Craving an authentic Italian feast that transports your taste buds straight to Italy? Discovering the best Italian restaurants in Johannesburg is an adventure waiting to be explored. Don’t miss out on the chance to savor mouthwatering dishes crafted with passion and tradition—your next favorite dining experience is just around the corner!
5 Must-Try Italian Restaurants in Johannesburg
When it comes to indulging in Italian cuisine, Johannesburg boasts some incredible gems that cater to every palate. From family-run trattorias to upscale dining experiences, each restaurant offers a unique twist on classic dishes. Our curated list highlights the top five Italian spots that have won hearts and taste buds alike, ensuring that every visit is a delightful culinary journey.
Name | Address | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|
Tortellino d’Oro | Oaklands Shopping Centre, Pretoria Road & Victoria street, Oaklands, Johannesburg, 2192, South Africa | ★★★★ 4.4 | 1094 |
Cafe Picobella Trattoria | 66 4th Ave, Melville, Johannesburg, 2092, South Africa | ★★★★ 4.4 | 1043 |
Cosa Nostra | Grant Centre, Grant Ave, Norwood, Johannesburg, 2001, South Africa | ★★★★★ 4.5 | 480 |
Ciccio | SL41, Whiteley Rd, Birnam, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa | ★★★★★ 4.7 | 278 |
Opera | 213 Cradock Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa | ★★★★ 4.2 | 261 |
Tortellino d’Oro
Tortellino d’Oro is a charming eatery that has successfully transformed from a deli into a delightful dining experience. Known for its homemade pasta and authentic Italian dishes, the restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere that is perfect for both casual dining and special occasions. With a focus on quality ingredients and traditional recipes, this establishment has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
What We Liked
- Quality of Food: The homemade pasta is a standout, with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors that truly shine.
- Atmosphere: The decor is warm and inviting, featuring traditional touches that enhance the dining experience.
- Dessert Portions: The desserts are generous, providing an indulgent treat that many patrons rave about.
- Attentive Service: Staff members are noted for their friendliness and attentiveness, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
- Variety of Options: The menu includes vegetarian and kid-friendly choices, making it suitable for a wide range of diners.
What We Didn’t Like
- Portion Sizes: Some main meals are considered small, leaving diners potentially unsatisfied.
- Late Night Service: The service can be slow during late hours, with some basic amenities lacking.
- Pricing: The overall cost can be quite high, especially for larger groups ordering desserts and coffee.
- Single Toilet: The restroom facilities are limited, which might be inconvenient during busy times.
- Kitchen Hours: With the kitchen closing at 9 PM, late diners need to plan their visits accordingly.
Rating Scores
- Food Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Atmosphere: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
- Cleanliness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Overall Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
In summary, Tortellino d’Oro is a delightful destination for those seeking authentic Italian cuisine in a warm and inviting setting. While there are some areas for improvement, particularly regarding portion sizes and pricing, the quality of food and service makes it a worthwhile visit. We look forward to returning for a full dinner and indulging in more of their delectable offerings.
Contact Details
Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Tortellino d’Oro | Oaklands Shopping Centre, Pretoria Road & Victoria street, Oaklands, Johannesburg, 2192, South Africa | N/A | 011 483 1249 |
Cafe Picobella Trattoria
Cafe Picobella Trattoria is a charming eatery located in Melville, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious Italian cuisine. With a focus on providing a warm and welcoming experience, this restaurant has quickly become a favorite among locals. From pizza to pasta, the menu offers a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes, making it an ideal spot for casual dining or a romantic date night.
What We Liked
- Friendly Staff: The staff, including the owner, are noted for their warmth and friendliness, creating a welcoming environment.
- Delicious Food: The pasta and pizza have received high praise for their taste and quality, with many diners expressing their satisfaction.
- Great Deals: The half-price pasta nights on Mondays are a fantastic way to enjoy great food at a more affordable price.
- Cozy Atmosphere: The homely vibe of the restaurant makes it a perfect setting for a relaxed meal or a date.
- Efficient Service: Meals are prepared and delivered promptly, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
What We Didn’t Like
- Crunchy Pizza Base: Some diners found the pizza base to be overly crunchy, which may not appeal to everyone.
- Limited Menu Options: While the offerings are delicious, some might wish for a broader variety of dishes.
- Takeout Experience: Although the takeout was well-prepared, some may prefer dining in for the full experience.
- Busy During Peak Hours: The cozy setting can become crowded during busy times, potentially impacting service speed.
- Parking Challenges: Depending on the time of day, finding parking near the restaurant can be a bit tricky.
Rating Scores
- Food Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Atmosphere: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Cleanliness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Overall Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
In conclusion, Cafe Picobella Trattoria is a delightful spot that excels in providing quality Italian food and a warm atmosphere. With friendly staff and delicious dishes, it’s no wonder that many patrons are eager to return. While there are minor areas for improvement, the overall experience is highly enjoyable, making it a recommended destination for anyone in the area.
Contact Details
Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Cafe Picobella Trattoria | 66 4th Ave, Melville, Johannesburg, 2092, South Africa | 011 482 4309 |
Cosa Nostra
Cosa Nostra is an Italian restaurant located in Norwood, Johannesburg, renowned for its authentic atmosphere and generous portions. With a focus on delivering delicious Italian cuisine, this eatery has garnered a loyal following among locals and visitors alike. The owner, Salvatorri, is known for his warm hospitality, making each guest feel like part of the family.
What We Liked
- Generous Portions: The dishes served at Cosa Nostra are notably large, ensuring that diners leave satisfied.
- Delicious Food: Many patrons rave about the taste of the food, highlighting its authenticity and quality.
- Welcoming Atmosphere: The restaurant exudes a cozy and inviting vibe, reminiscent of a traditional Italian trattoria.
- Personal Touch: The owner’s involvement in the dining experience adds a unique charm and warmth to the visit.
- Hidden Gem: Many consider Cosa Nostra a hidden treasure in Norwood, making it a special find for Italian cuisine lovers.
What We Didn’t Like
- Phone Reservation Issues: Several guests reported difficulties when trying to make reservations over the phone, with calls being dropped.
- Inconsistent Service: While the food and atmosphere are praised, some have experienced frustrations with the staff’s phone etiquette.
- Limited Availability: Due to its popularity, securing a table can be challenging, especially during peak times.
- Noise Levels: The cozy setting can sometimes lead to elevated noise levels, which may affect the dining experience.
- Parking Challenges: Finding parking in the area can be a bit of a hassle during busy hours.
Rating Scores
- Food Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Service: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
- Atmosphere: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Cleanliness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Overall Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
In summary, Cosa Nostra stands out as a top choice for Italian dining in Johannesburg, offering generous portions and delicious flavors in a welcoming atmosphere. While there are some service-related issues that need addressing, the overall experience is highly enjoyable. We look forward to returning to savor more of their delightful offerings and hopefully experiencing smoother reservations in the future.
Contact Details
Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Cosa Nostra | Grant Centre, Grant Ave, Norwood, Johannesburg, 2001, South Africa | N/A | 011 728 1833 |
Ciccio
Ciccio is a vibrant Italian eatery that prides itself on delivering delicious pizza and pasta dishes in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Located in a lively area, this restaurant aims to provide a memorable dining experience for families, friends, and special occasions. With a focus on quality ingredients and friendly service, Ciccio has quickly become a go-to spot for Italian cuisine enthusiasts.
What We Liked
- Tasty Pizza: The El Greco pizza received positive feedback for its flavor, particularly the generous tomato base and freshly grated Parmesan.
- Friendly Staff: Many diners appreciated the warm service from the staff, contributing to a welcoming dining environment.
- Generous Portions: The restaurant is known for its ample serving sizes, ensuring that guests leave satisfied and full.
- Great Ambiance: The relaxed atmosphere makes it a suitable place for gatherings, including special events like birthday parties.
- Effort for Special Occasions: The team at Ciccio is dedicated to making events memorable, as noted by patrons who hosted celebrations there.
What We Didn’t Like
- Pizza Base: Some guests found the pizza base to be oily and lacking the authentic Italian taste they expected.
- Gnocchi Experience: The gnocchi was described as heavy and rich, which may not appeal to everyone after a few bites.
- Limited Dessert Options: The absence of desserts on the menu was considered a strange choice by some diners.
- Inconsistent Pizza Quality: Not all pizzas met expectations, with some patrons feeling they were not special or memorable.
- Mixed Reviews on Returning: While some loved the experience, others felt it wasn’t worth a special trip back.
Rating Scores
- Food Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Atmosphere: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Cleanliness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Overall Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
In conclusion, Ciccio offers a delightful Italian dining experience with tasty food and friendly service in a cozy atmosphere. While there are some areas for improvement, particularly regarding the pizza base and dessert options, the overall experience is enjoyable. We look forward to returning and trying more dishes, especially given the generous portions and warm hospitality that the restaurant is known for.
Contact Details
Logo | Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Ciccio | SL41, Whiteley Rd, Birnam, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa | 082 887 1531 |
Opera
Opera is a stylish restaurant located in Johannesburg, known for its inviting atmosphere and diverse menu offerings. With options ranging from breakfast to pasta, pizza, and cocktails, this establishment caters to a variety of tastes and preferences. The combination of a cozy outdoor seating area and an elegant indoor space makes it a popular spot for both casual dining and special occasions.
What We Liked
- Excellent Location: The restaurant’s outdoor seating provides a pleasant atmosphere, enhanced by a refreshing breeze.
- Diverse Menu: With a wide range of options, including breakfast, pasta, pizza, and cocktails, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
- Generous Portions: Many diners appreciated the large serving sizes, making it a satisfying dining experience.
- Friendly Service: The staff, particularly waiter Jonas, received high praise for their attentiveness and hospitality.
- Classy Vibe: The decor and ambiance contribute to a classy dining experience, making it ideal for both casual outings and special events.
What We Didn’t Like
- Inconsistent Dessert Quality: While the red velvet cake was praised, the chocolate cake was described as dry and disappointing.
- Mixed Experiences: Some guests had varying experiences, with a few feeling that certain dishes did not meet their expectations.
- Busy Atmosphere: The lively environment may not be suitable for those seeking a quiet dining experience.
- Service Timing: During peak hours, service may be slower, impacting the overall dining experience.
- Limited Parking: Depending on the time of day, finding parking near the restaurant can be a challenge.
Rating Scores
- Food Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Atmosphere: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Cleanliness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Overall Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
In summary, Opera stands out as a delightful dining destination in Johannesburg, offering a cozy atmosphere, a diverse menu, and friendly service. While there are some inconsistencies with dessert quality and occasional service timing issues, the overall experience is enjoyable. We look forward to returning to savor more of their delicious offerings and to experience the welcoming vibe that Opera has to offer.
Contact Details
Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Opera | 213 Cradock Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa | N/A | 011 447 3223 |
What is The Cost of the Best Italian Restaurants in Johannesburg
Dining at the best Italian restaurants in Johannesburg can vary significantly in price, depending on the establishment’s ambiance, location, and menu offerings. Understanding the cost can help you plan your visit, ensuring that you enjoy a delightful meal without any surprises. Here’s a breakdown of what you can generally expect to spend at these popular spots.
Average Price Range
Below is a table that outlines the average costs for different dining experiences at Italian restaurants in Johannesburg:
Type of Meal | Average Cost per Person (ZAR) |
|---|---|
Lunch | 150 – 300 |
Dinner | 300 – 600 |
Special Occasions | 600 – 1,200 |
Takeaway | 100 – 250 |
Breakdown of Costs
Lunch: Most Italian restaurants offer lunch specials that provide excellent value. Expect to pay between 150 and 300 ZAR for a meal, which typically includes a main dish and a drink.
Dinner: Evening dining can be more expensive, with average costs ranging from 300 to 600 ZAR per person. This often includes a multi-course meal featuring appetizers, mains, and desserts.
Special Occasions: For those celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or other significant events, dining at upscale Italian restaurants can range from 600 to 1,200 ZAR per person. These meals usually come with a more extensive menu and premium wine pairings.
Takeaway: If you prefer enjoying Italian cuisine at home, takeaway options are available at a more budget-friendly range of 100 to 250 ZAR, depending on your order.
Additional Considerations
Wine and Drinks: Pairing your meal with wine can increase your total bill. Expect to pay around 50 to 200 ZAR for a glass of wine, while bottles can range from 200 to 1,000 ZAR depending on the selection.
Service Charges: Many restaurants include a service charge, typically around 10-15% of your total bill, especially for larger groups.
Promotions and Specials: Keep an eye out for special promotions or happy hour deals, which can offer significant savings on dining experiences.
Understanding these costs can help you enjoy the culinary delights of Johannesburg’s Italian restaurants while staying within your budget. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual lunch or a lavish dinner, there’s something for everyone!
FAQ
What is the average cost of dining at an Italian restaurant in Johannesburg?
The average cost can range from 150 ZAR for lunch to about 600 ZAR for dinner. Special occasions may cost between 600 and 1,200 ZAR per person.
Are reservations recommended at popular Italian restaurants?
Yes, making reservations is advisable, especially during weekends and holidays. Many top restaurants can get quite busy, so securing a table in advance ensures a smoother dining experience.
Do Italian restaurants in Johannesburg offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Most Italian restaurants provide vegetarian choices, and many are beginning to incorporate vegan options as well. It’s always a good idea to check the menu or ask the staff for specific dietary needs.
Can I order takeout from these restaurants?
Absolutely! Many Italian restaurants in Johannesburg offer takeout services, allowing you to enjoy your favorite dishes at home. Check their websites or call ahead to confirm availability.
What types of payment do Italian restaurants accept?
Most establishments accept major credit cards, cash, and sometimes mobile payment options. Always confirm with the restaurant beforehand to avoid any inconvenience.
Conclusion
Exploring the best Italian restaurants in Johannesburg offers a delightful culinary experience that celebrates rich flavors and authentic traditions. From cozy trattorias to upscale dining venues, each restaurant provides a unique atmosphere and a diverse menu that caters to various tastes and budgets. Understanding the costs associated with dining out and the importance of reservations can enhance your experience, ensuring you enjoy every moment. Whether you’re seeking a casual lunch or an elegant dinner, Johannesburg’s Italian dining scene promises to satisfy your cravings and create lasting memories. So, gather your friends or family and embark on a flavorful adventure that will surely leave you yearning for more!
How We Picked the Best Italian Restaurants in Johannesburg
Choosing the best Italian restaurants in Johannesburg required a thoughtful approach, as we aimed to provide a well-rounded selection that reflects the city’s diverse culinary scene. Our process involved several key factors that guided our decisions and ensured that only the finest establishments made the list.
First, we conducted extensive research to identify popular dining spots. This involved exploring various online reviews, food blogs, and social media platforms where food enthusiasts share their experiences. We wanted to capture a broad spectrum of opinions to get a sense of what makes each restaurant stand out.
Next, we visited the shortlisted restaurants to experience their ambiance, service, and, most importantly, the food. This firsthand experience allowed us to assess the authenticity of the dishes and the overall dining atmosphere. We paid special attention to the following elements:
Quality of Ingredients: Freshness and authenticity of ingredients play a crucial role in Italian cuisine. We looked for restaurants that prioritize high-quality, locally sourced, and imported ingredients.
Menu Diversity: A well-crafted menu featuring a variety of traditional and contemporary dishes showcases the chef’s creativity. We favored places that offered a range of options, from classic pasta to innovative desserts.
Customer Service: Exceptional hospitality enhances the dining experience. We observed how staff interacted with guests, their knowledge of the menu, and their willingness to accommodate special requests.
Reputation and Consistency: Long-standing establishments with a solid reputation often indicate quality and reliability. We considered restaurants that have consistently received positive feedback over time.
Finally, we gathered insights from locals and food critics who know the Johannesburg dining scene well. Their recommendations and experiences added depth to our selections, ensuring that we captured a comprehensive view of the best Italian offerings in the city.
Through this meticulous process, we are confident that our list represents the very best Italian restaurants Johannesburg has to offer, each promising a memorable culinary experience.