Smoking Kills Bar

Smoking Kills Bar is an alternative bar at 78A 4th Avenue in Melville, Johannesburg, in Gauteng province, South Africa. Set in the same walkable suburb as other popular bars, it has built a following as the edgier option, and it has been listed on the World's 50 Best Discovery list, which recognises bars beyond the main ranking. The crowd is predominantly young adults and alternative-scene regulars: students, musicians, creatives and locals who prefer rock, alternative and DJ nights to mainstream chart music. Dress is casual and often dark or band-themed, and there is no formal dress code. The atmosphere is informal, loud on event nights and welcoming to newcomers. The specialty is creative drinks and alternative music nights. Cocktails and beer are priced in the $$ range, in line with other Melville bars and well below the premium venues in Rosebank and Sandton. Music is the main identity: rock, alternative and DJ sets, with programming that shifts from night to night. Opening hours vary through the week. The bar opens Wednesday and Thursday from 16:00 to 01:00, Friday from 16:00 to 02:00 and Saturday from 14:00 to 02:00. Because hours can change, visitors are advised to confirm by phone on +27 71 346 8804 before making a special trip. Entry is free on most nights, while ticketed events vary, so it is worth checking the venue's announcements for cover charges on special nights. Reservations are not normally needed for small groups, and bottle-service norms do not apply to this style of venue. Friday and Saturday evenings are the busiest and loudest, while Wednesday and Thursday are quieter and better suited to a conversation over drinks. The bar sits within a short walk of other Melville venues, which makes it easy to combine with a wider evening out. Most visitors use Uber or Bolt to arrive and leave late at night.