Melville is best known for its vibrant entertainment, nightlife and parties. As you can expect, the streets are full of trendy bars, restaurants and nightclubs. If more outdoorsy entertainment is what you're after, try a stroll through the rolling hills of the Melville Koppies Nature Reserve, or enjoy the weekend markets.
What Are You Looking For?
Nightlife
The Anti Social Social Club
The Anti-Social Social Club is a modern, Asian-style bar and restaurant in Melville. If your idea of a night of entertainment means good food, company and delicious drinks, this is the place for you. The menu at the Anti Social Social Club is light and pairs perfectly with their equally-delicious cocktail menu.
Visit The Anti Social Social Club.
Jo'Anna Melt Bar
Located on always-trendy 7th Street, Jo'Anna Melt Bar is an ultra-stylish and sophisticated bar located in Melville. You'd be forgiven for asking what a melt bar is - it's a new idea, after all! Simply put, everything coming out of the kitchen has cheese on it. To complement these delicious cheesy dishes, patrons can enjoy a range of craft beers. Jo'Anna Melt Bar is essentially a place for sophisticated guests to hang out, relax and enjoy delicious food and great company.
Ratz Bar + Diner
A real Melville institution, Ratz Bar + Diner has been entertaining Melville residents for 24 years! Ratz is Melville’s premier LGBTQI+ friendly restaurant and cocktail bar. Ratz has a reputation for delicious food, tasty cocktails, and hits from the 70s til the present day to dance the night away to. If you’re in the mood for a night of music, drinks, and dancing, Ratz Bar + Diner is definitely the place for you!
Smoking Kills Bar
Smoking Kills is an unusually old-fashioned place. It rejects the label of restaurant, pub or nightclub. What is it then, do I hear you ask? They describe themselves as nothing more or less than a bar, an "unapologetic watering hole". If you love rum, Smoking Kills Bar is the place to be. Though they aren't a restaurant, you can enjoy a light bite to eat with your drink, but nothing fancy. If a fun night out on the town with friends is what you're after, Smoking Kills is where you'll want to start.
Hell's Kitchen
Hell’s Kitchen is an American-style, rock-themed bar and restaurant in Melville. Known for its iconic “Be Naked When I Get Home” neon sign, 1920s New York speakeasy glamour, and secret poker room hidden away behind the bookcase, Hell’s Kitchen is an iconic and fun place to go for a night out. Enjoy live entertainment, delicious bar food, and good company while savouring some Jameson’s whiskey. Bliss!
Image Source: Facebook
Outdoor
27 Boxes Night Market
If barhopping isn't quite your thing, the 27 Boxes Night Market could provide the night-time entertainment you've been searching for. Located at 27 Boxes, Melville, the Night Market takes place on Wednesday evenings from 17:00 to 21:00. The event is pet-friendly, and features a variety of local vendors, arts and crafts, live music and more!
The Green Market Melville
For all enthusiasts of the “organic cannabis lifestyle”, The Green Market Melville is essentially paradise. You can find The Green Market on the rooftop of 27 Boxes on Saturdays, and from there, the choices are endless. Cannabis-themed food, therapeutic products, oils, ointments and even dog treats can be purchased here. Enjoy live music and drinks at the bars nearby, it's an experience not to be missed.
Visit The Green Market Melville.
Melville Koppies Nature Reserve
The Melville Koppies Nature Reserve is a nature reserve and Johannesburg Heritage Site located in Melville. The Koppies are a perfect spot for a day trip if you're even slightly interested in the history and geography of Johannesburg prior to the discovery of gold in 1886. Its geology dates back 3 billion years, and there is evidence of both Stone Age and Iron Age man. The ridges themselves are also remarkable, as their vegetation is entirely indigenous - a rare thing so close to the City of Johannesburg.
Visit The Melville Koppies Nature Reserve.
Melville Food and Farmers Market
Do you love organic fruit and veggies, fresh milk and bread, baked goods and more? If so, a trip to the farmer's market is in order! The Melville Food and Farmers Market has been supplying the Melville and local community with fresh produce for a long time, and has appeared in various iterations throughout the years. Support your local farmers and have a great time in the fresh air!
Visit The Melville Food and Farmers Market.
Image Source: Unsplash
Marble Restaurant
If you are looking for the perfect mixes, then this is the joint for you. Situated at Keyes Art Mile, Marble Restaurant offers a variety of delicious cocktails. Everything they make is exceptionally amazing, with an added dose of good South African flair. There is great music, flame inspired tapas, the finest wine and spirits. But if it's cocktails you're after, check these out!
Throbbing Strawberry
Throbbing Strawberry has been in the business of entertaining, feeding and mixing cocktails for a number of years now. They have world class cocktails, handcrafted with precision and dedication to the finest balance of infused flavours. This is a must-visit establishment.
Tiger's Milk
Head to Tiger's Milk for those lekker cocktails. They have everything you need from classics to virgin cocktails and everything in between. This is the ultimate hang out spot, whether for after work drinks or just to kick back and relax. Here, you'll find mouthwatering cocktails.
Rockets
If you're looking to kick back and have an epic ladies night, Rockets is the place to be. This eatery offers a fine selection of delicious cocktails that are perfect after a long week. Make sure you check out their menu for all the yummy cocktail mixes.
Jo’Anna Melt Bar
Jo’annnna Melt Bar, in Melville, is a drinking hole that offers a variety of specialty crafted cocktails. Our top pick would be the Apricot and Ginger Siesta, which contains silver tequila, apricot extract, fresh lime juice, aromatic bitters and ginger ale. It tastes as good as it sounds!
Liquid Blue
If you ever find yourself in Melville over a weekend, then pay Liquid Blue a visit. Go straight to the bar and order the Apple and Rum Fondue Jar. With three types of Bacardi, lemon juice, homemade chocolate fondue syrup, a sour apple and an apple fan, this drink will blow you away.
The Beer Co.
Not only does The Beer Co. have amazing crafted beer, they also have amazing cocktails. Located away from the noisy city, this bar is the perfect place to sit back, relax and enjoy an ice-cold expertly crafted cocktail or a bitter beer. Not sure what to order? No problem! Get the Cocktail Tasting, offering 100ml tasters of six of their delicious cocktails.
Love Me So
Another Melville favourite of ours has made it to the list. There's no need for you to grab your passport to get the chance to taste amazing Ramen, Korean BBQ and Poke Bowls, just visit this restaurant. They have an amazing line-up of refreshing and delicious cocktails that are just waiting for you to try them out. You will fall in love with Love Me So, in no time.
Let us know which cocktails you've tried, and feel free to share any we may have missed!
Great Dane
Great Dane in Braam is a fab place to squeeze in a little dance session. It’s a casual spot that has differently themed parties on different nights of the week, so just check out what’s going down before you head over there – either way, you’re in for a party! Hint: they serve great gourmet hot dogs, so don't leave until you've tried one.
Where: 5 De Beer Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
For more information, click here.
Kitcheners
Kitcheners is right next door to Great Dane and is one of the oldest bars in the city. It’s super-casual but still manages to keep its trendy edge. Like Great Dane, different parties happen here on different nights, so it’s a mixed bag of jams. They also host live bands occasionally, so be sure to check ahead to see what’s happening… or just arrive and be pleasantly surprised.
Where: 6 De Beer Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
For more information, click here.
Hell's Kitchen
Melville’s Hell’s Kitchen is an alternative haven for those who are into the rockabilly vibe. Firstly, the décor here is out of this world and, secondly, the music is always amazing – they usually play rock but nothing too heavy! While they don’t have a designated dance floor, people do tend to move the tables out the way and create a makeshift one. Hint: look out for the secret room behind the bookshelf and don’t leave without a shot or two of Hellfire Cinnamon Whisky.
Where: Shop 4, 7th Street, Melville, Johannesburg.
For more information, click here.
Truth
Truth used to be a snake park back in the day but has since been transformed into a super-club that pumps electronic music every Friday and Saturday night. Parties here can go on into the wee hours of the morning and you’re more than likely to leave only once the sun has risen. There are various dance floors in Truth where different types of EDM are played. They also often host international DJs and producers!
Where: Old Pretoria Road, Midrand, Johanneburg.
For more information, click here.
Carfax
Carfax is another super-club in Joburg that hosts all kinds of parties: live bands, DJs, drum ’n bass events and more. Check out their lineup before you go and just remember that it's not really a "walk in" kind of place... they’re only open when they’re hosting an event (most Friday and Saturday nights). It’s a grungy-in-a-good-way kind of spot and know that their street parties can get out of hand (in the best way, of course).
Where: 39a Gwi Gwi Mrwebi Street, Newtown, Johannesburg.
For more information, click here.
And
And is an underground EDM club that hosts regular party nights. Thursdays are for Addictshun, which is their drum ’n bass night and Fridays are for Toy Toy, their weekly techno residency. Both parties pump like you have no idea. They do host other kinds of parties on occasion, so check out their lineup to stay in the loop. We should probably tell you that this is another one of those places that can suck you in and spit you out only after the sun has risen... it’s great!
Where: 39a Gwi Gwi Mrwebi Street, Newtown, Johannesburg.
For more information, click here.
Rumours Lounge
Rumours Lounge used to be in Weltevreden Park but has since moved into the old Standard Bank Building across the road from Cresta. It's a haven for live music lovers and bar-goers alike. All kinds of gigs go down here – on any given night you’re bound to catch a rad local band taking to the stage or an international one blowing it up. Have a look at their lineup if there’s a specific act you’d like to see, or just rock up and go with the flow.
Where: Valley Ln, Blackheath, Randburg, 2118
For more information, click here.
Jo'Anna Melt Bar
Jo’Anna Melt Bar is a Melville-based place that has a jukebox, which means that if you want to hear your chosen tracks, you’d better get there early! It’s a great place to dance, drink and just have an awesome time. They also serve up melted cheese in every shape and form imaginable – should you get a late night craving for something cheesy.
Where: 7 7th Street, Melville, Johannesburg.
For more information, click here.
Artivist
This is the vibe you're looking for where art meets food, meets bar, meets an overall fun time. This is also one of the chillest, mature and upmarket venues with good food and cocktails on the menu, that appeals to the neighbourhood's post-student and of course the young professional crowd. If you haven't been yet make sure you pay them a visit. We might bump into you. This is one of our favourite places.
Where: 7 Reserve Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
For more information, click here.
Mootee Bar
Welcome to Africa everybody! This is an authentic, unconventional interpretation of modern Africa. They embrace every African concept and promise to give you a different and unique experience. They normally have amazing events lined up for you and if you find yourself around Melville this is just where you want to find yourself.
Where: 78A 4th Avenue, Melville, Johannesburg.
For more information, click here.
By Shawn Greyling
Know of other rad student clubs or bars not mentioned above? Let us know in the comments section below. Also, sharing is caring, so pop this article on social media for us.
Remember that our “Top Picks” are not paid for and are compiled at the discretion of the journalist. We only write about what we love.
Great Dane
Great Dane in Braam is a fab place to squeeze in a little dance session. It’s a casual spot that has differently themed parties on different nights of the week, so just check out what’s going down before you head over there – either way, you’re in for a party! Hint: they serve great gourmet hot dogs, so don't leave until you've tried one.
Where: 5 De Beer Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
For more information, click here.
Kitcheners
Kitcheners is right next door to Great Dane and is one of the oldest bars in the city. It’s super-casual but still manages to keep its trendy edge. Like Great Dane, different parties happen here on different nights, so it’s a mixed bag of jams. They also host live bands occasionally, so be sure to check ahead to see what’s happening… or just arrive and be pleasantly surprised.
Where: 6 De Beer Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
For more information, click here.
Hell's Kitchen
Melville’s Hell’s Kitchen is an alternative haven for those who are into the rockabilly vibe. Firstly, the décor here is out of this world and, secondly, the music is always amazing – they usually play rock but nothing too heavy! While they don’t have a designated dance floor, people do tend to move the tables out the way and create a makeshift one. Hint: look out for the secret room behind the bookshelf and don’t leave without a shot or two of Hellfire Cinnamon Whisky.
Where: Shop 4, 7th Street, Melville, Johannesburg.
For more information, click here.
Truth
Truth used to be a snake park back in the day but has since been transformed into a super-club that pumps electronic music every Friday and Saturday night. Parties here can go on into the wee hours of the morning and you’re more than likely to leave only once the sun has risen. There are various dance floors in Truth where different types of EDM are played. They also often host international DJs and producers!
Where: Old Pretoria Road, Midrand, Johanneburg.
For more information, click here.
Carfax
Carfax is another super-club in Joburg that hosts all kinds of parties: live bands, DJs, drum ’n bass events and more. Check out their lineup before you go and just remember that it's not really a "walk in" kind of place... they’re only open when they’re hosting an event (most Friday and Saturday nights). It’s a grungy-in-a-good-way kind of spot and know that their street parties can get out of hand (in the best way, of course).
Where: 39a Gwi Gwi Mrwebi Street, Newtown, Johannesburg.
For more information, click here.
And
And is an underground EDM club that hosts regular party nights. Thursdays are for Addictshun, which is their drum ’n bass night and Fridays are for Toy Toy, their weekly techno residency. Both parties pump like you have no idea. They do host other kinds of parties on occasion, so check out their lineup to stay in the loop. We should probably tell you that this is another one of those places that can suck you in and spit you out only after the sun has risen... it’s great!
Where: 39a Gwi Gwi Mrwebi Street, Newtown, Johannesburg.
For more information, click here.
Rumours Lounge
Rumours Lounge used to be in Weltevreden Park but has since moved into the old Standard Bank Building across the road from Cresta. It's a haven for live music lovers and bar-goers alike. All kinds of gigs go down here – on any given night you’re bound to catch a rad local band taking to the stage or an international one blowing it up. Have a look at their lineup if there’s a specific act you’d like to see, or just rock up and go with the flow.
Where: Valley Ln, Blackheath, Randburg, 2118
For more information, click here.
Jo'Anna Melt Bar
Jo’Anna Melt Bar is a Melville-based place that has a jukebox, which means that if you want to hear your chosen tracks, you’d better get there early! It’s a great place to dance, drink and just have an awesome time. They also serve up melted cheese in every shape and form imaginable – should you get a late night craving for something cheesy.
Where: 7 7th Street, Melville, Johannesburg.
For more information, click here.
Artivist
This is the vibe you're looking for where art meets food, meets bar, meets an overall fun time. This is also one of the chillest, mature and upmarket venues with good food and cocktails on the menu, that appeals to the neighbourhood's post-student and of course the young professional crowd. If you haven't been yet make sure you pay them a visit. We might bump into you. This is one of our favourite places.
Where: 7 Reserve Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
For more information, click here.
Mootee Bar
Welcome to Africa everybody! This is an authentic, unconventional interpretation of modern Africa. They embrace every African concept and promise to give you a different and unique experience. They normally have amazing events lined up for you and if you find yourself around Melville this is just where you want to find yourself.
Where: 78A 4th Avenue, Melville, Johannesburg.
For more information, click here.
By Shawn Greyling
Know of other rad student clubs or bars not mentioned above? Let us know in the comments section below. Also, sharing is caring, so pop this article on social media for us.
Remember that our “Top Picks” are not paid for and are compiled at the discretion of the journalist. We only write about what we love.
JB's Corner
JB's Corner situated in prominent Melrose Arch and Sandton City serves up some of the best gourmet sandwiches in Joburg. They have something for all tastes. Fish lovers can try their Gone Fishing - pieces of tuna, olives, cucumber and mayo of fresh ciabatta. Their Fillet on French is perfect for meat lovers with beef fillet in barbecue sauce. And for the vegetarians - the Halloumi Club on Ciabatta features grilled halloumi, roasted peppers, creamy avocado and eggplant on a huge ciabatta roll.
Super Sconto
This Italian deli and supermarket in Orange Grove has a diverse range of cold cut meat, cheeses and vegetables. At the counter you can create your own sandwich. Just choose your meat; like mortadella, turkey or parma, your cheese like mozzarella or gorgonzola and your veg like artichokes, sundried tomatoes and olives to go on a crusty ciabatta. A mozzarella with yummy pesto, chewy sundried tomatoes and salty olives is certainly what I would go for.
Vovo Telo
Vovo Telo has a great selection of sarmies for you to choose from whether you are in a rush or want to sit back and relax. Their bread is freshly baked daily, from ciabattas and sourdough to bagels and rye. Try out some of their gourmet options, like the Chicken and Bacon Onion Marmalade Baguette or the Smoked Salmon Trout Bagel. They also have a croissant sandwich with gypsy ham, boerenkaas, lettuce and tomato.
Jo’Anna Melt Bar
This bar is known for their amazing cocktail menu and toasties. After a long day at work, pop into one of their comfy booths. Sip on a martini, shaken not stirred, while waiting for the comfort of stretchy cheese. Their Popeye is a popular choice with a beef patty, bacon, lettuce, tomato and gooey cheddar.
Velo Café
Known for the best sarmies in Braamies, Velo Café offers a great spot to relax, have a good cup of coffee and a yummy sarmie. Options include the Ambrosia with roasted peppers, aubergine, hummus, halloumi and coriander on a panini or the Rooster Booster which if stuffed with chicken, avocado, peri-mayo and rocket.
L8 Cafe
This spot at 44 Stanley is perfect for those looking for a great gourmet sarmie. They have unique and delicious selection of gourmet sarmies to choose from, and they're all named after movie and TV characters. Our favourites include Bill the Butcher; matured rump, wild rocket, red onion, cherry tomatoes, feta and a balsamic reduction and Hatchet Harry; rocket, beetroot, brie, sundried tomatoes, basil pesto and almonds.
Proof Café
If you are looking for a sandwich made from quality ingredients and freshly baked bread that comes in generous portions then you need to pay a visit to Proof Café in Sandton. Their menu consists mostly of sandwiches. These come in all types from traditional South African toasties to a Middle Eastern Wrap (it counts as a sandwich). We recommend the BLAT - because the only thing a regular BLT needs is some avo.
Melt Chocolate
Melt Chocolate is a fantasy among chocolate lovers because of their decadent chocolate shots, hot chocolates and cakes. But this spot also makes great sandwiches. They have a few classic options like roast beef and tuna mayo. Those of us who struggle to decide what to eat can choose the platter option, which gives you a quarter of any four sandwiches. You can also build your own toasted sandwiches using one of their five bread options loaded with your choice of toppings. We, however, go there for their signature sandwiches. The Ham and Berry Apple Tower is definitely worth trying, we are talking about a tower made out of ciabatta, pulled pork, lettuce, emmental, micro greens, baked apple and cranberry mustard sauce.
Bread Basket
You'll never have to make your own lunch again thanks to Bread Basket. With a big selection of sarmies to choose from, you will feel spoiled for choice. You can choose from rye, bagels, baguettes and sourdough rolls and fill them up with a great selection of fillings. The Smoked Salmon Trout and Cream Cheese on a buttery croissant sounds good right about now.
Casa Marani Italian Deli
Casa Marani Italian Deli in Parkhurst offers only two options; the Ciabatta Panino Vegetarian and Ciabatta Panino Meat. However, you can add any of their 50 choices of cured meats, cheeses and marinated vegetables for a magnificent DIY sandwich of epic proportions. Think about olive ciabatta smothered with hummus and topped with crumbled goats feta, provolone, red onion, marinated peppers,mushrooms and paper thin slices of prosciutto and turkey - Yum!
