Cape Town: A truly metropolitan rainbow nation city

A new couple of hosts will lead you this week to an unconventional but definitely gay-friendly destination. Warren and his boyfriend Brendan introduce you to gay South Africa. These two misterb&b hosts share their love for the lively gay scene of Cape Town: sunshine, incredible scenery, amazing wine farms and the friendliest people. Enjoy your reading!

What makes your city a favorite gay destination?

Other than the fact that its home - there is something for everyone here and that goes for everything from ethnicity to activity. It’s a city where you can wake up for a morning hike up one of our beautiful mountains in and around the city - back in time for a world-class brunch at one of the many spots around town. Then, relax at the beach soaking up the sun - head to one of the amazing sky bars or beach side-bars for sun downers and then party the night away at one of the many gay-friendly bars.

What is the best gay event that takes place in your city?

Well, I suppose it has to be MCQP - the themes are spectacular and the turnout great. It really amazes you how many gay and lesbian South African actually live in Cape Town.

What is your favorite gay establishment to grab a bite for lunch? a nice dinner?

For lunch it has to be La Petite Tarte in the Waterkant and for dinner honestly any of the amazing restaurants in the Waterkant for more of a gay feel, but my favorite place for dinner has to be Kloof Street House (gay-friendly).

Best gay bar for a cheap beer?

Probably, Manhattan - nice vibe for a beer and a chat.

Best gay bar for a refreshing cocktail?

The best gay bar for a cocktail would most probably be Piano Bar in my opinion. However if the cocktail is the focus then definitely Asoka for cocktails and vibe, it’s truly phenomenal (also very gay-friendly)

Which famous gay person is from your city?

No one I’m aware of, but I’m working on it :)

Ready to go dancing--what is the best gay dance club?

Although everybody loves to hate it, the best place to gather for a dance is Crew. The drinks are expensive and the topless boys behind the bar - straight and interested only in tips, overcharging and body shots... but the question was dancing…so yes dancing at Crew drinking and socializing before anywhere else. 

Which gay bar offers the best happy hour on a Wednesday?

Once again, probably Manhattan for midweek happy hours.

Where to start a gay tour in Cape Town?

Definitely the Waterkant - there are so many spots and it’s the center of the gay community in Cape Town. All information regarding tours and popular destinations can be found by simply asking around.

Best place to socialize with the local gay community?

Also the Waterkant, but also Greenpoint and Seapoint.

Best place to be surrounded by the local gays?

Waterkant!

How gay-friendly is your home city?

VERY - we have many different cultures, religions and ethnicity. All of which are accepting and embrace the gay community of Cape Town.

A gay place for brunch on weekends?

La Petite Tarte and Origin Coffee - both fantastic.

What is gay life like in Cape Town?

Honestly, the only other city I would say compares to living here as a gay couple is Amsterdam. But here we have gorgeous beaches, amazing weather and mountains! The lifestyle is also incredible, and what we take for granted here is what most people tend to travel to find - sunshine, incredible scenery, amazing wine farms and the friendliest people! I also love how international Cape Town is, people from all over pass through or come live for a while a truly metropolitan rainbow nation city.

What are your favorite gay venues in Cape Town?

Probably most of the establishments located in the Waterkant - from shops to bars and general hospitality related shops and hotels. But outside of the Waterkant, I would say my favorite gay-friendly venues for dinner and a drink would be Kloof Street House and Asoka. Oh, and the Glen Boutique Hotel deserves a mention - very much part of the 'scene' in Cape Town.