Sin+Tax — Restaurant in Gauteng

Johannesburg isn’t exactly short on places to drink, but Sin + Tax (don’t say “Sin and Tax” just call it “Taxes”) isn’t just a bar. It’s the kind of room that reminds you why we leave the safety of our own bottles at home and go searching for something more. Dim, conspiratorial lighting. That low murmur of intent. The kind of place you take someone you actually want to talk to.

The cocktail list is a map of the world—familiar landmarks you’ll recognize, but also detours into uncharted alleyways where things get interesting. It never feels like they’re trying too hard. No silly smoke machines or liquid nitrogen circus acts. Just well-built drinks, balanced and brave enough to surprise without making you feel like the butt of some bartender’s inside joke.

The staff are sharp, trained, and they know their spirits. You’ll never feel abandoned or misled. Do they run a little cool? Maybe. A touch more warmth would turn professionalism into hospitality. But if it’s competence you’re after, you’re in good hands.

And here’s the kicker most people miss: the food. This is where the bar becomes more than a place to drink. Bao buns that are as soft as whispered promises, dumplings that don’t just fill the stomach but keep you anchored to the table longer than you planned. These aren’t afterthoughts. They’re proof that Taxes is playing a different, better game. The menu shifts and refreshes often, like a traveler who refuses to stand still.

It all adds up to something rare here: a cocktail bar with a passport. A sense of being in on the good stuff, away from the noise, but still tethered to the world beyond. Taxes isn’t just the premier cocktail bar in Johannesburg—it’s one of the few places where the city feels worldly, cosmopolitan, and worth...

To start, I had a great experience being in contact with the hostess and manager. They do not take reservations so best get there early to save a table.

Initially, service was great but eventually fell off later in the evening when we ended up waiting up to an hour for a cocktail or service from the bar and wait, staff.

The outside surrounds have random bricks and old outdoor furniture in dark corners. The active table and seating area is quite novel.

The food was extremely well prepared and delicious although there were service delays around cutlery and other requests, which caused the food to end up lukewarm (yes that's how long we waited for cutlery) we still enjoyed it.

Now on to the cocktails. They are extremely well-balanced and delicious. There are a few inconsistencies regarding garnishes and turnaround time from ordering one to getting it.

Everyone quite enjoyed their drinks but eventually, we lost our patience and left early on, especially after a couple of hours from ordering another round which we didn't receive. If it wasn't for the good company and conversation I feel we would have had less patience and left after our meals.

There is a lot of potential, although their service leaves much to be desired.

*interior is small but quite niche. Stars for initial contact and food/drinks....

It's not often that I have the opportunity to be surprised particularly when it comes to alcohol, however, Sin Tax did just that. A very clever play on a prohibition era speakeasy. There are no signs announcing your arrival. You could be forgiven for thinking you're lost. A doorman goes through the secret door and prepares a place for you. Thereafter, he comes out and ushers you into a lovely modern bar, with exposed brick and leather chairs. Seating is available at the bar and on tables. The lighting is pared back to provide the right ambience. The bar is well stocked and three drinks menus are available. Free savoury popcorn is provided. Must try drinks are the signature cocktails which are worth every cent. Mixologist Julian and his team are knowledgeable, very friendly and consummate professionals. The cocktail production is true art and one can clearly see the passion that goes into the production of the fine cocktails that use natural and freshly prepared ingredients. I have found my slice of heaven in...