Chapter 8: Drinks
San Deck at Sandton Sun
The San Deck offers gorgeous views over Sandton and its surroundings. With three large fire pits and a number of luxurious couches, this terrace offers some of the best of Johannesburg’s beautiful sunsets in the heart of the CBD.
Why go?
Sandton’s best sundowner spot paired with sophisticated artisanal beverages and dishes crafted with flair.
A place for friends to gather in unique outdoor spaces, Image Credit: San Deck
Details
a: Corner Fifth and Alice Streets, Sandton, Gauteng
w: southernsun.com/sandton-sun-hotel/dining/san-deck
t: +27 11 780 5000
e: sandtonsun.hostess@southernsun.com
h: Monday to Sunday, 11h00 – 22h00
Saigon Suzy
This Asian BBQ and karaoke bar channels authentic Asian-inspired cocktails and street food from all over South East Asia.
Why go?
The venue is split into three sections: The Market (main food hall and bar for the foodies), the Cherry Blossom Garden (for outdoor fun and cocktails in the sun), and the No Tell Motel (secret karaoke pods and dress-up boxes).
Inspiration is drawn from the vibey and sometimes rowdy back streets of Ho Chi Min, Image Credit: Saigon Suzy
Details
a: 144 Jan Smuts Avenue, Unit 1, Parkwood Mansions, Parkwood
w: saigonsuzy.co.za
t: +27 76 284 9786
h: Monday to Saturday, 12h00 till late; Sunday, 12h00 – 22h00
Zioux
Break free from Joburg's urban jungle to an extravagant cocktail bar and champagne lounge situated in Sandton. Zioux provides a dining experience in a space that fuses various patterns and prints influenced by South Africa’s wildlife.
Why go?
For champagne, cocktails, and a menu featuring an extravagant selection of dishes designed to be shared.
A unique space fuses various patterns and prints influenced by South Africa’s wildlife, Image Credit: Zioux
Details
a: The Marc, Corner Rivonia & Maude Street, Sandton
w: zioux.com
t: +27 10 594 5455
e: info@zioux.com
h: Lunch: Tuesday to Saturday, 12h00 – 16h00;
h: Dinner: Tuesday to Saturday, 17h00 – 22h00
Sin + Tax
Sin+Tax is Joburg’s trailblazing cocktail bar, defined by creativity, precision, and flair. Set in an intimate, welcoming space, it offers a world-class cocktail experience without the pretence.
Why go?
Sin+Tax has become a benchmark for South Africa’s cocktail culture, proudly standing as the only South African bar featured in the World’s 50 Best Bars’ top 100 in 2024.
Pushing the boundaries of innovation, Image Credit: Sin + Tax
Details
a: Corner of Bolton & Jan Smuts Ave, Roads, Johannesburg
w: sintaxbar.com
t: +27 10 900 2559
e: awe@sintaxbar.com
h: Wednesday to Friday, 17h00 until late; Saturday, 15h00 until late
A Streetbar Named Desire
A Streetbar Named Desire is a stylish, street-facing cocktail spot where atmosphere and creativity collide. Perched above Jan Smuts Avenue, its first-floor balcony buzzes with energy as a crowd gathers for happy hour drinks and shareable tapas.
Why go?
With a menu and décor inspired by Tennessee Williams’ iconic play, the bar blends wit, charm, and mixology into a uniquely Joburg experience that’s equal parts trendy and timeless.
Image Credit: A Streetbar Named Desire
Details
a: 144 Jan Smuts Ave, Parkwood, Randburg
w: streetbar.co.za
t: +27 11 268 6485
e: info@streetbar.co.za
h: Monday to Wednesday, 16h00 until late; Thursday, 16h00 until late; Friday to Sunday, 12h00 until late
Alto234
Perched on the rooftop of The Leonardo in Sandton, Alto234 holds the title of Africa’s highest urban bar. With sweeping 360-degree views across one of the world’s greenest cities, it offers an unrivalled setting for sundowners and celebrations.
Why go?
For signature cocktails, premium bubbles, and a curated menu of luxury tapas – all enjoyed against the backdrop of panoramic sunsets that stretch to the Magaliesberg.
At Africa's highest urban bar, Image Credit: Alto234
Details
a: 75 Maude St, Sandown, Sandton
w: alto234.co.za
t: +27 87 536 0051
e: altoinfo@alto234.co.za
h: Tuesday to Sunday 12h00 – 23h00
Chapter 8/9
Featured image credit: Photo by wu yi on Unsplash
