It was then that he noticed a gap in the market for wine bars that offered a diverse selection of international wines. Holt took matters into his own hands and opened Mr Pants in 2020. Since then, there’ve been plenty of highlights along the way: “The friends we’ve made in the bar, the passion that some people have for good booze and by far the biggest highlight: the wine we’ve gotten access to over the years,” says Shayne.
BEHIND THE BAR
The success of Mr Pants is down to several factors – a fantastic selection of rare and sought-after wines, all served by the glass in quality stemware without a hefty mark-up. However, it is the unique ambience of Mr Pants that truly captivates patrons.
“I think what makes Mr Pants successful is that it’s fun,” says Shayne. “We aren’t snobby about the wines we serve (even though some of them run into the thousands of rands per glass) and the space is an extension of how I would treat guests at my house. You’d struggle to find a night where our guests don’t end up behind the bar, hanging out, helping clear plates, polishing glasses and picking the music. It’s quite interactive and relaxed and I think that’s really what sets us apart.”
GROWING THE COMMUNITY
And now it’s not just Joburg that will benefit from Shayne’s hospitality – Capetonians are buzzing with the arrival of Cooper Wine Bar (named after Shayne’s puppy). “To recreate what we have in Joburg would be impossible,” says Shayne. “It will have to morph into its own thing and I’m both excited and terrified to see what that might become.”
Q&A with Shayne
Wine you can’t stop talking about?
Anything from Lopez de Heredia in Rioja
Best Brunch Spot?
I hate brunching – rather wait an hour and eat properly!
Best Coffee in Joburg?
Father Coffee. But I’m always amazed at the consistency of Seattle.
Local Business shout out?
Curds and Whey – deadly Burrata.
Best thing about living in Joburg?
The energy and hustle.