From Table Mountain overlooking Cape Town and Table Bay; along the world-renowned coastline that extends for 307 km along the West Coast; to the swankiest down in the basement bars and restaurants, Cape Town has unlimited possibilities after dark.
Jazz in Cape Town is more than music. It is the story of slavery, and the struggle against apartheid. It’s about history and salvation and exile and freedom. Explore the jazz scene and you’ll peer into Cape Town’s past, with groovy riffs telling it like it is. Here are some of Cape Town’s coolest jazz spots:
The Crypt Restaurant has to be one of the coolest venues in Cape Town. It’s located beneath St George’s Cathedral, and the underground setting gives it an alluring ambience that’s hard to beat. Enjoy a cheese platter with some light piano tunes, a burger with some funky Afro-jazz, a steak over some sultry vocal jazz.
The Piano Bar is a trendy New York-style revue bar is located in De Waterkant is open till late every night, and guests can sip cocktails while watching the live performances. The Piano Bar has an intimate and moody vibe, but it prides itself on being an inclusive jazz bar. You’ll hear jazz standards, blues, and even some indie folk at this venue. You don’t need to be knowledgeable about the genre to visit—there’s something for everyone and it’s all about having a good time to some sweet tunes. Don’t miss the daily two-for-one tapas special!
Coffeebeans Routes is a tour company with a difference. They offer contemporary, urban, African experience and the guides don’t shy away from the complex and nuanced history and culture of Cape Town. Their Jazz Safari is a tour for those who like their jazz served fresh and hot. It takes visitors into the homes of local jazz musicians, to enjoy some local cuisine and the most intimate jazz performance you’ll ever come across. After dinner with a local musician, the tour takes you to either a jazz venue or another musician’s home for more music and a nightcap. Discover the roots of Cape jazz and get under the skin of the city on this amazing, meaningful experience.
Nestled in Wetton, Swingers is Cape Town’s iconic jazz venue, the place to be on Monday nights. With free jazz sessions featuring their resident band, Mondays at Swingers are a musical haven. The venue also attracts visiting musicians who drop by for impromptu jam sessions, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Friday and Saturday nights are all about unleashing the groove, while Sundays offer a perfect blend of dinner and jazz magic in a cozy lounge setting. Originally known as Swingers Jazz Club, Lounge 021 @ Swingers is the ultimate spot to unwind after a hectic day at work.
Every Monday and Friday, enjoy contemporary African jazz performed by local and visiting musicians. Swingers is renowned for its experimental jazz sessions, with legendary acts like Melanie Scholtz and Erica Lundi having graced its stage. Open from 12 pm till late, Swingers is your go-to destination for a feel-good vibe and exceptional jazz music.
