Smoking Kills Bar

Tucked into the bohemian heart of the Melville neighbourhood of Johannesburg, Smoking Kills Bar is a no-frills, high-spirits destination for drinkers who favour character over polish. With graffiti-tagged walls, punk-and-grunge aesthetics and a solitary vintage TV playing cartoons, the ambience says: “we don’t care about your cufflinks, just bring good energy.” The bar leans heavy on rum (and rum-based cocktails such as a Peanut Colada or Marsala Rum Sour) while also serving craft beer and affordable bar food. Live music and DJ-led nights are part of the draw — it’s more than a place to drink, it’s a genuine nightlife hangout. Its size is intimate; the vibe is social and laid-back rather than pretentious. Bartenders will chat you up, the playlist is carried by character, and you might just find yourself staying two rounds longer than planned. In short: if you’re looking for a stylish sundowner lounge you’re in the wrong place. But if you want character, live sounds and a genuine local Johannesburg bar experience — Smoking Kills Bar has you covered.