Located in Cape Town, South Africa, Hillrise Pub presents itself as a local establishment, often described by patrons as a traditional pub with a distinct "English feel." While listed as primarily a casino, user reviews predominantly highlight its role as a social gathering spot, particularly for sports enthusiasts, and a venue for drinks and occasional entertainment.
Hillrise Pub elicits a wide range of opinions from its visitors, resulting in a significantly mixed bag of experiences. While some patrons praise its friendly atmosphere and helpful staff, others report severe issues concerning management, discrimination, and basic facilities. The general consensus points to a place that has potential but is currently hampered by significant shortcomings.
Despite the positives, several critical issues emerge from the reviews, particularly from more recent feedback:
Julian Booysen's 1-star review, from 10 months ago, provides a stark warning, detailing instances of alleged racism, discrimination, and humiliation at the hands of the manager. This review strongly suggests a significant decline in the pub's standards under current management, with the reviewer even supporting a petition for its closure. Tammy Sharon Witbooi, a long-term regular, in a review also from 10 months ago, points out the practical shortcomings of bar stools and toilet maintenance, indicating that while they feel welcomed, the physical infrastructure needs attention. In contrast, Tristan Van Leeve (7 months ago) and cody kayster (a year ago) offer generally positive outlooks, albeit with suggestions for more entertainment and acknowledgment that there is "room for improvement." Patrick Lynch's review, dating back two years, fondly remembers a friendly bar lady and the authentic pub atmosphere, possibly pre-dating some of the more recent negative management issues highlighted by other patrons.
Hillrise Pub appears to be a place with a loyal customer base and the charm of a traditional pub. However, the recent reviews paint a concerning picture of a venue grappling with significant management and operational challenges. Prospective visitors should be aware of the strong criticisms regarding alleged discriminatory practices and management's conduct. While some still find enjoyment in its atmosphere and basic offerings, the pub faces a clear call from some of its patrons for substantial improvements, particularly in its management and the consistent application of its policies. The future of Hillrise Pub seems to hinge on addressing these critical issues to regain the trust and patronage of its community.
Disrespectful... Rude... Obnoxious... Racist.... Discriminating...Me, and many other old/regular patrons got banned for reasons that's untrue which never happened before. The manager, NIKKI, decides who's money is good enough and who's is not. I've even witness how they try victimising a new bar lady Carol to the point where she is in tears. Even Anna has picked up their bad manners and attitude.My banned was apparently for wanting to leave with a drink knowingly that it's not allowed, then the banned got lifted. When I noticed that other White customers does it when the manager and other staff can see it happening, the free to leave with a glass of alcohol out the gate. When I mentioned it and disputed the rules of the pub, I got banned again. The first banned was screamed to me at the gate when I was suppose to be meeting up with business clients and the humiliation was bad enough that I had to make excuses.I would never recommend anyone to visit the pub with this new manager. I use to enjoy weekends visits, spending generously and this is the treatment I get when I actually did nothing.And to Janine,As from now, I fully support the closure of our beloved pub on the partition going around, as it is not what it's been before.
Just voicing my optionI’ve been a regular at Hilrise for a few years now I always enjoy myself there as I do feel welcomed but the only negative part is that there’s a shortage of bar stools and its become a problem, not everyone gets a seat especially when a rugby or a soccer game is playing live and it’s supposed to be a sports bar, secondly the toilet is not 100% in working condition and I’d prefer that the gender remain to use their own.
Love this place, wish the had more domino tournaments and more entrainment.
Room for improvement , otherwise I'd say it's doing good for what it has to offer , not too shabby ...
Very friendly and helpful bar lady named Danny and the pub has a proper English feel to it