South Africa’s music industry is compact with an array of talented troubadours that perform in intimate or bold spaces where wining and dining is on the lineup, too. From signature cocktails accompanied by acoustic guitar strumming to soulful-jazzy serenades, we’ve compiled a list of the top restaurants with live music in SA – an extraordinary experience awaits!
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Café Roux, Cape Town & Noordhoek
This intimate, understated music venue prides itself on its reputation as a concert platform that showcases SA’s budding and established musicians and comedians. Wine and dine away in one of two beautiful venues where upcoming performers include Albert Frost and Loki Rothman at the Noordhoek venue on 25 April, as well as a live burlesque show at the Cape Town venue on 27 April. Visit caferouxsessions.co.za for more information; bookings are essential.
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Social on Main, Bryanston
In this upmarket, family-run setting in Bryanston you’ll find delicious food, tasty signature cocktails, and live music. Social on Main dedicates its Sundays to live performances, offering guests a chance to eat, drink, and be merry while being serenaded by some of SA’s brightest voices. It’s the perfect setting for a friendly girls’ afternoon out! Visit socialonmain.co.za for more information.
The Chairman, Durban
The Chairman is one of Durban’s finest sophisticated music bars where classic and experimental jazz music is celebrated over good conversation in an utterly unique setting. The venue boasts exceptional architecture with an art gallery, as well as an extensive whiskey and cigar collection to help complete the jazz-lounge picture. It would be remiss to not pay a visit to this incredible spot! Visit thechairmanlive.com for more information.
The Music Kitchen, Port Elizabeth
The Music Kitchen is one of Port Elizabeth’s most treasured music venues, hosting both local and international artists. It’s the premier spot for folks to gather in a casual setting where music takes precedence over everything else. In winter, guests can expect to huddle up in front of the on-site bonfire. And if you’re feeling peckish, there’s a restaurant, too! Visit musickitchen.co.za for more information and facebook.com/TheMusicKitchen to see upcoming events.
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Priva Lounge, Pretoria
Expect a gastronomic experience that will take you around the globe at this fine dining venue. And what’s more, there’s an award-winning resident music group that performs on Wednesdays till Saturdays. The music played is mostly jazz, with a few contemporary tracks thrown into the mix over weekends. This stylish space is an absolute must for couples and sets the perfect scene for a romantic dinner. Visit privalounge.com for more information.
Compiled by Features Writer, Marike Watson