The other weekend I had a series of "firsts". No, it wasn't the first time I got "rogered" as the title may suggestively suggest. It was the first time I saw the band Three Chord Theory (at their last gig, go figure) and it was the first time I went to a pub on Plumstead main road called The Jolly Roger. The gig was there, so it was a very convenient two firsts with one pint. The band rocked with their good old school punk rock and I was so impressed I even wanted to buy their CD. I was told there wasn't one as they had spent all their funds on beer back in the day. Ah, how very punk of them! I was also pretty impressed with the venue, especially as the floor in front of the stage literally bounced. At a punk gig you can just imagine. It was fabulous! So when I was asked to go back to The Jolly Roger to do a write up about their plans, I leapt on the gangplank immediately. And boy, do they have plans!
Some background first. Because you should always ask about backgrounds. Nope, the place isn't haunted. But if the regular that goes there from 11am in the morning until 10pm at night dies, it could be. She loves it that much and that way she can never be asked to leave when the bar is closing. But I digress, as I love to do...
The premises was originally lawyers' officers. That made me laugh, from sharks to pirates! It's all too perfect. Then it became Hickory's and then Gunners on Main (something about the Arsenal football club was mentioned at this point). And now it's The Jolly Roger. Down the road you'll find Pirates and The Birkenhead, so The Jolly Roger is well in keeping with the nautical theme. I suggest the next time you have a pirate-themed party and want to go out afterwards, this part of the Plumstead "strip" would be very fitting. Talking of parties, they don't actually cater for functions, but you are most welcome to have a function or party at the pub. Tables can be set aside for you and if you wish to bring snacks to put on the tables you can.
It's all fun and games
Get to the Jolly Roger on a Thursday for the LMG Cape Town Pub Quiz. Prizes include beer, wine, concert tickets and cash! Sounding good? It gets better - there's also a R500 jackpot to be won. All you need to do is pitch up, get yourself a drink and a shot of Sailor's Revenge (I recommend you have one, they are quite yummy) and be seated by 7.30pm. It'll cost you R20 (you can't even buy a box of cigarettes for that) and teams are limited to 6 people per team. There will be snacks available and with Castle draught on tap at R15 a pint, it could be the best Phuza Thursday you'll have. Bonus if you win the jackpot.
If you not too sharp on general knowledge, but like flinging sharp metal objects into boards, then join their Darts League. The darts-loving folk meet on a Wednesday night and there's even a spot of gambling involved. On that note, if you are feeling lucky, they have gaming machines too. Ones that actually pay out - someone recently won R7 000! If you prefer big sticks and colourful balls, there's also a pool table.
Having a gas
If you fancy a pint or two with your mateys on a Sunday, pop in with your braai meat and use the gas braai out the back on the balcony (which can be covered if it decides to rain as it does in Cape Town). At this stage you need to bring your own meat, but they will be offering braai packs in the future. If you lucky, you might even get potjie if you choose the right Sunday. Then sit back and listen to some jazz or accoustic tunes. Just how a lazy Sunday should be.
Jump on the bandwagon
Whilst there is already a resident DJ and cover bands on a Saturday and Sunday night, the most exciting plans the guys at The Jolly Roger have are to start having more gigs at the venue. Three Cord Theory was the first of many in the pipeline. There is a full PA System and any extra band equipment is available from SMD Technical at affordable prices. So not much schlepping around of band bits and pieces required. The venue is fairly small (150 max), creating an intimate atmosphere which would make it perfect for fledgling bands to launch their music careers. All this in addition to the spring-loaded floor and a percentage of bar sales? I say "Hell yeah!"
Give Dave a shout on (021) 447 7706 or email him on nixsah@gmail.com to book your gig. Like do it now!
I have to say that I think this is going to be the next cool happening spot and am quite excited about the fact I am going to have a new local. There's guarded parking out the back, cool rock and rockabilly tunes in the bar, the cheapest draught on main road, a sprung floor, an enclosed balcony, band equipment, ongoing drinks specials, jackpots and slots, a pool table and a spot to have a braai. If you run out of booze money or the slots aren't kind, there are banks on the main road. There are also plenty of take-away joints in the area (because eating is not cheating!)
The Jolly Roger is open every day from 10am to 2am every day. See you there? Yes? Jolly good!
- Email thejollyrogerct@gmail.com or call Fred on 083 630 9961. You can also join their Facebook page so you are in the know about what's happening.
- Bands wanting to book some stage time can contact Dave on (021) 447 7706 or on email at nixsah@gmail.com
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