NOTE FROM THE OWNERS
WHY WE DO THE THINGS WE DO...
THE PASSION PROJECT
The idea for Stowaway was born over a quiet cup of coffee by the Keurbooms River, where Chokka and Megan, both with a deep connection to the island, started dreaming of what could be. For me, it’s about creating unforgettable experiences through the finer details and design elements. For Chokka, it’s all about running a meaningful business, making memories, and indulging in great food and drink.
A PIECE OF HISTORY
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Before it became Stowaway, the property was known as Lud’s Manor—where my grandparents once made their home whenever they visited Plettenberg Bay. The Manor thrived on the same spirit of hospitality that we aim to capture today, with cocktail parties, braai's, and dinner gatherings. The island was already buzzing with life.
Lud’s Manor had its glory years, which is reflected in the original logo we still use today—based on an old menu design. But like any place with history, the Manor went through some darker times, including a divorce and a period where the island was entrusted to others who didn’t quite appreciate its beauty. The house fell into disrepair, used mostly for staff overnights and the occasional beach bar shift.
BACK TO THE PRESENT
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One day, over coffee, Chokka and Megan found ourselves pondering what to do with the main house at Stanley Island. The answer came to us in a flash: Why not transform it into a cozy restaurant for guests to enjoy? And just like that, Stowaway was born—or at least, the idea was!
THE ATMOSPHERE
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When it comes to atmosphere, we didn’t want anything mass-produced or generic. Nearly everything you see in the space—98%, to be exact—has a history of its own. Most of the furniture and decor is sourced from antique stores, thrift shops, and auctions, each piece carefully selected for its character and story. For example, the bar is built around a fireplace mantle I found at an auction. Everything was crafted and designed in-house to create a space with soul and personality.
Even the music is curated to fit the space. The playlist is a carefully crafted mix, designed to complement the atmosphere. Each song is chosen with intention, and I’m always adding new tracks to keep the vibe fresh and evolving.
THE CONCEPT
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We knew we wanted to do something entirely different from what had come before, while honoring the history of the house itself. Chokka was all about creating a space for guests to relax and unwind—so a deck was a must. Meanwhile, I’m always on the hunt for unique, organic elements to bring into any space. I love scouring antique shops for hidden treasures, and this love of history and character became a guiding principle for the design.
The vision was to create a speak-easy vibe—a space that feels like an intimate, hidden getaway, with the island’s natural beauty woven throughout. Imagine lush botanicals and a warm, secretive atmosphere that takes you out of time, and that’s what we wanted for the space.
The menu? Simple but exceptional. We decided on just five dishes, each one prepared with precision and attention to detail, using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The idea was to keep the kitchen lean and focused, ensuring that what we served was always of the highest quality. Chokka—being a true foodie—drew on inspiration from culinary pioneers, industry professionals, and his own creative flair to craft a menu that would surprise and delight.
We also take pride in sourcing locally whenever possible. Our cheese selection, for instance, comes from the renowned Knysna Cheese Man. It’s part of our commitment to supporting local artisans and ensuring that every bite at Stowaway tells a story.
Our signature cocktail menu carries a similar theme. Drawing from the idea of a “stowaway”—someone who secretly embarks on a journey—we infused the drinks with nautical, pirate, and botanical influences. The result is a collection of cocktails that evoke the spirit of adventure, perfectly complemented by the atmosphere. Our close friend and talented mixologist—who’s spent years behind the bar at the Beach Bar—designed these drinks with care and precision.