As Johannesburg continues to grapple with the loss of dedicated LGBTQIA+ venues, one restaurant and entertainment space in Linden is quietly becoming a new home for queer community, creativity and connection.
Apollo’s Taberna et Mixtarium was founded by Franco Ferrarese and his partners with a vision that extended far beyond serving good food. The aim was to create an immersive venue where guests could enjoy quality dining, handcrafted cocktails and live entertainment while feeling completely welcome to be themselves.
“We’ve always believed that going out should be about more than just eating a meal. It should be an experience,” says Ferrarese. “We wanted somewhere that felt elegant without being intimidating, where people could celebrate, connect, discover local talent, and leave feeling like they’d been part of something special.”
The idea was born out of frustration with Johannesburg’s limited affordable performance venues. As co-founder of Vintage Nouveau Burlesque, Ferrarese found it increasingly difficult to secure spaces that were accessible to performers while offering fair partnerships and meaningful promotional support.
That challenge inspired Apollo’s, which has since evolved into a destination that combines dining with theatre, music, burlesque, drag and other live performances under one roof.
A Menu Inspired by Many Cultures
Its menu reflects the diverse influences behind the venue. Drawing on Ferrarese’s Italian heritage alongside Middle Eastern and Asian flavours inspired by the kitchen team, Apollo’s embraces both classic and contemporary cuisine.
“We don’t believe in being fancy for the sake of it,” Ferrarese explains. “We focus on bold flavours, quality ingredients, and presentation that adds to the experience without overshadowing the food itself.”
Among the customer favourites are the BBQ Gin Based Beef Burger with Creamy Wasabi Mayo, Spicy Mac & Cheese Squares, Artichoke Dip and Pomegranate Chicken. The cocktail menu is equally adventurous, featuring signature creations such as Angemon’s Planet Burly, Bitch Pop, and indulgent adult milkshakes including The Cookie Monster and Death by Chocolate.
Creating a Home for Everyone
Beyond the menu, Apollo’s has earned a reputation for its eclectic décor, theatrical lighting and welcoming atmosphere. Antique furnishings sit alongside quirky design elements, from dramatic stage curtains to memorable mascots like King Obsidian, the venue’s famous bathroom kudu head, and Salty, the resident stage monkey.
For Ferrarese, however, creating an inclusive environment has always been the venue’s most important ingredient.
“As members of the LGBTQIA+ community, we know how important it is to have spaces where you can simply exist without having to explain yourself,” he says. “Our goal was never to create a venue just for one community. It was to create a venue where everyone feels equally welcome.”
That philosophy has resonated with Johannesburg’s queer community, particularly following the closure of LGBTQIA+ venues such as Babylon and Democracy Bar.
“We took a major blow with the closing of Babylon and Democracy Bars,” Ferrarese reflects. “We have venues offering space for LGBTQIA+ events, but most of them are not LGBTQIA+ owned or operated. We think this is very important and would like to work with anyone who needs a space for their events.”
Apollo’s hosts everything from family-friendly daytime gatherings and casual dining to drag shows, burlesque performances, live music and themed evenings. While most events welcome everyone, the venue is also preparing dedicated LGBTQIA+ events in the near future.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, Ferrarese hopes Apollo’s will continue growing as one of Johannesburg’s leading entertainment destinations while remaining firmly rooted in community.
“We hope people continue to walk through our doors knowing they’ll be welcomed exactly as they are,” he says. “If we can keep doing that while serving amazing food and creating unforgettable nights, then we’ll consider Apollo’s a success.”
Apollo’s upcoming events include The Grand Exhibition on 9 August and the Mr Gay Nation South Africa Mixology Fundraiser on 15 August, with proceeds supporting the TEARS Foundation, HALO (Healthy Active Lifestyle Organisation) and contestant fundraising initiatives.
For more information or to book, visit Apollo’s Facebook page or email apollosbounty@gmail.com.
