Have you ever wanted to experience Italy in Cape Town without leaving the City? From traditional Italian restaurants to modern eateries, Cape Town’s pasta scene combines Mediterranean flavours with the city’s diverse cuisine.
The dining experience not only delights the taste buds but also transports diners to the rustic charm of an Italian trattoria, set against Cape Town’s vibrant backdrop.
This culinary journey provides a passport to Italy, with no plane ticket required. Each plate serves as a gateway to the rich traditions of Italian cuisine, allowing diners to enjoy the authenticity of pasta in the heart of the Mother City.
Here are five top-rated Italian restaurants in Cape Town for pasta, according to Tripadvisor:
The Woodlands Eatery
Matteo from Bologna and Mizio from Florence spent a decade exploring the globe before making Cape Town their home. The duo took charge of The Woodlands Eatery on 1 June 2017, seamlessly blending their Italian background with local flavours.
Take a chance to savour their homemade fresh pasta, starting with their tagliatelle funghi and tartufo, sautéed mushrooms in a creamy sauce with imported Italian truffle oil.
Alternatively, dig into their tagliolini con polpette, a fresh tagliolini pasta served with Nonna’s secret meatballs in a delicate tomato sauce, among other enticing options.
- Times: Monday to Sunday, 12pm – 10pm
- Location: 8 Breda Street, Oranjezicht, Cape Town
- Contact: 063 710 4742
The Cousins Trattoria
A taste of Italy awaits you at The Cousins Trattoria, where you can indulge in authentic Italian cuisine crafted by three cousins from Romagna. After settling in Cape Town, they missed the flavours of their upbringing. Introducing: The Cousins Trattoria, a place to share their love for authentic Italian fare.
Simone, Andrea and Luca take great pride in their craft, making fresh pasta every morning with natural ingredients, each dish paired with a fine Italian wine. At the heart of their culinary offerings lies a secret: a recipe passed down through generations, derived from their grandmother.
Some chef recommendations include gnocchi all’agnello (lamb ragu) – mashed potato gnocchi served with their original lamb ragu recipe; tagliatelle carbonare with eggs, parmesan cheese, and guanciale (cured pork cheeks); and ravioli ricotta e spinaci burro e salvia – pasta filled with ricotta cheese, spinach, and pecan nuts served in a butter and sage sauce.
- Times: Monday to Sunday, 5pm to 10pm
- Location: 3b Barrack Street, CBD Cape Town
- Contact: 083 273 9604 (WhatsApp) | [email protected] | Reservations are taken from 2pm.
Col’Cacchio
Established in 1992, Col’Cacchio Pizzeria is a pizza restaurant inspired by Italian traditions, offering both sit-down and delivery services. From artisanal wood-fired pizzas to delectable pastas, gourmet salads and indulgent desserts, Col’Cacchio’s menu includes low-carb, vegan and Vitality Healthy Dining options.
- Times: Monday to Sunday, 11:30am to 9pm
- Location: Shop 2, Redefine North Wharf Building, 42 Hans Strijdom Ave, Foreshore | Several, check here.
- Contact: 021 419-4848 | [email protected]
Zenzero
Derived from the Italian word for ‘ginger,’ Zenzero has curated a menu centred around fire, featuring coal-roasted seafood, skillet-seared meats, fire-roasted vegetables, and wood-fired pizzas – drawing inspiration from global culinary influences.
The live-fire restaurant offers family-friendly wood-fired cuisine from both land and sea, while their open-plan wood-fired ovens take centre stage in a warm, ocean-facing eatery, providing indoor and terrace dining options with a front-row view of Camps Bay.
- Times: Monday to Sunday 9am to 11pm
- Location: Victoria Drive, Cape Town
- Contact: 021 438 0007 | [email protected]
Picture: Zenzero Restaurant / Facebook
Zibaldone
Adriano and Roberto Pietrella, the former owners of Perusia in the northern suburbs, created Zibaldone using their extensive food and service knowledge. Located in Tyger Waterfront, Zibaldone’s menu blends traditional, hearty Italian dishes with a contemporary and approachable twist.
Notable classics like veal saltimbocca, ossobuco, and spaghetti gamberi coexist with newer delights like tagliata and lamb shank tortelloni. At Zibaldone, guests can enjoy a leisurely al fresco lunch or an enchanting evening dining experience. The option of a private dining room, accommodating up to 10 people, adds an exclusive touch to intimate dinners.
- Times: Lunch: Tuesday to Friday, 12pm to 3pm | Dinner: Tuesday to Saturday, 6pm – 9:30pm
- Location: Shop 1B, Tygerlake Building, 2 Niagara Way, Tygerfalls Entrance, Tygervalley Waterfront, Bellville
- Contact: Reservations: 021 914 1771 (No reservations by e-mail) | [email protected]
ALSO SEE: 5 SPOTS ON KLOOF STREET YOU NEED TO TRY OUT IN 2024
This article was originally written and published by for Cape Etc.
Feature image: Pexels
