Bar
The Gin Bar
Reached through the Honest Chocolate café on Wale Street, The Gin Bar is a small, relaxed bar devoted to gin, with a newer Bubbly Bar alongside.
Mitchell’s Scottish Ale House
Billed as the first tenant of the V&A Waterfront, Mitchell's Scottish Ale House is a long-running pub on Dock Road serving local and imported beers on tap.
At a glance
- Type
- Pub
- Area
- V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa
- Price
- $$ · Mid-range
- Official site
- mitchellsalehouse.co.za
Good to know
- Local and imported beers on tap
- Pub food
- Breakfast
Why we recommend it
Mitchell's Scottish Ale House describes itself as the very first tenant of the V&A Waterfront, and it has served generations of locals and visitors since the harbour was redeveloped. It is a traditional pub on Dock Road, with a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere that makes a change from the more polished bars and restaurants elsewhere at the Waterfront.
Beer is the main attraction. The taps include a range of South African beers and ciders, such as Devil's Peak Lager and IPA from Cape Town, Newlands Spring ales and Zulu Blonde, alongside mainstream local lagers like Castle and Carling Black Label. Imported options include Guinness, Leffe, Hoegaarden and Stella Artois. It is a good place to sample some local craft beer without committing to a full brewery tour.
The pub serves food through the day, from breakfast in the morning to pub meals later on. The atmosphere becomes busier and louder on weekend evenings and during big sporting events, when the bar fills with groups of friends.
The website lists opening hours from 11:00 to 02:00, though it also mentions opening at 09:00 for breakfast, so check the latest times before going early in the day. There is no need to book for a drink, but larger groups wanting a table for a big match should contact the pub in advance through its bookings page or WhatsApp.
Mitchell's suits groups of friends, sports fans and anyone wanting a casual pint after a day of sightseeing. It is a short walk from the Clock Tower, the Robben Island ferry terminal and the Two Oceans Aquarium, so it fits easily into a day at the Waterfront. Taxis and ride-hailing services pick up easily nearby, and the MyCiTi bus connects the Waterfront with the city centre during the day.
Devil's Peak Brewing Company takes its name from the peak that rises between Table Mountain and the city's eastern suburbs, and its beers are among the best-known craft brews in Cape Town. Trying them here is an easy introduction to the local beer scene, which has grown a great deal in recent years. Ask the bar staff which beers are pouring well on the day, as the tap list can change.
Mitchell’s Scottish Ale House FAQs
Why is Mitchell's well known?
It describes itself as the very first tenant of the V&A Waterfront.
Which beers are on tap?
Local beers such as Devil's Peak Lager and IPA, Newlands Spring ales and Zulu Blonde, plus imports like Guinness and Leffe.
Does it serve food?
Yes, from breakfast to pub meals.
Is it a formal bar?
No. It is a relaxed, traditional pub.
What are the opening hours?
The website lists 11:00 to 02:00 and also mentions opening at 09:00 for breakfast, so check before visiting early.
Do I need to book?
Not for a drink, but groups wanting a table for a big match should contact the pub.
Where is it?
On Dock Road at the V&A Waterfront.
What is nearby?
The Clock Tower, the Robben Island ferry terminal and the Two Oceans Aquarium.