On The Mic

Apparently rated as one of the world's top 100 bars, The House of Machines did not disappoint! The barman was vocally excited by my ordering an Old Fashioned a personal favourite of mine, and seemingly a specialty of theirs. Something about a random barman's approval of one's order puts one in a great mood for the remainder of the evening. I also sampled the Negroni and the Espresso Martini. Both were good, but the Old Fashioned remains my go-to, although if one intends to party into the late/early hours, then the added caffeine would make the Espresso Martini the better order. There's an authenticity about this particular establishment that's rarely captured by other places. However, the location and limited size of said establishment, which no doubt contribute to the aforementioned authenticity, result in this place becoming insanely packed to the point of being impossible to navigate when "Town" is busy avoid on First Thursdays at all costs!. I've discovered The House of Machines is best enjoyed on an arbitrary mid-week night, when you can approach the bar directly and order your drinks immediately. There are also almost always live music performances, even on arbitrary mid-week evenings. One should also note, you will not be saving money at this establishment.

Love the old fashioned! Staff are super friendly and welcoming. Good coffee, beer, and alc. free shots. Quite or busy, it's always a good vibe.Food: 4/5

My wife and I are die hard music fans and this place never disappoints. Such an awesome spot and always great taste in music playing there. Been coming here for years when we are in the area and will continue to do so. Never change your ways, HOM! BTW - by far THE BEST old fashioned cocktail in WC.

I try and go here every Tuesday night where they have an open stage evening titled "song writers showcase " and I perform under the stage name "Djonno" .... never been disappointed.. its an amazing vibe, the staff are super pro and super friendly its just rad... make a turn anytime.... its worth it. Enjoy! Cheerz Wheelchair accessibility: Its on the ground floor... no stairs.. very accessible

Great music. Top shelf bar service. An absorbing atmosphere giving way only to conversation. Try the smokey old fashioned to stimulate multiple senses. A perfect place to kick back after the work week. Only 3 stars because the chicken wings took almost an hour from upfront payment to arrive at our table both times.

Had a friend's birthday celebration here recently, wonderful atmosphere, lovey people, awesome service... Great beers too #superbock

It was such a special and memorable day. Arrived a stranger, but was welcomed immediately.

Had an awesome chilling time here...creating a TAP using my Key was the cleverest idea than paying every time you buy your booze...I recommend the place. They've got delicious tasty burgers

Amazing atmosphere, brilliant bar staff!! Crazy good cocktails & coffee is also top class!

One of the best bar/pubs in Cape Town. I've been coming here since 2016 now and never been disappointed. The cocktails are not your usual run of the mill that you get everywhere. Weekend live music is always a bonus with a drink. If you are in Cape Town, do visit this gem.