South Africa’s luxury petrol station attracts attention across Africa

A petrol station in Johannesburg is changing the way South Africans think about filling up their cars.

What was once a quick stop for fuel has become a place where customers can shop, enjoy fresh meals and spend time with friends and family. 

Known as The Pantry, the concept combines a premium grocery store with restaurant-quality food, creating an experience that has attracted attention across South Africa and beyond. 

The business was born during the Covid-19 pandemic, when Marble Hospitality Group looked for new ways to adapt after restaurants were hit hard by restrictions.

Instead of moving away from hospitality, the company brought its food expertise into everyday retail. 

Its first location opened in Rosebank, Johannesburg, in 2022 alongside a Sasol service station. Since then, the site has grown into one of the city’s busiest forecourts, attracting motorists, office workers and local residents. 

As interest in convenience and premium experiences grows, The Pantry is showing how a traditional petrol station can become much more than a place to buy fuel.

A filling station with a different feel 

The Rosebank site stands out from conventional service stations. Alongside eight fuel pumps are Mercedes-Benz-branded electric vehicle charging points, while wooden finishes, greenery and outdoor seating areas create a welcoming atmosphere. 

Rather than serving only drivers passing through, the station has become a gathering place.

Customers often stop for coffee, business meetings or family meals, with the seating areas regularly filled throughout the day.

More than a convenience store 

Inside, The Pantry resembles an upscale grocery store. Shelves are stocked with fresh produce, premium cuts of meat, imported snacks and household essentials, allowing customers to complete a full shopping trip in one visit. 

Fresh food is central to the concept. An in-house bakery produces bread and pastries, while dedicated counters prepare pizzas, burgers, pasta dishes and roasted meals. Customers can dine on-site or take their meals home.

Expansion follows growing demand 

The popularity of the Rosebank branch has encouraged Marble Hospitality Group to expand.

Permanent locations have opened in Hazelwood, Pretoria, and Bassonia in southern Johannesburg, with the Bassonia store becoming the largest in the portfolio. 

Founded in 2016 by celebrity chef David Higgs and businessman Gary Kyriacou, Marble Hospitality Group is also known for restaurants including Marble, Saint and Zioux.

While only the Rosebank location operates alongside a petrol station, the company continues to expand the brand as demand for premium retail and dining experiences grows across South Africa.