Dining at the Pot Luck Club’s temporary outpost in the Waldorf Hotel is an experience that masterfully balances vibrant flavours, elegant presentation, and an atmosphere that feels both refined and exhilarating. The ambience and backdrop immediately set the tone for an evening where every dish promised something exceptional.
Lucky us: Cape Town's hottest restaurant arrives in London
Acclaimed Cape Town restaurant Pot Luck Club is starting a three-month residency at the Waldorf Hilton. Experience a taste of South Africa without the 12-hour flight
Read moreWe began with cocktails, and they were nothing short of spectacular. The Thai Green cocktail stood out for its explosive kick and layered burst of flavour, setting a lively tone for the evening. A few cheeky sips of other cocktails around the table confirmed that this bar programme is one to celebrate and every drink was extraordinary.
The oysters were, quite simply, among the finest I’ve ever tasted. Their freshness so striking it felt as though they had been plucked from the sea that very morning. Paired with an aromatic sauce layered with unexpected yet perfectly balanced flavours, they reimagined a classic in the most delightful way and left me longing for more. Alongside them, the tacos brought a satisfying crunch and vibrant flavour, offering a delicious start to the meal.
The fish sliders followed, and they were nothing short of heavenly. The steamed buns were the softest I’ve ever tasted. The delicate and pillowy texture of the bao buns were so good they could have been enjoyed on their own. But with the addition of beautifully cooked fish dressed in Japanese-inspired flavours, the dish was a true highlight.
Then came what was, for me, the star of the night: the seared tuna. Served blue, it rested in an extraordinary aromatic sauce that carried such depth and vibrancy it left my palate in a trance. The interplay between the cold tuna and warm sauce was unusual yet utterly compelling, an unforgettable dish that lingered in memory long after the meal.
Not to be overshadowed, the smoked beef fillet arrived which had all the makings of a showstopper. Tender enough to melt in the mouth, it was complemented by a rich, hearty sauce that had been slow-cooked over three days. The indulgence didn’t stop there, the parmesan fries dipped into that same sauce were an absolute revelation.
Vegetables were not to be outdone; the broccoli penang was a surprise triumph, cooked to perfection and bathed in a delicate coconut sauce that elevated the humble ingredient into something remarkable. The peri-peri chicken, meanwhile, showcased succulent tenderness and precise cooking, while the penang pork belly was everything you’d want. Crispy on top, meltingly soft in the middle, and effortlessly indulgent.
By the end of the evening, it was clear: the Pot Luck Club at the Waldorf Hotel is not just another new opening, but a destination. From daring flavour combinations to impeccable execution and first-rate service, this meal delivered surprise after surprise, each one memorable in its own right. It’s a restaurant that dares you to expect more from food and then exceeds those expectations.
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