Sandton’s culinary landscape has just received a major upgrade with the relocation of The Pot Luck Club Johannesburg to The Peech Hotel in Melrose.

• Originally based in Oxford Parks, Rosebank, the restaurant has found a new home that perfectly complements its globally inspired, small-plate dining concept.
• The move marks an exciting chapter not only for the restaurant but also for The Peech Hotel, a boutique establishment known for its Afro-chic aesthetic and warm hospitality,
• The Peech Hotel recently celebrated its 20th anniversary.
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The arrival of The Pot Luck Club at The Peech Hotel isn’t just a stroke of luck – it’s a coming together of world-class dining and boutique hospitality.
For James and Vicky Peech, the owners of The Peech Hotel, this partnership represents a bold step forward in their ongoing mission to create a boutique hotel that seamlessly blends comfort, style, and top-tier dining. The collaboration with Luke Dale Roberts and his team has introduced a new level of sophistication to the hotel’s dining scene. Luke, a celebrated chef, recently took home the coveted Restaurant of the Year award at the 2025 Luxe Restaurant Awards for his latest venture, Salon, while both The Pot Luck Club Johannesburg and Cape Town received a prestigious Two-Star Restaurant certification.

The Sandton Times had the privilege of attending an exclusive luncheon at the newly opened venue, joining a select group of media representatives and culinary experts for a first-hand experience of the space and its inventive menu. The afternoon commenced with an assortment of Pot Luck Snacks, including Tuna Taco, Beetroot Tartare, and Beef Bruschetta, paired with an enticing line-up of signature cocktails such as the Pineapple & Elderflower Margarita, Passion Lemongrass & Sake, and the PLC Old Fashioned. The fusion of bold flavours set the tone for what was to be an unforgettable gastronomic journey.

Nestled within The Peech Hotel, the restaurant offers an enchanting indoor and alfresco dining experience, complete with family-friendly Sunday lunches and an inviting atmosphere for social gatherings. Those familiar with The Pot Luck Club’s signature style will recognise the distinct interior design that makes the space both welcoming and dynamic. James Peech expressed his excitement about the restaurant’s arrival.

I’ve always been a tremendous admirer of Luke’s food, and his approach as a restaurateur and chef. Marking 20 years in business was a turning point for our family-run hotel, and we wanted to continue evolving what we offer both travellers and locals. We’re thrilled to be partnering with Luke in this next chapter.

// Owner of The Peech Hotel, James Peech

The restaurant space, which was previously home to Basalt, has undergone an elegant transformation under the guidance of designers Aparna Ramani (Aparna Ramani Design) and Richard Ball (RAB Designs). The reimagined space effortlessly marries The Pot Luck Club’s contemporary energy with The Peech’s refined aesthetic.

The new location at The Peech is absolutely ideal, offering both indoor and outdoor seating, including a lovely terrace and vibrant gardens. We want guests to start with a Pot Luck signature cocktail in the gardens and then either stroll over to the restaurant for their meal or choose to dine beneath the tree canopies. It’s the perfect setting for a relaxed lunch or dinner in a peaceful, beautiful environment. When James and Vicky presented the idea to us, we gave it careful thought. The Peech, renowned as one of the continent’s finest boutique hotels, aligns perfectly with our values. This new chapter for The Pot Luck Club feels like a natural evolution.

// Chef Luke Dale Roberts

Featuring a harmonious blend of Namibian marble, oak flooring, and terracotta tiles, the space is further accentuated by industrial touches such as exposed steel furniture and sleek city-grey tiles. Original pieces from both The Peech and The Pot Luck Club have been thoughtfully repurposed to create a seamless integration of past and present.

The meal itself was a celebration of flavours that have made The Pot Luck Club a long-time favourite with returning diners. Highlights included Homemade Ciabatta with Whipped Butter and Marinated Olives, Sashimi with Mango Achar and Thai Red Curry Dressing, Pot Luck Club Fish Sliders served on Steamed Buns with Hake, Mojo Dressing, and Miso Mayo, and Crispy Squid complemented by Cauliflower Foam, Black Garlic Pinenut & Raisin Salsa. The Venison Tataki, enhanced by Beetroot, Figs, Chicken Liver Parfait, and a Verjus & Saffron Reduction, was a particular standout.

The pièce de résistance was the Smoked Beef Fillet, served with Black Pepper and Truffle Café au Lait and adorned with Black Winter Truffles. A popular yet more unassuming dish, the Chickpea, Goats Cheese & Parmesan Fries with Truffle Aioli & Smoked Ketchup, offered a delightful side.

Lighting and art play a crucial role in shaping the restaurant’s ambiance. Linear LED lighting accentuates architectural details, while an eye-catching origami installation by artist Maia Lehr-Sacks adds an element of movement and nostalgia. Johannesburg-based artist David Tsoka’s monotype artworks, which explore the theme of interconnectedness, provide a visual narrative that bridges the mechanical with the organic. The result is a space that feels both familiar and refreshingly new, seamlessly blending heritage with modernity.

At the helm of the kitchen is Head Chef Ebie du Toit, who works alongside Group Executive Chef Jason Kosmas. A seasoned professional, Chef Ebie has been instrumental in shaping the Pot Luck Club’s identity since the days of The Test Kitchen. Under their leadership, the restaurant maintains its hallmark commitment to excellence while incorporating new inspirations from its Melrose surroundings. Regulars will find comfort in signature favourites such as the beloved chickpea fries and the ever-popular beef fillet with café au lait sauce, while new additions ensure a constantly evolving menu that keeps diners intrigued.

For those with a sweet tooth, the dessert offerings did not disappoint. The indulgent Peanut Butter Bomb, with Banana Mousse, Honeycomb Crunch, Banana Tuile, and Frangelico Sabayon, was a rich and satisfying end to the meal. The Hertzoggie, a playful take on the traditional South African treat, featured Coconut Cake, Apricot Purée, Condensed Milk & Lime Sauce, Toasted Coconut, Apricot Sorbet, and Fresh Mint, offering a vibrant and refreshing conclusion.

Beyond the food, The Pot Luck Club Johannesburg is also renowned for its bold and creative cocktails, as well as a curated wine list that champions unique, small-batch producers. Every element, from the drinks to the service, is carefully crafted to enhance the overall dining experience. Leading the front-of-house team is Gray Tawanda, the longest-serving manager from the original Pot Luck Club in Cape Town. Now overseeing the Johannesburg location, Gray brings an unmatched level of expertise and dedication to maintaining the restaurant’s impeccable standards.

The Pot Luck Club at The Peech Hotel is set to become a sure favourite dining destination, attracting both international travellers and local food enthusiasts. With its stunning setting, flavourful cuisine, and relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, it offers a dining experience that’s sure to be remembered. The restaurant is open Wednesday to Sunday for lunch from Noon (last booking at 2pm) and dinner Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm (last booking at 9pm).

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