Since the days of men-only bars, with their functional decor and certainly no cocktails gracing the menu, the bar scene in our city has experienced quite the glow up. The look and feel of these establishments is stylish and sophisticated, and exotic cocktails and tapas-style menus are the norm. Without a doubt, the very idea of what a bar can be has expanded and evolved over time.
Here’s your cheeky cheat sheet to some of our sexiest bars in the city.
In Rosebank, from Oxford Parks to Parkwood
1. OBSCURA COCKTAIL BAR AND EATERY
For those who like the sound of a cocktail bar that smells just as intriguing as it looks.
Headed up by mixologist and co-owner George Hunter, Obscura Cocktail Bar and Eatery in Dunkeld is a place that has been designed to be somewhat out of the ordinary, even just by the way it smells. Step inside this art-filled space where a living tree anchors the room and colourful graffiti contrasts the sophisticated décor. As the name suggests, the main attraction here is the cocktails. Signature drinks like the 'Soul Candi' and 'Clarified Pina Colada' are complemented by a range of very good virgin cocktails. The eats menu has been designed in a tapas style, with plates made to share. We're told the Cape Malay-inspired charred broccoli dish is the one to try. For something sweet? Go for the umqombothi banoffee tartlet. Book here.
199 Oxford Rd, in Oxford Parks, Dunkeld.
Open Tue – Sun,12:00 – 00:00. Closed Mon.
Photo: @ethos.sa.
For those who enjoy Mediterranean flavours and unusual, elegant interiors.
If you're in the mood for a touch of serenity reminiscent of the Aegean shores, look no further than Ethos. The bar is a showpiece in itself, set beneath sweeping arches with ceiling baffles made from a specially imported material from France, and framed by a sculptural Hennie Meyer installation crafted entirely from recycled materials. Here you'll find an exceptional wine list alongside a playful cocktail menu, with a range of options like the spicy 'Ethical Dilemma' or, for something fruity, 'Once Upon a Time in Mexico'. The dining at Ethos is Mediterranean-inspired, with standout dishes like Iberico pork neck skewers and lamb kofte. Book here.
199 Oxford Rd, in Oxford Parks, Dunkeld.
Open Mon – Sun, 12:00 – 23:00.
3. QLOUNGE BY QUION ROCK
For moody glamour, fine wine, and Cape-meets-Joburg sophistication.
Qlounge by Quoin Rock is a sultry, wine-soaked escape that blends Cape Winelands elegance with a distinctly Joburg edge. A hand-sketched mural of Simonsberg mountain greets you at the entrance, while a ceiling of softly lit Cabernet leaves, moody green marble, timber, and brass details create a rich, immersive setting. The standout brass-and-marble bar features a 3D silhouette of Stellenbosch’s mountain range, anchoring the space in its origins. Signature cocktails like the floral 'Kissing in the Orchard' and smoky 'Fluffy Mezcal' sit alongside a curated wine list featuring Quoin Rock, Knorhoek, and Namysto labels, including award-winning Cap Classiques. Book here.
199 Oxford Rd, in Oxford Parks, Dunkeld.
Open Tue – Sat, 12:00 – 23:00, Sun, 11:00 –15:00
4. MAMASAMBA
For jungle glam, fiery Latin flavours, and tequila-fuelled nights.
Mamasamba, in The Zone @ Rosebank, is a Latin American-inspired restaurant and bar featuring a two-storey indoor jungle complete with emerald tiles, lush greenery, and a winding green staircase leading to an upper-level bar. Guests can enjoy a lively ground floor with an open-fire kitchen and circular bar amid bright floral graffiti that creates a cool, carnival-like energy. The menu balances Central and Latin American flavours alongside a cocktail list boasting 26 tequila-infused cocktails and signature drinks. Book here.
The Zone @ Rosebank.
Open Mon – Fri, 12:00 – 23:00, Sat – Sun, 11:00 – 23:00.
5. PROUD MARY
For those who like brasserie charm and sleek velvet booths.
Proud Mary, a modern eatery located in The Bank, blends the charm of a European brasserie with the sleekness of a high-end hotel lounge. Think tall ceilings, plush velvet banquettes, terrazzo finishes, polished brass detailing, and moody lighting that transitions seamlessly from daytime café to nighttime cocktail bar. The drinks menu features boutique local wines like AA Badenhorst Papegaai Red and Krone MCC, alongside cocktails such as the Cucumber & Basil G&T or a classic Negroni. If you get hungry, we can vouch for the Seabass Crudo. Proud Mary has also recently revamped their patio area, so make sure to visit during the summer. Book here.
The Bank, Rosebank.
Open Mon – Sun, 06:30 – 00:00.
6. OPERA BAR LOUNGE
For fans of stylish lounges and cocktails that flow into the night.
Opera Bar Lounge is a stylish, modern spot known for its cool décor and cosy seating – perfect for anything from laid-back hangouts to lively celebrations. With soft lighting and comfy furnishings, the space feels warm and inviting. As the night unfolds, the lounge comes alive with music and good energy, drawing a mix of locals and visitors ready to unwind and have fun. There's an extensive drink menu featuring signature cocktails, fine wines, and a selection of beers, complemented by a variety of tapas and light bites. Book here.
2 Tyrwhitt Ave, Rosebank.
Open Tue – Sun, 15:00 – 01:00, Closed Mon.
7. MARBLE
For those looking for sky-high views, open-flame cooking, and artful interiors.
Marble, located atop the flashy Trumpet building at Keyes Art Mile, with its impressive artworks, turquoise ceramic-tiled wall and light wooden floors, gives the impression of being suspended in a cabin in the sky. The rooftop lounge bar and terrace, separated by a gorgeous glass wine cellar, boasts views stretching out towards the Magaliesberg, and is the perfect place for sundowners. The 'Lemon Verbena Margarita' is a standout – a refreshing mix of rooibos-infused tequila, Cointreau, citrus, and lemon verbena syrup. Book here.
Keyes Art Mile, Corner 19 Keyes and Jellicoe Ave, Rosebank.
Open daily from 12:00 – 22:00.
8. A STREETBAR NAMED DESIRE
Photo: @a.streetbar.named.desire.
For those who like playful cocktails and rooftop views that bring the party.
One of our personal favourites, A Streetbar Named Desire is a stylish cocktail bar and tapas spot with plush emerald interiors, velvet-fringed barstools, and cinematic artwork – from young Marlon Brando sketches to Hitchcock-inspired photos. Its first-floor terrace offers sweeping views over Jan Smuts Avenue and Goodman Gallery, perfect for warm evenings. The menu leans Mediterranean, while drinks like the 'Kindness of Strangers' and spicy 'Chilli Mango Daiquiri' keep things playful. Regular events like drag brunches and DJ sets make it a go-to for Joburg’s creative crowd. Book here.
144 Jan Smuts Ave, Parkwood.
Open Mon – Thu, 16:00 – 02:00, Fri – Sat, 12:00 – 02:00, Sun, 14:00 – 02:00.
In Sandton, Chef David Higgs' sultry duo
9. SAINT RESTAURANT
For high drama and luxury, and a ceiling that’s part cathedral, part digital art show.
Walking into Saint feels like entering a haute Vatican. The space is grand and unapologetically dramatic, starting with the vaulted ceiling that doubles as a digital canvas, projecting everything from swirling Renaissance-style art to playful animations. Below that, marble floors gleam under soft, seductive lighting, while sleek velvet booths curve around gold-accented tables. The oversized arches make this space feel more like a modern cathedral of indulgence than a restaurant. We leave happy every time. Try the 'Sinful Saint' (it's got strawberry jam) or the aromatic gin-based 'Bianco Charrara'. Book here.
The Marc, Corner Rivonia and Maude St, Sandton.
Open daily 12:00 – 22:30.
10. ZIOUX
For fans of Art Nouveau opulence with a twist.
Zioux is the epitome of a sexy, luxurious bar. Aside from the obvious Art Nouveau glamour, the interior features backlit onyx marble bars, stained‑glass doors, and dramatic murals of human figures with animal heads – an opulent nod to Joburg's urban jungle spirit. The drink menu dazzles with playful, Asian-inspired cocktails like the signature 'Agua de Me‑hee‑ko' with mango and habanero. Food here is shareable small plates of Latin American and South African flavours: expect seared Wagyu bavette with truffle-ponzu, calamari in bonito butter, tiger prawns, and ceviche. Book here.
The Marc, Corner Rivonia and Maude St, Sandton.
Open Tue – Thu, 12:00 – 22:00, Sat, 12:00 – 02:00. Closed Sun and Mon.
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