Democracy Bar and Restaurant

Tucked away in Illovo, Democracy Bar and Restaurant is one of the newest nightlife haunts in Johannesburg. This hotspot is turning up the volume weekly from Tuesday to Sunday until late.

The decor leans into a cinematic feel after dark with accents of brutalism and bygone pop culture references. Live bands, vinyl DJs, and clearing out the high tables to make room for dancing are on the cards regularly, too. Read on to find out more.

How Democracy Bar works

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.

What’s on the menu

The food menu at Democracy Bar is built around the small plate concert and lives up to the buzzy mood a fusion of worldly flavours. Dive into hits such as Malaysian fried chicken wings, Bo-Kaap chilli prawns, smoked pork ribs with a zippy salsa verde, and Morrocan lamb meatballs.

For those after lighter bites, the Dukkah roasted halloumi skewers and fish tacos should hit the spot with fresh, bright flavours. There’s also a decent selection of veggie-friendly and globally inspired dishes.

Get in touch

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]
Instagram: @democracy.bar