Watering holes
1. De Akker (Stellenbosch)
In this 18th century mansion you can kick back with a beer and spot any of the following: a crocodile hunter out of the 1930s, a philosophical mechanic and freelance glassblower, a fistfight or your future soul mate. And then let your hair down at the Hidden Cellar on the top floor, where the live music is cooking ‘til late. As a friend always tells me, “In Die Akker I lost and then found myself again.”
Where? 90 Dorp Street, Stellenbosch
Contact: 021 883 3512
2. Joe’s Beerhouse (Windhoek)
Winthoek locals can with reason be proud of Joe’s Beerhouse, which can accommodate up to 600 patrons. It is the designated Winthoek watering hole and restaurant for Namibians and tourists. I recently tried the famous Namib Bushfire venison platter: ostrich, springbok and gemsbok with side dishes and a complimentary shot of witblits. The interior’s decorations are mostly antique mementoes and hunting trophies, and exploring them could keep you busy for hours.
Where? 160 Nelson Mandela Avenue, Windhoek
Contact: (00) 264 61 232 457
Website: www.joesberhouse.com
3. Strandveld Pub & Grill (Baardskeerdersbos)
The school in this Overberg town closed its doors in 1988 after 70 years of service. These days the school building is the popular Strandveld Pub & Grill which is run by Barney and Dorettha Otto. Here you’ll experience Overberg hospitality at its best. The farmers even keep their drinking money in marked bank bags behind the bar. On the wooden floor in the bar is a scorched donut, thanks to a wild client and his motorbike. A place with character (and characters!).
Where? Turn into the town and follow the signs.
Contact: 028 3819177 of 082 732 3718 (Barney)
Website: www.baardskeerdersbosch.co.za
4. Vasco da Gama Pub (Green Point)
There are several watering holes In Cape Town that serve Portugese dishes, but only one is known as “The Portugese Ambassador.” In this great old school bar the owner, with his Brylcream-ed hair, keeps a watchful eye over the bustling waiters who have worked there for years. The menu is always tempting, and the chicken livers with a secret peri-peri saue is a must. The very best place for lunch and the last ten overs on the TV.
Where? 3 Alfred Street in Green Point.
Contact: 021 425 2157
5. The Bohemian (Johannesburg)
The Bohemian, or simply The Bo, is one of Egoli’s most legendary party spots. There are always a few vagabond souls with unforgettable anecdotes hanging around the bar counter. The pool is friendly but competitive, the jukebox is filled with an astonishing selection of Johannesburg’s foremost underground musical heroes such as Battery 9 and Nul performs here regularly.
The Bo isn’t suited for a quick beer after work. It’s a spot to get stuck until the sun comes up.
Where? 5 Park Road in Richmond
Contact: 011 482 1725
Website: www.thebo.co.za
Comments