Joburg’s New Hell’s Kitchen

WORDS Michaela Stehr IMAGES Graeme Wyllie

A new haunt named Hell’s Kitchen has opened in Joburg’s trendy Melville.

The idea behind the space was to create a “rock ‘n’ roll only” prohibition-style bar that feels like the music it represents; grungy, sexy and understated.

Director of StudioA signature projects, Tristan du Plessis saw working on Hell’s Kitchen as a change from the high profile “glamorous” hospitality spaces he often works on. With a strong personal interest in the design and aesthetic, Tristan took the brief as a passion project.

His favourite features include the Moooi Rabbit Lamp bases hanging over the bar as pendants, an ode to the New York American-Irish street gang “The Dead Rabbits,” as well as the concealed door panel hidden in the library that leads into a secret whiskey lounge.

When it comes to grub, think beer, prawns, mussel pots, lamb chops and freshly baked bread.

For more information, visit the Hell’s Kitchen Facebook page. To see more of Tristan du Plessis’ work, visit studioa.co.za.