While Cape Town might be famous for its majestic mountains and beautiful beaches, there is
something even more compelling about this stunning city and that is our incredible dining
experiences. Cape Town offers a wide variety of cuisines to truly tantalise the taste buds of
tourists and locals alike.
We are particularly blessed with a wealth of divine Italian restaurants here in the Mother City,
each offering their own unique take on the delectable cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a
traditional experience or an Italian meal with a modern twist, here are the top 5 best Italian
restaurants in Cape Town.
1. The Cousins Trattoria
Indulge in a taste of Italy with this authentic Italian dining experience. And an experience it will
be!
This extraordinary restaurant was born as an ode to the traditional Italian cuisine the founders
had grown up with. Hailing from Romagna, Italy, three cousins were inspired by the idea that
they could share their love of authentic Italian dishes in their newfound home of Cape Town.
The restaurant exudes a welcoming and cosy ambiance that embodies the essence of a
genuine family-run establishment.
Expect fresh pasta, made daily, using natural ingredients paired to perfection with the best
Italian wines on offer.
They are famous for their signature dish which is aptly named: The Cousins Pasta. In this
delicious dish you will find taglioni tossed with cream, mushroom and thyme tossed in a wheel
of Grana Padano cheese. Yes, you read that correctly, Your server will come out and prepare
your pasta inside an actual wheel of cheese before your very eyes! What could be better?
Opening times: Monday – Sunday | 6pm – 10pm
Contact: +27 (83) 273 9604 | [email protected]
Location: 3b Barrack Street, CBD
2. Villa 47
Nestled in the heart of Bree Street, you’ll discover a three-tiered emporium that promises to
satiate your cravings from lunchtime well into the late hours.
As you step inside, the ground floor reveals Locanda, a cosy bistro where you can indulge in a
delightful array of relaxed and flavoursome dishes. One floor up, you’ll find yourself at the
Martini Terrazza Lounge, a stylish space that tantalises your taste buds with an enticing
selection of small plates paired with delicious cocktails. If you’re looking to celebrate a special
occasion or host a memorable event, the spacious top floor is the perfect setting.
Whether you seek a casual dining experience, a vibrant lounge atmosphere, or a venue for your
next gathering, this three-storey Italian Emporium promises an unforgettable culinary adventure
in the heart of the city.
Opening times: Monday to Friday: 7am – 10pm
Saturday: 8:30am – 10pm
Contact: (+27) 21 418 2740 | [email protected]
Location: 47 Bree Street, Cape Town
3. Scarpetta
Step into the warm and inviting world of Scarpetta, a hidden gem on Roodebloem Road. Here,
the experienced restaurateur, Ricky Turilli, brings his passion for food and family traditions to life
embodying the essence of his Italian culinary heritage.
This family-run establishment creates a sense of familiarity and comfort, inviting you to relax and
immerse yourself in the homely dining space. Prepare to indulge in generous helpings of
comfort food that warms the soul.
Always expect different offerings on the menu, as the specials are ever-changing in order to
utilise the freshest ingredients. One thing that remains the same is the authenticity and
craftsmanship of the cuisine.
Important to note that Scarpetta does not have a liquor license, so remember to bring your own
preferred booze to accompany your meal.
This restaurant is a true celebration of family, tradition, and the flavours of Italy.
Opening times: Monday – Saturday | 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Contact: (+ 27) 83 251 0730 | [email protected]
Location: 85 Roodebloem Road, Woodstock
4. Ariel Modern Italian
A short drive from Mouille Point, in the heart of Sea Point, you’ll find Ariel Modern Italian.
A unique culinary fusion of Napoli and New York, expect a dining experience born from years of
passion and dedication to the industry.
This restaurant brings the essence of European street dining to life allowing you to indulge in
the finest Italian ingredients, meticulously sourced to create an array of delectable Neapolitan
pizzas, mouthwatering pastas, and signature cocktails.
Ariel Modern Italian pays homage to the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones and
encourages togetherness, friendship and the pure pleasure of delicious food!
Opening times: Monday – Sunday | 12pm – 10pm
Contact: (+27) 21 023 3643 | [email protected]
Location: 90 Regent Rd, Sea Point
5. Scala
Scala is a culinary experience that is redefining the Italian dining scene and is one not to be
missed.
Renowned chef Luciano Monosilio, hailed as one of Italy’s youngest Michelin-starred chefs, has
brought his extraordinary talent and secret recipes to The Mother City in collaboration with
executive chef Justin Barker.
Their slogan “Not Your Mamma’s Pasta” is incredibly fitting as Scala presents an evening that
seamlessly blends tradition and innovation.
Their homemade pastas are served as delightful sharing plates, adorned with a medley of
exquisite seafood, chicken, meat and cheese sauces, sure to bring people together.
Scala has firmly established itself as a must-visit destination for pasta enthusiasts seeking an
unforgettable evening.
Opening times: Monday – Sunday | 12pm – 10:30pm
Contact: +27 (21) 424 7204 | [email protected]
Location: 81 Church Street – Cape Town
Buon appetito!
