When it comes to exceptional Italian dining in Johannesburg, Gemelli Restaurant in Bryanston stands out as a true gem (pun intended). From its chic ambiance to its commitment to culinary excellence, Gemelli isn’t just another Italian restaurant; it’s an institution in its own right. With an atmosphere that buzzes with energy and a crowd that is as cosmopolitan as they come, this northern suburb eatery has been captivating the city’s food lovers since its debut in 2016. Let’s dive into what makes this place a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Italian cuisine, combined with a touch of modern flair.
Key Takeaways
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Gemelli is an upscale, Italian restaurant in Bryanston, known for its hand-crafted pasta and chic ambiance.
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Signature dishes include Summer Cappelletti, Oxtail Pappardelle, and Twelve-Hour Braised Pork Belly.
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The wine list is extensive, with both local and French options, including sparkling wines and champagnes.
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For dessert, try the Baked Almond and Nougat Cheesecake or the innovative Tiramisu with a Twist.
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The adjacent Phirinyane Bar offers a trendy, glass-encased space for drinks and cocktails.
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Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends when the restaurant is at its busiest.
Gemelli Restaurant Johannesburg
Gemelli is the brainchild of Alessandro Mosupi Khojane, a native of Rome who was raised in a large, food-loving family. His upbringing, where meals were a time for connection and celebration, profoundly influenced his approach to both food and hospitality. He aimed to bring a taste of Italy to Johannesburg, and his vision has certainly come to life in the heart of Bryanston.
From the moment you walk through the doors, you know you’re in for something special. The lively hum of conversation and clinking glasses greets you, setting the tone for an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant, which occupies a sleek and stylish space in the Posthouse Link Centre, is the perfect blend of contemporary design and warm Italian hospitality.
The Atmosphere: Stylish and Welcoming
One of the first things you’ll notice upon arriving at Gemelli is its design. The restaurant boasts a New York loft-style space, with exposed wood, leather accents, and polished concrete. The atmosphere is chic yet comfortable, with rich hues of bronze and copper creating a sophisticated ambiance. The lighting, warm and inviting, adds to the overall feeling of elegance.
But the space isn’t just beautiful — it’s also functional. To accommodate its loyal crowd, Gemelli has expanded with a neighboring venue, Phirinyane Bar, which offers a stylish indoor-outdoor concept. Phirinyane is perfect for those looking for a pre-dinner drink or a night out in its own right, with a wide selection of wine, cocktails, and even champagne. It serves as a trendy space for both locals and visitors to mingle, while the restaurant itself remains a sanctuary for diners seeking a refined culinary experience.
The Menu: A Feast of Fresh, Handcrafted Italian Dishes
At Gemelli, pasta is the star of the show. You won’t find pre-made sauces or mass-produced pasta here — everything is made from scratch. The restaurant prides itself on handcrafting each pasta dish with only the finest ingredients, and it shows. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and delicate or rich and hearty, the menu has something to satisfy every craving.
Standout Dishes
Summer Cappelletti
If you visit Gemelli, do yourself a favor and order the Summer Cappelletti. This dish is a true standout, featuring delicate pasta parcels stuffed with spinach and homemade ricotta and served in a delicate tomato emulsion with a hint of cream and a subtle touch of chili. The dish is light, fluffy, and full of flavor — a perfect example of how Italian cuisine can be both comforting and refined.
Oxtail Pappardelle
On the richer side of things, the oxtail pappardelle is a true crowd-pleaser. The slow-roasted oxtail pairs perfectly with the wide, flat pappardelle noodles, creating a dish that is hearty and full of deep, comforting flavors. It’s the perfect winter dish for those who enjoy a rich, meaty meal.
Twelve-Hour Braised Pork Belly
For red meat lovers, the twelve-hour braised pork belly is a must-try. The pork is tender and succulent, beautifully complemented by a creamy beurre blanc sauce and served with heritage vegetables. The long cooking time ensures the meat is melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the sauce adds a velvety richness to the dish.
The Drinks: An Impressive Wine List
Gemelli’s wine list is extensive, featuring a range of carefully selected wines that pair beautifully with the menu. The restaurant has made sure there’s something for every budget, with options ranging from affordable bottles to premium selections. For bubbly lovers, there are seven different local sparkling wines (MCC) available, many of which are offered by the glass. If you’re in the mood for something extra special, Gemelli also carries a selection of ten French champagnes, available by the bottle.
The addition of Phirinyane Bar has certainly bolstered Gemelli’s drink offerings, and it’s the perfect space to sip on a cocktail or glass of wine before heading into the main dining room.
The Desserts: A Sweet Ending
After indulging in an amazing meal, save room for dessert. Gemelli offers some truly decadent options, each one more irresistible than the last.
Baked Almond and Nougat Cheesecake
The Baked Almond and Nougat Cheesecake is a crowd favorite and for good reason. It’s a rich, indulgent dessert, sprinkled with meringue biscuit crumbs and served alongside caramel popcorn ice cream. The combination of textures and flavors is extraordinary, making it the perfect finish to a spectacular meal.
Tiramisu with a Twist
If you’re a fan of tiramisu, you’ll appreciate Gemelli’s contemporary take on this classic dessert. The dish features espresso syrup, Oreo cookie crumbs, and a mascarpone mousse topped with espresso custard. It’s a deliciously creative spin on the traditional, and one that will leave you wanting more.
Why Gemelli Is a Must-Visit
Gemelli isn’t just another Italian restaurant in Johannesburg — it’s an experience. The food is consistently excellent, the ambiance is chic and welcoming, and the service is top-notch. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a meal at Gemelli promises to be a highlight of your dining adventures in the city.
The restaurant has earned its loyal following, which includes both local food lovers and international visitors. The staff goes above and beyond to make guests feel at home, greeting regulars by name and making sure everyone feels like part of the Gemelli family. It’s a place where food, ambiance, and service all come together seamlessly, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
Practical Information
Address:
Gemelli Restaurant
Posthouse Link Centre, Bryanston
Google Maps Link
Hours of Operation:
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Gemelli Restaurant: 09:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Kitchen closes at 9:30 PM)
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Phirinyane Bar: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
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Closed on Mondays
Contact:
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Phone: +27 10 591 4333
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Email: [email protected]
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Website: gemellirestaurant.co.za
Social Media Links:
FAQs
1. Do I need a reservation at Gemelli?
Yes, Gemelli is very popular, especially on weekends, so it’s advisable to book in advance.
2. What is the price range at Gemelli?
Main courses typically range from R150 to R400, with pasta dishes averaging around R200. Desserts are priced between R60 and R100.
3. Is Gemelli good for special occasions?
Absolutely. The elegant atmosphere, excellent service, and exquisite food make Gemelli a great choice for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special event.
4. Does Gemelli have vegetarian options?
Yes, Gemelli offers several vegetarian dishes, including the Summer Cappelletti and other pasta dishes.
5. Is there parking available at Gemelli?
Yes, there is ample parking available at the Posthouse Link Centre.
Final Thoughts
Gemelli Restaurant is a standout in Johannesburg’s culinary scene. It’s a place where food is celebrated, and the atmosphere is as vibrant as the city itself. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, a meal here is something to remember. The food is exceptional, the service is warm, and the ambiance is perfect for any occasion.
Disclaimer:
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors, such as price, cost, time, and location.
