Do you know where to watch live rugby in Johannesburg? No sweat, we've put together a list of decent sports bars where you can watch the rugby and have cold beers without stepping foot outside of Joburg.
The Irish Club
Since its opening in 2002 by the Irish Ambassador to South Africa, The Irish (as it's known to the locals) has been the go-to spot for cheap beer, cheaper whiskey and even cheaper comfort. The bar is stocked and a big screen TV is fitted right above it, showcasing major rugby, football and F1 events. The only problem you'll encounter is visiting the Irish Club when South Africa plays Ireland, and the tension so thick, you could cut it with a knife! But that's not the case when it comes to the Super Rugby... just make sure that you support the Lions - yes, we're making it to the finals again this year! Details: http://theirishclub.co.za/Gilroy's Brewery
Steve Gilroy's beer is so famous that it somehow made its way into the James Bond novel, Carte Blanche, as Bond's drink of choice while staying at a hotel in Cape Town. Gilroy's Brewery is set right on our doorstep here in Johannesburg. Good news for sports fans – the bar counter is right opposite the big-screen TVs. The beer and food are good, and the vibe is something special, especially when master brewer, Steve Gilroy, addresses the crowd in the special way only Steve can. Details: http://www.gilroybeers.co.za
Hooters
If you're looking for a bar with a massive selection of big-screen TVs showing a whole lot of different sports all at the same time, head to Hooters in Ruimsig. The place gets pretty packed, but at least the beer's always cold, and the curly fries with jalapeno cheese sauce are enough to make you return the next time a big match is being aired. The boneless chicken wings are a winner too... especially when paired with a basket of curly fries! Details: https://www.facebook.com/HootersSA/Green and Gold
If there's a place that can boast real pub food served in a gourmet style and enough TVs to make an appliance store jealous, it's Green and Gold. Inspired by our men and women in green and gold, it's often the number-one spot to be whenever our team takes to the field, track, pool or pitch. Green and Gold is kitted out with super-big screen TVs, cold beer and delicious food. Book a table in advance as this grand pub is quite popular among locals. Details: https://www.greenandgoldpubs.co.za
Paddy's
Whether you're looking to play a few rounds of pool, hang out with your mates, grab an ice-cold beer or catch some sporting action on their screens, Paddy's in Randburg is just the place to be. It's rather chilled by day, but as soon as the sun sets this spot becomes rather rowdy, especially over the weekend and during sport seasons like the Super Rugby. Details: http://www.paddyscafe.co.zaThe Weekend Market
For a spot that's more family and less bar, the Weekend Market offers live sport screenings, entertainment for the kids, a market to stroll through if you're looking to stretch your legs in between games, and good food and drinks. Click here to find out which games they'll be screening over the next few weekends. Details: http://weekendmarketjhb.co.za
