Jodi-Ann Pearton

Food

The cuisine is inspired from Café del Sol Classico in Olivedale, where the brand first sunk its roots into the hearts of Johannesburg diners. Daily specials include tender pasta pockets of ravioli stuffed with roasted butternut and served with crispy sage and beurre noisette, as well as freshly picked spinach and smooth ricotta with a hint of nutmeg in a perfectly balanced Napolitana sauce and a dash of cream. Items that are always on the specials menu, but are in limited supply include crispy squid heads with aïoli and the hand-crafted fluffy potato gnocchi with your choice of sauce.

There’s a lunchtime selection of exciting salads. Various mains include handmade pastas, traditional Italian meat dishes and the house specialty of porcini roasted chicken.

The à la carte menu is extensive. The perfectly prepared risottos are a testimony to the exceptional skills of the establishment. There’s a wood-fired pizza offering on the menu, which is mouthwatering and offers a selection of creative thin-based superb pizzas. Try the pizza Parma, which is piled high with peppery crisp rocket, thin slices of Parma ham and drizzled with truffle oil. Then treat yourself by adding extra avocado to really round it off.

All pastries, cakes and desserts are made from scratch with a lot of skill. For guests who would like to simply pop in for a sweet treat, the coffee is sublime and is a worthwhile accompaniment to taste the offerings.

Drinks

The wine list is fabulous, with a variety of excellent local and international flagship wines on offer. There’s a selection of wines for every palate on offer, at various price points. The staff are not very educated about the wine list but be bold, selective and creative in your selection and you shouldn’t go too wrong. There are also fabulous spirits, beers and cocktails on offer for those who would rather go another route.

Service

The service is great. The waitrons are attentive and fun and the hostess is always on the floor, adding a great energy to the environment. The bar is exceptional, with a brilliant crew of barmen making it a fun-filled evening all around.

Ambience

There are gorgeous views plus natural décor, an outdoor-indoor set-up, easy access to the bar and a lovely, easy-going energy.

Best for…
Anything from casual get-togethers to romantic dinners. A true all-rounder.

(2018)

Eat Out critics dine unannounced and pay for their meals in full. Read our full editorial policy here.