Cape Town is a food lover’s paradise. Italian cuisine has carved a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors in Cape Town. Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl of pasta, a perfectly thin-crust pizza, or some exquisite seafood risotto, Cape Town’s Italian restaurants have got you covered. We will be taking you on an epic journey through some of the best Italian restaurants in Cape Town. From traditional trattorias to contemporary fine-dining establishments, these eateries promise an authentic taste of Italy right here in Cape Town.
Table of Contents
The list below is in no particular order. Each entry is equally celebrated for their achievements, and the sequence of names is arbitrary, not indicating any ranking or preference.
The Woodlands Eatery ✨
The Woodlands Eatery, a well-known Cape Town Italian restaurant, has found a new home on Breda Street in Gardens, continuing its legacy of delighting Cape Town food enthusiasts. Owned and operated by two passionate Italians, Matteo Santini and Maurizio Carlo, this restaurant brings an authentic taste of Italy to South Africa.
The menu at The Woodlands Eatery is a treasure trove of mouthwatering options that will leave you spoiled for choice. What sets The Woodlands Eatery apart is its chilled surroundings, attentive service, and genuine lack of pretence. It’s a place where the focus is squarely on delivering authentic Italian deliciousness to every patron, making it a cherished destination for those seeking the true flavours of Italy in Cape Town.
The Woodlands Eatery Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday from 12 pm to 10 pm
Address: 8 Breda Street, Cape Town
Website: https://www.thewoodlandseatery.com/
Contact Number: 063 710 4742
Atavola 🍷
In Claremont, Atavola is a delightful Italian restaurant that promises an authentic taste of Italy in the heart of Cape Town’s leafy southern suburbs. This charming eatery invites you on a journey filled with the flavours of Italy. Atavola’s menu is a testament to its commitment to Italian traditions. Start your dining experience with tempting appetizers that showcase the freshest ingredients. As you explore the main course options, you’ll discover a delightful variety of meat, vegetarian, and vegan pasta dishes, each prepared with precision and care.
One standout dish is the homemade pasta adorned with wild mushrooms, fresh rocket, and a subtle drizzle of truffle oil, elegantly finished with parmesan cheese. Atavola’s desserts are equally enticing, featuring classic Italian delights like tiramisu and the indulgent Dolce della Nonna. With its commitment to authentic Italian flavours, Atavola is a must-visit destination for Italian cuisine seekers in Cape Town.
Atavola Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 12 pm to 3 pm, 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm and on Saturdays from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Address: Shop 1, Library Square Wilderness Road, Claremont, Cape Town
Website: https://www.atavola.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 671 1763
Borruso’s 🍕
Borruso’s, located in Kenilworth is a sanctuary for Italian cuisine lovers. This charming Italian restaurant offers a delectable menu that holds rich and varied flavours of Italy. To kick off your dining experience at Borruso’s, indulge in a selection of mouthwatering starters. Options like the classic Focaccia with garlic or the enticing Fig Focaccia, topped with blue cheese and fig preserve, set the stage for a delightful meal.
For the main course, Borruso’s presents an array of wood oven pizzas that feature crisp, thin crusts and an assortment of toppings to satisfy every palate. Their homemade pasta is complemented by a varied range of pasta sauces, ensuring a customizable dining experience for guests. Borruso’s offers a tantalising dessert menu to round off your meal on a sweet note.
From the Banana Flambé to indulgent Brownies, creamy Cheesecake, and classic favourites like Ice Cream with Chocolate Sauce, Dom Pedro, and Irish Coffee, there’s a dessert to suit every craving. Borruso’s is not just a restaurant; it’s a destination where Italian epicurean traditions come alive. It offers a delightful array of flavours to explore and savour in the heart of Kenilworth, Cape Town.
Burruso’s Opening Hours: Daily from 5 pm to 10 pm
Address: 2 Mains Ave, Kenilworth, Cape Town
Website: https://www.borrusos.pizza/
Contact Number: 021 761 5822
Col’cacchio 🍝
Col’Cacchio, a name known in Cape Town, has been delighting patrons with its Italian-inspired creations since its establishment in 1992. This restaurant has earned a reputation for consistently delivering delicious Italian dishes that cater to a varied range of tastes. Among the highlights of Col’Cacchio’s menu are its pasta dishes.
Classic favourites like Bolognese and Lasagne are expertly prepared, offering a taste of Italy’s epicurean heritage. Nonetheless, it’s the Pollo Pasta that truly stands out, featuring tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, spring onions, and creamy sour cream harmoniously blended in a flavorful tomato sauce. Col’Cacchio is equally renowned for its pizzas, characterized by their thin and delightfully crunchy crusts. The Ortigiano pizza showcases a vibrant combination of artichokes, asparagus, olives, green pepper and mushroom. Meanwhile, the Smokey Joe pizza tantalizes with a slow-cooked smokey BBQ brisket, jalapeño, and tomato salsa.
For dessert, Col’Cacchio offers a varied selection that holds many traditional classics like Tiramisu. Col’Cacchio’s commitment to crafting Italian-inspired dishes with a creative twist has made it a cherished epicurean destination for those seeking a taste of Italy in South Africa.
Col’Cacchio Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday from 11:30 am to 9 pm
Address: Shop 2, Redefine North Wharf Building, 42 Hans Strijdom Ave, Foreshore, Cape Town
Website: https://www.colcacchio.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 419 4848
The Cousins Italian Restaurant 🍇
The Cousins Italian Restaurant offers an authentic Italian dining experience, courtesy of a talented trio of cousins hailing from the charming Adriatic coast of Italy. Stepping into this charming restaurant, guests can expect warm and inviting surroundings paired with the tantalizing flavours of Italy.
The Cousins is renowned for its homemade pasta and known for their authenticity due to the handed down from generation to generation recipes. Take on the chef’s recommendations such as the scrumptious lasagna or the many other Italian delicacies that The Cousins have to offer.
To conclude your Italian feast, The Cousins offers classic desserts like Tiramisu and Panna Cotta, providing the perfect sweet ending to an unforgettable Italian dining experience. With its dedication to authentic flavours and homemade creations, The Cousins is a treasure in Cape Town’s epicurean landscape, inviting diners to savour the essence of Italy’s epicurean traditions.
The Cousins Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 5 pm to 10 pm
Address: 3b Barrack Street, CBD Cape Town
Website: http://www.thecousinsrestaurant.com/
Contact Number: 083 273 9604
Massimo’s 🥂
Massimo’s, an Italian restaurant in Cape Town, offers a unique and inviting dining experience that combines rustic charm with a warm and welcoming environment. As you step inside, you’ll be enveloped by a rustic and eclectic interior, adorned with historical photos that transport you to the heart of Italy.
One of the standout features of Massimo’s is its outdoor dining area, perfect for families and those who appreciate al fresco dining. Here, you can enjoy your meal in a family-friendly setting, complete with jungle gyms and ample space for children to play, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal with loved ones. Service at Massimo’s is characterized by a genuine smile and a personal touch. Many staff members are recruited from the local community, and they take pride in creating a welcoming environment for guests.
The varied menu at Massimo’s caters to various preferences, including a Vegan Menu for those seeking plant-based options, Spuntini and Salads for light appetizers, and a tempting selection of pizza and pasta dishes. To complement your meal, there’s a variety of drinks and desserts, as well as an impressive wine list. Not to be forgotten, there’s even a special menu for your furry friends, ensuring that every member of the family can enjoy a delightful dining experience at Massimo’s.
Massimo’s Opening Hours: Open Monday to Sunday from 12 pm
Address: Oakhurst Farm Park, Hout Bay Main Rd, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Website: https://www.massimos.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 790 5648
Nonna Lina 😋
Located next to the Labia Theatre, right across from UCT, Nonna Lina in Gardens beckons you to embark on a journey to Italy without leaving Cape Town. As you step through their doors, you’ll be instantly transported to an Italian sanctuary that feels like home. Nonna Lina’s mission is clear: to provide an authentic Italian dining experience with genuine aromas and welcoming, unpretentious surroundings.
Whether you’re planning a romantic evening or a casual gathering, their warm environment accommodates all, ensuring a memorable visit. Their varied menu is a testament to their commitment, offering an array of dishes that pay tribute to Italy’s rich epicurean heritage. To complement your meal, Nonna Lina offers a carefully curated wine list, ensuring the perfect pairing for your Italian feast. At Nonna Lina, they invite you to savour a taste of Italy at your table, making every visit a delightful journey into Italian culture and cuisine. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this restaurant promises an authentic Italian experience right in the heart of Cape Town.
Nonna Lina Opening Hours: Mondays from 4:45 pm to 10 pm, Tuesdays to Thursdays from 12:50 pm to 10:15 pm, Fridays to Saturdays from 12 pm to 10:30 pm and Sundays from 12 pm to 10 pm
Address: 64 Orange Street, Cape Town
Website: https://nonnalina.com/
Contact Number: 021 424 4966
Villa 47 🤩
Villa 47, in the heart of Cape Town, is a sanctuary that houses two distinct Italian dining experiences – Locanda and Martini Terazza. This Italian restaurant is a testament to the fusion of tradition and innovation, offering a modern take on Italian cuisine while celebrating the essence of authentic flavours.
At Villa 47, the epicurean journey is defined by a commitment to using the finest quality ingredients, carefully sourced from both international and local producers. This dedication to sourcing excellence ensures that every dish served at Villa 47 is a masterpiece that tantalizes the taste buds. Locanda and Martini Terazza each bring their unique charm to Villa 47.
Locanda offers a contemporary Italian dining experience that showcases the chefs’ creativity. At the same time, Martini Terazza invites patrons to enjoy their meal in an inviting outdoor setting, perfect for soaking in the Cape Town sunshine. Villa 47 is a sanctuary for food enthusiasts, where modern Italian cuisine meets the best of international and local ingredients, promising a memorable dining experience that captures the essence of Italy’s epicurean excellence.
Villa 47 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 7 am to 10 pm and on Saturday from 8:30 am to 10 pm
Address: 47 Bree Street, Cape Town
Website: https://www.villa47.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 418 2740
Posticinio 🧀
Posticino, an Italian restaurant in Cape Town, offers a relaxed and family-friendly dining experience that celebrates the heartwarming flavours of Italy. This welcoming eatery is known for its generous portions, making it a go-to destination for those seeking hearty Italian fare. The menu at Posticino boasts a delectable selection of large pizzas that feature thin, crispy crusts and a wide range of toppings to satisfy all tastes. Moreover, pasta lovers will find a variety of pasta dishes that showcase classic Italian flavours, ensuring that every palate is pleased.
What sets Posticino apart is its dedication to creating a welcoming and laid-back surrounding, perfect for families and groups of friends looking for a casual dining experience. Whether you’re enjoying a pizza with loved ones or indulging in one of their meat dinner specials, you’re sure to feel at home at Posticino. This Italian gem in Cape Town combines the simplicity of Italian cuisine with a warm and inviting environment, making it a favourite for those seeking a taste of Italy in a relaxed setting.
Piccolo Posticino Hout Bay Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 2 pm to 8:30 pm and on Sunday from 1:30 pm to 8:15 pm
Address: 2 Shoreline Center,13 Beach Cres, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Website: https://posticino.co.za/
Contact Number:067 393 1653
Basilico 🫑
Basilico offers a contemporary dining experience across two stylishly designed floors, complete with a charming terrace for al fresco dining. This restaurant is a sanctuary for those in search of authentic Italian cuisine in a modern and welcoming setting. The menu at Basilico features an enticing array of Italian classics, including mouthwatering pizzas with a variety of toppings that cater to varied tastes, and an array of perfectly crafted pasta dishes that celebrate Italy.
The restaurant’s environment seamlessly blends modern sophistication with the warm hospitality of Italian dining. Whether you’re savouring a wood-fired pizza on the terrace or indulging in a hearty bowl of pasta, Basilico provides a delightful setting for an Italian epicurean journey in the heart of Cape Town. Basilico’s dedication to quality ingredients and attentive service ensures that every visit is a memorable experience, making it a top choice for those seeking an authentic taste of Italy in a contemporary, stylish setting.
Basilico Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 12 pm to 9 pm
Address: 32 Kildare Road, Newlands, Cape Town, South Africa
Contact Number: 021 683 5989
Bella Italia – Vredehoek 🍷
If you’re seeking an authentic taste of Italy in Cape Town, look no further than Bella Italia in the charming suburb of Vredehoek. This family-owned pizzeria has been a favourite for locals and visitors for years with its traditional Italian recipes and warm hospitality. At Bella Italia, the focus is on simplicity and quality. The dough is made daily using a secret family recipe, resulting in a thin and crispy crust that’s the perfect canvas for mouthwatering toppings. From the classic Margherita to the robust flavours of Siciliana, Bella Italia’s pizzas showcase the essence of Italian cuisine.
The cosy interior of Bella Italia exudes a rustic charm, transporting diners straight to the heart of Italy. The friendly staff, add to the authentic experience. It’s a place where you can enjoy your pizza while sipping on fine Italian wine or enjoying a creamy tiramisu for dessert. being a family-run restaurant Bella Italia prides itself on great service and great food so if you find yours in Derry St. and pizza is on your mind be sure to check them out.
Bella Italia Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 11:30 am to 10 pm
Website: https://bellapizzerias.co.za/
Address: 27 Derry St, Vredehoek, Cape Town, 8001
Contact Number: 021 461 0639
Email Address: info@bellapizzerias.co.za
Lello’s Deli 🔥
Lello’s Deli is a treasure that shows the true essence of Italy. Owned by the Turilli family, known for their epicurean excellence at Scarpetta, this chic café is a slice of Italian heaven in the heart of the city. Lello’s offers a cosy yet inviting surrounding that beckons visitors to immerse themselves in Italian culture. The menu is a delightful fusion of Italian and local flavours, showcasing their dedication to sourcing the finest local ingredients to create Italian magic.
Beyond their enticing menu, Lello’s boasts a weekend treat for coffee enthusiasts with espresso and pistachio crema-filled cornetti, as well as tempting apple cake. Don’t forget to explore their deli for all your favourite Italian goodies. A visit to Lello’s is a journey into the heart of Italy, where passion for food and exceptional flavours meet in a chic and welcoming setting.
Lello’s Deli Opening Hours: Wednesday to Saturday from 9:30 am to 6 pm
Address: 106 Vos Street & 5 Jarvis Street, Cape Town
Stepbrothers 👦🏻
Stepbrothers, an Italian deli, restaurant, and bar in Cape Town, is the delightful outcome of long-time friends’ shared passion for exceptional food. This multi-dining spot is known for its commitment to delivering fresh, high-quality, and flavour-packed Italian dishes that keep patrons coming back for more. Stepbrothers’ weekly specials are a testament to their dedication to offering varied and enticing epicurean experiences. From mouthwatering pasta dishes to wood-fired pizzas and delectable Italian-inspired delicacies, every item on the menu reflects the passion and craftsmanship that go into creating authentic Italian flavours.
Visiting Stepbrothers is a treat for those with hearty appetites, as the generous portions and bold flavours ensure that you’ll leave completely satisfied. It’s a place where great food and warm hospitality come together to create a memorable dining experience that celebrates the essence of Italian cuisine. When you step into Stepbrothers, be prepared to indulge your senses in an epicurean journey that promises fresh, flavorful, and quality Italian fare, all served with a friendly smile and warm surroundings.
Stepbrothers Opening Hours: Monday from 7 am to 12 pm and from Tuesday to Sunday from 8 am to 10 pm
Address: The Arum, 29 Victoria Road, Bantry Bay, Cape Town
Website: https://www.stepbrothers.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 569 0153
Lupa Osteria 💃🏻
Lupa Osteria, located in the Northern suburbs of Cape Town, is a treasure that’s well worth the journey, even for those residing in the city centre. This Italian restaurant offers an authentic experience that will transport you straight to Italy. Lupa Osteria takes pride in its commitment to quality. Their homemade pasta ensures a fresh and delightful texture that elevates each dish. Meanwhile, their wood-fired pizzas are crafted using imported Italian flour, resulting in a crispy and flavorful crust that’s hard to resist.
To enhance the authenticity of their dishes, Lupa Osteria sources organic free-range chickens and the finest veal available. This dedication to quality ingredients ensures that every bite is packed with delicious Italian flavours. Despite its exceptional quality, Lupa Osteria is incredibly affordable, making it accessible to many diners. It’s a place where affordability and deliciousness converge, promising an Italian dining experience that’s both memorable and budget-friendly, making it a must-visit destination in Cape Town’s Northern suburbs.
Lupa Osteria Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 12 pm to 10 pm and Sunday from 12 pm to 9 pm
Address: Shop 7, The Village Square, Queen Street, Durbanville
Website: https://www.lupa.co.za/
Contact Number: 087 822 1655
Italian restaurants in Cape Town offer the best Italian food while not being in Italy. From the charming trattorias to the upscale fine-dining establishments, these Italian restaurants cater to every palate. Whether you’re savouring a wood-fired pizza with a view or indulging in a romantic candlelit dinner, these eateries promise an authentic taste of Italy right here in Cape Town. So, embark on an epicurean journey through Cape Town’s Italian delights and experience the passion and flavours that make Italian cuisine truly special. Buon appetito!
