Best Bars in Cape Town Right Now: 5 Trending Spots Locals Love

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.