Modena Italian Eatery: A Review

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Quick Summary

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About Modena Italian Eatery

Nestled quietly in the stylish neighborhood of Parkhurst, Modena Italian Eatery feels like stumbling upon an old friend’s home—a blend of warmth, simplicity, and undeniable elegance.
Opened by acclaimed chef Vassilios Holiasmenos, Modena is a space where authentic Italian traditions meet a modern culinary philosophy.

“It’s not just about good food, it’s about good memories,” I remember Chef Vassilios telling us one evening as he walked from table to table, personally checking on his guests.

Unlike the overly polished fine dining establishments that can sometimes feel intimidating, Modena offers genuine hospitality without sacrificing sophistication.

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First Impressions: Ambiance and Setting

When I first walked into Modena, I was immediately drawn to the earthy tones and natural textures that define the interior.

Soft lighting, understated modern décor, and smartly spaced tables make it perfect for both cozy dinners and lively brunches.

The vibe is

• Relaxed yet refined

• Family-friendly but also romantic

• Stylish without being stuffy

There’s an unmistakable feeling that you’re meant to linger, not rush.

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Meet Chef Vassilios Holiasmenos: The Culinary Mastermind

If you’ve dined at Kolonaki Greek Kouzina or The Blockman, you’ll already know that Chef Vassilios is something of a legend in Johannesburg’s food scene.

At Modena, however, he’s created something even closer to his heart:
An Italian eatery that celebrates fresh ingredients, artisanal preparation, and soulful cooking.

Vassilios’s background is impressive:

• Michelin training in Europe

• Passion for Mediterranean flavors

• Deep respect for homemade techniques

Every dish that comes out of Modena’s kitchen bears his signature attention to detail.

“I cook like I’m cooking for my own family,” he once said to us, smiling as he plated a handmade ravioli dish.

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What’s on the Menu: A Modern Take on Italian Classics

Modena’s menu is succinct yet adventurous, focusing on quality over quantity.
Expect traditional recipes with inventive twists that somehow feel both nostalgic and refreshingly new.

Homemade Pasta Delights

You can’t talk about Modena without praising their handmade pastas.
Each plate is crafted in-house daily, ensuring freshness and authenticity.

Top pasta recommendations:

• Pappardelle with Braised Short Rib: Tender beef, rich sauce, silky pasta.

• Gnocchi with Truffle Butter: Dreamy texture with decadent flavors.

• Spaghetti alle Vongole: Perfectly balanced with clams, white wine, and parsley.

I particularly loved how the pasta was al dente to perfection, a detail that many restaurants tend to overlook.

Seafood, Meat, and Vegetarian Innovations

While pasta shines, the entrees are where Chef Vassilios shows his creative genius.

Standout dishes:

• Grilled Octopus with lemon potatoes

• Osso Buco served with creamy saffron risotto

• Vegetarian Lasagna layered with roasted vegetables and béchamel

Every dish feels well-thought-out with layers of flavor that evolve with each bite.

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Weekend Breakfast Buffet: A Parkhurst Must-Do

Saturdays and Sundays at Modena are an event unto themselves thanks to their Weekend Breakfast Buffet.

Buffet Highlights:

• Fresh baked pastries and breads

• Hearty fry-up: bacon, sausages, eggs, mushrooms, tomatoes

• Cheese and charcuterie selections

• Fresh fruit, granola, yoghurt for healthy eaters

“Their almond croissants are to die for!” a fellow diner whispered as we both reached for the last one.

You can also sip on bottomless mimosas (charged separately), making it an ideal leisurely brunch option.

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Who Should Visit Modena Italian Eatery?

Modena is truly a restaurant for every occasion:

• Romantic date nights: Intimate tables, soft lighting

• Family brunches: Kid-friendly, relaxed setting

• Business lunches: Efficient service, peaceful ambiance

• Friends’ night out: Delicious shared plates and good wine

No matter the reason, Modena offers an experience that feels tailored to you.

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Essential Info: Contact Details, Hours, and Pricing

Average Pricing:

• Starters: R85–R150

• Mains: R180–R320

• Desserts: R70–R110

• Wines (by glass): R60–R120

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Real Reviews and Feedback

Here’s what diners are saying:

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Pros and Cons of Dining at Modena

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FAQs: Everything You Need to Know

Do I need a reservation for Modena Italian Eatery?

While walk-ins are welcome, reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekends and the breakfast buffet.

Is Modena Italian Eatery kid-friendly?

Yes! Modena is very family-friendly, with a relaxed environment and kid-friendly menu options.

Does Modena accommodate dietary restrictions?

They offer vegetarian options, and the kitchen can accommodate certain allergies upon request. Always inform staff when booking.

What is the dress code at Modena Italian Eatery?

Smart casual. There is no strict dress code, but diners usually dress stylishly yet comfortably.

Is there parking available?

Yes, there’s parking at Cobbles Shopping Centre. It can fill up on weekends, so arrive early if possible.

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Final Thoughts: Why Modena Italian Eatery Is Worth the Visit

There are many Italian restaurants in Johannesburg, but few capture the heart and soul of Italy the way Modena Italian Eatery does.
Whether you’re coming for a special occasion or just craving a perfect plate of pasta, Modena makes every meal feel meaningful.

For me, it wasn’t just the food (although that was unforgettable).
It was the feeling of being welcomed, valued, and celebrated that truly made the experience stand out.

So next time you’re in Parkhurst, do yourself a favor:
Book a table at Modena. Thank me later.

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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 pricing, hours, or location details. Please consult official websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.”