Our roundup of rooftop bars in Johannesburg is the ultimate spots to soak up the city’s skyline, sip on expertly crafted cocktails, and catch a legendary sunset. From chic terraces with sleek interiors to breezy, sunlit decks, these elevated venues offer a mix of vibes – relaxed and casual one moment, buzzing and lively the next. Here are What’s on in Joburg’s picks for the best rooftop bars in Johannesburg right now.

Alto234 at The Leonardo

Perched on the rooftop of The Leonardo in Sandton, Alto234 is the highest cocktail bar in Africa. The name stems from the Latin word, Alto, meaning height and 234 references how tall it stands in metres. The space boasts a 360-degree view of Johannesburg, sporting vast and breathtakingly picturesque scenery. Dine on luxurious tapas, elevated snacks, and signature cocktails from a sharp mixology team.

One of the trump cards at Alto234 is their exclusive Moët & Chandon champagne mini vending machine. It’s the only venue in Africa where guests can experience perfectly chilled 200ml bottles of French champagne at the touch of a button.

Cost: An entrance fee of R390pp includes a complimentary glass of Moët & Chandon champagne and access to the bar, premium bar tapas, and the panoramic views of Johannesburg. Book via Dineplan

When: Tuesday to Sunday, from 12:30pm to 11pm. Closed on Monday
Where: 57th floor of The Leonardo, 75 Maude St, Sandown, Sandton

The 5101 Sundowners Tour by Dlala Nje

The 5101 Sundowners tour at Dlala Nje is a one-of-a-kind guided experience that promises new heights, both figuratively and literally. You’ll get an insider tour of Ponte Tower, which is one of Johannesburg’s iconic landmarks and a lively shebeen-style gathering to end. 

Expect a thrilling adventure and 270-degree panoramic view in Joburg, a chance to connect with and support the local community, and Joburg’s epic sunset from the 51st floor of this iconic building. Throughout the tour, you’ll engage with local hosts, learn a bit about the vibrant inner-city neighbourhood, and hear stories that will deepen your understanding of the area. Drinks are for your own account.

Cost: R100pp entry fee, book online

When: Wednesday to Sunday. Closed on Monday and Tuesday
Where: Dlala Nje, Ponte City Apartments, 1 Lily Ave, Berea, Johannesburg

Red Rooftop Bar & Terrace at Radisson RED Rosebank

When summer comes around, the Rooftop Bar & Terrace at Radisson RED Rosebank is one of the places to be in Joburg. This 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: Monday to Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, from 12pm to 10:30pm. Friday, from 12pm to 2am
Where: Radisson RED Rosebank, Oxford Parks, 4 Parks Blvd, Dunkeld, Randburg

MIX Cocktail Bar

Inside MIX Cocktail Bar, it’s spacious without being cavernous thanks to polished interior design, warm lighting and a balcony to take in late afternoon sunsets. 

This is one of the more popular cocktail bars in Johannesburg, thanks to a regular lineup of live music evenings and the slickest drink offering. There’s 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 11:30pm. Saturday, 10am to 11:30pm. Closed on Sunday
Where: MESH Club, 2nd floor, Trumpet on Keyes, 21 Keyes Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg

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.

After seven years as a hotspot, Rockets Bryanston has undergone a complete transformation, motivated by the desire to stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving scene. “The inspiration for this revamp was a natural progression,” says the Rockets founder and CEO Sean Barber. “Over time, we noticed many similarities with new competitors in terms of the elements of our design, making it crucial for us to innovate and set ourselves apart once again. Our goal was to create something unique on every floor that couldn’t be replicated, bringing Rockets into a new era.”

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

The Island Bar at Southern Sun Hyde Park

This breezy rooftop bar at Southern Sun Hyde Park is seeped in sunlight and sweeping views of the Highveld sunset, with a dash of the elegance that this neighbourhood is renowned for. The Island Bar is the perfect hangout spot offering relaxed and light dishes, alongside a curated wine menu, beers on tap, and classic cocktails with a twist.

When: Daily, 6am to 11pm
Where: Southern Sun Hyde Park, Hyde Park Corner, 1st Road, Hyde Park, Sandton

The City Beach Club

If you’re in need of a great weekend daytime outing, The City Beach Club in Braamfontein is always a great option. Here, you’ll rub shoulders with the city’s youth and creative set in a beach bar-themed space complete with sea sand. They serve up an array of cool cocktails, fresh tunes from a range of DJs, street food vendors, and all-around vibey energy. 

They’re only open on Saturdays, and tickets are required to enter, which can be booked online. The space fills up fast, and parking is very limited, so use a ride-share app to avoid any inconvenience.

Cost: R100pp, book via Quicket. R120pp at door

When: Saturday only, from 11am to 8pm
Where: The Playground, 68 Juta Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg

Octo Bar at The Leonardo

This rooftop bar in Johannesburg serves up ice-cold beer on tap and signature cocktails. Once the sun goes down, guests get some pretty sweet skyline views and a balmy atmosphere. A 25-metre swimming pool is surrounded by comfortable loungers, seating, and a large screen where guests can enjoy movies and watch sports matches.

The menu features a selection of wood-fired pizza with gourmet toppings and a tapas menu for lighter shared plates. 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: Monday, 12pm to 11pm. Tuesday to Sunday, 12pm to 11pm
Where: The Leonardo, 75 Maude St, Sandown, Sandton

OKO Restaurant

OKO Restaurant is a rooftop-dining gem at Blueberry Hill Hotel in Honeydew, Roodepoort, perfectly placed on the 6th floor to deliver sweeping vistas and a relaxed yet elevated atmosphere.The menu is a vibrant fusion of East meets West, blending Asian flavours with Western techniques to create dishes meant for sharing and celebration. Guests can dine al fresco by the rooftop pool or indoors. OKO is well suited for intimate dinners, sundowners, or larger gatherings under the open sky.

When: Monday to Saturday, 7am to 10pm. Sunday, 8am to 12am
Where: Blueberry Hill Hotel, 3 Blueberry Street, Honeydew, Johannesburg

Artistry JHB

Artistry JHB is the brainchild of award-winning musician J’Something, who partnered with BlackBrick to conceptualise Artistry as a meeting space for Joburg living, working, and cultural immersion.

The three-storey dining and drinking precinct is designed to take guests on a journey through a number of curated spaces. Up on the rooftop, there’s an elevated menu with prawn cocktail, deep-fried macaroni and cheese, celery and Parma ham salad, and a shortlist of burgers.

When: Daily, 7am to 9pm
Where: BlackBrick Hotel, 22 Fredman Dr, Sandown, Sandton

The Highline Rooftop Bar at Courtyard Hotel Waterfall City

The Highline Rooftop Bar on the top level of the Courtyard Hotel plays to the trendy and glam energy of Waterfall City precinct. The highlight at this stylish spot is the curving swimming pool deck, where you can soak up the rays, and a mod indoor bar with lounge areas for groups and cosy dates. Their menu lists polished snacks and an extensive wine and cocktail selection.

When: Sunday to Thursday, 12pm to 11pm. Friday and Saturday, 12pm to 12am
Where: Courtyard Hotel Waterfall City, Karkloof Cres, City, Midrand, Johannesburg

San Deck at the Sandton Sun & Towers

The San Deck Bar and Restaurant is positioned at the very centre of Johannesburg’s financial and lifestyle hub, and boasts an open city sky view. There are tables arranged around the swimming pool, illuminated seats overlooking the city skyline, and cosy firepits when the weather acts up.

This rooftop all-day bar menu showcases the best South Africa has to offer, with a vast selection of premium quality local beers, ciders, gin, rum, brandy, whiskey, vodka, agave, and specialities such as the small batch witblits and mampoer.

The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner using the finest seasonal, sustainable produce. It also has a variety of flexible dining areas designed to host special occasions, family celebrations and business dinners.

When: Daily, 12pm to 11pm
Where: Sandton Sun & Towers, Corner Fifth Street and, Alice Ln, Sandhurst, Sandton

Elevate at The Reef Hotel

It’s pretty hard to miss Elevate, the almost hidden rooftop bar and lounge that sits 16 floors above the grounds of The Reef Hotel in Marshalltown. This space is an absolute gem if you want to soak up uninterrupted views of downtown Johannesburg.

It features a stylish indoor lounge and a terrace where you can indulge in sundowners and nibbles. The atmosphere usually turns into more of a club lounge, with DJs in the evening. It is also a popular event venue which can accommodate private functions.

When: Saturday to Tuesday, 3am to 12am. Wednesday to Friday, 3pm to 10pm
Where: The Reef Hotel, 58 Anderson St, Marshalltown, Johannesburg

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

Sunset 1403 Bar at The Troyeville Hotel

The Sunset 1403 Rooftop Bar in Troyeville is where Joburg shows off its best views. This laid-back spot is all about golden hour – think city skylines glowing at sunset, chilled vibes, and good music to set the mood. 

The drinks menu covers everything from refreshing cocktails and craft beers to easy sippers perfect for an after-work catch-up or weekend hangout. Light bites keep you going while you soak up the energy of the city from above. Sunset 1403 is one of those rooftops you’ll want to return to again and again.

When: Open to the public from Friday to Sunday only
Where: The Troyeville Hotel, 1403 Albertina Sisulu Rd, Troyeville, Johannesburg

The 11th Floor

One of the most epic spots in the Bedfordview surrounds, The 11th Floor is Joburg’s go-to rooftop for good vibes, killer cocktails, and unbeatable views. By day, it’s a chilled spot to catch some sun and soak in the skyline, and by night, it flips into a lively rooftop scene with music, laughter, and all the energy you’d expect from the city. 

This rooftop bar in Joburg has an impressive list of signature cocktails to sip, and an equally impressive food menu by Executive Chef Kyle Marshall and his culinary crew.

Whether you’re meeting mates for after-work drinks, chasing that perfect sunset moment, or just looking for a stylish hangout with a buzzing crowd, The 11th Floor has you covered.

When: Sunday to Thursday, 7am to 10:30pm. Friday and Saturday, 7am to 12am
Where: 11th Floor, Alpha building, 28 Bradford Rd, Bedfordview, Johannesburg

Level Four Bar & Terrace at 54 on Bath

Housed within the stylish 54 on Bath hotel, Level Four Bar & Terrace is a sophisticated spot that blends decadence with the laid-back charm of Johannesburg. This chic venue offers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere, perfect for everything from after-work drinks to special celebrations. 

The bar space has been elevated through an exclusive partnership with Hendrick’s Gin and with a special cocktail menu that captures the spirit of its surroundings and the botanical infusions Hendrick’s Gin is famous for.

Guests can enjoy an expertly curated selection of cocktails, fine wines, and champagnes, complemented by a tempting menu of light bites and sharing plates. The terrace, with its leafy surrounds and city views, is a favourite for sundowners.

When: Daily, 12pm to 10pm
Where: 54 on Bath hotel, 54 Bath Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg

Sir James van der Merwe

Sir James van der Merwe is no ordinary bar; it’s a haven that captures the essence of bygone eras while exuding relaxed elegance and a touch of grunge quirk. Sir James is at the heart of Katy’s Palace, a popular events venue, and it has become a much-loved spot for its weekly Wednesday night gatherings. This rooftop bar rocks ice-cold brews on tap, and there are all your classic cocktails and a few cheeky mixes on the cards. 

With its unique décor blending the classic with the quirky and a bar stocked with premium libations, it’s the ideal spot to unwind and savour the finer things in life.

When: Open to the public on Wednesday only, from 12pm to 2pm, and 4pm to 12am
Where: 6 Desmond Rd, Kramerville, Johannesburg

Vivace Restaurant & Show Kitchen at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Sandton

If views all the way to Joburg’s suburban skyline take your fancy, Vivace Restaurant & Show Kitchen at the Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton is the spot for you. The dining spot is perched on the 13th floor and combines stylish modern décor with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Start your morning with the renowned Super Breakfast Buffet, featuring a generous selection of fresh and wholesome options. Later in the day, diners can enjoy dishes crafted in the open-plan show kitchen, where the culinary team prepares each meal with flair. The menu draws inspiration from bold Mediterranean flavours, beautifully complemented by distinctive South African touches and seasonal ingredients. A sunset sesh hits different from the terrace.

When: Breakfast – 6:30am to 10:30am on weekdays; 6am to 11am on weekends. Lunch – 12pm to 2:30pm. Dinner – 6pm to 10:30pm
Where: Radisson Blu Hotel, Sandton, Corner Rivonia Road &, Daisy St, Sandton

E Bar at Thaba Eco Hotel

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 hire.

E|Bar is situated outdoors and only in operation during good weather.

When: Sunday to Monday, 7am to 10pm. Friday and Sautrday, 7am to 11pm
Where: Kraal Restaurant at Thaba Eco Hotel, Impala Road, Kibler Park, Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve, Johannesburg South

The Sky Bar at Level Seven Restaurant

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

Vivari Hotel Rooftop Bar

There’s always something special about sipping cocktails at a fancy hotel bar. Even more so when the rooftop bar features spectacular green-laced views of the property and Joburg. The Rooftop Bar at Vivari Hotel and Spa promises a vibrant yet intimate setting.

When: Daily, 11:30am to 7pm
Where: Vivari Hotel and Spa, Ext 8, 1 Riviera Ln, Featherbrooke Estate, Krugersdorp

Living Room Jozi Venue Hire – Not open to public visits

The Living Room Jozi is one of the more seasoned rooftop bars in Johannesburg, thanks to its beaming space. Situated in Maboneng, which is buzzing with a uniquely Joburg vibe, guests experience a great city view while indulging in food and drinks. Private functions can also be arranged, and the space hosts weddings, birthdays and everything in between. This is a special spot to take in the sights as the sun dips on the horizon. Enquire via [email protected].

When:
Where: 5th Floor, Main Change Building, 20 Kruger St, City and Suburban, Johannesburg