Event information
This queer-friendly bar and event venue has carved out a distinctive space in Observatory. Founded by Hazel Walton, who previously ran The Acoustic Café in Muizenberg, the venue embraces Alice in Wonderland-style décor featuring bright funky details and a bar area dominated by an old railway sleeper counter. The space includes three areas: a balcony overlooking Lower Main Road, a central bar area, and a small courtyard at the back.
The venue's whimsical atmosphere creates an inviting environment particularly welcoming to the LGBTIQA+ community and women. The Obscene Parrot describes itself as a loungey, family-type bar where the atmosphere remains comfortable enough that reading a book at the bar feels as natural as catching a show.
Live music performances range from folk singer-songwriters to bands. Kai Scott, a 19-year-old singer-songwriter known for evocative lyricism and intricate fingerpicking, has performed full sets of original songs at the venue. The venue has also hosted bands such as Sauti Za Afrika, experimental sonic collectives like Tensegrity, and events featuring Amapiano and Drill artists.
Beyond music, the venue operates as an event space hosting comedy nights, themed events including A Queer Halloween and The Fire Drill.
Daily happy hours run from 12pm to 1pm and again from 4pm to 6pm. The vegetarian kitchen serves food throughout the day, with pizza noted as a specialty.
Dogs are welcome. The venue borders an animal charity shop next door, another venture inspired by the animal-loving owner.
Street parking is available on Lower Main Road.