Best Bars in Cape Town Right Now: 5 Trending Spots Locals Love
From secret tiki vibes to beach club sunsets, here are Cape Town’s bar hotspots before they blow up.
This guide highlights five Cape Town bars that are buzzing right now, from a brand new tiki hideout to iconic beach and rooftop style hangouts. Expect strong cocktails, big views, and the kind of energy that makes nights in the Mother City feel legendary.
The Tiki Tomb - Hidden tiki bar with big buzz
A new kid on the block with a fast climbing growth score, The Tiki Tomb is already on every bartender’s radar. With only a handful of recent reviews but a high rating, it still feels like a secret.
Why it is trending:
- New opening with word-of-mouth momentum rather than mass tourism
- Playful tiki cocktails that photograph beautifully for social feeds
- Intimate, slightly underground vibe that suits pre-drinks and late night sessions
Best for: Small groups who want something different from the usual Long Street bar crawl and cocktail lovers who care about presentation as much as flavor.
Pro tip: Book or arrive early on weekends. The space is compact, so it fills up fast once the first round of rum hits the tables.
Tiger's Milk Long Street - High energy city classic
With thousands of reviews and a strong rating, Tiger's Milk Long Street is not new, but it keeps trending because it nails the casual, high energy Long Street formula.
Why it is trending:
- Consistently busy, which keeps it front of mind for both locals and visitors
- Solid growth score fueled by reliable food, drinks, and big sports nights
- Perfectly placed on Long Street for bar hopping or an all night base
Best for: Big groups, watching the game, and starting a Long Street crawl with burgers, pizzas, and beers before moving to heavier cocktails.
Pro tip: If you want a more relaxed vibe and decent conversation, aim for earlier in the evening before the late night rush.
Grand Africa Café & Beach - Sundowners on the sand
Grand Africa Café & Beach is the definition of Cape Town sundowner glam. With thousands of reviews and a strong rating, it is a staple that keeps trending on social platforms every summer.
Why it is trending:
- Beachfront setting with toes in the sand and uninterrupted ocean views
- Instagram friendly decor, oversized loungers, and sunset cocktails
- Remains a go to for pre party drinks and special occasions
Best for: Sunset dates, birthday groups, and visitors who want the classic Cape Town beach bar photo without leaving the city.
Pro tip: Reserve for golden hour and stay through sunset. Ask staff which side of the deck has the best light that day for photos.
Time Out Market Cape Town - One stop food and bar playground
Located in the V&A Waterfront, Time Out Market Cape Town brings together multiple kitchens and bars under one roof. It is not a traditional bar, but its growth score shows how quickly it has become a go to drinking spot.
Why it is trending:
- Multiple bar counters and drinks options, from craft cocktails to local wine
- Easy for mixed groups where everyone wants something different to eat
- Waterfront location that works for pre theatre, pre club, or post sightseeing drinks
Best for: Groups who want flexibility, foodies who like to snack while they sip, and travelers who want a curated intro to local flavors.
Pro tip: Grab a drink first, then scout the food stalls. It is easier to decide what to eat once you have a cocktail or beer in hand.
The Athletic Club & Social - Vintage charm and layered spaces
Housed in a historic building, The Athletic Club & Social feels like an old members club that discovered modern cocktails. Its multi level layout and strong rating keep it on every local recommendations list.
Why it is trending:
- Three levels of different moods, from intimate lounges to livelier bars
- Rich, vintage style interiors that feel both cozy and glamorous
- Reliable cocktail program and a growth score that reflects repeat visits
Best for: Date nights, small groups, and anyone who loves a slightly dressed up evening with good music and strong drinks.
Pro tip: Explore all the levels before you settle. The upstairs and tucked away rooms often have the best atmosphere for conversation.
Planning a bar night in Cape Town
- Start early for views: Hit Grand Africa Café & Beach or Time Out Market Cape Town for sunset.
- Shift to energy: Move into town for Tiger's Milk Long Street or The Tiki Tomb once the sky is dark.
- End with atmosphere: Finish at The Athletic Club & Social for a slower, moodier nightcap.
Cape Town’s bar scene moves fast, but MapsBuddy helps you find the spots that are heating up right now, before they are packed with everyone else.
Places featured in this guide
1. The Tiki Tomb
101 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
2. Tiger's Milk Long Street
44 Long St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
3. Grand Africa Café & Beach
1 Haul Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
4. Time Out Market Cape Town
The Old Power Station, Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 7806, South Africa
5. The Athletic Club & Social
35 Buitengracht St, CBD, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa