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
Social Media
Google Rating
4.1 ★ | 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
Bar seating
Card payments
Craft cocktails
Full-service bar
Indoor seating
Intimate seating arrangements
Limited parking
Live jazz
Mixology experience
Secretive location
Signature drinks
Speakeasy atmosphere
Table service
Themed decor
Upscale ambience
Vibrant atmosphere
Wi-Fi access
Must Tries
Saigon Sideshow: A signature handcrafted cocktail renowned for its creativity, presentation, and unique flavour profile.
Fisticuffs in the Alley Behind the Bar: One of the venue’s most celebrated cocktails, showcasing expert mixology and bold flavours.
Live Jazz Evenings: Enjoy world-class cocktails while soaking up the intimate atmosphere of live jazz performances.
Highlight
World-Ranked Cocktail Bar: Recognised among the world’s top cocktail destinations, ranked 86th in The World’s 50 Best Bars.
Authentic Speakeasy Atmosphere: A hidden-bar experience focused on craftsmanship, creativity, and ambience.
Features
- Bar seating
- Card payments
- Craft cocktails
- Full-service bar
- Indoor seating
- Intimate seating arrangements
- Limited parking
- Live jazz
- Mixology experience
- Restrooms
- Secretive location
- Signature drinks
- Speakeasy atmosphere
- Table service
- Themed decor
- Upscale ambience
- Vibrant atmosphere
- Wi-Fi access
Must Tries
Saigon Sideshow: A signature handcrafted cocktail renowned for its creativity, presentation, and unique flavour profile.
Fisticuffs in the Alley Behind the Bar: One of the venue’s most celebrated cocktails, showcasing expert mixology and bold flavours.
Live Jazz Evenings: Enjoy world-class cocktails while soaking up the intimate atmosphere of live jazz performances.
Highlight
World-Ranked Cocktail Bar: Recognised among the world’s top cocktail destinations, ranked 86th in The World’s 50 Best Bars.
Authentic Speakeasy Atmosphere: A hidden-bar experience focused on craftsmanship, creativity, and ambience.
Address
12 S Arm Road, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Parking: Available at Victoria & Alfred Waterfront parking areas.
Opening Hours
| Tuesday – Sunday | 12h00 – 23h00 |
What To Expect
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