With summer fast approaching and the humidity factor rising in Durban, the only place you want to be during the festive season is outside! Add to that panoramic views of the Durban skyline from 140m above sea level, live music and a great vibe and you have The Back Yard rooftop bar, the 031’s hottest new hangout spot. Situated at The Arch, Durban’s latest award-winning mixed-use development, this is definitely the place you want to be this summer.

The novel idea was conceptualised and executed by Bryan Pietersen, who currently owns one of London’s most famous experimental cocktail bars, Purl, in Marylebone. “The idea was to give Durban something unlike anything it has seen before; a new space to bring people of all cultures together,” says Pietersen. The bar offers something different from the much-loved pubs that make up the Umhlanga Village on Chartwell Drive that locals have frequented for years on end. The new offering is a refreshing addition; somewhere different to spend your Friday or Saturday evenings.

The atmosphere sets the tone for a slightly more sophisticated night out, with live music from an array of local artists playing in the early evening to ease people into the party mood and then, as the night starts to kick off, Durban’s hottest DJs take over to end the night with a bang! There are multiple seating nooks available that can be reserved for special occasions such as birthday parties, bachelorettes and the like. Choose from a cosy corner around one of the fire pits, or transport yourself to an exotic Bali beach club on the swinging chairs in the centre of the bar beneath leafy vines. Make sure to book well in advance to secure your spot!

Not only is the location incredible, but the drinks on offer will also keep you coming back for more. Choose from one of the signature cocktails such as the Castaway, which is served with a flaming marshmallow on top, or order one of the 3.75L table taps such as the classic Mozambiquan RnR. Keep your stomach lined with one of their snack boards for two. Options include a selection of cheeses, cured meats or a selection of snacks all served with Melba toast and relishes. If that’s not enough to satisfy you, pop downstairs to the Legacy Yard, which has an offering of seven artisanal food vendors.

The Back Yard rooftop bar is open Mondays to Thursdays 12pm to 11pm; Fridays and Saturdays 11am to 11pm; and Sundays 7am to 6pm.

Note: This is not a paid-for content piece and the contributor paid for their own meals and drinks.

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