Event information
This live music venue and bar - a fixture of Observatory since opening in 1998 - hosts various forms of live entertainment including live music, stand-up comedy, film festivals, plays and exhibitions.
Originally run by Carl Reynolds and Jess Morgan, the venue was taken over by musician Gil Hockman in 2005 before closing in 2008. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the venue was purchased by new owners who revived the space, bringing back classic performers.
The venue holds long-standing affection among local musicians and has hosted prominent South African artists including Fokofpolisiekar, Jack Parow, Taxi Violence, Fuzigish, Beast, Freshly Ground, Chris Chameleon, Aking, Van Pletzen, Francois van Coke, Goldfish, The Buckfever Underground, Valiant Swart, Cassette, The Dirty Skirts and numerous others, both established and up-and-coming.
Weekly programming includes:
Mondays jam nights from 8pm
Tuesdays quiz nights from 8pm
Wednesdays and Sundays stand-up comedy
Thursdays karaoke
Fridays and Saturdays live music performances
The renovated venue features a mix of fancy and grungy aesthetics with various seating areas including an inside civilised space, outside easy-going vibes, a terrace bar and inner garden area. A fire pit enhances the outdoor area. Food includes burgers and pizzas noted for generous portions, including vegetarian and vegan options such as cauliflower burgers.
The venue features artisanal local brands including Flat Mountain Coffee, Shackleton Beer and Leonista Tequila, focusing on small local businesses. Drink specials are regularly available.
Street parking is available along Lower Main Road, though it can be limited during peak hours.
All photos on the website are by dievetman.com.