The Chairman 大班樓
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The Chairman

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A sophisticated jazz bar in Durban with eclectic decor, live music, and South African-inspired pizzas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

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The Chairman 大班樓

The Chairman

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sophisticated jazz bar in Durban with eclectic decor, live music, and South African-inspired pizzas.

"Experience the vibrant culture and sophisticated ambiance of The Chairman, a Durban gem."

TIP

Book Ahead

Reservations are recommended to secure seating, especially during live music sessions.

Dress Smart

A sophisticated dress code is advised for this stylish jazz bar.

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Quick Facts

Closed·Opens Friday 4PM

Cuisine

Bar/Jazz Club

Price

$$$

Phone

+27 82 847 6206

Address

146 Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Point, Durban, 4001, South Africa

Insta-Factor

High

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sophisticated Jazz Ambiance

Sophisticated Jazz Ambiance

Experience a stylish jazz bar with eclectic decor, live music, and a sophisticated vibe.

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Clubs, Bars & Lounges
Unique South African Flavors

Unique South African Flavors

Savor South African-inspired pizzas and bar snacks alongside top-tier whiskeys and cocktails.

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Live Music & Cultural Hub

Live Music & Cultural Hub

A beloved spot for jazz enthusiasts, featuring local talent and vibrant cultural events.

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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Another beautiful event in Durban🥹🫶🏾❤️ #POLT2025 #Durban #TheChairman
@gqebs
61 likes • 557 views

Book Ahead

Reservations are recommended to secure seating, especially during live music sessions.

Dress Smart

A sophisticated dress code is advised for this stylish jazz bar.

#fyp #thechairman #durban #viral #explore
@andisarchivez
61 likes • 419 views
#fyp #placestovisit #durban #southafrica #thechairmandbn
@kimmockey
1.5K likes • 44.7K views

Premium Pricing

Be aware that prices for refreshments can be on the higher side.

Embrace the Vibe

Visit during live music for an unforgettable experience; the atmosphere is lively.

Poetry and soul music in Durban, thanks to @Poetry On The Lawn for such an amazing event🥹. Imiphefumulo yethu ivuselelekile. #poetry #music #durban #thechairman
@gqebs
142 likes • 854 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Ahead

Reservations are recommended to secure seating, especially during live music sessions.

Dress Smart

A sophisticated dress code is advised for this stylish jazz bar.

Premium Pricing

Be aware that prices for refreshments can be on the higher side.

Embrace the Vibe

Visit during live music for an unforgettable experience; the atmosphere is lively.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Diners rave about The Chairman's sophisticated atmosphere, vibrant live music, and unique decor. While the food menu is somewhat limited, the pizzas and bar snacks are praised for their deliciousness and South African-inspired flavors. The premium pricing is noted but generally considered worth it for the overall experience.

"Now I knw what most would say if you’re from Durban or if you google this area it’s dodge and well one has to drive or uber pass the rougher end of downtown to get here but once you enter the waterfront precinct: on street cameras , point patrol cars and street points men add some sense of safety - not 100% but some …
Now for the Chairman:
Long over due revival of this needed iconic jazz club… with its cozy nook spots scattered throughout the floor plan , antique pieces of furniture, icon pictures on the walls , oh and clean toilet facilities /powder area …always a plus at an evening establishment"

Deborah Whelan

"I’ve gone to a few jazz nights here & I absolutely love what they’re doing for the culture, especially for jazz music and just music as a whole. Their DJ also plays really cool music to listen and vibe to. The atmosphere & decor is really cool & it’s really a cool space. The food is a little limited but going there for the music is worth it. Love their alcoholic drinks as well."

Noluthando Nolwazi Lushozi

"Amazing atmosphere and great music for the love of jazz music and fine art to dine your taste buds. Definitely recommend you to visit and experience the food and music"

Lanielle Hartzenberg

What People Like

Sophisticated ambiance and decor
Live jazz and soul music
Unique South African-inspired pizzas

What People Dislike

Limited food variety
Premium pricing

Frequently Asked Questions

The Chairman is renowned for its live jazz and soul music sessions, as well as DJ sets.

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Yes, making reservations ahead of time is recommended, especially for busy periods and live music nights.

Google Review

The menu features South African-inspired pizzas and a selection of bar snacks and tapas.

21 best things to do in DurbanThe Coolest Bars in Durban, South AfricaGoogle Review

The Chairman suggests a smart dress code for its sophisticated environment.

21 best things to do in Durban

Typically, bars and jazz clubs have age restrictions, so it's advisable to confirm directly with the venue.

Yes, there is usually a cover charge to enter The Chairman, especially during live music events.

21 best things to do in DurbanGoogle Review

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In downtown Durban you’ll find The Chairman: a jazz bar designed by local architects DGIT and a fun place to hang with Durbanites while you enjoy cocktails, whiskies, cigars and bar snacks including pizza and tapas. The building is more like a house, with a hallway, lounge and inner courtyard; furnishings are quirky and eclectic, with soft leather couches, chandeliers, and artworks and taxidermy on the exposed-brick walls. Things to know before you go: it’s open from Thursday to Saturday, with DJs and live music; dress smartly; and there’s a cover charge to get in.

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This sophisticated, world-class jazz bar is nestled in the heart of Durban and offers an experience like none other. With a selection of top-tier whiskeys, wines and cocktails on offer as well as a delicious food menu with a range of pizzas and bar snacks, you can sit down and enjoy a meal while listening to the incredible local talent on display. From well-known artists to upcoming jazz musicians, this truly is a hidden gem that will leave you wanting to come back time and time again.

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The Chairman classifies itself as a “sophisticated world class jazz bar” — a bold statement that is nevertheless well deserved. Located on Durban Point (the peninsula that separates the harbor from the ocean), the bar’s edgy decor combines exposed brick walls, leather banquettes, chandeliers and taxidermied antelope heads. There’s an art gallery, and a pizza menu featuring uniquely South African ingredients like chakalaka and boerewors.

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The Chairman is a well-known jazz bar, but it also has a great selection of small plates and nibbles to go along with its large drink menu. This venue, housed in a beautifully renovated historic building, offers a distinctive fusion of excellent music, a classy atmosphere, and delicious small bites like their award-winning chicken wings and gourmet sliders.

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Location: Point WaterfrontVibe: Although more of a jazz bar than a traditional nightclub, The Chairman offers a sophisticated environment for those who prefer a more laid-back evening. The venue often features live jazz and soul music.Highlights: Live music, extensive wine and whiskey list, elegant setting.

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For live jazz served with a side of native red wine, check out The Chairman. True to speakeasy form, interiors are scruffy, with a happy mish-mash of Aztec-print rugs, black leather banquettes and cobalt blue walls. A go-slow vibe meets a cheerful crowd, making for the perfect place to kick back and chat.

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Durban's much loved cafe and bar, The Chairman, is a sophisticated jazz bar. With the interesting decor, the music isn't the only thing that fills the venue with life. Cosy seating and a relaxed classy environment make it the perfect spot for drinks with colleagues after a long week at work.

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You cannot leave Durban without paying a visit to The Chairman to listen to new and upcoming jazz musicians while eating delicious food in beautiful surroundings. Located in Durban’s historic precinct, this is the ultimate jazz lounge that brings world-class talent to local shores.

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