Nikita Buxton

This spot is one of the stalwarts of the Kloof Street line-up. The place buzzes on any given week night and is great for a quick, fuss-free meal.

Food
Starters include a lot of deep-fried bites, but it isn't necessarily a bad thing. A few morsels seem a touch out of place for an Italian-esque eatery - boerewors bowls, nachos and spring rolls, for example. If you're wanting something a little indulgent, go for the mushrooms Romano with baked field mushrooms - though these seemed to be ordinary supermarket mushrooms - with a feta, garlic and tomato sauce. It's extra cheesy and good for sharing with a side order of garlic pizza bread.

For mains, the vast menu ranges from salad meals and burgers to pastas, pizzas and grills. There's even a burger bowl option for those opting to forgo the carbs. The beef patties are good enough and nicely cooked and the garlic mayo gives a tang. Ribs are also always a hit here, and come messy with a special barbecue basting.

If it's pizza you're after, the ones here - quirkily named after famed artists - are thin and decent, though a few more seceonds in the wood-fired oven could add that extra crispiness. Make up your own wth a range of toppings, or bite into options like the Da Vinci with bacon, avo, mushroom and garlic, or hearty Rembrandt with roasted butternut, spinach, Rouquefort cheese and Peappadews.

For pud, The Lindt chocolate brownies arrive warm and gooey with sweet vanilla ice cream.

Drinks:
A familiar and easy drinks list; you’ll find something to quench your thirst and at a good price.

Service
Attentive and friendly.

Ambience
Warm, cosy and perfectly unpretentious. It’s an ideal spot for a calm family meal or easy midweek bite.

Best for...
A quick, fuss-free meal.

(2018)

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