By Jana Burger
Stellenbosch is known for its iconic nightlife, but where should you rock up when you haven’t been around the block yet? Die Matie interviewed a few local bars and clubs to make picking where your next jol will happen slightly easier.
AANDKLAS
Known for hosting Battle of the Bands, Aandklas on Bird Street is the rock and roll bar of Stellenbosch. It is a great place for your next karaoke or quiz night or to rock out to live music.
Popular drink orders:
- The Skinny Bitch (vodka, lime and soda)
- Brandy and Coke
Aandklas describes their vibe as “raw, gritty, and authentically rock and roll with a Stellenbosch soul. No-frills, high-energy live music hub. The focus is the band, the sound, and the crowd, not polished decor or bottle service.”
BOHEMIA
On the corner of Andringa and Victoria Street, ‘Boho’s’ is arguably the most aesthetic bar in town – frequented by the poets, artists and “madmen”. They are known for their live music on Tuesdays, Sunday Bingo and well-priced drinks.
Popular drink orders:
- Black Label
- Klippies and Coke
Bohemia describes themselves as “vibrant and easy going with a rock and roll atmosphere. [It is a] place where friends meet up and new friends are made.”

DORP
Known for great parties and food specials, Dorp on Bird Street is the perfect pitstop on your next pub crawl. Their live music on Thursdays and the DJs from Wednesday to Saturday are always a hit.
Dorp contributes to the Stellenbosch party by bringing “a special feel-good singalong vibe. We have an upcoming Pitbull party that is gonna be massive. In general, we cater to a wide audience of customers and the party never stops.”
NU’BAR
The vibe continues at Nu’Bar on Plein Street, a popular choice for nights filled with dancing and lively singalongs.
Popular drink orders:
- Brandy and Coke
- Jägerbomb
Ryan Perkins, a second-year BAcc student, says, “The best place to get absolutely faded and have a good time with mates and dance the night away is at none other than Nu’Bar. Not only don’t you have to wait in an hour-long line, but you also get a taste of actual good music.”
In one word, Nu’Bar likes to describe themselves as “unforgettable. You have to have one Nu’Bar night in your university experience and memory.”
PUNK
Punk, situated on Victoria Street, is the ultimate place to be on a Tuesday evening, with a great quiz night and cocktail specials. It is one of the places in town where you will find that alternative vibe.
Popular drink orders:
- Olof Berg
- The Skinny Bitch
Punk describes themselves as being “the new kid on the block. Punk is known for its event space and hosts many events and parties during the year. Music style varies, but we like to dance, so high energy music is generally the theme of the night.”
Whether you are looking for a night filled with dancing, singalongs, games or just catching up with old friends, Stellenbosch has a place that is bound to match your preferred vibes for the evening.