My Guide to the Best Live Music Venues across Cape Town

Cape Town is a city that resonates with a vibrant and diverse musical heartbeat. We have the best live music venues!

Here are the best live music venues in Cape Town:

From the soulful rhythms of jazz to the electrifying beats of rock, the Mother City offers a plethora of live music venues that cater to every musical taste. Music is a universal, we all love it, and we all appreciate a good live band. Either with friends or a romantic night. I prefer the smaller and intimate unplugged versions.  Where you can get to know the artist but am a sucker for a concert too. Notwithstanding, Cape Town has great live music venues!

Here are my personal favourites :

Café Roux: Unplugged. Check what on this year! Click Here

Without a doubt, my favourite. As the venue is small, you get to know the artist as they are forced to talk to you and tell you stories. During, their unplugged music.  Café Roux offers dinner while you tap your feet. Its super casual, you can munch on a burger and drink a beer, while enjoying a South Africa band.  I have enjoyed many awesome live performances. Such as the legend, Ard Matthews from the band called Just Jinger.

The Crypt Jazz Restaurant:

Located in the heart of the city, The Crypt Jazz Restaurant is a hidden gem for jazz enthusiasts. Set in the historic St. George’s Cathedral. Uniquely, this venue provides an intimate and acoustically rich setting for live jazz performances. Enjoy a delightful evening of smooth melodies and soulful improvisations as you indulge in the delectable cuisine on offer.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden: Check out the gigs for 2024! Click Here

If you are looking for something to do on a hot summer’s night. Look no further!  Book an outdoor musical experience. Held against the backdrop of the majestic Table Mountain, these concerts showcase a diverse range of artists and genres. Pack a picnic, grab a blanket, and unwind in the breathtaking surroundings as you soak in the sounds of live music.

The Brass Bell: Check their line up! Click here

Perched on the edge of False Bay in Kalk Bay, The Brass Bell offers a unique seaside live music experience. This historic venue, with its rustic charm, hosts a range of musical acts, from acoustic sets to full-band performances. Enjoy the sea breeze and the melodic tunes as you savour a delicious meal with friends or family.

Alma Café : Click here

Surprisingly, hidden away off Claremont’s main thoroughfare is the little Alma venue. Some of South Africa’s most famous musicians play to intimate dinner groups here every day, so it’s strange that it’s not more well-known. It’s down-home, solemn, and focused on the music. If you want to engage fully with the performance, this is the perfect setting for you.

Cape Town’s live music scene is a testament to the city’s rich cultural tapestry and creative spirit. Additionally, whether you’re into jazz, rock, folk, or electronic beats, there’s a venue or event waiting to serenade your senses.

So, tune in to the rhythmic heartbeat of the Mother City. Equally important, let the music guide you through the diverse soundscape of Cape Town.