Ocaso (Spanish for "sunset") is a bright, breezy space that channels the feel of a beach bar in our landlocked city. Even on a quiet mid-week afternoon, its energy hints at a venue aching to come alive – the elaborate DJ deck taking centre stage a clear sign of intent. And why not? Johannesburg is crying out for easy-going, late-night spots near the suburbs – places where you can linger well past 20:30 without being told the kitchen has closed for the night.
Here, cocktails flow generously with tequila and mezcal, matched by hearty, Mexican-inspired fare. Ocaso’s daily hours, 12:00 to midnight, tick the “linger longer” box beautifully.
For those who remember the Shortmarket Club, be warned – muscle memory might lead you straight to the old tradesmen’s entrance (where we went).
Now, however, the venue announces itself boldly as a nightlife spot: a welcoming hostess desk and bouncers (and a sign barring firearms). Inside, you pass a cosy lounge with leather couches before stepping into the main restaurant. Light-filled and spacious, it spills out onto a wide terrace. At the back, a private VIP table strikes just the right balance between discretion and visibility – because, as Joburg reminds us time and again, in this mining town, if you’ve got it, you’ll want to flaunt it.
The sun shines on Joburg
Ocaso is Corona’s first dedicated flagship venue in South Africa – an ambitious collaboration between SAB, Corona, nightlife veteran Heinz Rynners (of Babylon and Greenhouse fame), and Ben Stanger and Luke Dakers of Monseca Hospitality Group. For Corona, long tied to sunshine, beaches, and the lime-wedged ritual of its pale golden lager, Ocaso is both brand statement and laboratory: a place to experiment, collaborate, and let patrons enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Each evening at sunset, a ceremonial gong marks the day’s turning point. From Thursday to Sunday, the music swells into a full lounge experience, with DJs spinning R’n’B, hip hop, Afro house, and Amapiano.
The décor features sun-washed neutrals, woven lampshades that sway gently in the patio breeze, leather seating, macramé pillows, and a dramatic mandala set behind a swing built for Instagram. Gold accents gleam from the bar, inviting long afternoons that fade seamlessly into night.
Mexican fare on the menu at Ocaso
Mexican classics with a Joburg twist. Already making waves is the guacamole, prepared tableside in traditional style, vibrant with lime and chilli. During our visit, we sampled generously – tacos filled with chicken, pulled lamb, and slow-braised beef (though curiously, quesadillas appear under the “tacos” heading), alongside ribs of corn carved off the cob. Salads are less convincing: our table balked at one with beans, peaches, and kale. If you’re not a salad devotee, this menu won’t convert you.
Platters are the order of the day here, abundant with lamb chops, chicken wings, and other meaty indulgences designed for groups. We particularly enjoyed the whole fish with crispy fries – slightly overcooked, yes, but redeemed by excellent spicing. The ceviche, too, leaned a little too long into its lime bath. Still, portions are hearty, and prices surprisingly fair for Oxford Parks. You won’t leave hungry, nor with your wallet much lighter.
Dessert escaped us, though word is the cinnamon-sugar churros with chocolate drizzle deserve a dedicated visit.
The best part? Something to sip on
Cocktails are where Ocaso truly shines. The Flor de Sol (gin, passionfruit, coconut, lime, ginger beer) is refreshing yet layered, while the Berry Basil Coronita pairs El Jimador Reposado with a Corona mini and berry-basil cordial – playful, inventive, and dangerously easy-drinking.
Still to come: a rooftop deck, which promises to be the jewel of summer in Johannesburg. With our endless sunshine, Ocaso seems destined to become a regular haunt.
Plan your visit: Opening hours and location
Ocaso is located at 1 Oxford Parks, 199 Oxford Road, and is open for lunch and dinner daily from 12:00 –00:00. To view menus and to book a table, visit ocaso.co.za or WhatsApp +27 78 762 5532. Alternatively, book via Dineplan here. Walk-ins are welcome.
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