Chef Luke Dale Roberts has announced plans to open a landmark restaurant at Tswalu Kalahari Reserve in late 2026, marking one of the most ambitious projects of his career since launching The Test Kitchen in 2010.
Set within South Africa’s largest private wildlife reserve, the restaurant will bring Roberts’ globally inspired cuisine to one of Africa’s most remote and visually striking locations. The project will see him dedicate his full creative focus to building a destination restaurant with international appeal.
“This is the most exciting project I’ve embarked on since the early days of The Test Kitchen,” says Roberts. “Tswalu is an extraordinary place, and the opportunity to create a restaurant that reflects its landscape and sense of place is incredibly inspiring.”
A Collaborative Culinary Team
Roberts will work closely with long-time collaborator Carla Schulze, executive chef of SALON, who will contribute to the restaurant’s creative direction. Dillan Kannemeyer, currently head chef at SALON, will relocate to Tswalu to lead the kitchen.
Schulze, a graduate of the Jackie Cameron School of Food and Wine, has played a key role in the Luke Dale Roberts group and continues to shape its culinary identity. Under her leadership, SALON has earned multiple accolades, including Best New Restaurant in Africa at the World Culinary Awards and three stars at the 2026 Eat Out Restaurant Awards.
A New Chapter for SALON
The Tswalu project signals a shift for SALON, Roberts’ nine-course tasting menu restaurant at the Old Biscuit Mill. While critically acclaimed, Roberts notes a growing demand for more flexible dining formats.
SALON will close in its current form at the end of March 2026, with many team members joining the Tswalu venture. The space will transition into a private dining and events venue.
A Restaurant Inspired by Place
At Tswalu, the focus will be on sustainability, craftsmanship and a strong sense of place. The restaurant will incorporate local ingredients and collaborate with South African artisans and designers to create a dining experience that reflects the Kalahari landscape.
A Defining Project for a Leading Chef
Widely regarded as one of Africa’s most influential chefs, Roberts has helped shape modern South African dining through restaurants including The Test Kitchen, The Pot Luck Club and Salsify at the Roundhouse. His work has earned international recognition, including a No.12 ranking on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
Looking Ahead
For Roberts, the Tswalu restaurant represents an opportunity to build something deeply considered and authentic.
“Sustainability and a sense of place are central to this project,” he says. “We’re taking the time to do things properly and create something that feels true to its surroundings.”
The restaurant is set to open in late 2026.
