Top 10 Rooftop Bars in Johannesburg (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

Johannesburg, South Africa’s vibrant City of Gold, is renowned for its dynamic nightlife and stunning skyline, best enjoyed from its array of rooftop bars. Perched atop sleek hotels and trendy precincts, these elevated venues offer panoramic views, signature cocktails, and lively atmospheres, perfect for sundowners or late-night vibes. From Sandton’s luxurious high-rises to Maboneng’s urban oases, Jozi’s rooftop scene caters to every mood—whether you’re after a chic date night, a casual hangout, or a corporate event. With a mild climate (15°C–25°C year-round) and iconic landmarks like the Hillbrow Tower visible from many terraces, these bars are a must-visit. This evergreen guide, crafted with local expertise and credible sources, highlights the top 10 rooftop bars in Johannesburg, detailing their ambiance, menus, and unique features. Elevate your Jozi experience in 2025 with these sky-high gems.

Top 10 Rooftop Bars in Johannesburg

1. Alto234 (The Leonardo)

  • Location: 57th Floor, The Leonardo, 75 Maude St, Sandton

  • Description: Africa’s highest urban bar, Alto234 sits 234 meters above Sandton, offering 360° views of Johannesburg’s skyline, from the Magaliesberg mountains to the FNB Stadium. Its sleek, minimalist design complements a menu of luxury tapas and craft cocktails. Open daily (except Mondays) until 19:00, it’s ideal for sunset drinks.

  • Highlights: Signature cocktails (R125+), sparkling wine on arrival, and a R350 cover charge. Live DJs on weekends create a vibrant vibe.

  • Why Visit: Unmatched altitude and panoramic vistas make it a bucket-list spot for romantic evenings or special occasions.

  • Contact: [email protected], +27 87 536 0000

2. Living Room Jozi

  • Location: 5th Floor, Main Change Building, 20 Kruger St, Maboneng

  • Description: An eco-friendly urban oasis in Maboneng, Living Room is adorned with lush greenery and recycled decor. It offers stunning skyline views, especially at sunset, with a menu of organic tapas, smoothies, and bold cocktails like the Pineapple Express. Open Thursday–Sunday, 12:00–21:00, it’s a weekend hotspot with live music.

  • Highlights: Vegetarian-friendly dishes, hammocks for lounging, and a hipster vibe. Entry is R50–R100 for events.

  • Why Visit: Its laid-back, nature-inspired setting is perfect for chilling with friends or soaking up Jozi’s creative energy.

  • Contact: [email protected], +27 84 529 9006

3. Elevate Rooftop Bar

  • Location: 16th Floor, Reef Hotel, 58 Anderson St, Marshalltown

  • Description: In the heart of Johannesburg’s banking district, Elevate offers 360° city views from its stylish terrace and indoor lounge. The menu features gourmet snacks like sliders and a wide range of cocktails. Open daily, 12:00–23:00, it shifts from after-work drinks to a club-like atmosphere with DJs on weekends.

  • Highlights: Affordable mains (R80–R150), vibrant nightlife, and capacity for 800 guests for events.

  • Why Visit: Its central location and versatile vibe suit both casual meetups and large celebrations.

  • Contact: +27 11 689 1000

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4. San Deck (Sandton Sun Hotel)

  • Location: 6th Floor, Sandton Sun Hotel, 5th St, Sandton

  • Description: A chic Sandton staple, San Deck offers cozy firepits, outdoor heaters, and views of the Sandton skyline. The menu celebrates South African flavors with gourmet Bunny Chows and premium spirits like Wixworth gin. Open daily, 07:00–23:00, with DJs on Thursday–Saturday evenings.

  • Highlights: Signature cocktails (e.g., San Sunset, R100+), all-day dining, and winter-friendly amenities.

  • Why Visit: Its year-round appeal and lively crowd make it a go-to for sundowners or late-night drinks.

  • Contact: [email protected], +27 11 780 5000

5. Flames (Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff)

  • Location: 67 Jan Smuts Ave, Westcliff

  • Description: Nestled on a hillside near Johannesburg Zoo, Flames offers a luxurious terrace with views of Jozi’s greenery and skyline. Known for open-flame cooking, it serves grilled steaks, seafood, and cocktails like the Flamelicious (R120+). Open daily, 12:00–22:00, with sundowners from 15:00–18:00.

  • Highlights: Highveld sunset views, extensive champagne list, and bookings required.

  • Why Visit: Its refined ambiance and proximity to nature make it ideal for upscale dining and special occasions.

  • Contact: [email protected], +27 11 481 6000

6. Radisson RED Rooftop Bar

  • Location: Oxford Parks, 4 Parks Blvd, Rosebank

  • Description: In trendy Rosebank, this vibrant rooftop bar at Radisson RED features modern decor, comfy seating, and views of Jozi’s tree canopy. The OUIBar + KTCHN serves local dishes and creative cocktails. Open daily, 12:00–23:00, it’s a summer favorite with good tunes.

  • Highlights: All-day menu, casual-chic vibe, and uninterrupted views to Northcliff Ridge.

  • Why Visit: Its upbeat atmosphere and central location suit after-work drinks or weekend gatherings.

  • Contact: +27 87 086 1578

7. Randlords

  • Location: 22nd Floor, South Point Towers, 41 De Korte St, Braamfontein

  • Description: An exclusive venue in Braamfontein, Randlords boasts 360° views of landmarks like the Hillbrow Tower and Soweto. Primarily for private events, it hosts public gatherings occasionally. The chic lounge serves premium cocktails and can host 450 guests. Open per event schedule.

  • Highlights: State-of-the-art mixology, floor-to-ceiling windows, and tailored event menus.

  • Why Visit: Its exclusivity and jaw-dropping vistas make it a top pick for memorable nights.

  • Contact: +27 11 403 0000

8. The City Beach Club (Play Braamfontein)

  • Location: 68 Juta St, Braamfontein

  • Description: A Mediterranean-inspired rooftop in Braamfontein, this beach club features sandy floors, rainbow umbrellas, and skyline views. Signature cocktails and coastal vibes create a unique escape. Open Wednesday–Sunday, 12:00–22:00, with DJs on weekends.

  • Highlights: Beachy ambiance, affordable drinks (R80–R120), and vibrant energy.

  • Why Visit: Its quirky, coastal paradise vibe is perfect for Instagram-worthy sundowners.

  • Contact: [email protected], +27 60 793 6107

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9. The Island Bar (Southern Sun Hyde Park)

  • Location: Southern Sun Hyde Park, 1st Rd, Hyde Park

  • Description: This poolside rooftop in Hyde Park offers a relaxed vibe with Sandton skyline views. The menu includes innovative cocktails like the Kraken Mai Tai and sushi platters. Open daily, 10:00–22:00, it’s popular for Highveld sunsets.

  • Highlights: Pool access, exclusive wines from Nederburg auctions, and family-friendly dining.

  • Why Visit: Its serene setting and tasty eats make it a great spot for a lavish timeout.

  • Contact: +27 11 341 8000

10. Marble Restaurant

  • Location: 19 Keyes Ave, Rosebank

  • Description: Known for open-flame cooking by chef David Higgs, Marble offers a rooftop lounge with views extending to the Magaliesberg mountains. The elegant decor and menu of tapas and cocktails create a luxe atmosphere. Open Tuesday–Sunday, 12:00–22:00.

  • Highlights: Artisanal cocktails, local art displays, and sunset views.

  • Why Visit: Its culinary excellence and sophisticated vibe are perfect for date nights or upscale gatherings.

  • Contact: +27 10 594 5550

Why Visit Rooftop Bars in Johannesburg?

Johannesburg’s rooftop bars elevate the city’s nightlife with:

  • Stunning Views: From Alto234’s 57th-floor panorama to Flames’ lush greenery, these bars showcase Jozi’s skyline and beyond.

  • Vibrant Atmospheres: Venues like Living Room and Elevate offer live music and DJs, creating lively weekend vibes.

  • Culinary Delights: Menus feature South African flavors, from San Deck’s Bunny Chows to Marble’s flame-grilled dishes.

  • Accessibility: Located in Sandton, Rosebank, and Braamfontein, they’re near major hubs like Sandton City Mall (2–5km).

  • Year-Round Appeal: Jozi’s mild climate and winter heaters (e.g., San Deck) ensure comfort any season.

South Africa ranks among the top nightlife destinations, with Johannesburg’s rooftop bars praised for their views and innovation.

Types of Rooftop Bars in Johannesburg

  • Luxury Bars: Alto234 and Flames offer premium drinks and upscale dining for special occasions.

  • Casual Hangouts: Living Room and The City Beach Club provide laid-back vibes for friends and families.

  • Event Spaces: Randlords and Elevate cater to corporate functions and private parties.

  • Dining-Focused: Marble and San Deck blend gourmet menus with rooftop allure.

  • Trendy Hotspots: Radisson RED and The City Beach Club attract young crowds with modern aesthetics.

How to Choose the Right Rooftop Bar

  1. Define Your Vibe: Seek luxury at Alto234 or casual fun at Living Room.

  2. Check Views: Prioritize 360° vistas at Randlords or green expanses at Flames.

  3. Consider Menus: Opt for gourmet at Marble or vegetarian options at Living Room.

  4. Verify Hours: Some, like Randlords, are event-based, while San Deck is open daily.

  5. Budget: Entry fees range from R50 (Living Room) to R350 (Alto234). Cocktails start at R80.

  6. Location: Choose Sandton (San Deck) for business districts or Maboneng (Living Room) for artsy vibes.

  7. Read Reviews: Check Tripadvisor or www.therooftopguide.com for guest feedback. Elevate’s “360° views” are a hit.

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Practical Tips for Visiting Rooftop Bars

  • Book Ahead: Reserve tables at Flames or Alto234, especially for sunset (17:00–19:00).

  • Dress Smart: Alto234 and Marble require smart-casual attire; Living Room is relaxed.

  • Time Your Visit: Arrive early (15:00–17:00) for golden hour at San Deck or The Island Bar.

  • Check Events: Randlords and Living Room host public events; follow their socials for updates.

  • Use Transport: Uber to Braamfontein or Marshalltown for safety, especially at night.

  • Bring ID: Most bars enforce 21+ policies, like The City Beach Club.

  • Tip Well: Service is exceptional; 10–15% is standard.

Nearby Attractions and Activities

Enhance your rooftop experience with these Jozi highlights:

  • Sandton City Mall (2–5km): Shopping and dining near San Deck and Alto234. Free entry.

  • Maboneng Precinct (1–2km): Art galleries and markets near Living Room. Free entry.

  • Johannesburg Zoo (2–3km): Family-friendly fun near Flames. Entry: R120/adult.

  • Constitution Hill (3–5km): Historical tours near Elevate. Entry: R80/adult.

  • Rosebank Sunday Market (1–2km): Crafts and food near Radisson RED. Free entry.

FAQs About Rooftop Bars in Johannesburg

What are the best rooftop bars in Johannesburg?

Alto234, Living Room, and Elevate top the list for their views, vibes, and menus. Costs range from R80–R350 for drinks and entry.

Are Johannesburg rooftop bars expensive?

Cocktails start at R80 (The City Beach Club) to R150 (Alto234). Entry fees vary: R50 (Living Room) to R350 (Alto234). Budget-friendly options include Elevate.

What’s the best time to visit rooftop bars in Johannesburg?

Golden hour (17:00–19:00) is ideal for sunsets, especially at San Deck or Flames. Winter (May–September) offers clear skies.

Are rooftop bars in Johannesburg safe?

Yes, in safer suburbs like Sandton and Rosebank. Use Uber in areas like Braamfontein and avoid walking alone at night.

Do Johannesburg rooftop bars require reservations?

Flames and Alto234 require bookings, especially for dinner. Living Room and San Deck accept walk-ins, but reserving is advised for weekends.

Conclusion

Johannesburg’s top 10 rooftop bars, from Alto234’s sky-high elegance to Living Room’s urban jungle, offer unforgettable experiences with stunning views and vibrant atmospheres. Whether you’re sipping cocktails at Marble’s sophisticated lounge or dancing at The City Beach Club’s sandy oasis, Jozi’s rooftops cater to every taste. With year-round appeal, central locations, and menus showcasing South African flavors, these venues elevate the city’s nightlife. Explore www.therooftopguide.com or www.joburg.co.za for updates, book your spot, and toast to Johannesburg’s golden skyline in 2025.