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exploring the vibrant heart of cape town at the athletic club & social

Nestled in the lively CBD of Cape Town at 35 Buitengracht Street, The Athletic Club & Social is a hotspot for those seeking a blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. This eclectic venue offers an inviting atmosphere with its vintage decor, lively live jazz from Wednesday to Saturday, and a diverse menu that appeals to foodies and trendsetters alike.

Reserve your spot now for an unforgettable night

Find out more about wheelchair accessibility

**FAQs about The Athletic Club & Social**

What are the operating hours of The Athletic Club & Social?

The venue operates from Monday to Thursday, 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM; Friday and Saturday, 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM; and is closed on Sundays.

Is there live music at The Athletic Club & Social?

Yes, enjoy live jazz performances from Wednesday to Saturday, adding a lively and authentic vibe to your visit.

Can I make reservations at The Athletic Club & Social?

Reservations are recommended and can be conveniently made through DinePlan to secure your spot for an unforgettable experience.

Is the venue accessible for wheelchair users?

Yes, The Athletic Club & Social provides wheelchair-accessible restrooms and entrance options to ensure everyone can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

You can pay using Mastercard, Visa, debit cards, and NFC payment options for a seamless experience.

Experience Cape Town's nightlife in style

Housed in a 19th-century Victorian building, The Athletic Club & Social was originally owned by pharmacist and sports enthusiast Herbert Tothill. In the early 1900s, Tothill transformed the space into a lively gathering spot for athletes and sports fans, featuring a speakeasy-style bar in the basement. Today, the venue pays homage to its rich history with vintage sports memorabilia and photographs adorning the walls, creating a nostalgic yet vibrant atmosphere.

The Athletic Club & Social seamlessly blends historic charm with modern sophistication, making it a unique destination in Cape Town.

The venue's ambiance is further enhanced by live music performances, creating an inviting space for both locals and visitors.

The Athletic Club & Social is a testament to the enduring spirit of community and sport in Cape Town.

The venue's design and decor reflect a deep respect for its past while embracing contemporary trends, making it a must-visit for anyone in the area.

The Athletic Club & Social is not just a place to eat and drink; it's a vibrant hub where history and community come together.

With its unique blend of history and modernity, The Athletic Club & Social is a reflection of Cape Town's dynamic culture.

The venue's commitment to quality and community engagement makes it a standout establishment in the heart of the city.

The Athletic Club & Social invites you to experience its rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

Join us for a meal, a drink, or a live performance, and become part of our ongoing story.

We look forward to welcoming you to The Athletic Club & Social!

• 1900: Herbert Tothill acquired the building and established a speakeasy-style bar in the basement, serving as a gathering place for athletes and sports fans.

• 2018: The building underwent extensive renovations, reopening as The Athletic Club & Social on December 14, 2018, blending historic charm with modern sophistication.

The Athletic Club & Social has become a cornerstone of the Cape Town community, reflecting the city's vibrant culture and love for sports.

Its commitment to hosting local events and live performances fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie among patrons.

The legacy of The Athletic Club & Social is upheld by a passionate team dedicated to providing exceptional service and a memorable experience.

From chefs crafting exquisite dishes to bartenders mixing innovative cocktails, each member plays a vital role in the establishment's success.

The Athletic Club & Social has adapted over time, embracing contemporary trends while preserving its historical essence.

The menu features a blend of traditional and modern dishes, catering to diverse tastes and preferences.

As The Athletic Club & Social moves forward, it remains committed to honoring its heritage while fostering a vibrant community.

Join us in celebrating the legacy of this remarkable establishment, where history and modernity coexist harmoniously.

Unique blend of historic charm and modern sophistication.

Diverse Mediterranean-inspired menu with vegetarian and vegan options.

Live jazz performances from Wednesday to Saturday.

Historic building adorned with vintage sports memorabilia.

Some patrons noted slow service during busy times.

Limited wine list with only five options at the time of review.

The Athletic Club & Social is perfect for those seeking a lively atmosphere, ideal for gatherings with friends, casual dining, or enjoying live music.

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. The venue has outdoor seating, and free street parking is available nearby.

The Athletic Club & Social stands out as a vibrant spot in Cape Town, blending a rich history with modern flair. Whether you're there for the food, the music, or the ambiance, it promises a memorable experience.

The Athletic Club & Social in Cape Town's CBD.

A trendy spot for food, drinks, and live music.

Cape Town

The Athletic Club & Social offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern sophistication, attracting guests with its eclectic decor and diverse menu. The venue's three-story layout provides various settings, from intimate dining areas to lively bars, catering to different preferences. The Mediterranean-inspired menu, featuring tapas-style dishes and a coal-fired rotisserie, is complemented by a selection of classic and signature cocktails. Live jazz performances from Wednesday to Saturday enhance the vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. While the venue's popularity contributes to its lively ambiance, some patrons have noted that it can become quite noisy during peak hours, which may affect the dining experience.

Africa

South Africa

Located at 35 Buitengracht St in the vibrant CBD of Cape Town, The Athletic Club & Social is a unique fusion of a bar, restaurant, and live music venue. This establishment has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a lively atmosphere where culinary delights meet artistic expression. The venue features an intimate dining area complemented by a performance space for local artists, creating an engaging experience that resonates with the cultural pulse of the city.

The menu at The Athletic Club & Social is a curated selection of dishes that showcase the best of local flavors. Diners rave about the Grilled Octopus, perfectly charred and served with a zesty sauce, and the rich Aubergine Parmigiana, a vegetarian delight. The Beef Fillet is another standout, known for its tenderness and flavor. Each dish is thoughtfully presented, ensuring a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

The Athletic Club & Social is not just about the food; it also offers a vibrant nightlife experience. With live music performances several nights a week, guests can enjoy the sounds of local artists while savoring their meals. The atmosphere is electric, making it a perfect spot for social gatherings or a night out with friends. Additionally, the venue is known for its attentive service, ensuring that every guest feels welcomed and valued.

Situated in the heart of Cape Town's CBD, The Athletic Club & Social is surrounded by a rich tapestry of culture and history. Nearby attractions include the iconic Table Mountain and the bustling V&A Waterfront, both of which offer stunning views and a variety of activities. The neighborhood is known for its vibrant street art and eclectic shops, making it a perfect area to explore before or after your visit.

A: Yes, they offer a variety of vegetarian dishes.

A: Yes, they host live music performances several nights a week.

A: Yes, reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

A: Yes, there is outdoor seating for guests to enjoy.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmNThEUlFBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJN5B9av5nzB0RgVc6MlUzrzw/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmNThEUlFBEAE

We received a phenomenal service from our waitress, who looked awfully familiar to me - she is, in fact, the lead vocalist of Lady Felicity and the Trumpets. She was warm and inviting, knew the food and drinks menu well, and was highly efficient.

The menu offers a small selection of items. The 4 of us all rated our choices 5*:  Grilled Octupus, Aubergine Parmigiana (vegetarian), and beef fillet.

Our meals were well presented, and arrived in good time even though the restaurant was extremely busy. Our dishes were packed full of flavor!!

Downstairs, the restaurant has an intimate venue where artists perform. I very much enjoyed the ambiance here! Definitely not a recommendation for those who prefer to listen to a light tune playing in the background and the tinker of cutlery at tables.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUNnMmUyeTJ3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJN5B9av5nzB0RgVc6MlUzrzw/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUNnMmUyeTJ3RRAB

While one of the bartenders initially had a poor attitude, their service improved as the night went on.

I was surprised that they ran out of water, but overall, I had a good time. The atmosphere was safe and vibrant, and the music was excellent.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUN3OGUtMTJnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJN5B9av5nzB0RgVc6MlUzrzw/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUN3OGUtMTJnRRAB

Delicious good with good veggie options. The wine guy was very knowledgeable and made some great recommendations. We loved the ambience and attention to detail with the decor. They have live jazz several nights a week too which sounded great.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUN3cTg3WWNBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJN5B9av5nzB0RgVc6MlUzrzw/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUN3cTg3WWNBEAE

Interesting place, atmosphere was bomb. I'd love to go back a bit earlier to get a place to sit down.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMxLWV2SDJnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJN5B9av5nzB0RgVc6MlUzrzw/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMxLWV2SDJnRRAB

Really cool spot for lunch on a Saturday. It was quiet and service was excellent without being over attentive which is greatly valued. The decor is detailed and seating is comfortable.
The best dish we had was the hummus platter because it was such good value for money.

Enjoy Live Jazz at The Athletic Club & Social, Cape Town

The Athletic Club & Social is housed in a 19th-century Victorian building that was once owned by pharmacist and sports enthusiast Herbert Tothill. In the early 1900s, Tothill transformed the building into a gathering place for athletes and sports fans, operating a speakeasy-style bar in the basement. The venue pays homage to this history with vintage sports memorabilia and photographs adorning the walls.

A selection of Greek, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options, featuring tapas-style plates and a coal-fired rotisserie.

Bread Basket and Olives

Fior di Latte Mozzarella with Black Olive and Herb Crumble

Charred Aubergine with Black-Garlic Emulsion

Homemade Labneh with Charred Broccoli and Crispy Lavash

Roasted Lamb Shoulder with Herb-Sprinkled Pita Triangles, Tzatziki, Cured Onion, and Pomegranate

Baklava Cigars

Mediterranean-Inspired Menu

Mediterranean-Inspired Menu Overview at The Athletic Club & Social.

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Cape Town's CBD, The Athletic Club & Social boasts a Mediterranean-inspired menu that tantalizes the taste buds with a mix of Greek, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean dishes. This delightful eatery combines a lively atmosphere with a commitment to fresh, quality ingredients, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and social butterflies alike.

Kick off your dining experience with a selection of delectable starters that set the stage for what’s to come. Each dish is crafted to celebrate authentic Mediterranean flavors.

For the main course, indulge in hearty dishes that perfectly represent the art of Mediterranean cuisine, ideal for those looking to savor rich flavors and comforting textures.

To conclude your meal on a sweet note, the dessert selection features delightful treats that embody the sweetness of Mediterranean culture.

Complement your culinary experience with a curated selection of drinks that includes local wines and signature cocktails, perfect for enhancing your meal or simply enjoying in the vibrant atmosphere.

Keep an eye out for daily specials that highlight seasonal ingredients and chef's creativity, ensuring a fresh and exciting dining experience every time you visit.

Unwind at The Athletic Club & Social in Cape Town's CBD—where vibrant nightlife meets gourmet dining. Join us for an unforgettable experience!

Experience Cape Town's Athletic Club & Social Bar

City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality

The Athletic Club & Social

Enjoy live jazz performances from Wednesday to Saturday, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere.

Live Jazz Performances

A selection of classic and signature cocktails, including barrel-aged options and unique homemade ingredients.

Signature Cocktails

Dine on the terrace with views of Signal Hill, offering a relaxed and scenic experience.

Terrace Dining

The venue offers spaces suitable for private events, accommodating various group sizes.

Private Event Hosting

Western Cape

Discover the historic charm and vibrant atmosphere of The Athletic Club & Social in Cape Town's CBD, with live jazz, Mediterranean cuisine, and scenic terrace dining. Book now!

Experience The Athletic Club & Social in Cape Town's CBD

Experience the historic charm, Mediterranean-inspired menu, and live jazz at The Athletic Club & Social in Cape Town’s CBD. Perfect for dining, drinks, and private events. Reserve today!

Enjoy a unique blend of history and modernity at The Athletic Club & Social in Cape Town, featuring vintage sports memorabilia, live jazz, and Mediterranean cuisine. Visit us!

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