The Art of Duplicity
A secret 1920s prohibition‑era speakeasy in Cape Town’s East City offering immersive mixology, vintage ambiance, and live jazz performances in an exclusive setting.
Description
The Art of Duplicity is a clandestine cocktail bar hidden inside a Victorian warehouse in Cape Town’s central business district. Entry requires a reservation and secret password, transporting guests into a Prohibition‑era environment with amber lighting, plush seating, and carefully curated antiques. Exceptional mixologists craft innovative cocktails alongside rare spirits, while live jazz on select nights adds to the atmospheric experience. The venue’s intimacy and attention to detail make it a standout destination for sophisticated nightlife and memorable evenings.
Company Group
The Art of Duplicity
Email Address
Enquiries: theartofduplicity@170120.co.zaSocial Media
Google Rating
4.3 ★ | 30+ Google reviewsDrinks Menu
Fully stocked bar | Innovative cocktails with unique presentations.
Food Menu Options
Limited selection | Light meals | Charcuterie
Music & Entertainment
Live jazz performances on select nights, a minimum spend may apply during these events.
Activities
Cocktail tasting | Live jazz | Social mingling
Estimated Duration
2–4 hours
Occassions
Ideal for date nights, special celebrations, and unique night-out experiences.
Experiences
- Enter through a secret unmarked door using a password and step into a 1920s speakeasy world.
- Savor bespoke cocktails crafted with theatrical flair by expert mixologists in a richly decorated venue.
- Enjoy live jazz rhythms in an intimate setting that heightens the mood of each evening.
Dress Code
1920s-inspired attire | Guests are encouraged to dress in vintage glamour.
Age Restriction
21 and over
What to Bring
ID | Reservation confirmation | Password | Wallet
Additional Information
- The venue was ranked among the world’s top bars by The World’s 50 Best Bars.
- Seating is limited and bookings are curated to maintain exclusivity.
- The interior décor blends prohibition era style with bespoke bar theatrics.
Inside Guides
- Booking: Essential, receive password and location details upon confirmation.
- Dress Code: Think “Mae West meets Al Capone”—1920s glamour is encouraged.
- Arrival: Punctuality is crucial, late arrivals may forfeit their reservation.
- Photography: Permitted, but avoid geotagging to maintain the venue’s secrecy.
Weather Conditions
Ideal weather: Mild | Clear
Rain alert: Light rain (30%)
Indoor venue makes outdoor weather minimal factor, but arrival in dry weather eases finding the secret entrance.
Reservation Policies
- Reservations are mandatory
- Late arrivals may result in forfeiture of the booking
Reservation required
Yes
Estimate Price Range
R200 – R400+ | RR
Min/Max Prices
Min price: R200
Max price: R400+
Entry Fee & Prices
Free entry | A minimum spend of R200 per person applies on live music nights .
Accessibility
Limited wheelchair accessibility
Booking Methods
Email | Website
Full-service bar
Intimate seating arrangements
Limited Parking - Ride sharing recommended
Live entertainment
Restrooms
Secretive location
Themed decor
Vibrant atmosphere
Must Tries
- Signature handcrafted cocktails: Innovative, theatrical drinks with unique flavour profiles.
- Live jazz evenings: Experience live jazz sets that elevate the speakeasy vibe.
- Charcuterie and light bites: Complement your drinks with paired small plates.
Saigon Sideshow
- Fisticuffs in the Alley Behind the Bar
- Jolly Jumper and the Flamin’ Injuns
Highlights
- Ranked 86th in The World’s 50 Best Bars.
- Authentic speakeasy experience with a focus on craftsmanship and ambiance.
Features
- Full-service bar
- Intimate seating arrangements
- Limited Parking – Ride sharing recommended
- Live entertainment
- Restrooms
- Secretive location
- Themed decor
- Vibrant atmosphere
Must Tries
- Signature handcrafted cocktails: Innovative, theatrical drinks with unique flavour profiles.
- Live jazz evenings: Experience live jazz sets that elevate the speakeasy vibe.
- Charcuterie and light bites: Complement your drinks with paired small plates.
Saigon Sideshow
- Fisticuffs in the Alley Behind the Bar
- Jolly Jumper and the Flamin’ Injuns
Highlights
- Ranked 86th in The World’s 50 Best Bars.
- Authentic speakeasy experience with a focus on craftsmanship and ambiance.
Address
12 S Arm Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Parking: Available at Victoria & Alfred Waterfront parking areas.
Opening Hours
| Tuesday – Sunday | 12h00 – 23h00 |
What To Expect
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