Your home away from homesince 1972...
Colloquially known as "The Portuguese Embassy," Vasco Da Gama Taverna is one of Cape Town's oldest running local watering holes.
Built from Strand Street stone.
Established back in 1972 to quench the thirst of visiting (and boisterous!) sailors, this iconic landmark has held fast to its roots despite all the modern development buzzing around it. Built using rocks retrieved from the old Strand Street quarry, the building still features original opaque yellow stipple glass, black tiled flooring, its classic yellow Formica bar counter, and an original upstairs event space available for private hire.
Long before foreshore land reclamation pushed the ocean back, this landmark stood just a short stroll from the old shoreline. In those early days, seafaring deals, local trade, and word-of-mouth business were routinely bartered over icy beers and sizzling plates of garlic-heavy chorizo. Though the coastline has receded, the original bar remains remarkably untouched - complete with the classic red round bar stools from the days when the tavern shared space with a neighbourhood bottle store.
Men only - until the year 2000.
For decades, Vasco's was famous for its strictly enforced "Men Only" policy - a rule that stayed in place until 2000! That never stopped determined women, however, who famously dressed up as men just to sneak in for a night out. Over the years, the regular crowd has included everyone from fishermen and quantity surveyors to corporate executives. But the moment you step through the doors, all titles fall away and everyone is welcome.
Bigger footprint. Same soul.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of De Waterkant, Vasco's has expanded its footprint to include the space directly opposite the main bar while thoughtfully keeping its historic character intact. The venue continues to serve up a strong sense of community and generous portions of authentic Portuguese fare, alongside Jorge's famous Catemba - a blend of red wine and Coke still poured by the litre.
We don't just serve beer -we serve it at its absolute peak.
Say hello to Castle Tank Beer: the ultimate draught experience pumped straight from the brewery's delivery trucks directly into our massive copper tanks right above the bar. Unpasteurized and free from heat treatments, it keeps all its crisp, natural flavours, rich aromas, and smooth finish locked in. It's fresh, cold, and exactly how the brewmaster intended it to taste.
Grab a cold one, pull up a chair, and pair it with our legendary Portuguese pregos or a plate of fiery piri-piri wings. You haven't truly experienced game day at Vasco's until you've had a pint straight from the tank!
See the menu
Five rooms. Pick your corner.
The Original Bar
Step back in time as you walk into the original bar, where history is baked directly into the 1860s quarry-stone walls. Though the coastline has receded, the original space remains remarkably untouched - complete with the retro red round bar stools from the tavern's early days. Grab a seat and feel the quiet echo of a time when Cape Town's maritime heartbeat pulsed directly through these doors.
Castle Bar
Welcome to our famous Castle Bar - our designated indoor smoking area equipped with slot machines, sports betting, and TVs for all the live matches. Grab a cold beer, kick back, and soak in the familiar, welcoming energy and friendly banter.
The Vatican
Seating up to 80 patrons, this versatile space offers a relaxed environment for diners and groups alike. Available for private venue hire, it features big screens and projectors so you won't miss a single second of live sporting action while enjoying a hearty meal.
The Lane
A firm favourite with lunchtime and summer crowds, The Lane is the ideal spot for a lazy afternoon meal or an early evening catch-up. Screens positioned nearby keep you connected to every big game.
Charlie Koster Lounge
Named in honour of a cherished long-time friend and patron, this private upstairs venue seats up to 45 people - making it the perfect space for intimate functions, celebrations, and events.
Walk to the stadium
Located within easy walking distance of the stadium, Vasco's is the ultimate pre-match gathering point. Grab a seat, order a pint, and relax with the crew - you might even spot Vasco the Cat making his rounds!
A true home away from homewhere history (and garlic!) drips from the walls.
Whether you're dropping by for a quiet one, hosting a private gathering upstairs, or joining the crowd packed to the rafters for a match day.