Lifestyle

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

Published

10 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

Four South African Beaches Earn Spots on Global Best Beaches List

Published

21 hours 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

1 week 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.

Lifestyle

Africa Day 2026: How African Fashion, Music and Film Continue to Shape Global Culture

Published

3 weeks ago

26 May 2026

Fadire Olusola

Photo: Getty Images

Africa Day 2026 has come and gone, but the continent’s influence on global culture needs to be appreciated . African fashion, music, and film are present in different cultures globally.

African fashion is no more seen as a traditional wear, but now an international costume culture. Events like Lagos Fashion Week have made designers like Lisa Folawiyo, Orange Culture, and Maki Oh to gain global reputation.

Photo: Instagram

Lagos Fashion Week is now an avenue where traditional wears are promoted. Textiles like Ankara, Kente, Aso Oke, and Adire are now at international fashion shows. African photographers are influencing campaigns for brands including Chanel and Burberry.

Music remains one of Africa’s strongest cultural exports. Artists like Burna Boy, Tems, and Rema are now recognised for defining style trends. Fashion publications have described Afrobeats as a major influence in nightlife and luxury branding.

Photo: Instagram

Rema displayed African dress culture at Diesel’s Fall 2026 show. Nomzamo Mbatha, Ayra Starr, and Lupita Nyong’o are present at Louis Vuitton and Dior presentations.

African sounds now dominate the charts in the United Kingdom and United States. International stars collaborate with Nigerian and South African people for more views. There are excellent dance styles from Africa on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

The African Film industry is experiencing global expansion through Nollywood and Mzansi. AfroCannes and Pavillon Afronova at the Cannes Film Festival are helping filmmakers secure international opportunities.

Photo: Getty Images

The movie industry global reach through streaming platforms has changed how African stories are consumed internationally. Nigeria’s film and music industries are now regarded as major sources of cultural influence, with African actors and filmmakers gaining greater visibility.

The Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards continues to celebrate the evolving nature of African people. The 2026 edition highlights how African celebrities are promoting global fashion.