Lifestyle

Cape Town’s Best Bars, Bistros and Lounges to Visit This Season

Published

12 months ago

5 August 2025

Cape Town’s social season is back in full swing. As the city warms up, its streets, rooftops and tucked-away courtyards start buzzing again—quietly at first, then all at once. Whether you’re in the mood for a strong drink, a slow lunch, or a night that takes its time, there’s no shortage of spots to make the most of the warmer months. These are some of the city’s most-loved (and worth-finding) places to visit right now.

Fable — Bree Street

Walk past Fable on any given evening and you’ll spot a crowd that knows how to take its drinks seriously—but not itself. The storytelling cocktail menu changes with the season, and the bartenders are just as likely to walk you through a drink’s origin as they are to freestyle something off-menu. It’s stylish, sure, but still relaxed enough that you don’t feel like you’re in a photoshoot.

Between Us — Kloof Street

With twin sisters at the helm and a menu that reads like a handwritten note, Between Us is as personal as dining out gets. It’s housed in a former townhouse with wood floors, high ceilings and a view of Table Mountain from the window seats. Mornings are for their soft scrambled eggs and freshly baked rye; evenings stretch out over handmade pastas and natural wines.

Black Sheep — Kloof Street

This bistro doesn’t make a fuss—and that’s part of its charm. The menu is written up daily on a blackboard, and regulars know to ask the waitstaff what’s come in fresh. The dishes are generous and unfussy: slow-cooked lamb, hand-cut fries, grilled local fish. No gimmicks, just good food that doesn’t shout for attention.

The Willaston Bar — The Silo Hotel

If you’ve ever wanted to drink a negroni while watching the sun drop behind the harbour cranes, The Willaston Bar has you covered. It’s housed inside the Silo Hotel, but it’s open to the public and worth the elevator ride up. The wine list is solid, the glassware polished, and the soundtrack leans jazzy without being too clever.

Gigi Rooftop — Central Cape Town

Gigi is the kind of rooftop that doesn’t take itself too seriously—think banana-leaf wallpaper, poolside seating, and drinks served with a wink. Come for sunset and stay through the city lights. The cocktail menu has a few bold hits, and the snacks (grilled halloumi, truffle fries, lamb skewers) hold their own.

The Gin Bar — Wale Street

Tucked behind a chocolate shop, The Gin Bar feels like it was made for people who prefer their drinks with a side of mystery. No signboard, no loud music—just soft lighting, scattered benches, and shelves lined with botanicals. Each cocktail is named after an emotion, but you don’t need to overthink it. Just pick a feeling and sip.

The Raptor Room — Observatory

Loud colours, good food, and zero pretence—The Raptor Room has built a loyal following by being exactly what it is. The crowd is mixed, the music always leans a little nostalgic, and the events range from poetry readings to drag brunches. Their mac ‘n cheese and fried chicken are local legends.

Cape Town After Dark: What Sets It Apart

What makes a night out in Cape Town different isn’t just the mountain backdrop or the sea breeze. It’s how easy it is to feel part of something, even if you’re flying solo. Whether you’re seated at a bar counter chatting with a stranger, or sharing plates with old friends, the energy is unforced. It’s not about chasing a scene—it’s about finding your spot and letting the night unfold.

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Lifestyle

The Ultimate Father’s Day Gift Guide for Every Type of Dad

Published

1 month ago

18 June 2026

Fadire Olusola

Photo: Instagram

Dads are the quiet heroes of the family. They show up for school activities, fix things around the house, offer advice when needed, and provide emotional support. While fathers rarely ask for appreciation, Father’s Day is the best time to celebrate them. A good gift is a way of saying thank you for their contributions. Whether your dad loves technology, fitness, travel, or spending weekends alone , choosing a gift that shows where their interest lies can make Father’s Day meaningful.

Smart Gadgets

Photo: Getty Images

Technology tops the list high among Father’s Day gift categories because it makes everything convenient. Smart speakers, wireless charging stations and noise cancelling headphones are gifts that many dads will appreciate. Father’s Day gift guides from My Butchers Block highlight gadgets that solve everyday problems . A quality portable charger, for example, makes a dad’s devices stay powered during outdoor activities.

Premium Barbecue Accessories

Photo:Walmart

Many fathers enjoy spending weekends engaging in their grilling skills. Instead of buying another apron, consider decent barbecue tools that improve the cooking experience. Professional grilling kits are excellent Father’s Day gifts in 2026. They help achieve cooking results and make grill maintenance easier. These gifts are valuable because they support a hobby many dads enjoy.

Health Gears

Photo: Walmart

Fathers with interest in health appreciate gifts that support their wellness objectives. We now have fitness trackers that are sophisticated, and offer better exercise performance. Devices such as advanced wearable fitness monitors help dads understand their health habits. You could choose foam rollers, massage guns, and stretching equipment for your dads. These gifts promote self care while helping active dads maintain their fitness goals.

Travel Essentials

Photo: Ubuy

If your dad loves travelling, getting them gifts that will make their movement easy is recommended. Durable carry-on luggage, travel organisers, passport holders, and compact charging stations are great suggestions. Travel experts recommend expandable luggage and lightweight accessories that make travelling easy. A travel gift can make airport navigation simple and help keep important items organised.

Professional Quality Tools

Photo: Temu

Some fathers enjoy repairing home improvement projects themselves. For these dads, high-quality tools will make good Father’s Day presents. Tool sets, cordless drills, and storage organisers are good options. Home improvement experts recommend reliable tools not only to improve project solutions but also last for many years.

Brewing Upgrades

Photo: Walmart

If your father starts every morning with coffee, consider gifts that will improve his drinking goals. There are quality coffee makers, premium grinders, insulated travel mugs, and cold brew systems that will make him happy. Coffee based gifts allow dads to enjoy café quality beverages at home without hassle. Many recent gift guides recommended coffee equipment as a nice option because it makes drinking convenient.

Adventure Gear

Photo: 10kya

Fathers that love exploring nature appreciate gear that makes it enjoyable. Getting them durable backpacks and outdoor cooking equipment will be preferred. These gifts are meaningful because they encourage memories. Experts recommend gifting these outdoor equipment because of its long term usefulness.

Meaningful Experiences

Photo: Getty Images

There are dads who insist they do not need anything. If your dad falls in this category, consider a family outing, or a weekend activity they will love. You could buy a football match ticket, or plan a vacation abroad. The aim is to make them happy without giving them any physical item. This shows you care about them and create memories they won’t forget.

Father’s Day is about recognising the importance of fathers to families and communities. Whether you choose a gadget, a health gear, or a memorable experience, the best presents are those your dad truly enjoys. Thoughtful gifts show appreciation, strengthen family bonds, and remind fathers that their efforts are appreciated.

Lifestyle

Four South African Beaches Earn Spots on Global Best Beaches List

Published

1 month ago

12 June 2026

Tega Ekeri

Photo Credit - Instagram

South Africa’s coastline is featured prominently on a global list of the world’s best beaches for 2026, with Camps Bay, Kraalbaai, Boulders Beach and Wilderness Beach all securing places in the ranking.

The annual Beach 100 guide, released to mark World Oceans Day, features beaches from 22 countries and considers factors beyond scenery alone. Beaches are selected based on criteria that include environmental value, local culture and visitor experience. This year’s edition added 27 new beaches, including Wilderness Beach.

Photo – Instagram

Among the South African entries, Boulders Beach remains one of the country’s best-known coastal attractions. Located near Simon’s Town, it is home to a colony of African penguins that attracts visitors throughout the year. The beach has also appeared on several international rankings, with its wildlife, calm swimming areas and granite boulders contributing to its appeal.

Photo – Instagram

Camps Bay also earned a place on the list. Situated between the Twelve Apostles mountain range and the Atlantic Ocean, the Cape Town beach is known for its promenade, restaurants and ocean views. It remains one of the city’s most popular coastal destinations for both residents and visitors.

Photo – Instagram

On the West Coast, Kraalbaai was recognised for its turquoise waters and location within the Langebaan Lagoon area. The beach is known for its calm conditions and less crowded setting compared with some of the country’s busier coastal destinations.

Photo – Instagram

Wilderness Beach, located along the Garden Route, was among the new additions to the ranking. The beach is known for its long shoreline, sand dunes and natural surroundings, making it a notable stop for visitors exploring the region.

The inclusion of four South African beaches on the Beach 100 list highlights the variety of coastal experiences available across the country. From beaches known for wildlife to those recognised for their natural landscapes and relaxed atmosphere, South Africa continues to feature strongly in international beach rankings.

Lifestyle

Youth Month: 5 Young South Africans to Know in Fashion, Beauty, Lifestyle and Entertainment

Published

2 months ago

4 June 2026

Fadire Olusola

Photo: Instagram

As we enter this Youth Month, it’s important to celebrate young South Africans who have redefined what modern African success should be. They are successful and can stand par with their peers at the international stage. From popular musicians to digital entrepreneurs and actors, these young creatives are shaping the entertainment industry.

Tyla

Photo: Instagram

Tyla is South Africa’s biggest music export. The 24 year-old singer achieved international success with her hit single Water, which introduced millions of listeners to amapiano pop music. She is a two-time Grammy winner in the Best African Music Performance category and has won numerous others. Tyla has attended fashion events, wearing brands such as Balmain, Jacquemus, and D&G,

Mihlali Ndamase

Photo: Instagram

Mihlali Ndamase is an influential South African digital entrepreneur. She built her platform through skincare reviews and beauty education. Mihlali has millions of followers following her online. She is involved in brand collaborations with global beauty and fashion brands like Fenty Beauty, Fashion Nova, L’Oréal Paris, and Lancôme.

Kamo Mphela

Photo: Instagram

Kamo Mphela’s career began as a dancer, before transitioning into music. She is known as the “Queen of Amapiano,” known for her work in the amapiano. Mphela has great fashion choices as brands such as Adidas and Nike have worked with her.

Nara Smith

Photo: Instagram

Nara Smith was born in Bloemfontein and began her career in modelling before transitioning into digital content creation. Her content is a combination of lifestyle, fashion, and cooking aesthetics. This has attracted partnerships with Marc Jacobs and Dior Beauty. She has collaborated with brands like Algae Cooking Club and Isabel Marant.

Thuso Mbedu

Photo: Instagram

Thuso Mbedu is an accomplished South African actress. She became the first South African actress to lead a major American television drama series with The Underground Railroad. Her breakthrough lead role in this series, placed her firmly on the global stage and introduced her to audiences alongside industry icons such as Viola Davis and Mark Ruffalo.