The Radium Beer Hall in Johannesburg, one of the most renowned and oldest in South Africa, continues to operate, according to BusinessTech.
Although not as busy as it was in its prime, “There is honestly no place like this,” said Lina Cabeleira, owner of the oldest operating bar in Joburg.
Her husband, the late Manny Cabeleira, bought The Radium in the 80s and propelled it to new heights.
In late 2024, reports were that The Radium was going under, so many stopped visiting it. However, the doors remain open for business.
It was opened in 1929 as The Radium Tearoom by the Khalil family from Lebanon. At the back, however, beer was sold to black people, for whom it was prohibited.
In 1942, a wine-and-malt licence was obtained, and the Tearoom became The Beer Hall, for men only.
In 1986, Cabeleira bought it, added a restaurant and welcomed previously barred black and female customers.
Manny frequently made headlines, with a memorable “beer carnival” and a mock funeral, humorously stopping the traffic on Louis Botha.
Manny introduced live music and a restaurant with affordable, delicious food.
The Radium became a go-to destination for celebrities and high-profile guests, such as Thabo Mbeki, Jacob Zuma, Cyril Ramaphosa, and “even actors like Brad Pitt”.
The bar earned recognition as a cultural landmark, frequently highlighted in international travel guides.
On why he did not franchise his successful formula, Manny said: “There’s only one of me, China — and I can’t franchise myself into pieces.”
Lina wants to continue Manny’s legacy and reach “the 100-year mark”.
Lina attributes its longevity to good, affordable food; its community-centred environment, staff staying loyal despite Covid; and the loyalty of the patrons.