Capetonians are crazy about the whole craft beer culture, so it comes as no surprise that South Africa’s Mother City is home to numerous bars, taprooms, and restaurants that serve everything from stouts and IPA’s to ales and lagers. Of course, there are many micro-breweries across the city and most of them have their own taprooms where you can try local craft beers. Here’s our round-up of the best craft beer bars in Cape Town.
1 Devil’s Peak Brewery and the Taproom
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Situated inside a renovated warehouse that used to be a textile factory in Salt River, Devil’s Peak Brewery is one of the most popular breweries in the city and offers a variety of Belgian and American-style ales made from the freshest ingredients. Besides the regular Silvertree Saison, Woodhead Amber Ale, and First Light Golden Ale, Devil’s Peak Brewery also produces experimental and seasonal brews. Their taproom is nicely decorated with dozens of lounge-type chairs, a few paintings, and mismatched tables. The best way to taste of all of their beers is to order a beer-tasting platter.
2 Banana Jam Café
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Banana Jam Café is a small Caribbean-inspired spot where you can try over 80 bottled beers, as well as around 30 different craft beers on the tap. Located in the deep suburbs of Cape Town, this colorful bar also has a nice food menu and offers things like Jamaican jerk chicken, bacon-wrapped chilli poppers, wings and fries, and burgers. If the weather is nice, you can enjoy your craft beer at their shaded courtyard. Must-try beers here include Rogue 7 Hop and Hopsession.
3 Beer House
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One of the most famous craft beer bars in Cape Town, the Beer House is located in the heart of the vibrant Long Street and has an impressive collection of local, International, and craft beers. I mean, they have 99 bottled of the best ale’s from more than 10 different countries, as well as nearly 30 options on the tap. Try the locally produced Triggerfish Brewing’s Titan or go for a pint of the good old Boston Loaded Canon from the United States. In case you get hungry which you probably will after all these beers, order a portion of Sriracha Beer Nuts and Coconut-Crumbed Avocado and you won’t be disappointed.
See Also: Cape Town’s Craft Beer Scene
4 Jack Black’s Brewing Co.
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One of the largest breweries in South Africa, Jack Black’s Brewing Co. produces a wide range of craft beers inside their 25-barrel facility in the most southern suburb of the Mother City. They have a nicely decorated taproom where you can try their signature American-style IPA and tastings are available throughout the week. The taproom also hosts many events including quiz nights, live music, and open mic nights.
5 Engruna
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Located on the busy Main Road in Sea Point, Engruna is a family-run restaurant with an extensive craft beer menu. Besides tasty craft beers, you can try something from their food menu including thin-based pizza, burgers, and wings. They are also quite generous with the toppings and the portions are huge. On a sunny day, you can have a drink on their outdoor terrace. Keep in mind that Engruna is a popular joint at night and reservations are recommended.
6 Jerry’s Burger Bar Observatory
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The last but not the least important place on our list of the best craft beers in Cape Town is the popular Jerry’s Burger Bar Observatory. Located on Lower Main Road, this American-inspired diner has a rather interesting interior with long wooden tables and those old-school booths. There are usually twelve taps behind the bar and most of them are reserved for local craft beers from South Africa. Besides tasty craft beers, a nice burger menu is offered to guests. Try the Lust Burger that is topped with homemade peach mustard and cheese and stuffed with mushrooms and blue cheese. Btw, Jerry’s has several other branches in the city and you can find them at Sea Point, Gardens, Blouberg and Willowbridge.
