There’s no better way to spend the days of summer than toasting with your favourite cold beverage against the backdrop of the city skyline, the gorgeous blue of the ocean or the colourful hues of the setting sun. Whether it’s for a dinner date, a special celebration, or a group gathering after a long day at work, there are plenty of great restaurants at which to enjoy the lovely outdoor weather while sipping on a cold one. Written in collaboration with Private Property, here are recommendations for the perfect sundowner spots around South Africa.
Roma Revolving: Gino’s Sky Bar in Durban
Gino’s Sky Bar actually made Private Property’s list of Durban’s 5 best bars with a view. This classy spot crowns the John Ross House building and forms part of the Roma Revolving Restaurant. The restaurant specialises in Italian cuisine such as Carre’ di agnello and Napoletana-served pasta. Once guests have downed a scrumptious meal they can head to Gino’s Sky Bar where they can indulge in a relaxed cocktail as they take in the panoramic views of the city.
Top of The Ritz in Cape Town
Cape Town has bragging rights to the only other revolving restaurant in South Africa. The Top of the Ritz, located in Sea Point, boasts an 80-seater fine dining experience with a champagne bar and a cognac lounge that truly make you feel like you’ve stepped on top of the world. According to Cape Town Magazine, when it comes to property for sale and real estate, the key consideration is “location, location, location” but The Top of the Ritz adds “views, views, views”.
RED Roof at the Radisson RED Hotel in Cape Town
Rising above the bustling tourist hotspot, the V&A Waterfront, the RED Roof perched atop the Radisson RED Hotel makes a fine addition to the rooftop scene. Featuring a contemporary, cool, hip-and-happening vibe, the bar delights with its views of the ocean and Table Mountain from the sun terrace and pool deck. Whether you’re looking to lounge around the pool with a refreshing cocktail or cool off with a craft beer, the RED Roof is the place to go when the vantage point and atmosphere matter just as much as drinks and dinner.
The San Deck at the Sandton Sun in Johannesburg
The San Deck is a sundowner hotspot that offers three large fire pits, lounge seating, live music, a DJ on weekends and front row seats to experience a magical African sunset. Order a glass of white, red or sparkling wine or classic cocktails such as a Cosmopolitan and Mojito to enjoy while you watch the setting sun’s rays reflecting off the city skyline.
The Living Room in Maboneng in Johannesburg
With jungle-inspired décor, a laid-back vibe and the opportunity to watch daylight turn to dusk in the rooftop breeze, The Living Room’s Rooftop Café is the perfect urban retreat to chill out on a hot Jozi night. Highlights from the drinks and café menu include a wide choice of cocktails, beer, wines, frozen drinks and homemade mocktails. The musical selections are also worth sticking around for, especially on a Sunday afternoon when bands come out to play.
In cities overrun with sundowner options, it’s easy to grab a drink in a dark and crowded bar but much more rewarding to take the elevator for a chill-out session far above the city streets. These restaurants will surely have you end your day on a high note.
