Jo’burg’s Watering Holes

Has the African heat got you feeling a little parched? Quench your thirst at one of these cool drinking spots.

Highlights
71 Juta St, Johannesburg, 2000, South Africa
On this rainy afternoon that I visited, Kitchener’s had the DJ on the decks mixing up a storm inside the venue, with patrons being able to browse the goods with their drinks in hand all the while being able to do a little boogie! Whether it’s on the weekend or during the week, Kitchener’s does get very full, but is always good fun! On the weekend’s the bar transforms into a bustling, bar/market with jewellery, vintage books, clothes and more on sale. A cool fact about Kitchener’s: It has the honour of being the second oldest bar in Johannesburg. Check out their full list of events on their Facebook page
73 Juta St, Johannesburg, 2000, South Africa
This semi-outdoor market on Juta Street in Joburg’s Braamfontein neighbourhood is fun fun fun. Eat oysters from Namibia, drink craft beer from South Africa, and devour paella, gelato, cheeses, chocolate...a food lover’s paradise! Open on Saturdays.
58, Wierda Rd E, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa
This Jameson-themed bar can be found in the Sands entertainment venue, where glamorous models and stylish gents gather to party. Once you’ve ordered your poison, you can bump and grind to the sounds of top local and international DJs on the adjacent dance floor! Located in Sandton, this awesome venue is best in summer with it’s Absolut Vodka bottle– shaped swimming pool and outdoor bar section and pool deck.
1 Melrose Square
Sit down in the comfy leather couches and read up on the local news while you sip on a perfect whisky or hustle up a game of pool and sink a cold beer while keeping your cool, either way you’ll love the Library Bar at the Melrose Arch hotel for it’s classy, old school opulence and it’s cosy atmosphere. Hot Summer evenings can be enjoyed on the verandah with cocktails and friends while cooler evenings can be spent cosying up on the couches at the fire side with a hot cup of cocoa. A well thought out bar food menu, is also available if you’re feeling a little hungry.
Corner Alice Lane and, 5th St, Sandhurst, Sandton, 2031, South Africa
Enjoy a sundowner outside on the San Deck of the Sandton Sun Hotel, which offers great views and a good menu with some light snacks. Once you’re done, find your way inside to the hotel’s restaurant before heading back up to your spacious hotel room with ample amenities.
5 De Beer St, Johannesburg, 2000, South Africa
One of the first things you’ll first notice about the Great Dane pub in Braamfontein is the floor. It’s made completely out of 5 cent pieces, which gives it a very awesome copper colour! Located right next door to the other hip and happening bar, Kitchener’s and open all week long, the pub also serves some good grub. Be sure to get in earlier as the place does get packed even with an over flow area in the form of a cosy courtyard in the back. There are some pretty cool parties each weekend so be sure to check up on the Facebook page for relevant details like the secret password to get in the front door!
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