by Beverley Wilcock
Tired of Klippies and Coke? Mimosas with brunch no longer sound fun? No problem! Spend the next happy hour (or two) trying out some of Joburg’s best cocktails at one of these go-to cocktail bars we’ve found just for you.
Smoking Kills
If this dive bar’s name doesn’t already grab your attention, then the design and ever-changing menu will. Smoking Kills is the perfect blend of grunge and nostalgia that has become many Joburgers’ go-to hangout. Here, you drink in peace or disturb the peace, enjoying the vibes. You’ll even find a TV playing old cartoons somewhere between all the graffiti artwork. You’re also in luck if rum is your drink of choice. (Hey Captain Jack Sparrow, this one’s for you!) Smoking Kills is open from Tuesdays to Sundays, or follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on all their latest developments.
Details: 78a Avenue, 4th Avenue, Melville | 079 950 7385 | 081 722 5725
Mix Cocktail Bar
Sundowners anybody? How about Sundowners, art, and music? Yes, please! Mix Cocktail Bar doesn’t just provide the usuals (do you take your martini shaken or stirred, sir?) and margaritas. Here, you’ll also swallow your Famous Last Words and oh deary, it’s Mary Mary Quite Contrary. Tucked away in the Keyes Art Mile, you'll also get to fly (or is that drink?) the Paper Plane. Perhaps you’re more of a Jungle Bird! Either way, you’re sure to find something on the menu with a quirky name and excellent flavour profile. Join for lunch, dinner, or book your next event at Mix Cocktail Bar.
Details: 2nd Floor, 21 Keyes Avenue, Rosebank | 010 594 5545 | [email protected]
Democracy Bar
There’s always one. THAT person who can’t decide what to eat, what to drink, or where to go. We all have THAT someone in our lives, no? If you don't...it might be you. Let Democracy Bar help. Head over between Tuesday and Sunday and let Democracy (Bar) rule. Who knows? You may end up loving The Minority Leader or need to encourage everyone to vote with a “Come Now, Comrades”! Don’t be a buzzkill; have a cocktail in the spirit of democracy, and make sure your vote counts.
Details: 198 Oxford Road, Illovo | 010 446 0280 | [email protected] | https://www.democracybar.co.za/
Rita’s JHB
Not everyone is a social butterfly, we know, but Rita’s JHB makes socialising a little easier with Social Hour. Lubricate any anxiety with half-price margaritas and small plates daily from 5 pm till 7 pm. Be sure to check out their full menu, because there’s a lot to choose from. There’s a Jalapeno Mango Margarita to tempt your taste buds and a Rooibos Margarita. Are you even South African if this doesn't sound good to you? If you're really into your fruity drinks, try the Summer Lovin’ or a Granadilla Lolly! Don’t miss the DJs every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
Details: The Leaping Frog Shopping Centre, Winnie Mandela Drive, Fourways | 010 006 0994 | [email protected] | https://www.ritascocktailclub.com/
The Blind Tiger®
Desperately need a night out but don’t want to leave your four-legged family home alone? Fear not. At The Blind Tiger®, everyone’s welcome, even Garfield and Marmaduke. Try your hand at the CULT Quiz or just enjoy one of the many menu items. Maybe you fancy yourself a cocktail inspired by The Great Gatsby. Does life feel like a Rusty Nail in your foot? There's a cocktail for that. A visit here means you'll get to meet Charlie, the resident cat, and maybe even complement your visit with a Greyhound or Moscow Mule. Whatever your flavour, Blind Tiger® has something just for you.
Details: 62 Tyrone Avenue, Parkview | 076 030 4200 | [email protected] | https://blindtiger.co.za/
Karaoke Kong
Want to belt out your favourite tune while having some cocktails? A little something like Coyote Ugly? Some Drops of Jupiter or Let’s Get it On (which you can drink for liquid courage before taking the stage, by the way). Karaoke Kong is an ideal spot for your next girls’ night or birthday bash. There’s even an AMF if you need one. (We'll leave you to read the menu for this one). Remember the house rules because, as Karaoke Kong points out, this ain’t yo’ mama’s house. Don't hate, don't discriminate, and even if your performance is mic drop worthy...keep it in your hand. Unless you want to pay the fine, that is. Microphones are expensive!
Details: 1 7th Street, Melville | 087 821 6981 | [email protected] | https://karaokekong.co.za/
If you’re looking for your old favourites, cocktails with a twist, or a new go-to place to decompress after a long week, Joburg’s got options. Yes, even for your indecisive friend and four-legged companions. Pinky promise.
