The Factory

Very uncomfortable and unfriendly bar. I like dingy but this bar is just dingy and dull totally not worth the entrance fee

DO NOT VISIT: A DANGEROUS RIP-OFF I’m writing this to create serious awareness before someone gets hurt or scammed. This place is a massive health risk and a complete waste of money. * Facilities vs. Price: The pricing here is absolutely ridiculous. They charge the same rates as established venues like the Rec Room or Camp David, yet they provide none of the facilities. No space to move, no proper lounging areas, and zero maintenance. * The "Event" Scam: They hike the prices for "events," but you’re literally just paying more to be squeezed into a tiny, cramped room with more people. There is no hot water, and the toilets are beyond disgusting—it’s a major hygiene violation. * Safety Hazards: The "factory" setup is a death trap. Clothes are hung on unsafe, poorly secured hangers/hooks in an area far too small for the capacity. They also force you to put your phone in a safe, leaving you with no way to document the mess or call for help. * The Bar is a Rip-off: Expect to pay "high-end" prices at the bar for a "low-end" experience. The markups are insane, especially considering you're standing in a filthy, unsafe environment. How this place hasn't been reported to health and safety inspectors yet is a mystery. You are paying premium prices for a basement-tier experience. STAY AWAY FOR YOUR HEALTH, AND SAFETY.

The obvious choice.

Amazing place

I was there in November 2025. It was my first time there and my second time in Johannesburg, and I will never forget the experience! It’s safe, I was afraid my belongings might be stolen, but everything felt secure. The atmosphere is fun, and I plan to come back again when I’m in Johannesburg. My suggestion would be to hire more cleaners so the place remains clean. The more people there are, the more tissues get dropped everywhere. I will never forget that experience 🥹❤️ Well done.

I am indeed very sorry and regret but have to say - Factory lost all it’s glory (and customers it seems) as I visited the venue now for three months in a row once a month and was the only customer. The venue itself is dirty and bar service non existent - even worse when I managed to get a glass of wine from the person whom also manage reception, it was not cold but straight out of a 5lt box and at room temperature. The location I am afraid now also became a very scary area and I was very worried about my car might to be stolen so I did not spent more than 15 minutes as I could not see the chance or possibility of more guys showing up. Previous two visits there was only one guy sitting at the bar.

This place is more for locals than for tourists. They don't seem to have lockers. So if you don't mind handing over your clothes, phone and wallet to a stranger to keep behind the counter then have at it. It's not the steamworks or bath houses in Europe. We walked in and walked out. Also the man at the counter was going to charge us $150 although their website says $120 and wanted money upfront for how many drinks we thought we were going to drink. They have no website or online presence to say what they offer. That's a big clue this is not for tourists.