Lifestyle

Step into the Roaring Twenties at The House of Machines

August 24, 2024

4 mins read

Experience the charm of the Roaring Twenties at The House of Machines in Cape Town’s City Centre. This former motorcycle shop has been transformed into a lively speakeasy that offers a perfect blend of traditional allure and eclectic style. With its cocktail bar, American-style menu, and live music, THoM is more than just a biker’s retreat. It celebrates the beauty of craftsmanship, the joy of community, and the timeless charm of vintage aesthetics.

Step into the Roaring Twenties at The House of Machines, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Cape Town’s vibrant City Centre. The former motorcycle shop has been ingeniously transformed into a lively speakeasy, offering a perfect fusion of traditional allure and eclectic style. THoM features a cocktail bar, American-style menu, and live music, making it more than just a biker’s retreat. It’s an immersive journey through a meticulously curated world that celebrates the beauty of craftsmanship, the joy of community, and the timeless charm of vintage aesthetics.

A Hidden Treasure in the Heart of the City

Discover the bubbling spirit of the Roaring Twenties at The House of Machines. Previously a motorcycle shop, the space has been ingeniously transformed into a lively speakeasy, nestled in the heart of Cape Town’s vibrant City Centre. This concealed gem, a perfect fusion of traditional allure and eclectic style, guarantees an unforgettable experience from the moment you step over its threshold.

Upon arrival, a playfully bold sign greets you at the large, glass frontage, setting the stage for an atmosphere of jovial celebration. The interior, bathed in the muted glow of soft lighting, is a testament to an array of carefully chosen design elements. The austere beauty of bare bricks, the city-edge of subway tiles, and the rugged charm of wooden beams collectively enhance the cozy ambiance of the establishment.

Your hosts will be a group of smartly scruffy individuals, their enthusiasm for craftsmanship and artistic flair evident in their demeanour. Although the exterior may hint at its motorcycle shop roots, The House of Machines, fondly known as THoM, is a welcoming haven for all, regardless of whether you own a motorcycle or not.

More than a Biker’s Refuge

Far from being just a biker’s retreat, THoM evolves beyond its original purpose. It creates a space that caters to a plethora of preferences. It is not merely a coffee shop that prides itself on its unique in-house blend or just a menswear boutique featuring a range of stylish contemporary clothes. THoM takes it a step further by incorporating music, gastronomy, and the art of brewing into its domain.

At the heart of this lively establishment is a cocktail bar. The bar’s offerings reflect the aesthetic of the place, perfectly balancing the raw appeal of bare bricks and robust wooden beams with a down-to-earth, unassuming selection. THoM’s drinks menu harmoniously blends creativity and simplicity, featuring redesigned classics alongside straightforward spirit-and-mixer options. Local craft beers and nostalgic cocktails enhance the allure, inviting guests to enjoy the tangible personification of the Prohibition era.

An American-Styled Menu & A Home for Indie Performers

Complementing the beverages is a concise, but enticing American-styled menu. Each dish, served on locally-sourced bread from the famous Jason’s Bakery, is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.

This ultimate hideout inspires a sense of adventure similar to the discovery of original, secret bars that gained popularity during the Prohibition era. The dynamic atmosphere encourages camaraderie, especially on evenings with live music, drawing people together in shared admiration for indie performers.

THoM, located at 84 Shortmarket St, in Cape Town City Centre, welcomes guests from Monday to Saturday, from the early morning hour of 7 am until 2 am. For a virtual peek into its captivating world, visit their website at thehouseofmachines.com or their Instagram @thehouseofmachines_cpt.

A Celebration of Craftsmanship and Community

Therefore, a visit to The House of Machines is more than just a fleeting escape to a past era; it’s an immersive journey through a meticulously curated world that celebrates the beauty of craftsmanship, the joy of community, and the timeless charm of vintage aesthetics. With skill and flair, The House of Machines seamlessly stitches together threads of the past and present, creating a tapestry of experiences that outstrips the constraints of time.

What is The House of Machines?

The House of Machines is a lively speakeasy located in Cape Town’s City Centre, which used to be a motorcycle shop. It features a cocktail bar, American-style menu, and live music, and celebrates the beauty of craftsmanship, the joy of community, and the timeless charm of vintage aesthetics.

What kind of atmosphere can I expect at The House of Machines?

The House of Machines has a cozy and immersive atmosphere, with carefully chosen design elements such as bare bricks, subway tiles, and wooden beams. The staff are enthusiastic about craftsmanship and artistic flair, and the establishment is welcoming to all, regardless of whether you own a motorcycle or not.

What kind of drinks and food are available at The House of Machines?

The cocktail bar at The House of Machines offers a selection of redesigned classics alongside straightforward spirit-and-mixer options, as well as local craft beers and nostalgic cocktails. The American-style menu is concise but enticing, with each dish served on locally-sourced bread from Jason’s Bakery.

Is The House of Machines only for bikers?

No, The House of Machines is not just a biker’s retreat. It creates a space that caters to a plethora of preferences, incorporating music, gastronomy, and the art of brewing into its domain. The establishment is a welcoming haven for all, and not just for motorcycle enthusiasts.

What kind of events are held at The House of Machines?

The House of Machines regularly hosts live music events featuring indie performers, drawing people together in shared admiration. The dynamic atmosphere encourages camaraderie, and the establishment is a celebration of craftsmanship and community.

When is The House of Machines open?

The House of Machines is open from Monday to Saturday, from 7 am until 2 am. For more information or to take a virtual peek into its captivating world, visit their website at thehouseofmachines.com or their Instagram @thehouseofmachines_cpt.

Transforming South Africa’s Tourism Landscape: Patricia de Lille’s First 100 Days

In her first 100 days as South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille has launched exciting plans to boost travel and create jobs. She aims to attract 15 million tourists by 2030 and has improved the visa process to make it easier for visitors from key countries. With a focus on teamwork and community growth, her initiatives include new tourism projects that celebrate South Africa’s rich culture. De Lille’s vibrant leadership promises a bright future for the country’s tourism, making it a vital part of economic recovery.

The Battle Over South Africa’s Social Grants

In South Africa, the battle over social grants is heating up as many people are getting denied the help they desperately need. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is facing backlash for its strict rules and a rise in grant denials, which some say hurt the most vulnerable citizens. Groups like PayTheGrants are pushing back, claiming these denials violate people’s rights, and they are taking the fight to court. As the tension grows, the fate of many families hangs in the balance, highlighting a struggle for survival amidst a complex web of policies and economic challenges.

Latest from Blog

Spreading Holiday Cheer: Firefighters Bring Joy to Children

In December 2024, firefighters brightened the holidays for children in care facilities by delivering wrapped gifts with big smiles. Partnering with Pick n Pay, they spread joy and gratitude after receiving support during a tough summer of wildfires. Each visit was a heartwarming reminder of kindness, as firefighters became symbols of generosity, teaching kids about empathy and community spirit. This joyful initiative shows how simple acts of giving can light up lives and strengthen bonds in the community.

A Persistent Nightmare in Embalenhle: Justice Served

In Embalenhle, South Africa, a dark nightmare unfolded as Themba Prince Shongwe committed terrible crimes, including rapes and murders, from 2016 to 2018. The community lived in fear as he targeted innocent girls, causing heartbreak and loss. Finally, justice was served when he was found guilty and sentenced to nine life terms in prison, bringing relief to the grieving families and a sense of safety back to the community. This victory shines a light on the importance of standing against violence and working together to protect the vulnerable.

Illuminating Cape Town: Lighting Up Safety and Community

Cape Town’s streetlight program shines brightly as it manages over 245,000 lights, making the city safer and more inviting, especially during the festive season. The community plays a vital role by reporting issues and staying alert, working together to protect these lights from theft and vandalism. With a focus on sustainability, the city is switching to energyefficient LEDs, reducing its environmental impact while keeping streets welllit. This initiative not only lights up the city but also brings people together, creating a warm and safe atmosphere that showcases Cape Town’s beauty at night.

housing development community empowerment

A Beacon of Hope: Gugulethu’s New Housing Project

The Gugulethu Infill Housing Project is bringing joy and hope to the community of Gugulethu, South Africa, by building 52 new homes for deserving families. This celebration marks a fresh start for many, especially the elderly and middleaged residents who finally have a safe place to call home. As they move in, they not only gain shelter but also a sense of belonging and stability. This project symbolizes the community’s strength and resilience, showing that together, they can overcome challenges and build a brighter future. The new homes are more than just buildings; they represent dreams coming true and a promise of better days ahead.

colonel celeste van der klashorst gender-based violence

Championing Justice: The Journey of Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst

Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst is a fearless leader in South Africa’s fight against violence and crime, especially those targeting women and children. With over thirty years of service, she created Child Protection Units and now leads the National SECI Unit, tackling serious issues like serial rape and child pornography. Her team’s recent success in a major operation has led to arrests and rescued children, showing the powerful impact of her work. Colonel van der Klashorst inspires others with her passion for justice, making her a shining example of hope and resilience in the battle for a safer society.

the ultimate mother city guide