Melville

Bohemian nightlife area with independent bars, restaurants, and cafes along 7th Street. Safer than it used to be but needs more vigilance than Sandton or Rosebank.

Melville's 7th Street has independent restaurants, dive bars, and quirky cafes that attract students, artists, and young professionals. It's less polished than Rosebank or Sandton, with more local character and cheaper prices. Recent additions like Artüro Tequila Garden (tacos and margaritas) and De Baba Eatery (pastries and breakfast) are bringing new energy. Long-standing spots include Smoking Kills dive bar with live music, Six Cocktail Bar with Wednesday jazz nights, and Mootee Bar. On weekends especially, 7th Street gets busy with people bar-hopping late into the night. Crime incidents are 15-22 per 1,000 residents - moderate for Johannesburg but higher than the northern suburbs. You can walk 7th Street during the day and evening, but stick to the main strip and avoid side streets. The atmosphere means you'll see locals of all ages, so eating alone doesn't stand out. Staff at most places speak enough English to help, though less universally than in Sandton. Take Uber to and from Melville after dark.