As the summer sun dips beneath Johannesburg’s skyline, there’s no better way to soak in the warmth of the day than with a drink in hand and a stunning view ahead. Whether you’re into signature cocktails, craft beers, or just want a glass of chilled wine, we’ve rounded up the best spots in Sandton for an unforgettable sundowner experience. From elevated views to street-level vibes, here’s everything you need to know.

Equinox Restaurant & Terrace, Hotel Sky Sandton

If you’re after the perfect combination of views, great drinks, and a buzzing vibe, Equinox Restaurant & Terrace at Hotel Sky is a must-visit. Located on the first floor, Equinox features an open terrace where you can unwind while taking in the city’s skyline. The stylish yet comfortable surroundings make it a great spot for after-work drinks or weekend hangouts.

Every Friday from 5, their resident DJs light up the decks, creating a vibrant atmosphere that signals the start of the weekend. Their 2-for-1 cocktail special is an added bonus—especially when you can sip on expertly crafted drinks like the Summer Sky, a refreshing blend of watermelon, rum, mint, and lemonade, perfect for those hot summer evenings. The terrace offers an excellent space for mingling and catching up with friends, all while surrounded by the vibrant energy of Sandton’s cityscape.

Insider Tip: Arrive just before 5 p.m. on Fridays to snag a great spot. It fills up quickly once the DJ starts spinning, and the vibe gets livelier as the sun sets.

Must-try: The Summer Sky cocktail (R95), a refreshing burst of summer with watermelon, rum, mint, and lemonade.

The Bull Run’s Dollar Bar

For a more laid-back yet buzzing sundowner experience, Dollar Bar at The Bull Run is a solid choice. Located in the heart of Sandton’s financial district, it’s less about the view and more about the vibe. The outdoor seating spills onto the sidewalk, shaded by jacaranda trees, with the hustle and bustle of Maude Street providing the perfect backdrop.

What sets Dollar Bar apart is its unique offering of craft beers and classic cocktails, like the always-popular Aperol Spritz, alongside their own signature gin and tonic. And for those who appreciate a bit of local culture, the iconic 1.2-tonne bronze bull statue standing tall outside is a must-see—an homage to the bullish financial energy of Sandton. The Bull Run is the kind of place where you can grab a quick drink with colleagues after a long day or stay longer and enjoy the lively vibe as the evening rolls on.

Insider Tip: The jacaranda trees in peak bloom during November make the outdoor seating extra scenic. Grab a table outside for the best experience.

Must-try: The refreshing Aperol Spritz for just R70 a pop – a quintessential sundowner cocktail.

Artistry JHB Rooftop

When it comes to pairing art, culture, and sunset drinks, Artistry JHB does it like no other. This rooftop spot, nestled above BlackBrick, is one of Sandton’s hottest new hangouts. Created by award-winning musician J’Something in collaboration with BlackBrick, Artistry redefines the rooftop experience by blending incredible city views with a relaxed, creative atmosphere.

Artistry’s rooftop restaurant is not just a place to grab drinks, but also a destination for food, entertainment, and good vibes. From live music to street art, the venue seamlessly merges culture with entertainment. Whether you’re catching up with friends over an Elderflower French 75 or enjoying pre-dinner drinks before heading to one of their live performances, the rooftop’s mix of chic décor, a bar, and even a pool creates a fun, dynamic setting to wind down your day.

Insider Tip: Artistry’s rooftop tends to fill up fast, especially on weekends, so it’s worth booking ahead if you want to secure a prime spot for sunset.

Must-try: The Elderflower French 75 (R160), a delicate and floral blend of gin, elderflower, lemon juice, and prosecco.

The Big Mouth Sushi & Grill

Looking for a sundowner spot in the middle of all the action? The Big Mouth Sushi & Grill, situated at Nelson Mandela Square, is a great option. With outdoor seating that overlooks the famous square, you can enjoy the vibrant ambience of Sandton while sipping on a cocktail and indulging in some of the best sushi in town.

Known for its cosmopolitan vibe, The Big Mouth offers a menu packed with variety—from fresh sushi rolls to gourmet burgers and seafood dishes hot off their famous Josper grill. The venue itself is a harmonious blend of sleek design and lively energy, making it the perfect place to people-watch while the sun sets over one of Joburg’s most iconic spots.

Insider Tip: For the best sundowner experience, grab an outdoor table overlooking Nelson Mandela Square to enjoy the sunset with a view of the bustling square.

Must-try: The Tokyo Iced Tea – a fun twist on the classic Long Island, with tequila, rum, gin, vodka, Triple Sec, and a refreshing kiwi-lemon mix.

Alto234, The Leonardo

If you’re looking for the ultimate sundowner experience, Alto234 at The Leonardo delivers in spades. As the highest urban bar in Africa, it offers panoramic 360-degree views of Johannesburg and beyond, all the way to the Magaliesberg mountains. The setting is unmatched, giving you a bird’s-eye view of one of the world’s greenest cities while sipping on premium cocktails.

Alto234’s exclusive vibe makes it one of Sandton’s most aspirational sundowner spots. You’ll find a curated selection of top-shelf drinks and luxurious bar snacks, perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Watching the sun set from this vantage point is an unforgettable experience, as the city below begins to twinkle with lights.

Insider Tip: Alto234 has limited seating, so book in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during the weekend.

Must-try: The Gold Spice cocktail (R180), featuring Johnnie Walker Gold, ginger syrup, cinnamon syrup, passion fruit, and bitters.

Cheers to Summer!

From laid-back terraces to exclusive rooftop bars, Sandton Central is the place to be when it comes to sundowners with a view. So, grab your crew, find the perfect spot, and toast to the summer season with some of the best drinks and views the city has to offer.