Cigar Lounges of South Africa: From American Jazz to Cuban Beach Vibes
American or Cuban in style, elegant or laid-back in atmosphere — the cigar lounges of South Africa offer a bit of everything, infused with the spirit and vibrant colors of the African continent.
Katzy’s – Johannesburg
Katzy’s is a South African chain of restaurants and jazz clubs where the experience revolves primarily around fine steaks, live jazz music, and—of course—a well-stocked bar. In short, it’s an elegant, distinctly American-style blend of dining and nightlife.
At some branches, such as the one in Rosebank, Johannesburg—located within a suburban shopping center—the cigar lounge sits right next to familiar names like KFC and Burger King. Rather than detracting from the experience, this juxtaposition only enhances the unmistakable American atmosphere the venue radiates.
From Wednesday through Saturday, Katzy’s transforms into a live jazz club, hosting performances alongside a rich bar offering spirits from around the world. And while you’re here, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the excellent wine list, featuring some of South Africa’s finest wineries—a pleasant surprise for those not yet acquainted with them.
As for the main attraction: the cigar offering. Large humidors house a wide and carefully curated selection of cigars, including premium brands such as Romeo y Julieta, Petit Edmundo, Montecristo, and Cohiba, all at relatively reasonable prices. Guests are also welcome to bring their own cigars, with no cutting or corkage fee—provided, naturally, that food and drinks are ordered.
The lounge itself is furnished with plush dark leather sofas and armchairs. Red brick walls are adorned with vintage cigar posters, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The owners drew inspiration from a piano and cigar lounge they visited in Chicago—and that exact feeling carries through here. A few wooden chairs and high tables allow guests to enjoy a full meal from the menu, not just a drink at the bar.
Weekend dress code: smart casual.
Katzy’s Live
The Firs, Hyatt Shopping Centre
C/O Oxford Rd. & Bierman Ave., Rosebank, Johannesburg
(+27) (0)11 880 3945
www.katzyslive.co.za
Pedro Portia Cigar & Champagne Lounge – Sandton
Part cigar lounge, part champagne bar, tapas restaurant, and dining destination, Pedro Portia is a lively and colorful venue located in Sandton, a suburban town about 25 kilometers from Johannesburg. Opened in 2000, it delivers a joyful, flamboyant Art Deco atmosphere—sometimes bordering on kitsch, yet often landing squarely in elegance.
Purple walls, a glittering bar in shimmering green, blue, and red tones, classical marble columns, and black-and-white tiled floors set the stage for camel-yellow bar stools and ornate Rococo-style sofas and armchairs in rich gold hues. Somehow, all these elements come together into a cheerful, energetic place to spend an evening. Large windows open onto a comfortable, covered terrace overlooking the city.
The bar boasts an impressive selection of spirits, presided over by talented mixologists eager to surprise guests with classic cocktails alongside inventive local creations. As the name promises, there is also an excellent range of fine French champagnes, complemented by an extensive international wine list and a broad selection of premium spirits.
Most importantly, the cigar menu is vast. The lounge’s management proudly—and quite convincingly—claims to house the largest cigar collection in South Africa. The selection includes brands such as Carrillo, Condega, Raza, Mombacho, Trinidad, Cohiba, Montecristo, and dozens of other top-tier names. The food menu is equally appealing, ranging from small tapas plates to full meals and generous sharing platters for two.
Occasionally, salsa dance nights add another layer of fun. This is not the classic, formal, old-school gentleman’s cigar lounge—it’s something else entirely: a place that invites you to relax, enjoy yourself, and celebrate.
Pedro Portia Cigar & Champagne Lounge
Cedar Square, Willow Ave., Fourways, Sandton
(+27) (0)11 465 5766
www.pedroportia.co.za
Cape to Cuba – Hemingway’s, Cape Town
Ernest Hemingway—the iconic American writer, bon vivant, and devoted cigar lover—has inspired countless bars and cigar lounges around the world. One of them is the pub and cigar lounge at Cape to Cuba in Cape Town.
This is a genuinely “cool” place: a fusion of a Cuban street party with South African color and soul, all set within a beachfront club framed by white sand and endless blue horizons. Looking for a vibrant vacation vibe? You’ve found it. Part pub, part restaurant, and part Cuban souvenir shop, the venue offers an expansive food and drinks menu alongside an almost wild cocktail selection. It’s no coincidence that Cape to Cuba was named one of the world’s 100 “coolest” restaurants.
The concept—bringing Cuban flavors, music, and spirit into the South African landscape—has materialized into a colorful celebration filled with mojitos, tequila (alongside a broad international spirits list), and plenty of Cuban music. The food menu leans heavily toward meat and seafood dishes, while the cigar list naturally focuses on Cuban classics such as Cohiba, Romeo y Julieta, Montecristo, Bolívar, and more, alongside several non-Cuban brands.
Its beachfront location, right on the waterline, provides the final touch to the sense of freedom and escape. The view is stunning—and perfectly complements the electric atmosphere.
Cape to Cuba – Hemingway’s
165 Main Rd., Kalk Bay, Cape Town
(+27) (0)21 788 1566
www.capetocuba.com
