Not too clued up on the hottest spots around Mzansi? We’ve got the guide for you, with one to fit every occasion. 

For the perfect date  

Jozi the Marabi Club  

Step back in time (without delving too deeply into SA’s tragic past) at this Maboneng hotspot, named after a style of local music that arose in the 1920s. It serves up fine food, live Afro jazz and a delectable selection of wines, beers, cocktails and spirits in a glam speakeasy atmosphere.  

Contact details: Hallmark House, 54 Siemert Road, New Doornfontein, 010 591 2879 

Mother City – Kloof Street House  

This beautiful retreat feels like it’s been ripped from the 1920s and landed up on one of the city’s vibiest streets. With a cool, leafy, fairy-lit courtyard and sumptuous interiors (think chandeliers, plush furnishings) plus a jazz brunch on Sundays, this spot takes care of the atmosphere – the charm is still on you. One of their delicious cocktails might help, or perhaps a bottle from their extensive wine list… Did we mention bottomless mimosas from 10am to noon?  

Contact details: 30 Kloof Street, Gardens, 021 423 4413  

Durbs – The Lighthouse Bar  

The iconic Singapore Sling has travelled a long way to this beautiful bar at The Oyster Box hotel, overlooking stunning Umhlanga Beach and its iconic lighthouse. Order a couple of Umhlanga Schlings, made with local cane sugar and cane spirit, and enjoy them on the terrace at sunset with a spicy sharing platter while basking in the balmy evening weather.  

Contact details: 2 Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga, 031 514 5000   

For the off-duty drinks   

Jozi – Mix Cocktail Bar  

Watch the sun set on your work stresses with drinks at this intimate bar on the Keyes Art Mile. Complementing the stunning view of the creative neighbourhood is the menu of signature cocktails, along with good wine and an array of spirits including 40 whiskies. The kitchen serves delectable small plates while the DJs serve up an eclectic soundtrack.  

Contact details: 21 Keyes Avenue, Rosebank, 010 594 5545  

Mother  City– Cause | Effect  

While the rest of the city fights the traffic back to the ’burbs, pop over to the Waterfront for a sophisticated tipple at this ‘Cocktail Kitchen & Cape Brandy Bar’. If you think the name’s a mouthful, wait until you sample one of their gourmet cocktails, arranged on the menu into a spectrum from spice, umami and floral to wooded, aromatic and botanical. Nibbles include canapés and platters (a charcuterie board or brandy board to share?), but the pork belly bao sliders are too good to miss.  

Contact details: Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, 021 422 0266  

Durbs – Unity Bar & Brasserie  

Known as one of the city’s best beer bars, this is the ideal spot for a much-needed post-work pint. There is an extensive range on tap, all served up in a modern and inviting environment. The choices include Unity’s own craft brand, THAT Brewing Co. (just down the road). Grab a burger, bunny chow or a sharing platter to keep the munchies at bay.  

Contact details: 117 Silverton Road, Musgrave, 031 201 3470  

Good ol’ boys night  

Durbs – Beach Bums  

Sunset, sand and sex on the beach (the cocktail, not the activity) – what more could you ask for? Chill with your mates on Casuarina Beach near Ballito, with the sand between your toes and a cold one/cocktail in hand in the shade of a palm tree. Chow down on burgers or pizzas and see where the night takes you.  

Contact details: 65 Casuarina Beach Road, Westbrook, 032 943 1132  

Jozi – Kitchener’s Carvery Bar  

Cut loose in a little slice of Joburg history… The city’s second-oldest bar has been around for well over a century and is famed for its progressive music scene, eclectic crowd and retro décor. Come early for some pub fare, burgers or a monster meat platter, and watch as it transforms into party central, where things get somewhat rowdier yet still with a chilled vibe. You can jol until 4am…  

Contact details: 71 Juta Street, Braamfontein, 011 403 0166  

Mother City – Chinchilla  

Start your evening the right way on the rooftop at this vibey spot overlooking the sparkling sands of Camps Bay beach and the best sunset view in town. Order one of the signature cocktails, such as Tropical Waves (vodka, triple sec, guava, pineapple, citrus and elderflower) or Amaretto & Apricot Sours (whisky, apricot jam, amaretto, citrus, egg white and bitters). Then hit the Camps Bay ‘strip’ to continue the party at the myriad other bars and eateries.  

Contact details: Victoria Road, Camps Bay, 021 286 5075  

Tips for finding hidden gems in your city  

• Make Google Maps (which comes with reviews) your new best friend. 
• Follow tourism/travel blogs and influencers – they’re always posting about their experiences and the best locations to visit. 
• Try geocaching: it will take you on and off the tourist trail in your city, with just a GPS device or a smartphone. Visit geocaching.com and sign up for free to embark on your next adventure. 

Words: Anthony Sharp

Photographs: Gallo/getty Images, Supplied