The Pub Crawl Culture in Johannesburg: A Guide to the Various Hotspots in the City

The city of Johannesburg is known for its vibrant nightlife scene and its bustling bar culture. From trendy nightclubs to laid-back open-air pubs, the city has something to offer for everyone. If you are looking to experience the best of Johannesburg’s pub culture, then a pub crawl is the perfect way to go about it. In this guide, we will take you on a journey to explore the best pubs, bars, and nightclubs in Johannesburg that should be on your pub crawl list.

The Popular Pub Crawl Areas in Johannesburg

There are various pub crawl areas in Johannesburg that are worth exploring. Some of the popular areas are:

• Braamfontein
• Maboneng
• Melville
• Parkhurst
• Sandton City

Each of these areas has its own unique vibe and caters to different tastes. Braamfontein is perfect for those who are looking for live music and art, while Maboneng is ideal for those who want to soak up the local culture. Melville is a laid-back neighbourhood that has an eclectic mix of pubs, bars and restaurants. Parkhurst, on the other hand, is a charming suburb that is perfect for a pub crawl during the day. Finally, Sandton City is a great destination for those who are looking for upmarket bars and nightclubs.

The Best Pubs and Bars to Explore on a Pub Crawl in Johannesburg

There are a number of pubs and bars in Johannesburg that are worth visiting on a pub crawl. Some of the best ones include:

The Living Room

The Living Room is a rooftop bar located in the Maboneng Precinct. With stunning views of the city, this bar is perfect for those who want to relax and unwind after a long day. The menu features a range of cocktails, beers, and wines, which can be enjoyed while listening to live music.

The Immigrant Bar

The Immigrant Bar is located in Braamfontein and is a great spot for those who are looking for a party atmosphere. With themed nights throughout the week, this bar is always buzzing. The menu features a range of cocktails, beers, and wines, and there is also a food menu available.

Fetale

Fetale is a trendy bar located in Parkhurst. This bar has a laid-back vibe and is perfect for enjoying a drink during the day. The menu features a range of beers, wines, and cocktails, and there is also a food menu available.

The Steamworks Gastropub

The Steamworks Gastropub is located in Melville and is perfect for those who want to enjoy a drink and a meal. The menu features a range of craft beers and cocktails, and the food menu features a variety of gastropub fare.

The VIP Room

The VIP Room is located in Sandton City and is a great spot for those who are looking for an upmarket night out. This nightclub features a range of cocktails and bottle service options, and boasts a VIP section.

Pub Crawl Tips

Now that you know where to go, here are some tips to ensure that you have the best pub crawl experience:

• Start early – most pubs and bars close by midnight, so it’s best to start the pub crawl early.
• Take a taxi or Uber – it’s not safe to walk around Johannesburg at night, so it’s best to take a taxi or Uber.
• Don’t overdo it – pace yourself and don’t drink too much. You don’t want to ruin the rest of your trip.
• Be open to new experiences – be open to trying new things and stepping out of your comfort zone.

Conclusion

Johannesburg is a city that is full of life and culture, and its pub crawl scene is no different. Whether you are looking for a laid-back afternoon pub crawl or a night out on the town, Johannesburg has something to offer. From trendy nightclubs to traditional pubs, there is a pub or bar for everyone. So why not grab a group of friends and head out for a pub crawl adventure in Johannesburg?

Insider’s Guide to the Pub Crawl Culture in Johannesburg

Johannesburg is a city with a rich cultural history and vibrant nightlife. It’s an amalgamation of many cultures that have come together over the years to create a unique blend of art, music, and cuisine that caters to the cosmopolitan crowd. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take you through an unforgettable pub crawl of Johannesburg, highlighting some hidden gems, local cuisine, and cultural experiences that are sure to make your trip memorable.

Local Attractions

Most tourists flock to the usual spots when they visit Johannesburg, but the city has some hidden gems that only locals know about. A visit to the Maboneng Precinct is a must-do. This trendy neighborhood was once abandoned but has since been revitalized into a hub for artists, designers, and entrepreneurs. The precinct features colorful street art, trendy eateries, and quirky stores that make it a photographer’s paradise.

Another lesser-known architectural gem is the Johannesburg Gas Works. This heritage site dates back to the early 1900s and is an example of industrial architecture of the time. The Gas Works complex has been turned into an art gallery and cultural hub, featuring exhibitions and installations from around the world.

For some natural beauty, head to the Melville Koppies Nature Reserve. This nature reserve provides an extensive, beautiful, and serene view of the city and is a perfect destination for an early morning hike or a picnic.

Dining Spots

Experience the rich and diverse flavors of South Africa’s cuisine in Johannesburg. Braai, a unique South African style of barbecue, is a must-try, and the best spot for it is at Chaf Pozi in Soweto. For a more refined dining experience, head to Marble in Rosebank, where Chef David Higgs serves up delicious grilled meats and seafood. Another great spot for an authentic South African feast is Moyos in Zoo Lake. It’s known for serving up dishes from all over Africa, and the ambiance here will transport you to a land of African mystique.

For a quick snack, visit the kotas outlet at Wandie’s Place in Soweto, where you will taste the best Kota in the city. A Kota is the South African version of a sandwich and is filled with sliced chips, eggs, and hams.

Cultural Experiences

Johannesburg has a diverse and vibrant cultural scene with various performances, music, and art events happening throughout the year. For classical music lovers, a visit to the Joburg Theatre is a must. This is a world-class theatre that hosts some of the most spectacular productions ranging from Opera to Ballet. For lovers of modern rock and pop music, the FNB Stadium at Nasrec, the largest in the continent, hosts some of the biggest musical concerts in Africa.

The city also has a rich historical and political heritage and discovering the Apartheid Museum is a great place to start. The museum gives you a glimpse of how South Africans lived during this dark time in their history, and it is a sobering, yet enlightening experience.

Local History

One of the most significant discoveries was made in Johannesburg in the early 1900s when gold was found in the city’s mines. The discovery of gold was the start of the Witwatersrand Gold Rush, which transformed Johannesburg into the booming city it is today. A visit to the Gold Reef City theme park offers a glimpse into what life was like during the gold rush era, with museums, tours, and a gold mine tour showcasing the city’s affluent history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

A must-do off-the-beaten-path adventure is a trip to the Lesedi Cultural Village in the Cradle of Humankind. Here, you will experience African traditional life as it was lived in the bygone days. Explore the cultural village with local expert guides, enjoy dance performances, and taste traditional African cuisine.

Another unique experience is a visit to the Croc City Crocodile & Reptile Park in Fourways. This park is home to over 10,000 crocodiles, and you can get a personal guide to take you through the park and even feed the crocodiles!

In conclusion, Johannesburg is a city with a lot to offer, from its hidden gems to the vibrant pub crawl culture that has been gaining steam in recent years. With this insider’s guide, you can discover all that the city has to offer, including food, culture, history, and unique experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.