Sip on whiskey sours at this retro bar on Kloof Street

Rock music, whiskey sours and old school army decor at Cargo on Kloof

Last updated: Tuesday, 22 November 2022

With its wall of framed photographs, old military memorabilia and laidback rock music, Cargo is an ode to a masculinity of yesteryear. Kloof Street’s latest addition is the perfect edgy spot to get an Old Fashioned and a whiskey sour, or Sunday breakfast after a big Saturday night. 

Cargo is decorated with old military memorabilia, like an army knapsack and a large old school map above the bar. Image: Julia Rowley 

SIP YOUR OLD FASHIONED IN STYLE

Rebels, rockers, creatives - this place is for you. Opened on 23 September, Cargo’s walls are covered in rustic framed photographs of all shapes, sizes and colours. Expect to see black and white portraits of old pilots, sailors hanging off of masts in sepia, and soldiers staring moodily into the camera. The marble countertops are bordered by dark leather booths and the space has an edgy retro feel. Scattered around the space are old boxing gloves, an army knapsack and metal lampshades hanging off large military hooks. 

The framed photographs and mirrors are an eye-catching feature of Cargo. Image: Julia Rowley

DON’T MISS THE R20 HAPPY HOUR SPECIAL

Looking for a spot to have a quick weeknight drink? Monday to Thursday, 4pm to 6pm, Cargo runs a R20 happy hour special on their house white, red and rose. R20 will also get you a beer or tequila shot, or for a little extra, sip on a Jack Black Lager or Pale Ale for R40. They also have great cocktails - their espresso martini, whiskey sour and berry mojito are particularly popular. 

Ask for a whiskey sour with double lime juice. Image: Julia Rowley 

NOT YOUR TYPICAL BAR FOOD 

Don’t expect to find greasy fries and burgers at Cargo.. Instead, try the arancini balls, stuffed with parmesan and napoletana, or karoo lamb chops with a thyme jus, or vegan gnocchi with shitake mushrooms and mange tout. Stumble back the morning after for breakfast, the perfect hangover cure. Visit between 7am and 11am, Monday to Thursday, and get a breakfast of choice, a coffee and a glass of orange juice for R75.  

Featured here is the penne pollo: penne pasta with chicken, mushrooms and a white wine sauce. Image: Julia Rowley 

WHEN + WHERE TO GO 

Cargo is open: Daily, 7am to 12am

Find it: 158 Kloof Street | Tamboerskloof | Cape Town City Centre  

Price range: R20 for house wine, beer and tequila during happy hour 

Contact Cargo on: 021 213 1221, Instagram: @c__a__r__g__o 

By Julia Rowley 

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Tired of Kloof Street? Try Bree Street instead.

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