ONE of my favourite hangouts, The House Of Machines (THoM), is celebrating its third birthday this weekend with a fabulous party with a little bit of everything that has made this bar what it is today.
Motorcycle riding, beer, coffee, cocktails, and a line-up of live music from some of the guys who first graced the carpet and helped put THoM on the map as one of the premier live music venues in the Mother City.
If you’re up and about this morning, join the rideout from 11am. For the late risers there’s still plenty to enjoy, like a lunchtime braai from noon.
The music begins at 5pm and the line-up includes Farryl Purkiss, Mean Black Mamba, Joshua K Grierson, Andy Lund, and Southern Wild.
“Why do I love The House of Machines? Where do I start?” asked Purkiss, who is also the brand manager for THoM. “The House has become more of a home than a house to me. It is a combination of all things that I hold dear to my heart. I’m a simple man… all I need are family, friends, music and beer to make me happy. The House is all of that, and so much more.”
Barry Havenga, who has been unofficially involved with THoM since its conception through his friendship with owner Drew Madacsi, and now three weeks into his new position as general manager (brand integration) for Alliance Brands Limited, said: “Having been a part of The House of Machines since conceptualising the space (in Brooklyn in 2013), to experiencing the best coffee and Old Fashioneds in Cape Town, while watching inspiring live acts – it really is ‘The Little House That Could’. On every single level.”
Lund is the resident photographer, musician, host of the Tuesday open mic nights and THoM family member.
“Nowhere in Cape Town do I feel more at home, than at The House,” he said. “It’s always warm, always rocking, always friendly faces. It’s not a bar, it’s not a music venue, it’s not a coffee shop… It’s a clubhouse. For everyone and where everyone is made to feel like family.”
Whether you hang out drinking cocktails and listening to live music, or make it your “coffice” during the day with excellent coffee and free wifi, The House Of Machines is one of the coolest spots in the city.
l The House Of Machines is at 84 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town. Telephone 021 426 1400.