Among the many Italian dining options in Cape Town, there are many traditional trattorias, modern ristorantes, and cozy pizzerias to choose from. Whether you are craving handcrafted pasta, wood-fired pizza, or decadent desserts, this guide will guide you through the top 20 Italian restaurants in the city in order to satisfy your cravings. The restaurants on this list have been carefully selected because of their authenticity, ambiance, and food quality.
Key Takeaways
- Cape Town’s Italian dining scene is diverse, offering everything from traditional trattorias to modern ristorantes.
- Handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas are must-tries.
- Many restaurants offer gluten-free and vegetarian options.
1. Scala Italian Restaurants
Where Rome Meets Cape Town
Located in the heart of the CBD, Scala is a below-street-level gem helmed by Michelin-starred chef Luciano Monosilio. The restaurant combines traditional Italian flavors with modern techniques, making it a must-visit for pasta lovers.
Personal Experience:
“The seafood pasta at Scala is a revelation—fresh, flavorful, and perfectly al dente. The aperitivo hour is a delightful touch, offering a true taste of Italian culture.”
Menu Highlights:
- Pasta: Three types of dough (semolina, egg, and white 00 flour).
- Cicchetti: Italian-style snacks served during aperitivo.
Good to Know:
- Gluten-free options available.
- Awarded Two Forks by Gambero Rosso International.
Opening Times:
Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10.30pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 424 7204
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 81 Church Street, Heritage Square, Cape Town CBD
- Google Maps Link
2. LOCO
Bologna on Kloof Street
LOCO brings the flavors of Bologna to Cape Town with its hearty pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and warm trattoria vibe.
Personal Experience:
“The lasagne with asparagus and brie is a must-try. Creamy, rich, and utterly satisfying. Their happy hour cocktails are a steal!”
Menu Highlights:
- Lasagne: Asparagus and brie.
- Tagliatelle: Fillet and mushrooms.
- Wood-Fired Pizza: Crispy and delicious.
Good to Know:
- Happy hour cocktails until 6.30pm daily (R45 each).
Opening Times:
- Tuesday – Thursday, 12pm – 10pm
- Friday + Saturday, 12pm – 10.30pm
- Sunday, 12pm – 9.30pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 424 7504
- WhatsApp: 076 376 0256
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 70A Kloof Street, Gardens
- Google Maps Link
3. The Cousins Trattoria
Romagna in the East City
This charming trattoria, run by three Italian cousins, offers a cozy slice of Romagna in Cape Town.
Personal Experience:
“The Cousins pasta, served from a giant Grana Padano cheese wheel, is a showstopper. Creamy, flavorful, and unforgettable.”
Menu Highlights:
- Cousins Pasta: Tagliolini with cream, mushroom, and thyme.
- Lasagne: Traditional recipe from Cesenatico.
Opening Times:
Monday – Sunday, 6pm – 10pm
Contact:
- Phone: 083 273 9604
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 3b Barrack Street, Cape Town CBD
- Google Maps Link
4. Nonna Lina
Sardinian Flavors in Gardens*
Named after the owner’s grandmother, Nonna Lina is a beloved pizzeria serving thin-crust pizzas and traditional Sardinian dishes.
Personal Experience:
“The wood-fired pizzas are divine, and the culurgiones (Sardinian stuffed pasta) are a must-try.”
Menu Highlights:
- Pizzas: Thin-crust and wood-fired.
- Culurgiones: Traditional Sardinian stuffed pasta.
Opening Times:
- Monday + Tuesday, 4.45pm – 10.30pm
- Wednesday – Saturday, 12.15pm – 10.30pm
- Sunday, 12.15pm – 10.15pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 424 4966
- Address: 64 Orange Street, Gardens
- Google Maps Link
5. Limoncello
Naples in Noordhoek*
Relocated from Gardens to Noordhoek, Limoncello offers a coastal twist on traditional Neapolitan cuisine.
Personal Experience:
“The seafood here is exceptional, and the homemade limoncello is the perfect way to end the meal.”
Menu Highlights:
- Seafood: Fresh catch of the day.
- Wood-Fired Pizzas: Thin-based and delicious.
Opening Times:
- Tuesday – Thursday, 5pm – 10pm
- Friday – Sunday, 12pm – 10pm
Contact:
- Phone: 071 114 8947
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: Corner Beach Road & Pine Street, Noordhoek
- Google Maps Link
6. Carne on Kloof
Meat Lover’s Paradise*
Carne on Kloof is a haven for meat lovers, offering classic Milanese dishes with a focus on high-quality cuts.
Personal Experience:
“The lamb ravioli and chocolate fondant are absolute musts. The flavors are rich and unforgettable.”
Menu Highlights:
- Lamb Ravioli: A classic favorite.
- Chocolate Fondant: Decadent and indulgent.
Opening Times:
- Monday – Thursday, 6pm – 10pm
- Friday + Saturday, 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 426 5566
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 153 Kloof Street, Gardens
- Google Maps Link
7. Posticino
Sea Point Institution*
Posticino is a Sea Point favorite, known for its wood-fired pizzas and generous pasta portions.
Personal Experience:
“The penne al forno is a hearty, comforting dish that reminds me of Sunday dinners in Italy.”
Menu Highlights:
- Penne al Forno: Baked pasta with meatballs.
- Wood-Fired Pizzas: Crispy and flavorful.
Opening Times:
Monday – Sunday, 12.30pm – 10pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 439 4014
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 323 Main Road, Sea Point
- Google Maps Link
8. Osteria Tarantino
Cozy and Charming*
This pocket-sized osteria in De Waterkant offers a warm, rustic vibe and delicious Italian classics.
Personal Experience:
“The 4 Ps pasta (pappardelle, porcini, parmesan, and pancetta) is a flavor explosion. Perfect for a cozy dinner.”
Menu Highlights:
- 4 Ps Pasta: Pappardelle, porcini, parmesan, and pancetta.
- Burrata Salad: Fresh and creamy.
Opening Times:
Monday – Saturday, 1pm – 9pm
Contact:
- Phone: 076 505 1771
- Address: 125A Waterkant Street, De Waterkant
- Google Maps Link
9. Mamma Roma
Northern Italian Flavors*
Mamma Roma has been a Newlands favorite since 1998, offering authentic northern Italian cuisine.
Personal Experience:
“The risotto porcini is creamy and flavorful, and the service is always impeccable.”
Menu Highlights:
- Risotto Porcini: A classic favorite.
- Linguine Pescatore: Seafood pasta.
Opening Times:
- Monday – Saturday, 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 9pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 685 2051
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: Dean Street Arcade, Newlands
- Google Maps Link
10. Gusto Urban Italian
Modern Italian in Century City*
Gusto Urban Italian offers a casual, chic dining experience with a focus on fresh, Italian flavors.
Personal Experience:
“The roast melanzane is a standout dish, and the canal views make for a serene dining experience.”
Menu Highlights:
- Roast Melanzane: Eggplant with tomatoes and basil.
- Neapolitan-Style Pizzas: Crispy and delicious.
Opening Times:
- Monday – Friday, 6.30am – 9.30pm
- Saturday, 7am – 9.30pm
- Sunday, 7am – 2.30pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 202 9142
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 4 Conference Lane, Bridgeways Precinct, Century City
- Google Maps Link
11. Riva Italian Fish Restaurant
Seafood Lover’s Paradise*
Riva specializes in fresh, flavorful seafood dishes with an Italian twist.
Personal Experience:
“The seafood risotto is a must-try—creamy, rich, and packed with fresh flavors.”
Menu Highlights:
- Seafood Risotto: A classic favorite.
- Fish of the Day: Always fresh and delicious.
Opening Times:
Monday – Saturday, 6pm – 10pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 418 0657
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 24/4 Napier Street, De Waterkant
- Google Maps Link
12. Pizza Vesuvio
Neapolitan-Style Pizzas*
Pizza Vesuvio is a family-run trattoria known for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas.
Personal Experience:
“The 72-hour fermented dough makes all the difference. The pizzas are crispy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.”
Menu Highlights:
- Neapolitan-Style Pizzas: Thin and crispy.
- Penne al Salmone: Salmon and cream sauce.
Opening Times:
Monday – Saturday, 12pm – 10pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 914 1414
- Address: Waterfront and Fountain Roads, Bellville
- Google Maps Link
13. A Tavola
Southern Suburbs Favorite*
A Tavola has been a Claremont institution since 2008, offering traditional Italian flavors in a casual setting.
Personal Experience:
“The tagliolini ai funghi e tartufo is a standout dish—earthy, rich, and utterly delicious.”
Menu Highlights:
- Tagliolini ai Funghi e Tartufo: Mushrooms and truffle.
- Linguine Gamberoni: Queen prawns.
Opening Times:
- Monday – Friday, 12pm – 3pm; 5.30pm – 10pm
- Saturday, 6pm – 10pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 671 1763
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: Library Square, Wilderness Road, Claremont
- Google Maps Link
14. Magica Roma
Pinelands Gem*
Magica Roma has been serving authentic Italian classics in Pinelands since the 1970s.
Personal Experience:
“The zuppa di pesce is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cold evening.”
Menu Highlights:
- Zuppa di Pesce: Seafood soup.
- Tiramisu: Decadent and delicious.
Opening Times:
- Monday – Friday, 12pm – 2pm, 6pm – 9pm
- Saturday, 6pm – 9pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 531 1489
- Address: 8 Central Square, Pinelands
- Google Maps Link
15. Il Leone Mastrantonio
Green Point Favorite*
Il Leone Mastrantonio is a Green Point institution, known for its robust flavors and convivial atmosphere.
Personal Experience:
“The penne gamberetti is a standout dish—creamy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.”
Menu Highlights:
- Penne Gamberetti: Baby prawns in tomato cream sauce.
- Tagliata alla Mastrantonio: Grilled sirloin with rocket.
Opening Times:
- Tuesday – Sunday, 12pm – 3.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 421 0071
- Address: 22 Coburn Street, Green Point
- Google Maps Link
16. Old Town Italy (High Constantia)
Old-School Trattoria*
Old Town Italy offers a homely vibe, nonna-style pasta dishes, and creative pizza toppings.
Personal Experience:
“The lasagna here is a comforting, hearty dish that reminds me of home.”
Menu Highlights:
- Lasagna: Traditional and hearty.
- Wood-Fired Pizzas: Creative toppings.
Opening Times:
Monday – Sunday, 8am – 10pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 569 3784
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: Shop 12 High Constantia Centre, Groot Constantia Road, Constantia
- Google Maps Link
17. Ariel Modern Italian
Naples Meets New York*
Ariel Modern Italian combines the energy of Naples and New York with a contemporary twist on Italian classics.
Personal Experience:
“The truffle-flecked mushroom tagliatelle is a standout dish—earthy, rich, and utterly delicious.”
Menu Highlights:
- Truffle-Flecked Mushroom Tagliatelle: A modern classic.
- Neapolitan-Style Pizzas: Thin and crispy.
Opening Times:
Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 023 3643
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 90 Regent Road, Sea Point
- Google Maps Link
18. Villa 47
Bree Street Icon*
Villa 47 is a Cape Town stalwart, offering everything from antipasto platters to classic pastas.
Personal Experience:
“The saltimbocca here is a classic dish done to perfection. The flavors are rich and satisfying.”
Menu Highlights:
- Saltimbocca: A classic favorite.
- Antipasto Platters: Perfect for sharing.
Opening Times:
- Monday – Friday, 7am – 10pm
- Saturday, 8.30am – 10pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 418 2740
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 47 Bree Street, Cape Town CBD
- Google Maps Link
19. Woodlands Eatery
Neighbourhood Gem*
Woodlands Eatery is a cozy, unpretentious spot offering homemade pasta and slow-cooked lamb dishes.
Personal Experience:
“The fettuccine al ragu di agnello is a standout dish—rich, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.”
Menu Highlights:
- Fettuccine al Ragu di Agnello: Slow-cooked lamb.
- Mushroom-and-Artichoke Ravioli: Vegetarian delight.
Opening Times:
Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10pm
Contact:
- Phone: 063 710 4742
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 8 Breda Street, Oranjezicht
- Google Maps Link
20. La Trattoria
Italian Comfort Food*
La Trattoria is a Cape Town favorite, offering hearty Italian comfort food in a warm, welcoming setting.
Personal Experience:
“The spaghetti carbonara here is creamy, rich, and utterly satisfying. It’s the perfect comfort food.”
Menu Highlights:
- Spaghetti Carbonara: A classic favorite.
- Tiramisu: Decadent and delicious.
Opening Times:
Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 424 5174
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 19 Kloof Street, Gardens
- Google Maps Link
FAQs
Q: What is the best Italian restaurant in Cape Town for pasta?
A: Scala and The Cousins Trattoria are top choices for handmade pasta.
Q: Where can I find authentic Neapolitan pizza in Cape Town?
A: Nonna Lina and Pizza Vesuvio are renowned for their authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas.
Q: Are there gluten-free options at Italian restaurants in Cape Town?
A: Yes, many restaurants like Scala and Limoncello offer gluten-free pasta and pizza options.
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. Please verify details directly with the restaurants before visiting.
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