Brian Lara Rum Eatery: A Slice of the Caribbean in Linden, Joburg

Tropical cocktails, jerk chicken, and barefoot bar vibes… all without leaving Johannesburg.

If you’ve ever dreamed of a beach holiday while stuck in traffic on Barry Hertzog, Brian Lara Rum Eatery might just be the cure. This quirky Caribbean-style bar in Linden doesn’t just serve cocktails. It serves escapism.

Named after cricket legend Brian Lara, this local favourite feels more like an island party than a posh restaurant. It’s the kind of place where you can sip a piña colada straight out of a pineapple, snack on fiery jerk chicken, and forget, for a moment, that you’re still in Joburg.

Kitschy, Colourful, and Unapologetically Fun

Step inside and you’re greeted by pastel-painted walls, retro signage, beach umbrellas, and the occasional flamingo float. Everything here is intentionally unpolished but packed with personality. Think of it like your favourite cousin’s house party in Trinidad.

The decor nails the tropical dive bar aesthetic in the best way possible. That laid-back vibe is exactly what has made Brian Lara a hit with Joburg’s after-work crowd and weekend wanderers.

The Food: Short, Spicy, and Shareable

The menu is compact but purposeful. Caribbean comfort food takes centre stage: spicy jerk chicken, crispy fish cakes, sticky ribs, and rich crab curry. Portions are generous and designed for digging in, not dainty plating.

There’s no rum in the food, but no one’s complaining. The drinks do the talking.

Cocktails That Transport You

Rum is the star here. The cocktail list is cheeky, tropical, and generously poured. Think Cuba libres, daiquiris, and signature piña coladas served in whole pineapples.

It’s a drink menu made for Joburg summer nights: bold, colourful, and easy to love. And yes, you will want to Instagram it.

Image 1: Wanted Online

The Scene: Linden’s Unofficial Party Spot

Don’t expect silver service or quiet conversation. Brian Lara is loud, proud, and always up for a good time. On weekends, the outdoor seating overflows with locals. There’s laughter, music, rum-fuelled chatter, and spontaneous dance moves under fairy lights.

You’ll spot couples on casual dates, friend groups celebrating birthdays, and the occasional solo explorer soaking up the island energy.

Locals Love It… and It Shows

Scroll through the bar’s Instagram or TripAdvisor, and you’ll find one recurring theme: fun. People rave about the staff, the music, the atmosphere, and those pineapple cocktails.

It’s one of those rare spots that doesn’t take itself too seriously. That’s exactly why it works.

Why Brian Lara Is Still Winning in 2025

At a time when Joburg’s nightlife often leans hyper-curated or ultra-slick, Brian Lara Rum Eatery stays refreshingly authentic. Its mission: Just have a great time.

It’s unpretentious. It’s weirdly wonderful. And it’s still one of the best places in the city to kick off your shoes and pretend, just for a few hours, that the beach is right outside.

Need to Know

Location: 4th Ave, Linden, Johannesburg
Hours: Vary
Price Range: Cocktails R80–R120 | Mains R90–R160
Must-Try: Pineapple Piña Colada, Jerk Chicken Platter

Also read: Where Coffee Meets Community: Why The Whippet in Linden Still Sets the Standard in 2025

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Source: Instagram/@thebrianlara, Facebook/Brian Lara Rum Eatery, Tripadvisor, Dining-OUT.co.za, In Your Pocket, Joburg.co.za

Featured Image: Instagram/@thebrianlara