Bean Bag Jazz Lounge

Part jazz lounge, part supper club, Bean Bag brings a dose of old-school glamour to Durban’s nightlife. Inside, blush marble counters, banquette seating and soft lighting set a sultry tone, while tables spilling onto the pavement outside give it a Big Easy, New Orleans flavour. Music is at the heart of the experience here, with live performances from Thursday to Sunday, including soul nights, fusion sessions and laid-back R&B sets. On the menu, traditional African dishes such as usu (tripe slow-cooked in seasoned broth), amanqina (chicken feet) and inhloko (beef lip) sit comfortably alongside crowd-pleasing favourites including Cajun queen prawns and beef curry with dumplings. Book a table Monday to Thursday for the midweek test menu, a cheeky peek at chef Nqobile Mabaso’s dreamy experiments in the kitchen. Stylish without being stiff, Bean Bag is the official new home for Durban jazz lovers.

Don't leave without trying:
The oxtail and dumplings – braised and slow-roasted for 21/2 hours with red wine, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, spices and fresh vegetables.