Two of Cape Town’s bars made the ‘World Best’ list, and one was a local secret
In Cape Town, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to bar spots that, upon experiencing them, will have you rushing to text your friends the wise foretelling of “I know a place you’ll love.”
Now, two of Cape Town’s bar gems are twinkling in the treasure chest with the world’s best, after two were picked to be a part of the World’s Best 50 Bars list.
The most interesting part of all? One of these two bar spots is known for its mystery. It’s actually often referred to as Cape Town’s ‘best-kept secret’. It seems this moniker has been playfully challenged now and might be a stretch as they’re discovered by more and more cocktail connoisseurs and in-the-know industry figures.
The name of this seemingly aloof secret? The Art of Duplicity, also known as the hidden bar behind a storefront, has been crowned 86th on the World’s Best Bar list – moving up a coveted two-place ascent since 2020.
The Art of Duplicity’s quiet opening in the heart of Cape Town was inspired by the prohibition in the US, and oozes a jazzy charm.
“We were super surprised to be included this year – and to have moved up from 88 to 86,” said owner David Donde
“Even more surprised that a South African bar made it onto the list, given the travel has been an issue and judges need to have visited the bar in person,” he added.
But borders proved no boundary to finding the best in cocktail culture around the world, so move up they did and in good company.
Since their place in the world isn’t so word-of-mouth anymore, you can keep up with The Art of Duplicity here:
The second Cape Town bar gracing the list is none other than Cause | Effect Cocktail Kitchen, which Donde excitedly congratulated.
Cause | Effect was established by award-winning mixologist Kurt Schlechter and his partner James ‘Trigger’ Phillips, and is self-described as “kinda classy, kinda hood”. Their food and drinks are inspired by all things Cape Town, from the oceans to the fynbos where many of their ingredients are the cause to be effected into flavour.
The World’s 50 Best Bars 2021 returns to a live event after last year’s hiatus during the pandemic, when the list was announced virtually. In the lead-up to the announcement of the Top- 50 on Tuesday, December 7.
50 Best unveiled the extended 51-100 list, featuring some of the world’s top drinking destinations across 26 different countries – and featuring no less than 28 exciting new entries.
Perhaps you’re looking forward to travelling the world and trying them all, but isn’t it good to know that for now, you can start sampling right on your doorstep?
Details:
The Art Duplicity is open Wednesdays to Saturdays from 6pm until 10pm.
For reservations, visit 170120.co.za
Tables are reserved in two-hour time slots (standing rooms available should guests wish to stay longer) and group seating is limited to ten guests per party.
If you and a partner would like to visit for complimentary cocktails to experience one of Cape Town’s best bars, contact kristen@kirstenhopwood.co.za.
As for our other crowned bar, Cause | Effect Cocktail Kitchen, they’re open Mondays to Sundays from 10am until 11pm.
For reservations, visit their website causeandeffect.co.za.
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