Lanique Bar in De Waterkant has its spot at the back of the charming Cape Quarter Piazza a stone’s throw from several other vibey lounges and hotspots (think Manhattan, Ragu’ and The Piano Bar), the intimate venue is giving Mother City dwellers the privilege of sampling a drink that’s not only wrapped in historical allure but also a complete anomaly.
There are 100 gins, there are 100 vodkas, but there’s nothing else like Lanique on earth. It’s totally unique, so it’s a very special drink…and it’s addictive, in a good way, of course.
You may also like: The History of Lanique
Update: Unfortunately, the bar has closed recently.
At the bar, the entirely natural liqueur is served seven different ways: with a splash of fresh lime (the signature style) or with a dash of soda water, lemonade, tonic, bitter lemon, gin or Champagne. Each accompaniment cuts or complements the exotic sweetness of the spirit in unique ways, giving indulgers the chance to explore the full potential of this perfectly pink tonic, like lords and ladies likely did in their day.
Of course, a myriad of other tipples are available too – top-tier wines, beautifully crafted cocktails and Devil’s Peak beer on tap, for instance – but it’s Lanique that is the lead protagonist. And accordingly, the upscale restaurant and watering hole has been designed to reflect the character and legacy of this rosy potion – its 230-year history is echoed through the use of old chandeliers, wall-mounted candelabra, exposed red brick, rich fabrics that speak of royalty and rustic tables made from recovered timber ship decking. Mismatched chairs lend the feel of a tavern of yore, the dim glow from candles provides a bit of pre-Edison romance and fairy lights on the alfresco balcony that overlooks the area’s cobbled streets introduce a touch of magic. Ultimately, it is a special, classy space – after all, Lanique was the liquor of the refined – but it’s also comfortable, easygoing and unassumingly nostalgic.
Despite the wistful focus though, this low-key haunt is also far from stuck in the past. In the same way that the liqueur has been given some Western verve in its re-introduction to the contemporary world, the bar has been spiced up with a few 21st-century details so that it’s not merely a place to sip and dine, but a spot to get festive too.
Lanique Bar at Night
The venue also has a serious party-starting playlist and a 2am liquor licence. Not to mention, it serves delicious, modern cuisine from adjacent Italian restaurant Andiamo (think fresh salads, calzones, meat and vegetable pastas, lasagne, carpaccio, seafood and more) that’s perfect for sponging up the effects of a good night out.
Wednesday Lanique Mix Special: Buy 2 get 1 free
We want to recreate the feel of 200 years ago, but we also recognise that it’s not 200 years ago anymore. So, we have a sound system that can support a soccer field and a dance floor with a pole for anyone who wants to show off their moves after a few Lanique doubles.
Not that that’s necessary. As Lanique is 100% natural and good, Nigel swears it won’t leave drinkers with a hangover the next morning. Unfortunately, we can’t call on the grand noblemen and -women of the past to testify to this claim, but we do challenge Capetonians to take a little trip to two centuries ago, step into this intriguing De Waterkant space and see for themselves the powers of this majestic pink liquid.
Opening Hours
Mon: 16.30 – 23.00
Thurs: 11:00 – 00:00
Fri – Sat: 11:00 – 02:00
Sun: 16:30 – 21:00
Directions to Lanique
Old Cape Quarter
72 Waterkant Street
Green Point
Cape Town
021 820 3591
