Brews & Bites

Why The Local Bar & Kitchen Might Just Be Your New Neighbourhood Favourite

Published

2 months ago

June 18, 2025

Chiraag

A vibrant pub scene at The Local Bar & Kitchen in Midrand, Johannesburg, featuring people enjoying cold drinks, slow-smoked barbecue platters, breakfast bowls, and a relaxed community vibe, with pool tables, live sports on TV, and cosy weekend energy, showcasing local food culture, casual dining in Joburg, and neighbourhood bar favourites. Keywords: The Local Bar & Kitchen, Johannesburg pubs, Midrand restaurants, local hangouts, comfort food Joburg, barbecue platter, brunch spots, pool table bars, weekend pub vibes, South African bars, Joburg ETC

Where everybody knows your name – or soon will

Every Joburger knows the value of a solid local. Somewhere with cold drinks, easy company, and food that hits the spot. No frills, just good vibes. That’s exactly what The Local Bar & Kitchen in Johannesburg’s Midrand suburb is becoming – a warm, welcoming spot where regulars feel at home and newcomers are made to feel like they’ve been around forever.

Part of the My Local Pub family, The Local is tucked into the vibrant Midrand strip – drawing loyal fans for its friendly atmosphere, feel-good weekends, and a simple but satisfying menu that speaks Joburg’s language.

Also read: Tucked-Away Tunes & Taps: Why Fu‑Bar in Sandton Is Jozi’s New Neighbourhood Gem

Come hungry, leave happy

While the menu is compact, it covers all the bases – with crowd-pleasers like breakfast bowls for early birds and smashed avo toast that keeps the brunch crowd coming back. The Signature Barbecue Platter is a standout, bringing the smoke and flavour with slow-smoked pork ribs, beef brisket, and spicy sausage – a true fan favourite.

A few fresh salads, like the Grilled Chicken Caesar, offer a lighter touch, but the real appeal here is comfort. Honest food, done right.

Locals often mention burgers or pizzas popping up during special events or weekend sessions – so it’s worth checking The Local’s Instagram or asking your server what’s cooking. The menu isn’t massive, but it leaves room for those pleasant surprises.

Please note: Menu items may vary from time to time, and some specials like burgers or pizzas are offered during select events. For the most up-to-date menu, we recommend checking The Local Bar & Kitchen’s official Instagram or website.

Vibes built for weekends (and Wednesdays too)

The Local isn’t trying to be trendy – it’s trying to be yours. There’s sport on TV, a pool table that sees real action, and music that takes you from post-work pint to weekend turn-up. Whether it’s Friday night beers, Saturday catch-ups, or a lazy Sunday wind-down, there’s a reliable buzz that makes it hard to leave.

Drinks-wise, you’re sorted. From crisp draughts and local favourites to easy cocktails and classic mixers, the bar keeps things simple – and refreshingly affordable compared to inner-city haunts.

Inside The Local Bar & Kitchen in Johannesburg’s Midrand, friends gather over drinks, sizzling ribs and brisket from the signature barbecue platter, with warm lighting, upbeat music, and a casual crowd. Highlights include fresh avo toast, draught beers, and local flair in a laid-back setting perfect for after-work hangouts and Sunday chills. Keywords: Midrand pub, The Local Bar & Kitchen Johannesburg, casual dining South Africa, Joburg food culture, ribs and brisket, local bar vibes, weekend hotspots, neighbourhood restaurants, brunch in Joburg, social hangout spots, Joburg ETC

Image 1: Instagram/@thelocalbarandkitchen

The real talk is online – and in person

A quick scroll through their Instagram (@thelocalbarandkitchen) gives you the vibe: laughter, food, mates, and good times. But the real proof is in the local chatter. Jozi crowds are discerning, and the ones who’ve found The Local keep bringing more people through. Reviews on Google and Facebook often describe it as a “hidden gem” with “top service” and a “chilled crowd.”

It’s the ‘local’ in every sense

There’s something deeply Joburg about The Local. It’s unpretentious and built around community. The kind of place where you can show up in flip-flops or work shoes and feel just as welcome. Where a good meal and a familiar bartender can smooth over even the roughest week.

It doesn’t scream for attention – but it earns it.