Ce La Vi
Experience breathtaking Sandton views from this chic rooftop bar and restaurant, known for its stunning aesthetics and creative cocktails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Ce La Vi
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking Sandton views from this chic rooftop bar and restaurant, known for its stunning aesthetics and creative cocktails.
"The ambience, the food, and the cocktails were all exceptional and we truly enjoyed the aesthetic & the quality of what was served."
🎯 Book in Advance
Reservations are a must, especially for weekends. Call ahead or book online to secure your spot. :ticket:
⏰ Be Mindful of Time
Strict time limits (often 2.5 hrs) apply. Confirm this when booking to avoid surprises. :stopwatch:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stunning City Views
Rooftop
Soak in breathtaking panoramic views of the Sandton skyline, especially magical at sunset and night.
Chic & Girly Ambiance
Main Dining Area
Experience a beautifully decorated space with a 'girly' aesthetic, perfect for photos and a vibrant night out.
Creative Cocktails
Bar Area
Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails that are as visually appealing as they are delicious.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead & Be Aware of Time Limits
Service Varies, Focus on Ambiance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book in Advance
Reservations are a must, especially for weekends. Call ahead or book online to secure your spot. +1 :ticket:
⏰ Be Mindful of Time
Strict time limits (often 2.5 hrs) apply. Confirm this when booking to avoid surprises. +1 :stopwatch:
📸 Insta-Worthy Decor
The aesthetics are a major draw! Come ready to snap photos of the beautiful interior and views. +1 :camerawithflash:
🍸 Cocktail Focus
While food gets mixed reviews, cocktails are consistently praised for taste and presentation. +1 :cocktail_glass:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book in Advance
Reservations are a must, especially for weekends. Call ahead or book online to secure your spot. +1 :ticket:
⏰ Be Mindful of Time
Strict time limits (often 2.5 hrs) apply. Confirm this when booking to avoid surprises. +1 :stopwatch:
📸 Insta-Worthy Decor
The aesthetics are a major draw! Come ready to snap photos of the beautiful interior and views. +1 :camerawithflash:
🍸 Cocktail Focus
While food gets mixed reviews, cocktails are consistently praised for taste and presentation. +1 :cocktail_glass:
💰 Deposit & Billing
Be vigilant with deposits; ensure they are deducted from your bill and not misallocated. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ce La Vi Sandton is lauded for its breathtaking city views, beautiful aesthetics, and creative cocktails, creating a vibrant and 'girly' ambiance. However, some guests have experienced disappointing service, particularly regarding unclear time limits on reservations and inconsistent billing practices, which can detract from an otherwise impressive experience. +2
"Firstly, the restaurant itself is absolutely beautiful. The ambience, the food, and the cocktails were all exceptional and we truly enjoyed the aesthetic & the quality of what was served.
However, the service we received from the front-of-house staff was quite disappointing. From the moment we arrived until the moment we left, we were repeatedly reminded that our time was limited and that we needed to finish up by a certain time. This happened several times throughout our visit and unfortunately made the experience feel rushed and uncomfortable. It was difficult to enjoy our meal, conversations, or drinks with constant reminders that our time was almost up.
If there is a strict time policy for reservations, it would be greatly appreciated if this information could be communicated clearly upfront ,whether during online booking or telephonically so that guests know what to expect. Additionally, finding a more courteous and customer-friendly way to manage time limits would make a huge difference in the overall experience.
We loved the space and the food, but the manner in which the service was handled left the visit feeling quite distasteful. I hope this feedback helps improve future guest experiences."
Buhle Khumalo
"Such an amazing experience here. The food was delicious, the atmosphere and aesthetics are to die for and the service is impeccable, we never had to lift a finger! Our waiter, Ishmael took good care of us and was very attentive. Overall, this place is fine dining at its peak."
Rae Chikuwa
"My friends and I visited the restaurant on Saturday, 29 November, for a 2pm reservation for five people. The space itself is beautiful the ambience, the food, and the cocktails were all truly impressive. Our waitress was also very warm and attentive, and I really appreciated her service.
However, what made the experience disappointing was the lack of communication from the front-of-house staff regarding their time policy. When the booking was made, we were not informed that there was a strict 2 hour 30 minute limit. Even when my friend called ahead to let them know we were running late, no one mentioned it.
When I arrived at around 2:20pm, the staff initially struggled to locate our reservation, and only after being seated did someone come to inform me that our time would be counted from 2pm, not from the time we actually sat down. This meant we suddenly had only 1 hour 30 minutes left something we were completely unaware of beforehand.
Because of this, we felt rushed from the start. We couldn’t even order the meals we initially wanted, as we were told they might take too long to prepare. Throughout our stay, we were reminded about how much time we had left, which created pressure instead of allowing us to relax and enjoy our food and drinks. By the end, it genuinely felt like we were being watched and hurried out.
I completely understand that weekends can be busy and that time limits may be necessary, but they should be communicated upfront either at the time of booking or when guests call in. If we had known earlier, we could have planned differently or even chosen another restaurant.
While we loved the food, the atmosphere and our waitress’s service, the overall experience felt unfair due to poor communication and the constant pressure around time. I truly hope the restaurant improves this aspect, because it overshadowed what could have been a wonderful outing."
Sinah Shakong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ce La Vi Sandton is located at 145 Kelvin Dr, Morningside, Sandton, 2196, South Africa. It's a popular spot for its rooftop views and ambiance.
Public transport options can be limited in Sandton. It's generally recommended to use ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt for convenient access.
Parking is typically available at the venue or nearby. It's advisable to arrive a little early if you're driving to secure a spot.
While not strictly enforced for all occasions, Ce La Vi generally leans towards smart casual or dressy attire, especially for evening dining. Check their social media for specific event dress codes.
Operating hours can vary, especially for special events. It's best to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date opening and closing times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, particularly for weekend evenings and special events, to avoid disappointment. +1
Typically, there isn't a general entrance fee for the restaurant or bar area, but some special events or club nights might have cover charges.
Reservations often come with a time limit, usually around 2.5 hours, and sometimes require a deposit. It's crucial to clarify these details when booking. +1
Yes, Ce La Vi can accommodate larger groups, but it's essential to book well in advance and discuss your specific needs with the venue.
If you're late, your reservation time may still be counted from the original booking slot, potentially shortening your dining experience. Communicate any delays in advance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Ce La Vi Sandton offers a contemporary menu with dishes that are often described as having a modern flair. Expect options like lamb cutlets and peri-peri burgers. +1
Food reviews are mixed. While some find the food exceptional, others suggest it could be better, with some dishes arriving cold.
The cocktails at Ce La Vi are a highlight, often praised for their creativity and presentation. Long Island Iced Teas and mocktails are mentioned.
While specific brunch or happy hour menus aren't detailed in all content, the venue is known for its vibrant bar scene and creative drinks, suggesting potential offerings. +1
Service speed can be inconsistent. Some guests report long waits for starters, even up to 1.5 hours, while others find drinks are served quickly.
📸 📸 Photography & Ambiance
The ambiance is consistently described as beautiful, chic, and having a 'girly' aesthetic, making it a popular spot for photos and a vibrant atmosphere. +2
Absolutely! The stunning city views from the rooftop and the stylish interior decor provide numerous excellent photo opportunities. +1
Sunset is often cited as the most magical time to visit for breathtaking views as the city lights begin to twinkle.
Yes, music is a key part of the experience, with DJs often present, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere. +1
The stunning views and chic ambiance can make for a romantic setting, though the strict time limits might detract from a leisurely, intimate experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If visiting with older children or teenagers, consider a daytime visit for the views, or an early evening reservation before the atmosphere becomes more of a lively bar scene. Be sure to inquire about any specific policies regarding children during booking.
💸 Budget Travelers
To manage costs, consider focusing on the drinks, which are highly praised, or visiting during any potential happy hour promotions if available. Splitting appetizers or sharing main courses can also be a way to experience the venue without overspending.
🥂 Couples
Be aware of the time limits on tables, as this might impact the pace of a romantic dinner. Focusing on the exquisite cocktails and enjoying the ambiance can still make for a memorable date night.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Reservations and Time Limits
Travelers have reported feeling rushed and pressured, impacting their ability to fully enjoy their meal and the overall experience. Some guests were even unable to order certain dishes due to time constraints. It's crucial for visitors to proactively inquire about and confirm these time limits when making their booking to manage expectations and plan their visit accordingly.
For those who prioritize a relaxed dining experience, it might be beneficial to consider weekday visits when the atmosphere is generally less hurried. Alternatively, understanding and accepting the time constraints beforehand can help mitigate disappointment and allow for a more enjoyable, albeit time-bound, visit.
The Ambiance and Aesthetic Appeal
The atmosphere is further enhanced by music, with DJs frequently providing a lively soundtrack to the evening.
While the visual elements are consistently praised, it's worth noting that the overall experience can be influenced by other factors, such as service and food quality. However, for those seeking a visually impressive and atmospheric venue, Ce La Vi Sandton delivers a strong impression.
Cocktails and Culinary Experiences
Food reviews, however, are more varied. While some guests find the food exceptional and of high quality, others have expressed disappointment, noting that dishes could be improved or have even arrived cold.
Despite mixed reviews on the food, the drinks are a strong point, and many visitors feel they enhance the overall dining and social experience. For those looking to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views, the cocktails at Ce La Vi are a definite must-try.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit