The Republic Bar & Grill

The Republic Bar & Grill is a popular Osu bar, a relaxed, unpretentious place that puts Ghanaian flavours at the centre of its drinks. It sits on Asafoatse Tempong Street, just off the main Osu strip, and is known for good cocktails at fair prices and an inclusive, easy-going atmosphere.

The cocktail list is the reason to visit. The signature Kokoroko is made with hibiscus, lime, mint and brown sugar, a nod to sobolo, the hibiscus drink sold all over Ghana. The Republica is a frozen take on the caipirinha, and boozy slushies come in two sizes, which is welcome in Accra's heat. Prices are modest by the standards of international cocktail bars. The kitchen keeps things simple with local bar food such as jollof rice, yam fries and deep-fried plantain, ideal for soaking up a few drinks.

Republic suits groups of friends, solo travellers who want to meet people, and anyone looking for a lively but casual night out. At weekends, DJs play at high volume and the crowd often spills out onto the street, so it is more of a party than a quiet drink; come on a weeknight if you want conversation.

The bar opens every day, but times are not published, so check its social media before setting out, especially early in the week. Bring cedis in cash as well as a card, and keep an eye on your belongings when the bar is crowded. Dress is casual. If you are eating, order early on busy nights.

Republic is also a good introduction to Ghanaian drinks culture. Sobolo, the hibiscus drink behind the Kokoroko, is sold everywhere from street stalls to supermarkets, so trying it here in cocktail form is a fun way to connect what you drink in the bar with what you see in the city. Non-drinkers can ask for a version without alcohol, and the bar food makes it possible to turn a quick drink into a casual dinner.

Osu is central and easy to reach by taxi or ride-hailing car. The bar is a short walk from Oxford Street and from restaurants such as Buka and Pomona, so it is easy to combine dinner and drinks. Later in the evening, Labone and its bars are only a few minutes away by car.