Africa, the birthplace of civilization, is also home to some of the oldest and most fascinating bars on the planet. The continent’s drinking establishments carry vibrant histories, serving as social hubs and cultural landmarks for centuries. From ancient watering holes deeply rooted in colonial history to iconic bars with stories of revolution, Africa’s oldest taverns transport us to a time gone by—where traditions were shared over mugs of local brews.
Embark on a journey as we uncover the top 10 oldest pubs in Africa, where the walls whisper secrets and every sip is steeped in history.
List of the Oldest Bars in Africa
1. The Long Bar – South Africa
Located in the historic center of Cape Town, The Long Bar has stood the test of time since it first opened its doors in the early 1800s. Now part of the Mount Nelson Hotel, this iconic establishment was originally a gathering spot for traders who visited Cape Town as one of the busiest ports in the southern hemisphere.
What sets The Long Bar apart is its timeless charm. With its wooden interiors, high ceilings, and vintage decor, stepping inside feels like traveling back in time. The bar has been witness to South Africa’s colonial past, debates over social change, and the evolution of modern Cape Town. Today, it continues to serve decadent cocktails while keeping the spirit of its early patrons alive.
If you visit, indulge in their signature drink, the Cape Malay Spice cocktail, which combines local flavors with global flair. The easygoing yet historic ambiance makes The Long Bar a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.
2. El-Fishawy Café – Egypt
Deep within Cairo’s labyrinthine Khan el-Khalili bazaar lies El-Fishawy Café, believed to have been established in 1773. While technically a cafe, it doubles as a popular social bar where patrons sip tea or coffee in bustling surroundings that haven’t changed much over centuries.
El-Fishawy’s defining feature is its refusal to modernize. The café preserves its original mirrored decorations, wooden furniture, and oil lamps, transporting visitors to an Egypt of bygone eras. Over the decades, it became a hotspot for intellectuals, artists, and literary figures, serving as a muse for creators seeking inspiration against a backdrop of timeless tradition.
Popular with both locals and tourists, El-Fishawy presents an authentic taste of Egyptian heritage. Try their mint-infused tea, a house specialty, while soaking in the visual cacophony of Khan el-Khalili around you.
3. Havana Bar
Nestled in Zanzibar’s Stone Town, Havana Bar is widely recognized for its colonial flair and chilled atmosphere. Dating back to the 19th century, this establishment has been a popular destination for sea traders, explorers, and adventurers making their way along the East African coast.
Havana Bar’s origins are deeply intertwined with the spice trade and Zanzibar’s historical importance as a trading center. It has maintained its intimate charm for generations, with its open courtyard-style seating and stone walls imbued with stories of times gone by. The bar also blends Zanzibar’s cultural diversity with flavors brought by explorers from all over the globe.
Whether you’re enjoying local beer or something strong to celebrate the sunset, Havana Bar offers a classic ambiance that captures the soul of Zanzibar’s maritime history.
4. Delmonico Club – Tunisia
Dating back to the early 1900s, Tunisia’s Delmonico Club is one of Africa’s oldest bars, bringing Parisian refinement to North Africa. Located in Tunis, it plays host to an eclectic clientele of diplomats, intellectuals, and creatives.
The Delmonico Club exudes an atmosphere that combines colonial elegance with Mediterranean warmth. Its interior boasts ornate chandeliers, velvet seating, and antique artwork. During the French Protectorate period, it was a popular space for discussing politics and art, a tradition that continues to this day within intellectual circles.
Whether you wish to sip an aperitif while enjoying live jazz or simply absorb the rich layers of history, the Delmonico Club offers a truly timeless experience in the heart of Tunisia.
5. Bar Chez Gaby – Madagascar
Tucked within Madagascar’s bustling capital of Antananarivo, Bar Chez Gaby has been serving patrons since the early 1900s. Its historic charm and relaxed vibe make it beloved throughout the Malagasy community.
What distinguishes this bar is its ability to combine old-world charm with Malagasy tradition. Chez Gaby’s interiors reflect colonial architecture, while its drinks menu highlights local flavors, including rum infused with vanilla from Madagascar’s famous plantations. Over the decades, the bar has become a key player in fostering community interactions, hosting events where stories are exchanged among locals.
6. Kanyawezi Bar – Zimbabwe
Kanyawezi Bar in Bulawayo is a living relic of Zimbabwe’s colonial history. Since its establishment over 150 years ago, it has mirrored the country’s sweeping cultural changes—from British rule to independence and beyond.
The bar is famed for its unpretentious atmosphere. Its identity is deeply rooted in community; it was long a hub for workers looking to unwind after long days. Known for hosting traditional music performances and local beer rituals, Kanyawezi maintains a genuine sense of connection to Zimbabwean heritage.
Today, locals still gather here to enjoy freshly brewed sorghum beer while swapping tales about the latest happenings. Modern comfort and historical significance merge in harmony at this classic watering hole.
7. Grand Central Bar – Ghana
Situated in Accra, Grand Central Bar has remained a cultural touchstone since its establishment in the 1920s. Originally frequented by railroad workers, it has evolved into a popular local spot where history and nightlife collide.
The bar’s historic railway-theme decor is a nod to its origins. It was the unofficial meeting place of Ghanaian workers during the construction of the railway system—a pivotal chapter in the country’s development during colonial times. This spirit of camaraderie and community continues today, with lively debates often breaking out over rounds of Ghanaian and imported beers.
Grand Central isn’t just a bar—it’s a living museum where Ghana’s modern history is poured out alongside every drink. Be sure to try their famous palm wine for a taste of tradition.
8. New Brighton Bar – Namibia
Located in Namibia’s coastal city of Swakopmund, the New Brighton Bar dates back to the late 19th century. Swakopmund’s German architectural influence plays a key role in this establishment’s old-world charm.
The bar’s decor reflects Namibia’s colonial German roots, with dark wooden interiors and artifacts that tell stories about Swakopmund’s history as a port city. Its location has made it a magnet for fishermen, travelers, and beach lovers looking to unwind. Over time, New Brighton has become a family tradition for locals, where each generation adds to its rich tapestry of memories.
Sip a locally brewed beer here while soaking in views of Namibia’s stunning Atlantic coast—an experience as timeless as the decor itself.
9. Lagos Motor Boat Club – Nigeria
Established in 1926, the Lagos Motor Boat Club is one of Nigeria’s oldest institutions for leisure activities and social drinking. Located along the banks of the Lagos lagoon, the club offers unmatched views and an elite ambiance.
Originally created for colonial expatriates, it has evolved into a hub for Nigerian elites seeking relaxation and camaraderie. The club’s bar serves premium drinks alongside a rich slice of maritime history, making it a favorite among Lagos residents and travelers alike.
Attend one of their famous sunset gatherings to appreciate the intersection of natural beauty, social connection, and the legacy of one of Lagos’s premier establishments.
10. Old Tavern – Kenya
Found in the heart of Nairobi’s downtown district, Old Tavern has been a cornerstone of Kenya’s bar scene since the early 1900s. Known for its laid-back vibe and Kenyan authenticity, this is where city dwellers mingle amidst history.
The bar’s name itself evokes nostalgia, and its interior is adorned with old tribal art and colonial-era relics. Throughout the decades, it has served as a retreat for everyone from political revolutionaries to artists seeking solace. Old Tavern symbolizes both progress and tradition, as its patrons have shaped Nairobi’s vibrant urban landscape.
Conclusion
Africa’s oldest bars are more than places to have a drink—they are windows into the continent’s rich cultural tapestry and historical evolution. From the cultural melting pot of Zanzibar’s Havana Bar to the intellectual hub of Tunisia’s Delmonico Club, each establishment carries the stories of the people who frequented them and moments that shaped history.
Whether you’re sipping local brews in Madagascar or reliving colonial grandeur in Namibia, these bars are an invitation to explore Africa’s vibrant past and ever-evolving present. So, if you’re seeking adventure and authenticity, make your way to one of these timeless watering holes for a sip of history.