Review: 2 Exciting New Gin Bars in Cape Town

Hey there! So, I’ve got some exciting news for you. Gin is all the rage right now! Seriously, it’s the drink of the month. I mean, have you tasted some of those delicious gins out there? If not, don’t worry! I got you covered. I recently visited two new gin bars in Cape Town, and let me tell you, they are something special. And you know what? I’m here to spill all the details, just for you.

Photo by Teagan Cunniffe.

1. The Gin Bar

Come along with me as I take you on a journey. Picture a charming chocolate shop, bustling with the energy of young people in trendy hats. As you walk through its doors, you are transported to a facebrick courtyard imbued with the comforting scents of aged pine and fragrant candle wax.

Within this enchanting setting lies The Gin Bar, a hidden gem tucked away behind Honest Chocolate on Wale Street. It is here that you can find solace for your weary soul, a balm to mend your broken heart, a tonic to clear your troubled mind, or a spark to ignite your wildest dreams. Yes, my friend, this is the place where faux remedies come to life.

And what is the elixir that brings these concoctions to life? It is none other than the spirit of the moment – gin. This renowned white spirit has captured the hearts and palates of people far and wide.

Have you seen the menu at this place? It’s like the inventors are wizards, using cardamom, juniper berries, star anis, rosemary, mint, passion fruit, cinnamon, and basil to create their cocktails. It may sound strange, but trust me, it’s all about the blending, and of course, the gin. Forget about the usual names like Tanqueray and Beefeater – we go for the likes of Hendricks, Hayman’s, Inverroche, and Jorgensen’s, which are locally made. The menu may be small, but each cocktail is made with great care and a touch of showmanship. You won’t be able to resist having more than one.

Where: 64A Wale St, Cape Town (hidden behind Honest Chocolate).
When: Open from Wednesday to Sunday, 18:00 until late.
Contact: 0767658306

2. Mother’s Ruin Gin Bar

When you step into Mother’s Ruin Gin Bar, you’ll immediately notice that it’s not your ordinary bar. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel at ease and in good company. And it’s not just because of the incredible drinks they serve.

Let’s talk about those drinks for a moment. They are nothing short of extraordinary. Each sip feels like a delightful adventure, as if you’re being transported to a frozen wonderland bursting with the flavors of cucumber, grapefruit, and strawberries. It’s like magic in a glass.

But there’s more to Mother’s Ruin than just great drinks. The atmosphere is unlike anything you’ve experienced before. The screeded floors, the calming blue-grey walls, the clean wooden tables – it all comes together to create a space that feels calm and serene. And those hanging plants? They add a touch of elegance and style, making it the perfect spot for intimate conversations and quiet moments.

So, if you’re looking for a place to unwind, indulge in delicious drinks, and enjoy the company of friends or loved ones, look no further than Mother’s Ruin Gin Bar. It’s the kind of place that will leave you feeling refreshed, revitalized, and ready to take on the world.

And trust me, once you’ve experienced the magic of Mother’s Ruin, you’ll never want to leave.

I stepped into the bar and was immediately blown away by the incredible selection of gin from all corners of the globe. The choices were mind-boggling! I decided to start with a classic G&T, made with Farmer’s organic gin from the US. It had this amazing, subtle flavor of coriander that really hit the spot. Feeling adventurous, I then tried the Klein Slaaitjie cocktail. It was a perfect blend of gin, elderflower cordial, tonic, fresh mint, and cucumber. The drink tasted so fresh and vibrant, like summer in a glass. Needless to say, it was a winner!

As the evening went on and I indulged in a few more sips, I realized I had to exercise some self-control. I didn’t want to go down the slippery slope of overindulgence. I could already feel the temptation to start stealing cheese off other people’s platters, and I certainly didn’t want to lower the sophisticated atmosphere of the place.

If you ever find yourself in Cape Town, this bar is a must-visit. You can find it at 219 Bree Street. They are open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 4:00 PM to midnight during the winter season, and from Monday to Saturday, from 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM in the summer. If you need more information, you can contact them at 082 681 6601.

By the way, if you happen to come across any new gin bars elsewhere, be sure to let us know! We’re always on the lookout for exciting and unique places to explore.