The 9 best pubs and bars in Durban

Grumpy's Bush and Beach Bar is the kind of visit that turns your frown upside down. Take a trip to the esteemed Blythedale Beach and prepare yourself for the festivities at Grumpy’s. What sets it apart is the indigenous coastal forest that surrounds you while you drink and chow. You can catch locals all over the ‘gram sharing pics of the iconic Mozambican R&R. Grumpy’s doesn’t do pretence but relies on good old-fashion refreshing drinks and chilled vibes in an Island-like setting. The venue is child and pet-friendly, with menu and entertainment options available for all. Booking is essential and make sure to wear sensible shoes, because after your meal you may find yourself taking a leisurely walk along the forest trail.

SandBar is a mainstay in the famed uMdloti village and adds a touch of stylistic flair to the beachy backdrop. This restaurant is the perfect setting for delightful sundowners and tasty food. It’s the brainchild of four locals, who had ambitions to create a spot “that reflected a cool, vibrant and fun place for locals and holiday makers to meet” to enjoy outstanding dining. The menu is extensive, with choices of fresh seafood, succulent ribs and amazing pasta. The bar boasts craft beer and famous cocktails. When you come for your next visit to this beautiful part of KZN, relax at SandBar after a day of adventuring.

One of KZN’s famous bars is The George. This hub of live music, pub grub and fresh tank beer is situated in the heart of the uMhlanga Village. It’s bustling with friendly staff and good service - everything you want from a local bar. Here, you will become chommies with the locals, with whom you’ll exchange high-fives when your team wins. Often, The George will modify the price of Castle Tank Beer according to when the Springboks or Proteas’ score. The George is a familiar favourite and is a pit-stop for anybody spending time in Durban. The portions are massive and the specials are even better with daily lunch and drink deals. Simply keep an eye out on social media @thegeorgeumhlanga - or go old school and check out the chalk-board out front for more.

Real beer and real food, all done in-house. If that sounds like your kind of vibe, Robsons at the Point Waterfront is the place for you. Tuck into the variety of pub meals ranging from pork belly ribs to double smash burgers and even a slow-roasted duck pizza. In addition to the restaurant experience, there are brewery tours and tastings where you get to see how the magic is made. Book a tour for only R120 per person and try out the proudly South African Robson beer. The best part is that each unique ale is designed to pair with a specific meat.

Alchemy is “takes something ordinary, and turns it into extraordinary, sometimes in a way that cannot be explained”. This is the perfect name for the specialists who apply a kind of magic to each specialty drink. Experimentation is key when it comes to cooking up a good cocktail, and Alchemy is not afraid to push the boundaries. The colourful small plates draw inspiration from Theo, the owner, who spent time living in New York. Further inspiration from these dishes comes from his mother’s recipes. You can taste the love in the food and passion for the craft from the friendly staff that you will meet.  If you have an appetite for innovation, Alchemy in Lifestyle Centre, Ballito is where you need to be.

If tall, dark and handsome was a pub, it would be The Bush Tavern. Based in uMdloti, ‘The Bush’ has been delivering on its promise for a great drink and good time. It’s across the road from the beach and offers expansive sea views where whales and dolphins are often spotted from the outside deck. This African-themed pub is famed for live music with happy hours on a Wednesday and Thursday. One of the many reasons locals rave about it is because it is one of the few pubs in KZN with a huge tank of fresh Castle Tank Draught Beer. For the children and sweet-toothers there’s famous, gourmet milkshakes. With TVs all over the restaurant, it’s also the perfect location for watching your favourite team while having a cold one. Some fan favourites on the menu include their curry pies, bush burgers and tavern classics. As they say, once you’ve been “bushed”, you’ll be back.

This is a legendary pub with a story. Frequented by locals, loved by travellers, the Notties Pub is an inviting and festive pub that you will remember forever. It’s one of the oldest pubs in KwaZulu-Natal having stood the test of time. The original wooden interiors and jolly atmosphere make you feel as though you have stepped into a time machine. Enjoy fraternising with the locals, largely from the nearby farms, while taking shelter from the unpredictable Midlands weather. Beyond the traditional pub grub and stiff drinks, the Nottingham Pub is rich with spooky history. Legend has it, the Notties Hotel is haunted. Dun, dun, dunnnn… Roaming the halls and residing in room 10, Charlotte the Friendly Ghost is famed to have been looming since 1854. Have no fear, “Charlotte isn’t evil or sinister, she often entertains guests,” shares Clive Foss of The Nottingham Road Hotel. Charlotte’s presence can be experienced simply by having a drink at the pub and more so when you stay overnight. If you want to have a jovial time like in the good-old days, then the Notties Pub should be on your bucket list. It’s in the Midlands, a mere 50 minutes from Pietermaritzburg and a short venture out of Durban.

This sports and cocktail bar is a whale of a time on Amanzimtoti Beach. The Thirsty Whale’s claim to fame is its array of eccentric drinks. Try the Gummy Berry Juice, Bob Marley or Mango Jango (or maybe one of the drinks that are simply too rude for us to include). With a wide range of shooters and sharers, this spot is one to try for a festive time among friends and family. Some South African favourites include Peppermint Crisp shooters, Boerewors rolls and Malva Pudding. The Thirsty Whale is all about having a good time, and if you’re ready to be rowdy, order a Totibomb and get stuck in! Want to share it on social media? The free WiFi has you covered. Make sure to catch their weekly karaoke and live entertainment too.

“Make yourself at home” at one of Durban North’s favourite pubs. This is a place where regulars become part of the furniture, and guests are warmly received. The ‘Connors’ may have their name on the door but their heart is in the kitchen. Here, you’ll find a homely atmosphere, delicious meals, cold beers and genuine hospitality. Their standards are high, their service is steady, and the environment is inviting. This Irish-inspired pub always has something going on - even on a Sunday! Live entertainment, sports broadcasts and daily specials round out the experience. At Connor’s, you’re not just served - you’re part of the community.