Cape Town’s culinary scene is bursting with flavours from around the world, and if you’re craving authentic Italian cuisine, you’re in for a treat!
Here are five must-visit Italian restaurants that promise a delightful journey for your taste buds. Offering everything from heartwarming pasta dishes to seasonal seafood, discover the best Italian restaurants Cape Town has to offer:
5 Must-visit Italian restaurants in Cape Town
Scala
Scala, a sexy subterranean eatery, redefines Italian dining with its elegant, upmarket approach. Executive Chef Justin Barker collaborates with Italian master chef Luciano Monosilio to offer a sophisticated take on traditional cuisine. Start your meal with Scala’s signature negroni and explore a selection of modern antipasti, tapas-style pasta dishes, and tempting dolce. Highlights include the char-grilled melanzane and the Scala carbonara. With a curated wine list that perfectly complements the dishes, Scala promises a dining experience that’s both refined and memorable.
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Address: 81 Church St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 12:00 pm to 10:30 pm
Contact: 021 424 7204 |[email protected]
Osteria Tarantino
In the trendy De Waterkant area, Osteria Tarantino combines the warmth of a traditional osteria with contemporary décor and a modern menu. The pared-down menu focuses on high-quality ingredients, exemplified by the glorious burrata and Parma ham starter.
The restaurant is also famous for its carpaccio and the octopus with citrus and fennel. Pair your meal with a bottle of South African Chenin Blanc for a perfect dining experience. The owner-run establishment exudes charm and offers a delightful blend of tradition and innovation.
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Address: 125A Waterkant St, De Waterkant, Cape Town, 8001
Hours: Monday – Saturday, 12:30 pm to 9:00 pm
Contact: 076 505 1771
95 at Parks
Giorgio Nava is something of an icon when it comes to Italian fare in the Mother City, and while his much-loved inner-city restaurant fell victim to the pandemic, the homely feel here amid leafy Constantia makes it well worth a visit to the suburbs.
With 95 at Parks, Nava reprises many long-time favourites, including his legendary butternut ravioli with sage butter sauce. The pizzas would make a Napolitano weep for home, while Nava’s grilled line fish makes the most of what’s fresh off local boats. The serene setting and exquisite dishes make 95 at Parks a must-visit destination for any Italian food lover.
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Address: 114 Constantia Main Rd, Constantia, Cape Town, 7800
Hours: Dinner: Tuesday – Saturday, 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm | Lunch: Friday – Sunday, 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Contact: 021 761 0247 |[email protected]
Locanda at Villa 47
For a taste of elevated Italian cuisine, head to Locanda at Villa 47. This elegant space offers a modern take on traditional dishes in a lively, bustling atmosphere. Start with the sharing antipasto platters, brimming with imported Italian cheese, charcuterie, house-roasted peppers, and grilled artichokes.
The menu also features a variety of antipasti plates, pastas, pesce, and carne. Arrive early to enjoy an aperitivo at the first-floor Martini Terrazza Lounge and soak in the vibrant ambiance. Bookings are recommended to secure your spot in this popular dining destination.
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Address: 47 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 7:00 am – 10:00 pm
Contact: 021 418 2740 |[email protected]
Limoncello Ristorante
The southern reaches of the Cape Peninsula are home to a handful of neighbourhood gems, and Limoncello is one of the best! Luca and Cecilia Castiglione closed the inner-city original, but the new outpost beneath a canopy of milkwood trees the experience of dining at this gem is arguably even better.
Enjoy the stunning sea view over Noordhoek beach while savouring the classic Parmigiana di melanzane. Luca’s passion for seafood shines through with superb tuna plates in the summer season. Other highlights include the wonderful wood-fired pizza, hand-made gnocchi, and a shot of house limoncello to finish.
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Address: Crn Beach Rd and, Pine St, Noordhoek, Cape Town, 7979
Hours: Tuesday – Thursday, 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm | Friday – Sunday, 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Contact: 071 114 8947
Cape Town’s Italian restaurants offer diverse dining experiences, from cosy and homely to sleek and sophisticated. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of pasta or an elegantly plated dish, these five restaurants promise to deliver authentic Italian flavours that will transport you straight to Italy. Buon appetito!
ALSO SEE: Breakfast cafés and restaurants in Cape Town
Feature image: Pexels
