Brews & Bites

A Night at Smoking Kills: Melville’s Offbeat Dive Bar You’ll Love

Published

3 months ago

June 13, 2025

Chiraag

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Hidden, Gritty, Unforgettable

Tucked away on a side street in Melville, Smoking Kills Bar is far from your typical sleek cocktail lounge. It’s the kind of place where craft rum bottles stand out against brick walls adorned with graffiti, a vintage TV flickers quietly in the corner, and indie music hums just loud enough to spark conversation.

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Rustic Charm with Rum at the Core

Step inside, and you’ll immediately feel the warmth – from dim lights highlighting tagged tables to the friendly murmur of regulars and curious newcomers. The star of the show? A well-curated rum shelf featuring unique cocktails like Peanut Coladas and Marsala Rum Sours that rival any mainstream spot. Locals say the bar pays homage to Ernest Hemingway, a known rum enthusiast himself.

It’s a true dive bar experience: unpretentious, camaraderie-fuelled, with no TVs pulling your attention. People come for the atmosphere – intimate chats, shared laughter, and that timeless sense of belonging in Melville’s creative nook.

What the People Are Saying

Word of mouth has made Smoking Kills a go-to spot. Reviewers rave about the “great vibe, great music, great space” and highly recommend it for those looking to unwind without the flash. With a near-5-star rating on Restaurant Guru – 4.6 from over 400 reviews – it’s clear locals adore this spot.

More than just a bar, it hosts local bands, solidifies friendships, and keeps the Beat Generation spirit alive in Joburg’s artsy hub.

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Image 1: Instagram/@smokingkillsbar

The Backstory Behind the Brand

Located at 78A 4th Avenue, Smoking Kills has steadily carved out a space for Melville oddballs and artistic adventurers. Born from a downtown pushback against sterile environments, its charm lies in its personality – the smell of rum mixing with stories etched into its wood and walls.

Why It Matters for Joburg Nights

In a city known for polished lounges and over-the-top cocktail menus, Smoking Kills stands proudly defiant. It reminds us that sometimes, it’s about integrity – not Instagram worthiness. Joburg delivers trending experiences, but this dive bar delivers authenticity, cultural roots, and real connection in the urban tapestry.

Heading There?

Address: 78A 4th Avenue, Melville, Johannesburg

If you’re craving rum, rustic walls that whisper history, and genuine local chatter – stop by Smoking Kills. This isn’t just a bar; it’s Melville’s heart beating in vinyl, paint, and passion.