Unveiling Obscura Cocktail Bar: A New Era of Flavor and Experience
12 June 2024, marked a significant day in Rosebank as Obscura Cocktail Bar officially opened its doors. This unique venue promises to redefine the dining and cocktail scene, offering an experience that challenges traditional perceptions.
A Culinary and Mixology Adventure
Obscura is more than just a bar; it’s a journey through innovative cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails. Central to this adventure is George Hunter, one of South Africa’s top mixologists and a driving force behind Obscura. His expertise and passion for mixology elevate each drink, making every sip a memorable experience.

Beyond Cocktails: A Shared Dining Experience
The experience at Obscura extends beyond its impressive cocktail menu. The bar also offers an array of delicious small plates, designed to be shared among friends and family. This communal dining approach fosters an immersive atmosphere, encouraging guests to explore a variety of flavors together. The cuisine is curated by an enthusiastic chef who ensures that each dish delights the palate and complements the vibrant atmosphere of Obscura.
The Inspiration Behind Obscura
The name “Obscura” draws inspiration from the concept of “camera obscura,” a technique that offers a different perspective through a pinhole. This idea is central to Obscura’s identity, symbolized by the keyhole logo.
“The more you look, the more you see.”
George Hunter explains,
Depending on where guests sit, whether inside, outside, or at the bar, each visit to Obscura provides a unique perspective and experience.
A Dynamic and Evolving Menu
Obscura’s menu is as dynamic as its concept. Without being tied to a specific theme, the bar has the flexibility to create seasonal menus that evolve over time. This approach ensures a fresh and exciting selection of drinks and dishes with each visit. The innovative design of the menu, featuring a volval mechanism that reveals drinks through a keyhole, adds to the sense of discovery and adventure.

The Soul Candi Margarita
One of the standout cocktails at Obscura is the Soul Candi Margarita. Here’s how you can recreate this exceptional drink at home:
Ingredients:
- 50ml Don Julio tequila
- 25ml mango juice
- 25ml fresh lime juice
- 25ml jalapeno syrup
- 4 dashes cucumber bitters
- 4 dashes habanero tincture
- Garnish: tajin rim and lime wheel
- Glass: rocks
Method:
- Rim your rocks glass with tajin.
- Add all ingredients to a shaker with cubed ice and shake for 10 to 15 seconds.
- Add cubed ice to your rocks glass and strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Garnish with a dehydrated lime wheel.
- Enjoy!
You will need a jigger, juicer, shaker, cubed ice, and a rocks glass.
The Launch Event
Urban Lifestyle had the pleasure of attending Obscura’s launch event, which was a celebration of innovation and creativity. Guests were invited to explore the beautifully designed venue and experience its unique offerings. In his speech, George Hunter expressed his gratitude to everyone who made Obscura possible and encouraged guests to take in every detail of the venue.
“Thank you all for being here. If you have any questions, please give me a shout. Enjoy our beautiful venue. Thank you so much.”
George’s words capture the spirit of Obscura:
Discover Obscura
Obscura Cocktail Bar invites those who seek more than the ordinary. As the cocktail culture trend continues to grow in South Africa, Obscura stands out as a beacon of creativity and excellence. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or someone looking for a new dining experience, Obscura offers a fresh perspective on hospitality. Step through the keyhole and discover a world of innovative flavors and unforgettable experiences.