Winter in Cape Town is a time when most Capetonians batten down the hatches and hibernate. Electric blanket sales soar, woodpiles get depleted and pubs go broke. It is time to change all that. Here are some great pubs that will make you feel warm and cosy, whilst banishing any the winter blues.
Asoka Restaurant and Bar, Kloof Street
A sophisticated bar with a warm and social atmosphere. The cocktails are popular and the food is delicious (along with some of the clientele). Look out for the olive tree in the heart of the venue, opening up to the Cape Town sky. Or just head straight to the fireplace and get cosy in the corner. Tel 021-422-0909.
A Touch of Madness, Observatory
Enjoy a tipple and a chat at this warm and friendly pub in an old house that has been restored to its former glory. The decor pays homage to the early 1900s and you’ll find a fireplace in one of the dining rooms and the lounge. Tel 021-448-2266.
Annie’s Arms at The Wild Fig Restaurant, Mowbray
Annie’s Arms is a stylish bar housed in a barn that has been declared a historical monument. Enjoy a beer or choose from over 50 single malt whiskies. Make yourself comfortable on leather couches next to a roaring fire. Tel 021-448-0507.
Café Verdi, Wynberg
At this laid-back Italian restaurant meets charming English pub in Chelsea Village, guests can warm themselves by the fire, have a drink at the bar or sit down and enjoy the traditional Italian food. Tel 021-762-0849.
Dizzy’s Pub and Cigar Bar, Camps Bay
A fun pub to visit any time of the year. Play Backgammon or pool and join the action on karaoke night. Or simply drink beer and eat pizza whilst watching a game. Live music adds a festive vibe and is bound to chase away any winter blues. Tel 021-438-2686 or 021-438-7328.
Ferryman’s Tavern, V&A Waterfront
The first tenant in the Waterfront, Ferryman’s is a traditional pub with a wide selection of beers. They even have their own unique Ferryman’s Ale which is brewed exclusively for the pub. Relax in the warm and cosy bar area whilst enjoying a pint and traditional pub grub with your mates. Tel 021-419-7748.
Forresters Arms, Newlands
Forries as it is affectionately known, is an old-world pub that remains popular amongst the locals, students and occasionally the bikers ride in too. There’s a wide selection on the menu (the portions are very ample) and plenty of drinks to choose from. There’s also a fireplace in the middle that keeps it warm and cosy. Tel 021-689-5949.
Kimberley Hotel, Roeland Street
Built in 1895 and originally the starting point for horse-drawn carriages leaving Cape Town for the diamond town of Kimberley, the hotel and bar has been lovingly restored, whilst keeping that old-world atmosphere. The bar is a fascinating place where you are likely to meet many different types of people from many different places. The meals are tasty and quite frankly, almost dirt cheap. Try a Bergie Bomb or two. After a few of those you won’t feel the cold! Tel 021-461-2160.
Oblivion Wine Bar, Harfield Village
A warm and friendly European style wine bar for over 23 year-olds that turns into a nighclub on Friday and Saturday night. During the week it is fairly quiet and you can enjoy wine by the glass and delicious pizza whilst playing board games with your mates (anything from Jenga to 30 Seconds to Backgammon). They occasionally hold free wine tasting evenings too. Tel 021-671-8522.
Oxford Arms, Durbanville
Situated in the oldest street in Durbanville, the Oxford Arms is a good old English-style pub that serves beer and good food at excellent prices. A rustic tavern for those who enjoy good company and a fun atmosphere. Tel 021-976?3522.
Perseverance Tavern, Buitenkant Street
In 1836 Persies received its official wine and malt license and since then has been supplying locals and tourists with fine ale and good food. There’s a fireplace to keep you warm and on Friday night there’s live music to keep you entertained. Look out for the original menus on the walls, they make for interesting reading! Tel 021-461-2440.
Pirates Pub & Grill, Plumstead
Expect a diverse crowd, from middle-aged rockers to young blondes in high heels. Often a late-night party, there’s a DJ and drinks specials. Next door is the restaurant which serves the most delicious steaks – and they only close at 4am! Best place for a nightcap and a midnight munchie. Tel 021-797-5659
Polana, Kalk Bay
Watch the waves and the rain collide whilst safely behind floor-to –ceiling glass windows enjoying a glass of wine next to the fireplace in the cocktail lounge. The leather couches are comfortable, the food is good and you could even see a southern right whale. Tel 021-788-7162.
Rick’s Café Américain, Gardens
The hottest one of them all as it’s home to three fireplaces! There’s a beer garden, a stocked bar and comfort food. They also serve jugs of gluwein. Tel 021-424-1100
Rafiki’s Restaurant & Bar, Tamboerskoof
There’s a fireplace inside, heaters on the open-air balcony and two well-stocked bars. Their wood-fired pizzas are pretty good too. You may have to fight for space with students, but if you are young-at-heart and love a game of beer pong, you can’t go wrong at Rafiki’s. Tel 021-426-4731.
Speakeasy Saloon, Durbanville
A cosy bar with a big tree in the middle of the outside seating area. An old burner stands next to the tree, warm enough to chase the chill out of your bones. A mixed crowd, a fun menu and a great vibe. Tel 021-975-4675.
The Fireman’s Arms, Buitengracht Street
Established in 1864, The Fireman’s Arms is one of the oldest pubs in Cape Town. Beers on tap, a relaxed atmosphere and great pizza make for a good winter’s night out. Join in the fun at their pub quiz night every Thursday or fill your belly with chops and wors at braai night every Wednesday (booking essential). Tel Tel 021-419-1513.
The Jolly Roger, Plumstead
The cheapest draught on Main Road, live bands, a pool table, jackpots and slots and guarded parking. Plus a great atmosphere and fun crowd. Do you need any more reason to go to this pub? Tel 021-797-7272
The Rose Bar at Alphen Boutique Hotel, Constantia
Recently revamped and placed below a massive oak tree with fairy lights, expect old cushioned loungers and comfy couches surrounded by a spectacular garden setting. There are heaters and an impressive bar as well as a bar snack menu. Tel 021-795-6313.
The Royal Oak, Tableview
A well-established English-style pub that has been serving beer since 1993. Popular with all ages nad has a great atmosphere. There’s beers on tap, including Guinness, and a varied menu with weekly specials. They are famous for their Sunday roasts and good-looking barmaids. Tel 021-557-0354.
