By Zanele Makola
Pantry by Marble, the gourmet convenience store known for blending quality food with contemporary design, has opened its first Pretoria branch in Hazelwood, positioning itself as a standout hub for students and young professionals.
Designed with a modern farmhouse aesthetic, Pantry by Marble brings together a supermarket, deli, bakery and takeaway restaurant under one roof. The store offers fresh produce, ready-made meals, wood-fired pizzas and freshly baked goods, combining everyday convenience with a touch of indulgence.
The Hazelwood branch has been carefully curated to meet student needs, offering affordable pricing alongside a calm, welcoming atmosphere ideal for studying, informal meetings or catching up with friends. Features include a bespoke butchery, an expanded in-house bakery and a soft-serve waffle pod, striking a balance between practicality and comfort.
Founded by chef David Higgs and entrepreneur Gary Kyriacou, Pantry by Marble aims to rethink the traditional convenience store experience. According to Director of Operations Dino Constantinou, Hazelwood was selected for its strong community energy and lifestyle appeal, drawing comparisons to neighbourhoods in Cape Town and parts of Europe.
Customers have responded positively to the store’s quick, high-quality meals, dedicated coffee and soft-serve bars, and accessible gourmet offerings. The in-house bakery, known for its croissants, sourdough and desserts, has become a highlight, while the visually striking interior has made the space popular on social media.
More than just a place to shop, Pantry by Marble focuses on creating an experience through hands-on quality control and attentive service. The store operates from Sunday to Thursday between 7am and 10pm, and from Friday to Saturday between 7am and midnight.
