There’s just something about Italian food that always feels comforting. The good news is, you don’t have to be in Rome or Milan to enjoy it. South Africa has quite a number of Italian restaurants where the pizza comes out crisp from the oven, the pasta is fresh, and the flavors actually remind you of Italy. If you’ve been craving a proper Italian meal, these spots are definitely worth checking out.

Best 10 Italian Restaurants in South Africa

1. Al Pescatore Italian Restaurant

Al Pescatore is one of the oldest restaurant in Ballito. Al Pescatore is iconic for its unique dishes, sensational view and of course excellent service. The restaurant also scores high marks for being pet-friendly, going the extra mile to accommodate four-legged guests. With its fabulous food, superb service, and stunning setting, Al Pescatore Italian Restaurant is a must-visit when in South Africa.

What Customers Are Saying

"What an absolutely perfect dining experience! The service was impeccable; the food was out of this world and the ambience a delight. Not a restaurant, a symphony! Don’t miss out!" - Lauren Nei

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Opening Times: 11am-9.30pm
  • Address: 14 Edward Pl, Ballito, Dolphin Coast, 4399, South Africa

2. Gemelli

Gemelli Restaurant was founded on the concept of great, wholesome Italian food for the entire family. Founder, Alessandro Mosupi Khojane grew up in Roma, Italy, around a large family who enjoyed entertaining friends, which sparked his own love for people and food. The menu is a celebration of contemporary Italian cuisine, crafted with a focus on seasonal ingredients, sustainability, and the rich traditions of Italian cooking. The team at Gemelli takes great pride in providing exceptional service and ensuring that every visit to our restaurant is a memorable one.

What Customers Are Saying

"The restaurant is very neat, their toilets are clean and liked their hand lotion after washing my hands, the menu is great, our waitress Charity was very friendly. The ambiance of the place is amazing. Enjoyed the food." - Sibongile Molokele

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Opening Times: 12pm-10.30pm (Tue-Sun)
  • Address: 13 Posthouse Link Centre Cnr, Main Rd, Bryanston, Sandton, 2191, South Africa
     

3. Tortellino d'Oro

Tortellino d'Oro, nestled in Oaklands Shopping Centre, has established itself as a celebrated haven for Italian cuisine in Johannesburg. The restaurant boasts a charming ambiance with elegant white tablecloths and roses, making it ideal for a romantic evening or a delightful meal with friends.

What Customers Are Saying

"Everything about this place is told notch. Helpful staff with very good customer services, I will do more meeting here." - Mahlako Mahlaela

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Opening Times: 7:15am-10:30pm
  • Address: Oaklands Shopping Centre, Pretoria Road & Victoria street, Oaklands, Johannesburg, 2192, South Africa
     

4. Modena Italian Eatery

A family run restaurant inspired by the vibrant Italian city it’s named after; Modena brings the heart of Italy to Johannesburg. Here, tradition meets creativity – where the aroma of slow-cooked sauces, freshly baked bread, and handmade pasta fills the air. Rooted in Italy’s rich culinary heritage, the menu pays tribute to the flavours of Modena, home to world-renowned balsamic vinegar and Parmigiano Reggiano. Every dish is a celebration of craftsmanship, authenticity, and the joy of sharing good food. Step inside, take a seat, and experience La Dolce Vita “the sweet life” one bite at a time.

What Customers Are Saying

"Exceptional from the moment you walk through the door to the moment you leave. Service, food, wine and vibe all on top form! Would highly recommend to anyone." - Jayden Wolman

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Opening Times: 8am-11pm (Mon-Fri), 7am-11pm (Sat-Sun)
  • Address: Shop 10 Cobbels Shopping Centre 4th Ave, Parkhurst, Johannesburg, 2120 South Africa 

5. Pronto Italian Restaurant

Pronto is an award-winning restaurant, run with love and passion. The team of over 40 staff members produces more than 70000 pastas every year. Pronto has developed a reputation for serving up consistent quality and friendly service. The best local and imported ingredients form the backbone of their menu. But aside from great food, what sets Pronto apart has been its ability to establish itself as ‘neighbourhood local’ in an industry flooded with franchised chains. But while families and locals are a familiar sight at Pronto, so too are the slick executives and well-heeled professionals from the Sandton CBD hub and surrounding office parks. Many a harried businessperson can be seen collecting take-away sauces for family dinner in the evenings.

What Customers Are Saying

"The Chicken basil pesto pasta with cream is my top favourite dish. When I think about a nice Italian pasta dish that's my first thought. That first bite will create a spirtual connection with the universe and the stars will go out for just a moment." - George Sirmalenios

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Opening Times: 8am-3pm (Mon/Sun), 8am-9pm (Tue-Sat)
  • Address: The Colony, 345 Jan Smuts Avenue Craighall, Johannesburg, South Africa

6. Café del Sol

Imagine a harmonious palette of green, white, grey, and aubergine, evoking nature, nurture, and nourishment. Welcome to Café del Sol Botanico, an elegant ‘greenhouse’ brimming with blossoms, herbs, and plants. Here, you will savor the finest, most delectable dishes, each one a transportive experience to a sun-drenched paradise. Café del Sol Botanico is an exquisite oasis of comfort and sheer deliciousness that lingers in your memory, beckoning you back time and again.

What Customers Are Saying

"Outstanding service. Amazing food. Even on a quiet Tuesday afternoon, everything was perfect. Fantastic risotto and pizza." - Trisan Reddy

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Opening Times: 12pm-10pm (Tue-Sat), 12pm-5.30pm (Sun)
  • Address: Cnr William Nicol & Ballyclare Dr Bryanston Shopping Centre, Bryanston, Sandton, South Africa

7. The Cousins Trattoria

A family-run Italian eatery where tradition meets passion. From hand-rolled pasta to rich, hearty sauces, every dish reflects the deep-rooted Italian heritage. To complement the food, they serve the best Italian wine. The warm ambiance and attention to detail make dining at The Cousins Trattoria a sensory delight. Come in for a warm, inviting dining experience—because at The Cousin’s, everyone is family.

What Customers Are Saying

"The best Italian in South Africa! I’m blown away by the food, the flavor, the gluten free pasta quality, but what really got me was the energy. The staff, the vibe. Do yourself a favor and take yourself there immediately. If you can get a booking!" - Dvorah Stein

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Opening Times: 5pm-10pm
  • Address: 3b Barrack St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, South Africa

8. Villa 47

Villa 47 is a vibrant, chic eatery in the heart of Cape Town, offering refined Italian cuisine with the finest local produce, wines and cocktails. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, dinner or the spaces in between, this is a place where life is celebrated through food.

What Customers Are Saying

"The atmosphere was warm and welcoming. It was just the right level of quiet to enjoy a conversation. The service was exceptional. Our waitress was attentive and made sure our glasses were always topped up. The food was interesting. Each dish had uniquely intriguing flavors, but the lamb was the highlight. The portion size was quite generous, and it was tender and delicious. Overall, it was a great dinner experience." - Ekremet Akainyah

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Opening Times: 7am-10pm (Mon-Fri), 8:30am-10pm (Sat)
  • Address: 47 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, South Africa

9. Ristorante La Trinita

Ristorante La Trinita offers an unrivaled menu of simple and incredible everyday Italian dishes. By utilizing only, the freshest of ingredients and making their own pasta and pizza bases you are guaranteed of freshness without the preservatives. No need to go to Italy to experience Italian food, with the combined generations of expertise in fine Italian cuisine, they bring it to you. They have been satisfying even the most discerning palates for more than 40 years. The secret to this talent is simplicity, passion and the best quality of fresh food. Italy made in SA!

What Customers Are Saying

"AMAZING food! Hands down the best Italian restaurant in the city " - Bavini Naidoo

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Opening Times: 
  • Address: G1A, Kyalami Downs Shopping Centre Kyalami Boulevard &, Main Rd, Khayalami Park, Midrand, 1684, South Africa

10. Caraffa Restaurant

If you’re craving proper trattoria-style food with a lively atmosphere, Caraffa in Pretoria is a solid pick. The space has that old-school Italian feel—think exposed brick, Chianti bottles on display, and rustic wooden furniture that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into the Alps. The menu keeps things simple but satisfying; wood-fired meats (the 500g T-bone is a favourite), fresh pasta made in-house by a mother-and-daughter team, and a good range of seafood from oysters to mussels. Their lasagne, made with herbs from the garden, is a standout. It’s very much a neighbourhood spot, so regulars are greeted like family, and even when it gets busy, the service stays warm and attentive.

What Customers Are Saying

"Fantastic Italian food and steaks. Well done Enrico and team!" - Larry Mendel

Restaurant Information

  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Opening Times: 12pm-2:30pm, 5:30pm-9:30pm (Mon-Fri), 5:30pm-9:30pm (Sat)
  • Address: 46 Selati St &, Garsfontein Rd, Alphen Park, Pretoria, South Africa

Conclusion

At the end of the day, South Africa has more than enough Italian spots to keep your cravings sorted. From simple trattoria-style meals to proper fine dining experiences, you’ll always find somewhere that delivers on taste and atmosphere. So the next time you’re missing home-style cooking or just want a good bowl of pasta, you already know where to go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there Italian restaurants with a casual, family-style atmosphere?
Definitely. Places like trattorias and neighborhood Italian cafés give that homely feel, serving hearty meals in a relaxed setting.

Do Italian restaurants in South Africa cater to vegetarians?
Most do. Expect fresh salads, pasta primavera, wood-fired veggie pizzas, and dishes made with seasonal ingredients.

Can I get authentic Italian wine at these restaurants?
Yes. Many Italian restaurants import wines from Italy and also serve local South African wines that pair beautifully with pasta and seafood.

Can I find upscale Italian dining in South Africa?
Yes. Cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg have fine dining Italian restaurants that combine elegance with authentic flavors.

About Dinesurf

Dinesurf is your trusted companion for discovering the best dining experiences across Africa. Our team is dedicated to analyzing thousands of online reviews and ratings from diners to curate the most comprehensive and reliable restaurant guides. This particular guide on dining in South Africa was meticulously put together after extensive research and review analysis, ensuring you have the most accurate information at your fingertips.

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