Want to chill with your friends on a rooftop bar while sipping on a few sundowners? Great idea, but where do you go? Well, we have compiled a list of our top picks for rooftop bars in Joburg to help you choose!
Alto234
High above Sandton, Alto234 offers an elevated way to experience Johannesburg, with uninterrupted 360-degree views that stretch across the city skyline. As Africa’s highest urban bar, it pairs breathtaking scenery with refined tapas-style dishes and standout drinks, including its iconic Mini Moët machine.
You'll find it on the rooftop of The Leonardo, hosting curated cultural, music, and wellness experiences that reflect Joburg’s vibrant rhythm. It’s the perfect place to reconnect with the city from a whole new perspective!
Details: https://www.alto234.co.za/ | [email protected] | +27 87 536 0000 | 57th Floor, The Leonardo, 75 Maude Street.
The City Beach Club
A new addition to the Joburg rooftop bar scene, The City Beach Club at Play Braamfontein is a hot spot to be and be seen. You'll instantly be transported to a coastal paradise from the moment you step through the doors and onto their floor of beach sand. This unique venue offers a one-of-a-kind experience, combining the relaxed ambience of a beach club with the energy of a bustling city.
Details: www.playbraamfontein.co.za | 060 793 6107 | [email protected] | 68 Juta Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
The 11th Floor
The 11th Floor Restaurant captivates guests with exquisite cuisine, personalised service, luxurious decor, live music and breathtaking views. Where flavours ignite in a gourmet revolution, reshaping the city’s food scene with a celebration of Mediterranean flavour. The superb selection of local and imported wines and champagnes, showcased by the in-house sommeliers, perfectly complements the culinary offering. The bar features a creative mix of classic and signature cocktails.
Details: www.the11thfloor.co.za | 010 045 0440 | 11th Floor, Nicol Corner, 28 Bradford Road, Bedfordview, Johannesburg.
Flames at Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, Johannesburg
If you're craving something a bit more suburban and modern, then Flames at Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, Johannesburg, might just be the perfect venue for you. Imagine being served succulent tapas and delicious drinks while you enjoy a stunning sunset overlooking leafy Joburg. Sounds fabulous, doesn't it?
Details: Four Seasons Hotel | 011 481 6000 | 67 Jan Smuts Avenue, Westcliff, Johannesburg.
The Island Bar
Need an after-work hangout spot or just looking to miss the traffic? Either way, the Island Bar at the Southern Sun Hyde Park pool deck is a lovely place to unwind, sip on icy drinks and catch some of the most unforgettable Highveld sunsets the city has to offer. Their cocktail menu is quite impressive, so there's no doubt there'll be something for every taste.
Details: www.southernsun.com | 011 341 8080 | Southern Sun Hyde Park, Corner Jan Smuts and William Nicol Drive, Hyde Park, Sandton, Johannesburg.
The Living Room
If you're all about trendy rooftop bars, then pop on over to the popular Maboneng Precinct and enjoy the sunset and hipster buzz with a cocktail in hand at The Living Room. This nature-inspired rooftop bar is vibrant and perfect to enjoy sundowners with friends, take photographs and share some good laughs. Also serving tasty food, your experience here will be unforgettable.
Details: The Living Room | 082 370 9284 | [email protected] | 5th Floor, Main Change Building, 20 Kruger Street, Maboneng Precinct, Johannesburg.
Sir James van Der Merwe at Katy's Palace Bar
Sir James van der Merwe at Katy's Palace Bar in Kramerville is just the place to be on a Wednesday night. The venue is trendy, hip, eclectic and lively – and so are the cocktails. Then there's their perfect view of Sandton... just stunning! They tend to host lots of cool and exciting events, so make sure you keep an eye out on Facebook to see what they have coming up.
Details: Sir James Van Der Merwe | 072 607 4235 | [email protected] | 06 Desmond Street, Kramerville, Sandton, Johannesburg.
The San Deck at Sandton Sun
Loved by many Sandton residents, The San Deck joins our list of perfect rooftop bars, whether in summer or winter. Summer is best to enjoy the sun with some gorgeous cocktails under the umbrellas or on the couches. Winter is also great with the outdoor heaters and glorious fire pits to keep you warm after the sun goes down.
Details: The San Deck | 011 780 5000 | [email protected] | Sandton Sun Hotel, 5th Street, Sandton, Johannesburg.
Know of other great rooftop bars not mentioned above? Let us know below!
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.
