The Radium Beerhall

Johannesburg's oldest surviving bar and grill (1929), on Louis Botha Avenue in Orange Grove — Prohibition-era shebeen history, Portuguese-influenced grub, and live jazz several nights a week. A friend would absolutely send you. Caveat: the surrounding stretch of Louis Botha is scruffy, so drive or Uber and park in their guarded lot.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Is the Radium Beerhall still open?

Yes, and proudly so — it's been pouring since 1929 and bills itself as Joburg's oldest surviving bar and grill. It runs daily, roughly 10:00 to midnight, closing earlier on Sundays.

What food does the Radium Beerhall serve?

Portuguese-leaning pub food: the prego rolls and peri-peri chicken are the classics, plus trinchado and calamari. It's honest, generous and well-priced rather than fancy.

What's the history of the Radium Beerhall?

It started as a tearoom that ran an illegal shebeen out the back during the era when selling alcohol to black South Africans was banned. The long teak bar came from the old Ferreirastown Hotel, and the walls are a museum of Joburg memorabilia.

Is there live music at the Radium?

Yes — live jazz and other acts several nights a week, and it's one of the city's most storied small jazz rooms. Check their Facebook page or Quicket for the week's line-up; some gigs are ticketed.

Do I need to book at the Radium?

For a normal evening, no — just pitch up. For big jazz nights, Sunday afternoon sessions or their anniversary events, phone ahead on 011 728 3866 because the small room fills quickly.

How do I get to the Radium Beerhall without a car?

Uber is your realistic option — about 15 minutes from Rosebank or Braamfontein. There's no Gautrain or Rea Vaya stop nearby, and I wouldn't recommend minibus taxis on this route for first-time visitors.

What should I drink at the Radium?

It's a beerhall — get a draught lager or work through the local bottles. They pour a fair brandy and coke too, which is about as South African as ordering gets.

Is the Radium Beerhall safe to visit?

Inside, completely — it's a warm neighbourhood crowd. The Louis Botha strip outside is rough around the edges, so drive or Uber to the door and use their parking; don't walk the avenue at night.

Nearby in Ask Johannesburg

• Victoria YardsMarket3.1 km · 39 min walk
• The Wilds Nature ReservePark3.11 km · 39 min walk
• The Troyeville HotelRestaurant3.98 km · 50 min walk
• Huddle Park Golf and RecreationPark4.07 km · 51 min walk
• KuaiRestaurant4.21 km · 53 min walk