From the makers of Karaoke Kong in Melville, Democracy Bar at Illovo Muse is the newest kid on the block for diners and partygoers alike.
This new concept bar opened to the public at the end of 2024 and transformed Beefcakes’ former iconic spot. The place is revolutionary and imaginative, giving power to those who visit.
The name, Democracy Bar, says everything. It pays homage to 30 years of democracy in South Africa as of 2024. The freedom, diversity and inclusion of all the country’s citizens is at the forefront when it comes to this new space.
The bar ensures that this is the case, with a polling system for food, drinks and music. In fact, patrons are able to vote for which drinks and snacks they want to see on special, as well as which song they want to hear next. Screens all around the bar show the poll count in real time. Therefore, everyone is kept in the loop and it serves as confirmation that their vote really counts.
In a country where many things are often turned into politics, why not make it fun for once?
With a satirical twist, Democracy Bar plays with the concept of choice and shared participation. Evidently, the vibe is what the customers vote for. Here, it’s all up to you as patron to make the night one to remember.
The participatory, communal and engaging experience of the bar mirrors what democracy should feel like. Ultimately, there is something for everyone: Tables where you can indulge in unique dishes, a dance floor to let loose like no one is watching and a fully stocked bar to keep you libated.
Open from 16:00 till late, Wednesday to Sunday, the hours tick by in a blur as time really does fly when you are having fun. The venue is also available for private bookings for corporate team building activities, adult birthday parties or other functions. Additionally, Democracy Bar also hosts specialised events like karaoke, quiz nights, stand-up comedy, board games and murder mysteries.
Minimalistic and modular is the understated design of Democracy Bar. Its concrete floor, industrial light fixtures, grey walls and exposed ceiling add to the concept of a blank canvas. Therefore, the space is the crowd’s, to do with as they please. Real-time adjustments can be made to adapt the space to any want or need. At Democracy Bar, constant evolution is possible in all aspects, with flexibility and change being but two democratic characteristics the bar aims to encompass.
The menu is also cleverly designed, with political names assigned to signature cocktails, extending the metaphor that comes with the name of the bar. Be sure to try their espresso martini, which is to die for, as well as their Malaysian Fried Chicken Wings with roasties.
Democracy Bar’s walls are covered in globally recognisable political posters, but with a twist. “The Utensils are Politicised,” “Make Music Great Again” and “Freedom and Fries” are just some of the lines that made us chuckle.
Giving patrons a voice and letting them be heard is what Democracy Bar aims to achieve. This unique space makes a night out even more memorable with unique twists that keep everyone engaged and noticed.
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