Aside from boasting one of the most spectacular settings in the world — framed by the Table Mountain to the east and the Atlantic Ocean to the west — Cape Town is well populated with pubs and bars to down a pint while watching the World Cup.
Here are our top five picks to watch the beautiful game in Cape Town.
1. Mama Afrika — City Centre
Located in the heart of eclectic Long Street in the city centre, this spacious restaurant and bar has a relaxed vibe catering to the backpacking crowd that gravitates to this area of Cape Town. Mama Afrika also boasts a 12-metre-long bar shaped like a green mamba. Musicians play live music almost every night.
178 Long St.
2. Den Anker Restaurant and Bar — V & A Waterfront
This buzzing pub on the waterfront with breathtaking views of Table Mountain, specialized in Belgian beers. Its best-selling Anker beer is brewed exclusively for them and is served on tap. Den Anker also offers an award-winning wine list and a continental-style bistro.
The V & A Waterfront is certainly one of the most touristy areas in Cape Town and will be packed during World Cup.
Pierhead, V & A Waterfront
3. Pulse — Green Point
Just outside the city centre and about a 10-minute walk from the V & A Waterfront (and a stone’s throw from the soccer stadium) lies this humming seaside suburb where Pulse, a sports bar complete with big screens throughout, is a surefire bet to get optimal views of all the matches taking place throughout the World Cup. What it lacks in ambiance, it makes up for with five giant plasma screens and several projector screens strategically placed throughout. This is for serious sports enthusiasts.
23 Somerset Rd
4. Café Caprice — Camps Bay
Situated on the beachfront promenade overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in the trendy suburb of Camps Bay, Café Caprice is a more upmarket locale to catch matches at.
But the direct beach access and the area’s vibrant pulse, make it a fun spot to spend an entire day. Despite its name, it is a lively spot to throw back a few tall boys while watching the matches on the big screen TVs behind the bar. Come sunset, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a seat, as it’s the place locals head to.
37 Victoria Rd
5. Fireman’s Arms — City Centre
One of Cape Town’s oldest pubs — dating back to 1864 — Fireman’s offers 13 beers on tap and traditional pub grub. They’re famous for their Fireman’s meat pie, laden with chili. Giant screens are set up, making it a great spot to catch a match amidst old world charm.
25-27 Mechau Rd
