Star of the West Bar and Restaurant

Kimberley, the centre of South Africa’s diamond industry in the 19th century, saw fortunes made and lost, and while the role of mining in the city has considerably diminished, retro-chic gourmet is still on the menu at the venerable Kimberley Hotel and the Star of the West bar. The Green Kalahari Region of Northern Cape contrasts rust-red soil with the green vines of the Orange River Wine Route. Delicious dried fruit is to be found in Kakamas, and in Upington chilly evenings draw hungry diners to the fireside for roosterkoek (griddle cakes) venison ‘potjies’ (potjiekos is a rich, layered stew cooked in a 3-legged cast-iron pot over the fire), roasted legs of lamb, and slow-cooked pens-en-pootjies (tripe and trotters) stew.

Pause for refreshment at the Star of the West, the second-oldest pub in South Africa, a place steeped in history and character. Established in 1870, this pub exudes old-world charm with its classic wooden swinging doors and a yellowwood bar top, believed to have been salvaged from a shipwreck by sailors. The Star of the West stands as a testament to resilience and camaraderie, originally serving as a haven for shipwreck survivors and later becoming a popular gathering spot for thirsty miners during the diamond rush.

Star of the West Bar and Restaurant stands out as a vibrant and inviting establishment nestled in the heart of Kimberley. This recently revamped venue boasts an expansive, open layout with a myriad of tables, creating an ideal setting for both casual dining and lively social gatherings. The ambiance is enhanced by beautiful decor and ample outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying live entertainment.

Order a couple of beers at the second-oldest pub in the country for nightlife in Kimberley Northern Cape. Star of the West Pub has been in service for 146 years, having opened in 1870. Miners in the past frequented the ligneous floored pub after leaving work in the evenings and hold some of the town’s hoariest tales.

News soon spread and more diamond deposits were found on the hillock Colesberg Kopje, at the time owned by the De Beer brothers. This led to a mad scramble for fame and fortune and the digging of the great Kimberley Mine by hand began. This is now the site of the Big Hole.

If you need a place to rekindle the romance with your woman, I’d recommend Star of the West Bar and Restaurant. It is one of the most romantic places in Kimberley to take your significant other. Great interior, a peaceful atmosphere, and delicious meals.

For a romantic dinner, try The Kimberley Club, a historic building with elegant dining rooms and a cosy fireplace, or The Star of Africa, a fine-dining restaurant known for its delicious steaks and seafood.

The Star of the West, Kimberley’s oldest pub, lies within sight of the city’s famous Big Hole, a perfect location for a tavern that grew out of the same diamond rush that p…

En route visitors are treated to some of the city's historical and noteworthy sites, while the tram also stops outside the Star of the West, the oldest pub in Kimberley.

Michael and his team are friendly and efficient. Love their coffees and breakfasts. Always makes one feel special. Thank you guys for the best coffee...

The Star of the West was a ship that ran aground off the West Coast, and large sections of its timbers were reconstituted here as the bar counter.