
Ratz
Johannesburg's vibrant Ratz Bar on 7th Street, Melville, known for its energetic atmosphere, karaoke, and music nights.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Karaoke nights are a blast!

Ratz
Best Time
Karaoke nights are a blast!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Johannesburg's vibrant Ratz Bar on 7th Street, Melville, known for its energetic atmosphere, karaoke, and music nights.
"What a Vibe. Definitely the place to visit in Melville, Johannesburg. The party really gets going at Ratz Bar."

🎤 Karaoke Fun
Wednesday & Sunday karaoke nights are a highlight! Great singers, mixed crowd, and lively atmosphere.
🍹 Cocktail Deals
Don't miss half-price cocktails until 8 PM on Sundays. Great value for your drinks!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Karaoke Nights
Main Bar Area
Sing your heart out on Wednesdays and Sundays! A mixed crowd and great atmosphere make this a must-do.

Hip Hop & RnB Thursdays
Main Bar Area
Groove to the best beats every Thursday. A perfect spot for music lovers looking for a good vibe.

Cocktail Specials
Bar Counter
Enjoy half-price cocktails until 8 PM on Sundays. Great deals on delicious drinks!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Melville's Lively Hub
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎤 Karaoke Fun
Wednesday & Sunday karaoke nights are a highlight! Great singers, mixed crowd, and lively atmosphere.
🍹 Cocktail Deals
Don't miss half-price cocktails until 8 PM on Sundays. Great value for your drinks!
🎶 Music Nights
Check out Hip Hop & RnB Thursdays for a great musical experience.
🚗 Uber is Key
Uber is the recommended way to get to and from Ratz Bar for a safe night out.
I'm new around Joburg - Where do gents that are into gents hang out?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎤 Karaoke Fun
Wednesday & Sunday karaoke nights are a highlight! Great singers, mixed crowd, and lively atmosphere.
🍹 Cocktail Deals
Don't miss half-price cocktails until 8 PM on Sundays. Great value for your drinks!
🎶 Music Nights
Check out Hip Hop & RnB Thursdays for a great musical experience.
🚗 Uber is Key
Uber is the recommended way to get to and from Ratz Bar for a safe night out.
✨ Vibe Check
Expect a lively and friendly crowd, especially during events. Great energy!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ratz Bar is celebrated for its electric atmosphere, particularly during its popular karaoke nights and themed music events. Patrons rave about the friendly staff, affordable drinks, and great cocktail specials, making it a go-to spot in Melville for a lively night out. While some note the venue can be small, the overall vibe and value keep people returning.
"The place has such great energy.
Kareokee nights Wednesdays and Sundays are worth trying.
Drinks fairly priced.
Bathrooms are clean as well
The waitres n waitresses are very friendly and welcoming.
The place is a bit small in area though"
Justin Mushawatu
"Took an Uber here, only to discover it is closed for renovation. I’m glad this place exists, but especially for travelers like us, it would be helpful to update your Instagram/Facebook pages accordingly!"
Frankie Manuel Morán
"Sunday karaoke is back and brilliant.
The first Sunday of the month is karaoke night. We travel from Pretoria to take part. There are some really good singers, good atmosphere and a very mixed crowd.
Half price cocktails till 8pm."
Gavin Rose
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ratz Bar is located on 7th Street in Melville, a popular area known for its nightlife. Many visitors recommend using Uber or other ride-sharing services for a convenient and safe journey, especially during evening hours.
Parking in Melville can be challenging due to the popularity of the area. It's generally advised to rely on ride-sharing services like Uber to avoid parking hassles.
For a safe return trip, booking an Uber or similar service is highly recommended. This allows you to enjoy your night without worrying about driving.
While public transport options exist in Johannesburg, they might not be the most direct or convenient for reaching Ratz Bar late at night. Ride-sharing services are generally preferred by patrons.
Ratz Bar is situated on 7th Street in Melville, which is a vibrant street with many other bars, restaurants, and shops. It's known for its lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, Ratz Bar does not require pre-purchased tickets for entry. However, for special events or themed nights, it's always a good idea to check their social media pages for any specific entry requirements or cover charges.
Opening hours can vary, especially on weekdays and for specific events. It's best to check Ratz Bar's official social media (Instagram/Facebook) for the most up-to-date information on their operating hours.
Ratz Bar typically has a casual dress code, fitting its lively bar atmosphere. Comfortable and stylish attire is generally suitable for a night out.
As a bar, Ratz Bar adheres to South African drinking laws, meaning patrons must be 18 years or older to enter and consume alcohol. Identification may be required.
Ratz Bar is known for its lively, walk-in atmosphere, especially during popular events like karaoke. While reservations might not be standard, it's worth contacting them directly if you have a large group or specific needs.
🎫 🎤 Onsite Experience
Ratz Bar features a variety of music genres depending on the night. Thursdays are dedicated to Hip Hop & RnB, while Wednesdays and Sundays are famous for karaoke. Other nights may feature different DJs or music styles.
Yes, Ratz Bar hosts regular events like Hip Hop & RnB Thursdays and popular karaoke nights on Wednesdays and Sundays. They also have cocktail specials and a generally vibrant party atmosphere.
The atmosphere at Ratz Bar is described as energetic, lively, and friendly. It's a place where people go to 'jole' (party) and have a great time with a mixed crowd.
Reviews indicate that the bathrooms at Ratz Bar are generally kept clean, which is a positive aspect for patrons.
Ratz Bar is a great spot for groups looking for a fun night out, especially for events like karaoke. The friendly atmosphere makes it easy to party with strangers who quickly become friends.
🍽️ 🍹 Food & Dining
Yes, Ratz Bar offers bar food, which is noted as being great for late nights. It's a good option if you're looking for snacks while enjoying the drinks and music.
Ratz Bar is known for its drinks, particularly its cocktail specials, including half-price cocktails on Sundays until 8 PM. They also serve a variety of other beverages.
Compared to other bars in the area, Ratz Bar is considered to have fairly priced drinks and offers good value, especially with their cocktail specials.
While specific signature drinks aren't always highlighted, Ratz Bar is well-regarded for its cocktails, with Sunday specials being a popular draw.
Information on specific dietary options like vegetarian or vegan meals is not widely available. It's best to inquire directly with the bar staff upon arrival regarding their current menu.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant atmosphere of Ratz Bar by photographing the lively crowds during karaoke nights or the energetic dance floor during music events. The bar's interior and the bustling 7th Street in Melville also offer great backdrops.
Generally, taking photos and videos for personal use is acceptable. However, always be mindful of other patrons' privacy and avoid intrusive photography.
The main bar area, especially during peak hours or events, offers dynamic shots. The entrance on 7th Street can also provide a good sense of place.
Ratz Bar typically has ambient and sometimes dynamic lighting suitable for a bar environment. It can be a bit dim, so a phone with good low-light capabilities or a camera with adjustable settings would be beneficial.
Yes, tagging Ratz Bar in your social media posts is encouraged! It's a great way to share your experience and connect with the venue and other patrons. Look for their official social media handles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
👫 Couples
LGBTQ+ Friendly
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Melville Nightlife Scene
Melville itself is known for its bohemian and artistic vibe, which is reflected in the diverse crowd that frequents its establishments. On any given night, you can expect a mix of people, from students to seasoned party-goers, all looking to enjoy the city's entertainment offerings. The street is particularly lively during events and themed nights hosted by venues like Ratz Bar.
When visiting Melville, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, as with any urban nightlife district. However, the general consensus is that the area is welcoming and offers a fantastic experience for those looking to immerse themselves in Johannesburg's social scene.
Karaoke and Music at Ratz
Beyond karaoke, Ratz Bar also caters to music lovers with specific themed nights. Hip Hop & RnB Thursdays are a major draw, offering a chance to groove to popular beats in a lively setting. The bar often features DJs who know how to keep the energy high, ensuring a memorable night out.
The combination of regular music nights and the highly popular karaoke sessions makes Ratz Bar a dynamic entertainment venue. Whether you're looking to sing your heart out or just enjoy good music and a great vibe, Ratz Bar offers a consistent source of fun and entertainment.
Value and Service at Ratz Bar
The service at Ratz Bar is also frequently praised. Staff, including waitresses and waitresses, are described as very friendly and welcoming, contributing significantly to the positive atmosphere. The manager, Chad, has even been noted for making patrons feel like VIPs, enhancing the overall guest experience.
In addition to drinks, Ratz Bar also serves bar food, which is considered a good option for late-night cravings. This combination of affordable drinks, friendly service, and available food makes Ratz Bar a well-rounded choice for a night out.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit