On a lively Friday night in Johannesburg, the unmistakable hum of jazz fills the air at The Radium Beer Hall, one of South Africa’s oldest and most cherished bars.
The Radium Beer Hall: Johannesburg’s Oldest Bar Lives On
A Legendary Watering Hole in Orange Grove
Tucked away at 282 Louis Botha Avenue in Orange Grove, Johannesburg, The Radium Beer Hall stands as a living monument to the city’s rich history. Established in 1929, this beloved venue has long been a gathering place for locals, music lovers, and those seeking an authentic Joburg experience.
On any given night, patrons fill the space, enjoying the unmistakable charm, live jazz performances, and warm hospitality that have defined The Radium for nearly a century. Its walls, adorned with framed newspaper headlines from decades past, whisper stories of a bygone era, while the stage hums with the sounds of South Africa’s finest musicians.
A Legacy That Lives On
Despite whispers of its closure at the end of 2024, The Radium’s doors remain open, welcoming new and returning visitors. Owner Lina Cabeleira, widow of the late Manny Cabeleira, is dedicated to preserving the bar’s legacy. “There is honestly no place like this,” she says, determined to honor Manny’s dream and steer The Radium toward its 100-year milestone.
Originally founded as The Radium Tearoom by the Khalil family from Lebanon, the establishment was a front for illegal shebeening, secretly serving beer to black patrons during an era of prohibition. It officially became The Radium Beer Hall in 1942, evolving into a men-only bar before embracing its transformation under Manny’s ownership in 1986. He introduced live music, a restaurant, and an inclusive atmosphere that welcomed patrons from all walks of life.
The Manny Magic
Manny was a character unlike any other, bringing a unique energy to The Radium. His marketing genius and love for the establishment saw it become a globally recognized hotspot. From beer carnivals to a mock funeral that stopped traffic on Louis Botha Avenue, he ensured The Radium was never just another pub—it was an experience.
“Manny had a way of making everyone feel like family,” recalls longtime patron Stuart Karovsky. “He was always engaging with people, and that was part of the fun.” Over the years, The Radium has hosted countless icons, from Thabo Mbeki and Cyril Ramaphosa to Brad Pitt, who once spent an evening there, signing autographs for ecstatic fans.
The Radium of Today
Since Manny’s passing in 2021, Lina has taken up the mantle, navigating the challenges of a changing economy and post-pandemic struggles. Despite financial setbacks, she remains committed to keeping The Radium alive. “My goal is to make Manny proud,” she says. “I’m not doing this to be rich—I want to carry on this great legacy.”
With its welcoming community atmosphere, affordable prices, and devoted staff, The Radium continues to draw loyal patrons. “Everybody knows everybody here,” Lina shares. “It’s like a family—brothers, sisters, parents, friends. You’ll always see a familiar face.”
For those who haven’t yet visited—or those who feared it had closed—The Radium Beer Hall remains open for business, just as it has for nearly a century. Whether it’s to enjoy a meal, listen to live jazz, or soak in the history, this iconic bar invites all to experience a piece of Johannesburg’s soul.
To visit or inquire, you can find The Radium Beer Hall at 282 Louis Botha Avenue, Orange Grove, Johannesburg, or contact them at (011) 728-3866. More details can be found on their official website, theradiumbeerhall.co.za.
Visiting this iconic Pub is a must!
First posted on: BT by Seth Thorne adapted and rewritten by Showme South Africa
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