Jolly Roger Group

History of Jolly Roger

The Jolly Roger started in 1994 in Parkhurst, Johannesburg, founded by former Pirates Rugby Club player Roger Cohen and Piet van Bliek. The name nods to both Cohen and the club’s skull-and-crossbones emblem, tying the pub closely to local rugby culture. Not long after opening, ownership passed to LeBrun Rossouw, who kept the spirit intact, meaning, good pizza, cold beer, and an easygoing, social atmosphere. What began as a single neighbourhood spot quickly became a staple, known for its lively crowd, match-day energy, and consistent, no-fuss offering that locals kept coming back to.

Under Rossouw’s leadership, Jolly Roger grew beyond Parkhurst into a broader brand, expanding to locations like Stellenbosch and Paternoster. Each venue carries the same core identity, of relaxed, welcoming, and built around good food and shared moment, while adapting to its surroundings, from winelands views to coastal backdrops. Over time, the brand has built a reputation as a dependable go-to, whether for casual drinks, group gatherings, or long, laid-back meals. Today, Jolly Roger stands as a well-established South African pub chain, with continued growth on the horizon and more locations expected to follow.