Ritrovo Ristorante

Monday, December 22nd, 2014

Reviewed by Iga Motylska

Ritrovo is certainly a case of don't judge a book by its cover, while the outside is humble you can barely believe that its the same place when you step inside. I loved the decor and it felt like I was transported back to Italy. There are countless press clippings along the walls, in fact soon enough Ritrovo may run out of wall space to house them all -- the restaurant has after all been around for 20 years. En route to the restrooms (on your right hand side) you'll see a photograph from President Zuma's visit. There's a deli where you can buy cured, dried meats, cheeses, olives and olive oil, as well as other authentic Italian delicacies. In the new year, the Italian co-owner and executive head chef, Fortunato, will be revealing a new menu that draws closely on his Italian heritage and the celebration of eating. We feasted on a number of dishes (from starters through to dessert) that were passed around the table so that everyone could try a little bit of everything. And the restaurant offers a selection of dishes to suit any preference from vegetarian diners to meat lovers and those with an appetite for fish and seafood. I particularly enjoyed the Caprese salad, the Prawns alla Giovanni (prepared in a champagne garlic sauce) and the chocolate fondant with a flowing Belgian chocolate centre. Each of the dishes were paired with Fortunato's award-winning wines. We were lucky enough to witness Fortunato's singing too. Tip: If you're making a reservation ask to be seated near the windows as there are lovely views looking out onto the hill that rises in front of the shopping complex where Ritrovo is situated. Tip: If you want a private family/friends affair ask to be seated in the wine cellar, where you'll be surrounded by 10,000 bottles of wine. Note that there is a minimum requirement of 12 and up to 24 guests to be seated here. The reviewer was a guest of Fortunato, on the occasion of his birthday.