Where: The Zone @ Rosebank, 177 Oxford Rd, Rosebank, Johannesburg
Website: mamasamba.co.za | Tel: 010 110 0313
MIX Cocktail Bar
Mix Cocktail Bar comes from MESH Club, an upmarket coworking space in Joburg known for its stylish networking events. Inside, it’s spacious without being cavernous thanks to polished interior design, warm lighting and a balcony to take in late afternoon sunsets.
Mix Cocktail Bar offers a menu of small plates of fried prawns, Arancini balls, and tossed salads. Cocktails are designed with care and precision over time, with some components conceived months in advance. The mixology team has narrowed down elements of the cocktail offering into ‘savoury’, ‘refreshing’ ‘stimulating’ and ‘fermentation situation’.
When: Monday to Friday, 4pm to late. Saturday, 11am to late
Where: 2nd Floor, 21 Keyes Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg
Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 594 5545
QLounge by Quoin Rock
Enjoy signature drinks from their sommeliers and master mixologists behind the bar. A variety of the classics, and a twist on the modern. Plus, the innovative team of chefs have created an exceptional menu of good food to make your taste experience delicious and irresistible. Guests can enjoy guided tastings, curated pairings, and rare vintages served by trained wine hosts.
These wines, produced at Quoin Rock’s cellar in Stellenbosch, have received top local and international recognition for their structure, balance, and depth of character.
When: Tuesday to Saturday, 12pm to 11pm and Sunday, 11am to 3pm. Closed on Monday
Where: QLounge by Quoin Rock, Shop 27, Oxford Parks, 199 Oxford Road, Dunkeld, Rosebank, Johannesburg
Website: quionrock.co.za/qbar-johannesburg | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 010 443 8649
Saint
Saint is one of the best spots to go for upscale nights out, thanks to an opulent and theatrical experience in Johannesburg. Their refreshed interior design is a striking fusion of vibrant patterns, textures, and unparalleled extravagance to escape from the mundane.
When: Daily, 12pm to 10:30pm
Where: Saint, The Marc, Corner Rivonia and Maude Street, Sandton
Website: saint.restaurant | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 084 050 3333
Proud Mary
Proud Mary at the Hyde Hotel in Rosebank is where expertly crafted cocktails meet vibrant city energy. This bar delivers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for sundowners, after-work drinks or a night out with mates.
When: Daily, from 6:30am to 12am
Where: Hyde Hotel Johannesburg, The Bank, 26 Cradock Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg
Website: proudmary.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 010 023 3316
A Streetbar Named Desire
Whether your weekend starts on a Wednesday or Friday, A Streetbar Named Desire in Parkwood is a safe bet for post-work and date night sundowners. They’re pretty much considered one of the popular nightlife stalwarts at this stage. Expect live and trendy DJ sets while snacking on a small plate-style offering and a slew of cocktail options. Interiors are washed with emerald green and other glossy accents for a modern yet accessible feel.
When: Monday to Wednesday, 4pm to 11pm; Thursday, 4pm to 1:30pm, Friday and Saturday, 12pm to 2am. Sunday, 12pm to 11:30pm
Where: Corner of Bolton and Jan Smuts Roads, Rosebank, Johannesburg
Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 268 6485
Rockets Bryanston
It’s pure class on the top floor, where urban sophistication meets the scenic views of Joburg’s skyline. With influences from beach clubs and international trends, this floor features light, airy elements, providing a chilled escape for diners.
When: Rooftop – Tuesday to Sunday, from 11am to 2pm. Closed on Monday
Where: The rooftop at Rockets Bryanston, 86 Hobart Centre, Hobart Rd, Bryanston, Sandton
RED Rooftop Bar & Terrace
This new rooftop and pool deck is the ultimate drawcard for urban glamour, where hotel guests and visitors can lounge for brunch or late afternoon bubbly or cocktails.
The space is decked out in timber, bold red, and crispy white elements, and styled with chic al fresco furnishings and fairy lighting to complement those sweeping 360-degree panoramic views over the city skyline. Stop by for a mimosa brunch next to the pool, or go later in the evening for chock cocktails and a vibey date night mood. A small menu of shared plates and a drinks list is on offer.
When: Daily, from 10am to 10:30pm
Where: 4 Parks Boulevard, Oxford Parks, Dunkeld, Johannesburg
Website: radissonhotels.com/raddisonredrosebank | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 010 023 3580
Octo Bar at The Leonardo
Soak up the sun on hot days at The Leonardo’s Octo Bar in Sandton on top of a skyscraper in the middle of the city. This rooftop bar in Johannesburg serves up ice-cold beer on tap and signature cocktails. Once the sun goes down, you get some pretty sweet skyling views and a balmy atmosphere. There’s a 25-metre swimming pool surrounded by comfy loungers and seating and a large screen where guests can enjoy movies and sports matches.
The menu features a selection of wood-fired pizza with gourmet toppings and a tapas menu for lighter shared plates. Octo Bar can accommodate up to 30 guests inside on the lower level and up to 15 guests on the upper level.
During summer, the bar hosts regular music evenings where live DJs hit the decks for chilled pool parties. With a combination of deep house, afro tech, and electronic dance music, the DJs will keep the energy flowing from start to finish.
When: Daily, 12pm to 10pm
Where: The Leonardo, 75 Maude St, Sandton
Website: aurumrestaurant.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 087 536 0100
Marble
Mostly known for their contemporary fare, Marble at the Keyes Art Mile in Rosebank also captures Johannesburg’s vibrant dining and nightlife scene with its striking design and elevated cocktail experience. Here it’s all about luxurious style with a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere — perfect for sundowners, date nights or lively evenings with friends.
The cocktail menu is keeps it cutting edge with a shortlist of refined, featuring signature creations alongside elevated takes on classic serves. Each drink is designed to be both visually impressive and expertly balanced, making Marble a favourite for those who appreciate thoughtful mixology.
When: Tuesday to Sunday, from 12:30pm – 11pm. Closed on Monday
Where: 57th floor of The Leonardo, 75 Maude St, Sandown, Sandton
Website: alto234.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 087 536 0000
The Ivy Champagne Garden
Love a beautiful sunset with bubbles? The Ivy is a chic rooftop destination perched in the heart of Johannesburg’s Northern suburbs. This spot effortlessly blends style, sophistication, and a relaxed social atmosphere. Known for its sweeping city views, the bar combines a contemporary restaurant, vibrant bar, and elegant lounge, making it ideal for everything from leisurely brunches to lively evenings out.
The menu showcases a refined selection of globally inspired dishes, crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients, while the bar serves up classic and creative cocktails alongside premium wines and spirits. Here, the mood is cosmopolitan with a distinctly Joburg edge.
When: Monday to Wednesday, 7am to 5pm.Thursday, 7am to 11pm. Friday, 7am to 12pm. Saturday, 12pm to 12am. Sunday, 12pm to 10am
Where: 2 Arbroath Rd, Bedfordview, Germiston, Johannesburg
Website: theivygarden.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 010 203 9054
Katzy’s Live
In the centre of Rosebank, there is a suave, sophisticated, premier cigar lounge known as Katzy’s. A nighttime venue like no other, Katzy’s offers music, dining and entertainment with the occasional celebrity concealed in the crowd.
With resident bands in their pocket, Katzy’s promises live music three nights a week, with legends such as Dr. Victor and the Rasta Rebels, Brent Harris and Thee Jam, Blu BamBoo, and many more.
Regarding consumables, Katzy’s offers a grillhouse menu and boasts a whiskey, bourbon and cognac list that offers over 100 options. Because of this, the venue is a definite favourite amongst the cool-cat jazz types who love puffing on their cigars whilst enjoying the finer things in life. That being said, please note that they do have a smart casual dress code.
When: Thursday to Saturday, from 5.30pm to 11.30pm
Where: The Firs, 19 Biermann Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg
Website: Katzyslive.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 880 3945
Cin Cin Cocktail Bar
Retreat to Cin Cin where chilled evenings, well-crafted drinks, and regular DJ nights take the shine at this stylish cocktail bar in Johannesburg. The spot holds two venues in Bedfordview and Lakefield, Benoni and promises a great night out, in an immersive environment, but cocktails are really at the core of what it does.
Drinks-wise, they take more than a bit of inspiration from the 1920s prohibition-style drinks served in a dimly lit space for that authentic speakeasy feel. After all, Cin Cin launched during the COVID lockdowns of 2020, so the team knows all about Prohibition.
When: Tuesday to Sunday, from 12pm to 2am
Where: Bedfordview – 57 Van Buuren Rd, Bedfordview | Lakefield – Shop 10, 5 Klein Street, Lakefield
Website: cincinsa.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 083 496 3772
The Royale
Where to kick back for G&Ts with your elevated brunch and dinner fare? The Royale in Craghall Park has been a mainstay for unfussy lunches, dinners and post-work meetups.
Inside, you’ll find effortless design that stays true to the eclectic colour and energy of Latin America. During summer, their 357 Alley under the beautiful bougainvillaea tree is the perfect spot for group lunches, while our main area sets the mood for intimate evenings. The menu features South American-inspired small plates, and mains if you need something a bit more substantial, and don’t leave without trying their homemade banana bread.
When: Thursday, 2pm to 10pm, Friday and Saturday, 11am to 12am
Where: Albans Square, C357 Jan Smuts Ave, Craighall Park, Randburg, Johannesburg
Website : theroyale.co.za |Email: [email protected] | Tel: 060 575 2471
The Sky Bar
Once you’ve reached the upper level of Radisson Hotel O.R. Tambo in Kempton Park, turn right for a gorgeous rooftop bar that serves up far more than just cocktails and premium spirits. Sunshine and arguably the best views in Kempton wash in during the day from the sleek glass wall, while the vibe heats up at night. Venture further for the poolside space with cosy cabanas and floating breakfasts.
When: Monday, 3pm to 10pm. Tuesday to Sunday, 12pm to 12am
Where: The top floor of the Radisson Hotel O.R. Tambo, Level Seven Sky Bar, 3rd and 6th Ave, Bredell, Kempton Park, Johannesburg
Website: levelsevenrestaurant.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 010 541 1320
Blind Tiger Cafe
This stylish and welcoming cocktail bar in Ranburg slowly become a firm favourite among locals seeking great drinks with relaxed vibes. The venue strikes the perfect balance between laid-back comfort and creative mixology, making it ideal for casual catch-ups, date nights or long evenings with friends.
On the cocktail menu you’ll find imaginative and classic serves with thoughtful twists alongside seasonal creations crafted with quality spirits and fresh ingredients. Alongside the drinks are tasty bar snacks and small plates that pair beautifully with cocktails.
When: Tuesday to Friday, from 12pm – 10pm. Saturday, from 11am to 10pm. Sunday, from 11am to 6pm. Closed on Monday
Where: 62 Tyrone Ave, Parkview, Randburg
Website: blindtiger.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 076 030 4200
Democracy Bar
Tucked away in Illovo, Democracy Bar is one of the newest cocktail bars in Johannesburg. This hotspot is turning up the volume weekly from Tuesday to Sunday until late.
Here, guests have their say on everything from the food, drinks, music and the evening’s vibe. The idea celebrated democracy in both its glorious and flawed ways.
Vote on existential questions, music, cocktail specials, late-night games, and much more. To take part in our polls and vote, simply make a booking – the team will explain everything when you arrive. Polls run whenever the bar is open, with fresh votes constantly shown throughout the evening. It’s fast, it’s frequent, and it’s refreshingly fair…most of the time. This also results in an ever-evolving food menu that, over time, is based on your collective choices.
Freedom and fairness also extend to the music. The music playlist is open for votes, and if it’s on Spotify, it’s fair game. The more votes a song gets, the higher it climbs on the playlist, so rally your crew, upvote your favourites, and take over the sound waves.
Advance table reservations are highly recommended – see more info here.
When: Tuesday to Thursday, from 12pm till 12am. Saturday, from 2pm till 2am. Sunday, from 3pm till 12am. Closed on Monday
Where: 198 Oxford Road, Illovo, Sandton, Johannesburg
Website: democracybar.co.za | Email: [email protected]
The Anti Social Club
Tucked on Melville’s vibrant 7th Street, The Anti Social Social Club is a playful, tropical-inspired cocktail lounge and bar that’s become a favourite on Johannesburg’s nightlife map. Despite its tongue-in-cheek name, this laid-back spot is anything but anti-social, offering a warm atmosphere where cocktails are as imaginative as the crowd that gathers.
The menu blends zesty, Far Eastern flavours with creative mixology, featuring drinks with ginger, lychee, lemongrass and lime alongside whimsical garnishes and tropical touches.
Expect relaxed tunes and stylish décor, plus the bar also serves light pan-Asian dishes that pair beautifully with its signature drinks.
When: Wednesday and Thursday, 1pm to 11pm. Friday, 1pm to 2am, Saturday, from 12pm to 2am. Sunday, from 12pm to 1am. Closed on Monday and Tuesday
Where: 9 7th St, Melville, Johannesburg
Email: [email protected] | Tel: 073 617 7825
Social On Main
Social On Main in Bryanston is one of Johannesburg’s most vibrant neighbourhood spots, blending a buzzy cocktail bar with relaxed dining and social energy. They’re open daily from lunch through late evening, and the space transitions effortlessly from a laid-back sundowner destination to a buzzing after-work hangout and weekend party hub.
The drinks menu is extensive and playful, with creative cocktails, crisp gin and tonics, refreshing mojitos and more alongside a broad selection of local craft beers and South African wines. Signature serves and seasonal twists make it easy to find something new with every visit.
Set on a spacious all-weather deck and complemented by a menu of flavour-packed sharing plates, wood-fired pizzas and hearty favourites.
When: Sunday to Tuesday, 12pm to 10pm. Wednesday and Thursday, from 12pm to 11pm. Friday and Saturday, from 12pm to 1am
Where: Social on Main, 1 Posthouse Centre, Corner Main Road and Posthouse St, Bryanston, Sandton
Website: socialonmain.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 076 284 9786
SIX Cocktail Bar
Situated in the heart of Melville, the Six Cocktail Bar claims to be ‘famous for being infamous’. It securely marks its notorious and cherished status by being open daily with a happy hour, or rather hours, from 12pm to 7pm, with 60 different cocktails to choose from.
Join in on the fun as Wednesday nights offer audience members the opportunity to partake in the Jazz Jam sessions from 8pm. Sit back and enjoy the performance of many local students and professionals as they show off their grit and skills on stage. If playing along to music isn’t your forte, then perhaps you’d prefer to dance to music. Six Cocktail Bar also has Salsa Sundays from 8pm, where all are welcome to glide on the dance floor.
With a vibrant atmosphere, Six Cocktail Bar permeates the entire area and attracts hundreds to Melville nightlife.
When: Daily, from 12pm to 2am
Where: Corner of 7th Street and 3rd Avenue, Melville, Johannesburg
Email: [email protected] | Tel: 0114828306
Smoking Kills
On the hunt for an unapologetic dive bar in Johannesburg’s vibrant Melville area? Try Smoking Kills, a laid-back, no-frills watering hole that exudes authenticity. This cocktail bar in Johannesburg embraces the spirit of punk and grunge. The decor is a riot of graffiti on the walls, with a lone television playing vintage cartoons in the corner. There’s an impressive drinks selection, complete with enticing specials throughout the week and a solid beer offering.
Smoking Kills doubles as a gig venue, regularly showcasing local bands, making it a go-to spot for both music lovers and those seeking a genuine dive bar experience.
When: Monday to Sunday, 4pm to 1am
Where: 78a Avenue, 4th Ave, Melville, Johannesburg
Tel: 071 346 8804 or 081 722 5725
E | Bar
Take in nature scenes and lush greenery from the deck of Thaba Eco Hotel’s outdoor E Bar. This cocktail bar in Johannesburg is a stunning rooftop venue serving chilled champagne and signature cocktails with a small light meal menu. Live music performances are planned every month, and the venue is also available for private rental. E|Bar is situated outdoors and only in operation during good weather.
When: Sunday to Monday, 7am to 10pm. Friday and Saturday, 7am to 11pm
Where: Kraal Restaurant at Thaba Eco Hotel, Impala Road, Kibler Park, Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve, Johannesburg South
Website: thabahotel.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 959 0777
