SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY – Details, episodes & analysis

Today, it’s just you and me - talking date nights, hidden bars, solo lunches and the restaurants that are quietly shaping South Africa’s culinary landscape.

From a farm-to-fork bistro near the Constantia Winelands to a Japanese-inspired dining experience in the heart of Cape Town; from Greek elegance in Pretoria to a secret martini bar tucked between hotel floors in Rosebank - this episode is a love letter to dining with intention.

We’ll explore new openings, old favourites, sustainable fine dining, indulgent breakfasts, speakeasies and the simple magic of lingering longer at the table.

If you’re searching for your next memorable meal - this one’s for you.

*Images: Supplied; Renate Engelbrecht; Amanda Wiggill; Adel Ferreira Photography

Veld & Vine Bistro:

https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/veld-vine-bistro-the-claremont-boutique-hotels-essence-on-a-plate/

FYN:

https://youtu.be/qXYYO7EiE2Q?si=RN4hZdkpUoBxLL0c

https://www.fynrestaurant.com/

Arlecchino by tashas:

https://www.arlecchino.co/

Prosopa:

In conversation with Moses Magwaza: https://youtu.be/aqwxIZ1cp9g?si=nj6iJwr99wNZcyx_

Review: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/this-pretoria-restaurant-will-instantly-transport-you-to-greece/

Ostra Oyster & Champagne Bar:

Blurb on the blog: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/10-restaurants-in-pretoria-for-the-most-romantic-valentines-day/

https://ostra.co.za/

Capito!:

https://capito.co.za/

Fermier:

https://www.fermierrestaurant.com/

https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/luxe-restaurant-awards-your-bucket-list-restaurants-for-2026/

Nine Lives:

https://hydehotels.com/johannesburg/restaurants-bars/nine-lives-at-hyde-johannesburg-rosebank/

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What does luxury travel truly mean in 2026?

In this episode, I’m joined by the Carlos Luis, the MD of TLC Vacations for a beautifully layered conversation about curated escapes, transformative journeys and the magic of intentional travel.

Together, we explore the world of The Lux Collective, the rise of experiential luxury and why today’s traveller is seeking more than five-star accommodation - they’re seeking feeling, connection and unforgettable moments.

From island serenity to bespoke adventures, this episode is a love letter to travel done beautifully.

Pour a glass, settle in and let’s escape.

During a recent trip to Cape Town, one of SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY host, Renate Engelbrecht's first stops was The Claremont. Many might not have heard of it yet, since it’s just opened its doors on the 1st of October 2025. Renate was lucky enough to be one of the firsts to experience the magic of this boutique hotel – a heritage building designed by architect, Magdalena Gertrude Sauer, who was the first woman to practice architecture in South Africa; a pioneer in her field.

The Claremont forms part of the Sabi Sabi Collection and also happens to be their first Cape Town property, opening up a whole new world of opportunities and avenues for travellers planning to visit South Africa through the brand. Now, you can also include the beauty of the Cape in your itinerary and spend a few days exploring the glorious fynbos and wonderful wines that this part of South Africa has to offer (among a multitude of other things!)

Renate sat down with the Marketing Director of Sabi Sabi Collection, Jacques Smit (with a glass of Buitenverwachting Chardonnay in hand, of course, as the hotel is located mere minutes away from the Constantia Wine Valley). Smit shed some light on what travellers visiting The Claremont can expect and how he sees this beautiful boutique hotel fitting into the bigger picture of travelling with the Sabi Sabi Collection.

Sabi Sabi Collection: https://www.sabisabi.com/discover/news/introducing-sabi-sabi-collection

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sabisabireserve

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SabiSabiReserve/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SabiSabiReserve

SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY:

https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suitcaseandchardonnay

Pinterest: https://za.pinterest.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/

Jennifer Hugé is no stranger to South Africa’s service and beverage scene. In fact, she’s the Service & Beverage Director and one of South Africa’s top restaurant groups – FYN – and brings so much more than just a glass of wine to the table. SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY host, Renate Engelbrecht sat down with her recently, following a six-course meal at Beyond Restaurant, located at the beautiful Constantia-based Buitenverwachting.

This wine farm was founded by Simon van der Stel, the first governor of the new Dutch colony at the tip of Africa, and is on the east-facing slopes of the Constantiaberg, a mere 12km from False Bay. The farm originally formed part of the Constantia Estate and even though it changed hands all too often, it flourished as a wine farm from the start. In fact, it flourished beyond expectation, which is why Beyond Restaurant’s name is so apt.

In this episode, we dive into the backstories of some of the drinks Jennifer served during Renate's visit and the inspiration that motivates her constantly evolving beverage menus - not only at beyond, but also the FYN Group’s other restaurants.

Jennifer Hugé:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hugejennifer/

Restaurant beyond:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantbeyond/

Website: https://beyondrestaurant.co.za/

SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY:

Blog: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suitcaseandchardonnay

Pinterest: https://za.pinterest.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/

Ever wondered what life looks like beyond the spotlight? In this honest and inspiring conversation, South African actress, entrepreneur and creative force, Leandie du Randt joins Renate Engelbrecht on the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY Podcast to talk about big life choices, travel, mindful living and embracing change.

From how travel shapes her creativity, to her go-to destinations and drinks, Leandie shares what living authentically means to her — and why slowing down can be one of life’s greatest adventures.

In this episode, we chat about:

- Leandie du Randt’s journey in - or rather, beyond - the South African film and entertainment industry

- The power of saying yes to new chapters and no to what no longer serves you

- Travel as therapy: what Leandie’s learned about herself on the road

- Finding comfort in family, fun and meaningful conversations

- How authenticity and courage have shaped her career and personal life

Whether you’re seeking travel inspiration, lifestyle balance or an honest take on personal growth, this episode will leave you feeling inspired to live with intention - one beautiful choice at a time.

Listen to more episodes of SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY — where lifestyle, travel, fashion, food and wine meet meaningful storytelling.

Follow Leandie du Randt:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leandiedurandt/

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/

Website: https://www.suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za/

Are you searching for ways to truly slow down? Perhaps you crave quiet moments, fewer distractions, and meaningful ways of getting to know yourself better.

Too often, life feels too busy, too full – like an endless rat race. Many of us have unlearned the art of being alone with ourselves, while screens dominate our attention. But there’s hope – and sometimes it lies in stepping away.

In this episode, Organisational Psychologist Julie Robinson shares her journey of embracing slow living in the Karoo and creating transformative spaces for others to do the same. From screen-free travel experiences to powerful off-the-grid retreats in South Africa, Julie shows us how slowing down can become a practice of joy, self-discovery, and connection.

Whether you’re ready for a five-day Karoo slow travel inventure or a shorter introspective travel experience in the city, there’s something for everyone who longs to venture inward, live mindfully, and discover the richness of the present moment.

Together, we explore:

• A new, off-the-grid retreat in the Karoo, South Africa, designed for deep self-reflection and stillness.

• How to balance a busy city lifestyle with mindful travel and intentional slow living practices.

• Tips on creating slow corners in your home to cultivate everyday calm.

This is more than travel – it’s a digital detox retreat in South Africa, an invitation to reconnect with yourself, and a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful journey is the one within.

Follow Inventure:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theinventure

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576632433875

Website: https://theinventure.com/

SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suitcaseandchardonnay/

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Learn more about your ad choices: hello@suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za

Executive Chef Pellie Grobler is no stranger to Pretoria’s culinary scene. He’s currently leading the team at SMOKE, a trendy food spot at The Village in the popular neighbourhood, Hazelwood. The Village is constantly evolving, with new restaurants popping up regularly and in this episode, Pellie shares his secret to staying relevant and top of mind while staying true to his roots. With South Africa celebrating Heritage Day on 24 September, what better way to take part in the celebrations than to listen in on how Chef Pellie Grobler plates heritage and nostalgia while staying on trend? Here’s my conversation with him, with a little bit of background noise from SMOKE Restaurant peppered throughout to add some flavour…

Today on SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY, I’m joined by one of the world’s most influential voices in wine - Tim Atkin, Master of Wine. Tim is a UK-based wine journalist with an international following, contributing to publications like Harpers and Decanter, while also running his own award-winning website, timatkin.com. Beyond his writing, he’s also an accomplished photographer, with work published in The Guardian and exhibited across the globe.

Over the course of his career, Tim has been recognised with countless awards - from the Glenfiddich Wine Writer Award to the International Wine & Spirit Competition’s Communicator of the Year. He has judged wines in every corner of the world, co-chairs the International Wine Challenge and is widely respected for his sharp, witty and sometimes controversial takes on the industry.

It’s a true honour to welcome him to the podcast today, to talk about wine, travel, storytelling and the global connections that flow from a single glass.

Find his website here.

Follow him on Facebook or Instagram.

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Want to work together? Email: hello@suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za

In this episode, I sit down with Graham Beck - top South African sparkling wine producer and recent repeat winner in the Tim Atkin South Africa Special Report.

My guest is none other than their COO, Pieter Ferreira and we touch on why we'll always choose bubbly for celebrations.

With Graham Beck being the Sparkling Wine of the Year 2025, it's only natural that we also dive into two of their latest releases. If you're looking for a luxury South African wine, this award-winning winery - which focuses solely on Cap Classique and continuously pursues the perfect bubble - has the ideal bubbly for celebrations!

Find Graham Beck here.

Follow Graham Beck on Instagram

Follow Graham Beck on Facebook

Visit the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY blog here.

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For more information about SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY's year-end packages, email: hello@suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za

In this episode (recorded on Zoom with time difference, so excuse the sometimes dodgy sound), I welcome Dr. Eyal Levit - a dermatologist, but now also author of a children's book, to the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY podcast.

We dive straight into the importance of parents and children reading books together for opportunities to discuss the narrative, as well as the inspiration behind the book.

The book - The King's Race - follows the journey of a young horse called Spots, and highlights the ebb and flow of life and the lessons we learn from it beautifully.

Soon to be launched, The King's Race is a wonderful gift for those Christmas stockings (yes, we're talking Christmas already!) and a great opportunity for parents and children to spend quality time together.

Under the lifestyle side of the SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY brand, you would have noticed that I am very serious about approaching life at a slower pace and teaching (and allowing) your children to do the same. Books can make this process very easy and The King's Race definitely deserves a spot in your family's children's book collection. It's right up there with books like The Little Prince, teaching lessons through storytelling and subtly opening up conversations around topics like kindness, hardship, friendship and grit.

To learn more about Dr. Eyal Levit, visit levitdermatology.com or follow him on Instagram:  ⁨@levitdermatology1939⁩ 

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