There’s no denying that the mixed bag of Italian restaurants in Johannesburg keeps the city’s dining scene interesting. Renegades such as Franco Forleo set the table early, opening their doors in the 70s. Whether they’re longstanding institutions or future classics with modern, stylish edge, we’ve covered all bases, from handmade pizza bases to housemade pasta, northern Italy spots and cosy little trattorias.
Saint
Saint is the spectacular restaurant by Chef David Higgs and Gary Kyriacou, owners of Marble. It is based on the concept of ‘Pazzo Italiano’ – loosely, crazy fun Italian – and opened in August 2018. The space quickly became the go-to pizza and Champagne destination for Sandton’s trendy, up-and-coming business crowd.
Today, their culinary approach centres on the use of specialised cooking methods, including a Josper grill and a wood-fired oven, which impart distinct smoky flavours and ensure tender results, particularly across their comprehensive steakhouse, pizza, and seafood selections. Signature dishes range from various gourmet pasta creations, such as Lobster Pasta and Pea & Truffle Pasta, to wood-fired pizzas and premium cuts of meat.
The atmosphere is characterised by an elegant design, chic decor, and warm lighting, providing a luxurious backdrop for the dining experience. Saint also features a stylish bar with a curated selection of wines and cocktails.
When: Daily, 12pm to 10:30pm
Where: Saint, The Marc, Corner Rivonia and Maude Street, Sandton
Website: saint.restaurant | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 084 050 3333
Illovo Mastrantonio
Illovo Mastrantonio has been the prized jewel of the Mastrantonio group for over 25 years in Illovo Square, Johannesburg. The restaurant is committed to fine-tuning an authentic Italian dining experience through classic, carefully prepared dishes.
Leaf over the comprehensive range of traditional Italian cuisine, from mixed antipasti like the classic Vitello Tonnato and Melanzane alla Parmigiana, to a variety of speciality pasta dishes and main courses. Seafood offerings, such as flash-fried Calamari and fresh mussels, are also key menu highlights.
The mood is designed to be homely and warm, providing a touch of elegance that supports a traditional dining experience. Both indoor seating and outdoor seating (al fresco dining) are available, and a bar, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
When: Monday to Saturday, 12pm to 10pm. Sunday, 12pm to 3pm
Where: Shop 5C, Illovo Square, 3 Rivonia Rd, Illovo, Johannesburg
Website: mastrantonio.com/illovo-mastrantonio | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 268 6754
Modena Italian Eatery
Modena Italian Eatery, the hidden gem of Parkhurst, is all charm. It’s a simple and welcoming space with the familiarity of a neighbourhood restaurant. Inside, there’s a modern and understated feel that is highlighted by beautifully spaced interiors with earthy colours.
What adds to the level of comfort is Chef and Owner Vassilios Holiasmenos’ take on authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist. Vassilios is a culinary mastermind who is also responsible for Kolonaki Greek Kouzina and The Blockman. For Modena Italian Eatery, though, he brings his passion for food and love for cooking to every dish that comes out of the kitchen. All pasta on the menu is homemade, while the true creativity and taste come to the fore through seafood, meat and vegetarian dishes.
When: Daily, from 7am to 11:30pm
Where: Shop 10, Cobbels Shopping Centre 4th Ave, Parkhurst, Johannesburg
Website: eatmodena.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 010 900 0912
La Pergola
La Pergola is a cosy and charming spot hidden away at 44 Stanley in Braamfontein Werf. Their dishes incorporate subtle influences from bordering regions like France, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland into familiar Northern Italian recipes. Key offerings on the menu include delicate seafood, such as Salmon Tartare, alongside classic preparations like vegetarian pizza. La Pergola is open for lunch and dinner, with breakfast also available on Saturdays and Sundays.
The interior design provides a warm and inviting atmosphere. Inside you’ll find a comfortable, well-appointed space characterised by simple furnishings and fresh flower arrangements. The distinctly mod setting within the 44 Stanley precinct contributes to a relaxed and sophisticated dining environment, perfect for everyday meals or dinners.
When: Tuesday to Friday, 11am to 10pm. Saturday, 9am to 10pm. Sunday, 9am to 6pm
Where: 44 Stanley, 44 Stanley Avenue, Braamfontein Werf, Johannesburg
Website: lapergola.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 087 110 0626
SINN Johannesburg
A fusion of Italian and South African cuisine meets under the watchful eye of celebrated chef Enrico Persegani at SINN Johannesburg. Chef Enrico first visited South Africa in 2023 and familiarised himself with the country’s food culture before bringing his vision for SINN to life.
Think bold flavours, striking design, and immersive visuals that come together for a sensory experience. The atmosphere is ultra-modern, moody, and with a grungy-fashion edge, which means it’s perfect for dress-up date nights in Sandton.
For those unsure of what to choose, the restaurant’s handmade pasta offering is bound to impress. Much like many of the respected Italian restaurants in Johannesburg, SINN creates their pasta from scratch using only the finest ingredients to bring a refined depth of flavour to every dish. The pesto pasta is a prime example, with fresh spinach in the dough, basil for the pesto, and a twist of pecorino romano, sourced straight from Italy.
The rest of the menu is accentuated by gourmet pizza and a range of Wagyu steaks that are marinated and grilled over dry wood. Once you’ve finished your mains, return to the menu for a short but incredibly sharp serving of desserts such as a Negoni-infused pannacotta and a classic Tiramisu, among others.
When: Daily, from 12pm
Where: Shop 27, LXX, 70 Rivonia Rd, Sandhurst, Sandton
Website: sinn.restaurant | Email: [email protected]
Verdicchio Restaurant and Wine Cellar
On the hunt for a proper Italian restaurant? For over two decades, Verdicchio Restaurant & Wine Cellar has been a firm favourite for an unforgettable Mediterranean journey, right here in Montecasino, Fourways.
Their interiors perfectly blend old-world charm with a contemporary twist. The menu captures the essence of exceptional Italian and Mediterranean flavour. Try the famous signature dish: the Pasta Granada, a spectacular experience as it’s served directly from the giant cheese wheel. For wine enthusiasts, their cellar is truly award-winning, boasting over 300 expertly curated labels.
When: Monday to Thursday, 12pm to 11pm. Friday and Saturday, 12pm to 11:30pm. Sunday, 12pm to 10pm
Where: Shop 9, Montecasino, Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Sandton
Website: verdicchio.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 511 1969
Gemelli Restaurant
Founder Alessandro Mosupi Khojane’s love of Italian food is realised through this wonderful restaurant in Bryanston. Don’t let the chic white tablecloths and modern interior fool you, Gemelli radiates a friendly, welcoming vibe ideal for a casual dinner date or celebration.
The atmosphere is cosy with luxe design motifs that manage to accommodate a strong following of foodie fans that flock from breakfast through to dinner. The menu is thoroughly Italian, and those in the know come for their sumptuous selection of pasta dishes crafted by Head Chef Jono Nel. Unwind after the meal with their traditional gelato, or if your stomach permits, do yourself a favour and go classic with a dark chocolate torte.
When: Monday & Tuesday, 12pm to 3pm and 5:30pm to 9pm; Wednesday to Saturday, 12pm to 3pm and 5:30pm to 10pm; Sunday, 12pm to 9pm
Where: 13 Posthouse Link Centre Cnr, Main Road, Bryanston
Website: gemellirestaurant.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 010 591 4333
Lupa Osteria
With its warm atmosphere and genuine Italian charm, Lupa Osteria is inspired by the beloved Roman legend of the she-wolf who nurtured Romulus and Remus. The venues all capture the spirit of family, authenticity and generosity at the heart of Italian dining.
Each Lupa Osteria offers a vibrant yet relaxed setting where guests can enjoy the simple pleasure of good food made with care. The menu celebrates traditional Italian favourites — from handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas to succulent seafood and tender grilled meats — all crafted with fresh local produce and premium imported ingredients.
When: Various
Where: See all venues here
Website: lupa.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 084 050 3333
Solo Sandton
The menu at Solo Restaurant in Sandton takes inspiration from classic Italian flavours while embracing global influences, resulting in dishes that are fresh, creative and beautifully plated. Think handmade pastas, premium cuts of meat, and bold, flavour-forward combinations that celebrate both tradition and innovation. A thoughtfully curated wine and cocktail selection complements the food, making Solo ideal for everything from elegant dinners to lively social gatherings.
Located in the vibrant heart of Sandton, Solo Restaurant brings contemporary flair to the list of must-visit Italian restaurants in Johannesburg. Known for its now famous archway design and cosmopolitan energy, Solo perfectly balances sophistication with warmth, offering a dining experience that feels both modern and inviting.
When: Daily, 11am to 11pm
Where: Shop 2A, Central Centre Cnr Gwen Lane, Fredman Dr, Sandton
Website: solosandton.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 010 100 8043
Rossa
Rossa in the heart of Bedfordview has earned its place among the most beloved Italian restaurants in Johannesburg. Since opening in 2009, it has become a go-to spot for locals craving authentic Italian flavours served with warmth and heart. The restaurant’s charm lies not only in its welcoming interiors and award-winning pizza but also in the people behind it.
Founder Claudia Lau, a Bedfordview local, grew up in a family where food symbolised connection and comfort. Her vision for Rossa was simple yet powerful — to create a place that feels like home. From rich pastas to perfectly crisp pizzas, every meal reflects her passion for genuine Italian cooking.
When: Monday to Thursday, 10am to 9pm. Friday and Saturday, 10m to 9:30pm. Sunday, 11am to 8pm
Where: Shop 15, Bedford Village, Van Buuren Road, Bedfordview, Johannesburg
Website: myrossa.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 455 5911
LUCÉ at Southern Sun Hyde Park
LUCÉ Restaurant towers atop Hyde Park Corner with sweeping views of Sandton and an elegant dining experience that beautifully blends Italian flair with South African sophistication. Renowned among discerning diners and featured on many lists of top Italian restaurants in Johannesburg, LUCÉ serves a refined menu inspired by Italy’s culinary traditions.
From antipasti to indulgent dolci, each dish celebrates the harmony of seasonal local produce and premium imported ingredients. Expect vibrant salads, hand-crafted pastas, perfectly grilled meats and refined seafood — all prepared with authenticity and flair. The carefully curated wine list showcases South Africa’s finest vintages, thoughtfully paired to enhance every flavour.
When: Daily, from 12:30pm to 2:30pm and 6:30pm to 10:30pm
Where: Southern Sun Hyde Park, Hyde Park Corner, 1st Road, Hyde Park, Sandton
Website: southernsun.com | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 341 8080
Pronto Italian Restaurant
Pronto Italian Restaurant in Craighall Park is known for its warm hospitality, consistency, and genuine sense of community. For over 14 years, this family-run eatery has been driven by love and passion, with a dedicated team of more than 40 staff members producing over 70,000 pasta dishes each year.
Pronto has earned a loyal following of families, friends, and regulars who return time and again for its authentic flavours and friendly service. Using only the finest local and imported ingredients, the menu celebrates honest Italian cooking made with heart.
When: Tuesday to Saturday, 8am to 9pm. Sunday and Monday, 8am to 3pm
Where: 345 Jan Smuts Avenue, Craighall, Johannesburg
Website: prontoitalianrestaurant.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 447 4346
Bellinis
A long-standing favourite on Johannesburg’s dining scene, Bellinis in Illovo has earned its reputation as one of the city’s most iconic Italian restaurants in Johannesburg since its launch in the 1990s. This eatery blends the charm of a classic Italian trattoria with the relaxed sophistication of modern Joburg dining. The menu at Bellinis is a celebration of Italian-inspired comfort food — think perfectly grilled fillets, crisp salads, hearty pastas and pizzas made with care.
When: Monday to Saturday, 11:30am to 9pm. Closed on Sunday
Where: 18 Chaplin Rd, Illovo, Johannesburg
Website: bellinisillovo.com | Tel: 011 880 9168
Fugazzi
Fugazzi is one of the more playful and easy-going Italian restaurants in Johannesburg by the Colada Group, which is also responsible for Mamasamba and Proud Mary. So you know you’re in for a carefully curated space that comes with an equal dose of aesthetics and identity. On the menu, you’ll find New York-style Italian fare such as chicken parmigiana, a modern take on mac and cheese, and effortless eats that are easy on the wallet.
The interior and atmosphere at Fugazzi are modelled after an authentic Italian-American diner concept. Inside, colourful mid-century prints play off against elements of glass and accent light fixtures, while the cosy timber booths really hone in on that cinematic diner feel. A small terrace space gives you a good view of the lively energy at The Zone precinct, but with a facade of greenery for some privacy.
When: Monday to Sunday, 7am to 11pm
Where: The Zone at Rosebank, 177 Oxford Rd, Rosebank, Johannesburg
Website: fugazzi.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 010 730 0690
Settebello
The philosophy at Settebello is about bringing friends, family and loved ones together to enjoy quality, home-cooked style food, in an informal setting filled with love and laughter. SetteBello translates to “The Beautiful Seven”, a number intimately connected with new opportunities, completeness and perfection.
The team have lovingly created a relaxed atmosphere with a contemporary, modern home setting, where sitting down for a meal will feel like embarking on a journey to an Italian Nonna’s kitchen – a place full of laughter, joy and authentic Italian culture. Quite simply, SetteBello is about the simple passion for enjoyable food, making memorable moments with family and friends and living “la dolce vita”.
When: Tuesday to Thursday, 8am – 9pm. Friday, 8am – 9.30pm. Saturday, 9am – 9.30pm. Sunday 9am – 5pm
Where: 7 Marais Rd, Bedfordview, Germiston
Website: settebello.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 065 856 3319
Café del Sol
Café del Sol is a popular Italian restaurant in Johannesburg. The eatery is popular for its superb food and casual, family-friendly atmosphere. Here you’ll find wholesome, quality meals from pan to plate, made with the freshest ingredients.
Founder Luciana opened the venue in 2007 with her daughter Chiara and son Ryan. Their diverse menu features a variety of pasta dishes, pizzas, seafood, and other Italian specialities. The latest branch is housed at Steyn City and comes with an outdoor space for alfresco dining. Bite into Neapolitan-style pizza straight from our pizza oven, antipasto to irresistible dolci and Neapolitan-style pizza straight from our pizza oven. There’s also a deli outlet where you’ll find a large range of speciality meats and cheeses, as well as home-cooked pasta sauces and ready meals.
When: Tuesday to Sunday, from 12pm to 9:30pm
Where: Bryanston | Roodepoort| Steyn City
Website: cafedelsol.co.za | Email: [email protected]
Franco’s Pizzeria & Trattoria
For nearly five decades, Franco Forleo has been a cornerstone of authentic Italian dining in Joburg. A true craftsman of flavour, Franco began his journey in the 1970s as a young pizza chef in Johannesburg’s CBD, mastering the art of traditional Italian cooking. In 1987, he transformed a struggling Parkview eatery into Franco’s, now fondly known as “the dining room of Parkview.”
Today Franco continues to capture the essence of Italy through time-honoured recipes and heartfelt hospitality. The menu celebrates the classics — from antipasti and freshly made pasta to wood-fired pizza, succulent meats, and indulgent dolci. Daily specials add a touch of surprise, inspired by the rich flavours of pizzerias and trattorias across Italy.
When: Tuesday to Saturday, 12pm to 9pm. Sunday, 12pm to 8pm. Closed on Monday
Where: Parkview Centre, Upper Level,Office No.7, Parkview Center, 54 Tyrone Ave, Parkview, Randburg
Website: francoforleo.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 646 5449
Dolci Cafe
Dolci Cafe is one of the more underrated Italian restaurants in Johannesburg that serves a no-frills menu that will guide you through the culinary journey of Italy. This hard-to-find gem hidden away in Craighall Park started on 5 September 2015 as a small Pasticceria and Café serving pastries, breakfast and lunch.
Husband and wife team – Jacqueline Righi-Boyd and Clayton Boyd have taken the time to curate a casual New York-style bar environment for those who want to meet with friends in the neighbourhood to have a cocktail or local Mad Giant beer to end the busy week.
Expect some of the best pizza in town (served unsliced, in an authentic way), a few choices of mains, and starters packed with flavour. You’ll have to make sure you leave room for dessert, such as tiramisu or a good old Affogato with proper ice cream.
When: Tuesday to Sunday, 7:30am to 9:30pm
Where: 28 Clarence Avenue, Craighall Park, Randburg, Johannesburg
Website: dolci.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 010 900 2274
Café Picobella Trattoria
Café Picobella Trattoria is an Italian restaurant in Johannesburg known for its authentic Italian cuisine and charming atmosphere. Located in a buzzy boho neighbourhood of Melville, the space has become a popular dining destination and lures in passers-by with an energetic atmosphere.
On the menu is a diverse menu where traditional Italian dishes prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients take centre stage. Start with a traditional bruschetta, light Caprese salad, or prosciutto-wrapped melon to stay purist.
The pizza menu is legendary with locals for the thin and crispy crust and toppings such as Margherita, Quattro Formaggi, and Diavola. Main courses include a variety of meat and seafood dishes, such as hearty lamb shank that falls off the bone, served on comforting mashed potatoes. Complete your meal with delightful desserts like tiramisu, panna cotta, or cannoli.
When: Monday to Sunday, 8am to 10pm
Where: 66 4th Avenue, Melville, Johannesburg
Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 482 4309
Del Forno
Del Forno has become a household name among Italian restaurants in Johannesburg thanks to its comforting, family-style dining and consistent quality. Founded on a passion for authentic Italian flavours, this easygoing joint offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy hearty, home-style meals made with care.
The extensive menu features everything from wood-fired pizzas and freshly prepared pastas to grilled meats, salads, and gourmet sandwiches — ensuring there’s something for every palate. Using a blend of the finest local produce and imported Italian ingredients, each dish reflects a commitment to freshness and flavour.
When: Various
Where: See full details here
Website: delforno.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 704 1513
