Why La Shebeen Prefers Conversations Over Soundtracks

La Shebeen, where the ambiance is as crafted as the drinks we pour. If you’ve ever visited—or been lucky enough to find us—you might have noticed something unusual: no thumping basslines, no curated playlists, and certainly no overplayed chart-toppers humming in the background. That’s right, La Shebeen has no music.

Before you raise your perfectly arched eyebrows and mutter, “What kind of bar doesn’t play music?” let us explain. We didn’t stumble into this decision accidentally. It’s a deliberate choice, born out of our philosophy, our identity, and, dare we say, our rebellion against the noise.

1. The Lost Art of Conversation

Remember the last time you had a meaningful conversation in a bar? Neither do we. Somewhere along the way, loud music replaced the low hum of human connection. At La Shebeen, we believe in bringing it back. Here, you don’t need to yell over a speaker just to discuss life, love, or your questionable choices.

We provide the space; you bring the stories.

2. We’re Not Competing with Spotify

Let’s be honest, no one can agree on a playlist. One person’s “banger” is another person’s headache. Instead of trying to cater to everyone’s eclectic tastes, we’ve decided to opt out entirely. Why play middleman when you’ve got your own earbuds at home?

What we do offer is a selection of locally crafted drinks as diverse as your music library. Pair your favorite Cape Town craft beer with the sweet sound of laughter. Trust us, it’s a vibe.

3. Authenticity Over Atmosphere

Plenty of bars rely on music to create a mood. At La Shebeen, the mood is created by the people who walk through our doors. Our atmosphere isn’t built on speakers and subwoofers—it’s in the clink of glasses, the shared smiles, and the collective warmth of being somewhere that feels a little off the beaten path.

Think of us as a sanctuary from the chaos.

4. The Soundtrack is Local

Cape Town is alive with its own music—the crashing of waves, the whisper of mountain breezes, the rhythm of city streets. Why compete with that? Step into La Shebeen, and you’re stepping into a space that honors its surroundings, rather than drowning them out.

5. Because Silence is Golden (and Underrated)

Alright, maybe not silence—there’s always someone debating the merits of Karoo agave versus Hout Bay gin. But the absence of music creates something rare: the ability to simply be present. To enjoy your drink without distraction. To let your thoughts breathe.

What’s the Catch?

We won’t lie—our no-music policy isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for a nightclub or a dance floor, La Shebeen isn’t your spot. La Shebeen is not a disco. But if you’re seeking a bar where your voice matters more than the volume, you’ve found your place.

So come in, pull up a chair, and let the conversation flow. At La Shebeen, we’ve got the drinks covered—you just bring the words.

Cheers to a quieter kind of nightlife.
— The La Shebeen Team