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The Gin Bar
· South Africa
Cocktail Bars
Photo: Official website · theginbar.co.za
A discreet Cape Town cocktail destination reached through a chocolate shop, with a courtyard setting and a drinks identity rooted in South African gin.
The Story
Origin
Established in 2015 behind Honest Chocolate on Wale Street, The Gin Bar built its identity around a concealed entrance and a small historic courtyard.
Philosophy
Gin provides a focused framework for exploring botanicals, local producers and approachable cocktails.
Why Important
A recognisable Cape Town destination for understanding the relationship between the city's cocktail scene and South Africa's craft-gin movement.
Differentiation
Its combination of South African gin expertise, an unusual entrance and a heritage setting gives it a distinctive sense of place.
Guest Experience
The passage through the chocolate shop gives way to an intimate courtyard and a more secluded drinking experience than the street frontage suggests.
Design Philosophy
The character of the existing building and courtyard supplies the atmosphere, avoiding an elaborate themed fit-out.
Design & Architecture
Lighting
Soft evening lighting.
Furniture
Compact tables and informal seating.
Materials
Masonry, timber and tiled surfaces.
Architecture
An existing city-centre building arranged around an enclosed courtyard.
Design Language
Understated heritage courtyard bar.
Interior Design
Small-scale bar spaces retain an informal, accumulated character.
Graphic Identity
An apothecary-like vocabulary informs the drinks presentation.
Gallery · 4 photos
Menus
HOUSE REMEDIES
House G&T's · Menu last verified: 8 October 2026
THE HOPE
Made with: Hope Mediterranean Gin, Fitch and Leeds Tonic, Olive Brine, Basil, Olive.
THE HEAD
Made with: Pienaar & Son Orient Gin, Symmetry Spice Tonic Essence, Barker & Quin Light Tonic, Lime, Star Anise, Thyme.
THE HEART
Made with: Inverroche Amber Gin, Barker & Quin Light Tonic, Rosemary, Strawberry, Orange, Clove.
THE AMBITION
Made with: Triple Three Juniper Gin, Luckybird Elderflower Syrup, Thyme, Cucumber & Cinnamon.
THE SOUL
Made with: KWV Gin, Fitch and Leeds Tonic, Basil, Clove, Grapefruit.
CLASSIC COCKTAILS
Classic cocktails · Menu last verified: 8 October 2026
HOUSE NEGRONI
BASIL SMASH
OLD FASHIONED
CORPSE REVIVER #2
MARTINI
MENU
Official page
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