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Ratz

4.2
·456 reviews·Johannesburg, South Africa

Johannesburg's vibrant Ratz Bar on 7th Street, Melville, known for its energetic atmosphere, karaoke, and music nights.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed & Sun evenings

Karaoke nights are a blast!

CrowdMedium
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Ratz - Image 1

Ratz

Best Time

Wed & Sun evenings

Karaoke nights are a blast!

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Johannesburg's vibrant Ratz Bar on 7th Street, Melville, known for its energetic atmosphere, karaoke, and music nights.

4.2
(456 reviews)

"What a Vibe. Definitely the place to visit in Melville, Johannesburg. The party really gets going at Ratz Bar."

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TIP

🎤 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!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Karaoke Nights

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

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

Cocktail Specials

Bar Counter

Enjoy half-price cocktails until 8 PM on Sundays. Great deals on delicious drinks!

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Planning Your Visit

Melville's Lively Hub

Ratz Bar is a popular spot in Melville, known for its vibrant atmosphere and music. Check their social media for daily specials and events before you go, as hours can vary. It's a great place to experience Johannesburg's nightlife.

Getting There & Around

Ratz Bar is located on 7th Street in Melville, a street known for its lively scene. Uber is a common and recommended way to get there and back, especially for late nights. Be aware that some streets in Melville can be busy, so plan your transport accordingly.

Best Times

When
Wed & Sun evenings
Why
Karaoke nights are a blast!
Crowd
Medium
When
Thursday evenings
Why
Hip Hop & RnB vibes
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunday evenings
Why
Half-price cocktails
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Find Happiness at Hip Hop & RnB Thursdays at RatzBar 👌❤️#hiphop #RnB #brandymelville #johannesburg
@itsjackyee1
20 likes • 732 views

🎤 Karaoke Fun

Wednesday & Sunday karaoke nights are a highlight! Great singers, mixed crowd, and lively atmosphere. TikTokReddit

🍹 Cocktail Deals

Don't miss half-price cocktails until 8 PM on Sundays. Great value for your drinks! Reddit

#moferefere @Coca Melville, Jhb...
@e_motion.usedband
656 likes • 11K views
out and about in melville #undergroundmzantsi #smokingkillsbar #tiktok #melville #southafrica
@skinnyass5
16 likes • 628 views

🎶 Music Nights

Check out Hip Hop & RnB Thursdays for a great musical experience. TikTok

🚗 Uber is Key

Uber is the recommended way to get to and from Ratz Bar for a safe night out. Reddit

reddit.com

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. TikTokReddit

🍹 Cocktail Deals

Don't miss half-price cocktails until 8 PM on Sundays. Great value for your drinks! Reddit

🎶 Music Nights

Check out Hip Hop & RnB Thursdays for a great musical experience. TikTok

🚗 Uber is Key

Uber is the recommended way to get to and from Ratz Bar for a safe night out. Reddit

✨ Vibe Check

Expect a lively and friendly crowd, especially during events. Great energy! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(456 reviews)

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

Great energy and vibe
Affordable drinks & specials
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Venue can be small

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

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. Reddit

Ratz Bar typically has a casual dress code, fitting its lively bar atmosphere. Comfortable and stylish attire is generally suitable for a night out. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎤 Onsite Experience

Ratz Bar features a variety of music genres depending on the night. Thursdays are dedicated to Hip Hop & RnB,TikTok while Wednesdays and Sundays are famous for karaoke. Other nights may feature different DJs or music styles. Reddit

Yes, Ratz Bar hosts regular events like Hip Hop & RnB Thursdays TikTok and popular karaoke nights on Wednesdays and Sundays.Reddit They also have cocktail specials and a generally vibrant party atmosphere. Reddit

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. Reddit

Reviews indicate that the bathrooms at Ratz Bar are generally kept clean, which is a positive aspect for patrons. Reddit

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍹 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

While specific signature drinks aren't always highlighted, Ratz Bar is well-regarded for its cocktails, with Sunday specials being a popular draw. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant atmosphere of Ratz Bar by photographing the lively crowds during karaoke nights Reddit or the energetic dance floor during music events.TikTok The bar's interior and the bustling 7th Street in Melville also offer great backdrops. Reddit

Generally, taking photos and videos for personal use is acceptable. However, always be mindful of other patrons' privacy and avoid intrusive photography. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ratz Bar is primarily an adult-oriented venue, focusing on nightlife, music, and drinks. It's generally not suitable for families with young children, especially during evening hours when the atmosphere is lively and geared towards adults. The venue's focus on alcohol consumption and late-night entertainment means it's best enjoyed by those aged 18 and over. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Ratz Bar is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. The bar is known for its fairly priced drinks and significant cocktail specials, especially the half-price deals on Sundays. Reddit This allows visitors to enjoy a vibrant nightlife experience without overspending. The lively atmosphere and friendly crowd also add to the value, providing entertainment beyond just the cost of drinks. Reddit

👫 Couples

Ratz Bar offers a fun and energetic environment for couples looking for a night out. The lively atmosphere, coupled with great music on themed nights like Hip Hop & RnB Thursdays,TikTok and the interactive karaoke sessions,Reddit provides plenty of opportunities for shared enjoyment and memorable moments. The cocktail specials also make it an affordable option for a date night. Reddit

LGBTQ+ Friendly

While Ratz Bar isn't explicitly an LGBTQ+ venue, Melville's 7th Street is known for its gay scene, and Ratz Bar is considered very LGBTQ+ friendly. Visitors can expect a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, making it a comfortable spot for everyone to enjoy the night. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Melville Nightlife Scene

Ratz Bar is a cornerstone of the vibrant nightlife on 7th Street in Melville, Johannesburg. This street is renowned for its eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and live music venues, creating a buzzing atmosphere, especially on weekends. Many visitors describe the area as having a great energy, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Karaoke and Music at Ratz

Ratz Bar is famous for its karaoke nights, held every Wednesday and Sunday. These events draw a diverse crowd, with some truly talented singers taking to the stage, creating a fantastic and inclusive atmosphere. It's a highlight for many visitors who travel from other areas just to participate or spectate. Reddit

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. TikTok The bar often features DJs who know how to keep the energy high, ensuring a memorable night out. Reddit

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. Reddit

Value and Service at Ratz Bar

One of the key attractions of Ratz Bar is its value for money. Reviews consistently mention that drinks are fairly priced, often cheaper than other bars in the vicinity. The Sunday cocktail specials, featuring half-price drinks until 8 PM, are particularly popular and offer excellent savings. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit