San Giuseppe Pizzeria E Trattoria brings the streets of Italy to Hillcrest's doorstep
There's nothing quite like the experience of dining at an authentic Italian restaurant. From the aroma of freshly baked bread to the sight of steaming plates of pasta, every aspect of the meal is a feast for the senses. And while a trip to Italy is always a dream, you don't have to travel far to experience the joy of Italian cuisine.
One of the most iconic dishes in Italian cuisine is, of course, pizza. And when it comes to pizza, an authentic Italian restaurant simply can't be beaten! If you're looking for a charming dining experience in a European-style café atmosphere, you may not expect us to disclose that this hidden gem's location is actually in a small business park. A fantastic new addition to the plethora of popular eateries in Hillcrest, San Giuseppe Pizzeria E Trattoria is a family-run pizzeria that takes pride in serving authentic Italian wood-fired pizza with fresh ingredients.
Atmosphere and ambience
Before you even step in, you'll immediately feel as though you're walking down the charming streets of Rome. The attention to detail put into the overall decor of this pizzeria is phenomenal, from the wrought iron signage and chalkboard-style specials to the cascading vines and acrylic paintings. Hillcrest resident Dee Wade (fine art teacher) was tasked with the delightful request to create a vibrant series of charming street scene oil paintings on one of the walls. Artist, Nick Vos, also made a valuable contribution to the restaurant's artwork, namely the acrylic pizza oven painting. The warm colours create a comfortable and relaxed dining experience. You'll feel some kind of déjà vu - as if you've been nostalgically transported to a simpler and happier time. You won't just be eating pizza, you'll be experiencing a slice of Italy!
Speaking of, you may have the pleasure of meeting the friendly owner, Daniele Di Mauro. His warm demeanour will make you feel like a cherished guest, rather than just another patron, and his company will enhance your dining experience. With roots in Naples, Italy, Daniele and his family relocated to South Africa when he was just a young lad. Despite the move, Daniele never forgot his Neapolitan heritage, and it wasn't long before he began honing his chef skills. By the tender age of twelve, he had already embarked on his culinary journey of pizza-making, which resulted in us Durbanites having a slice of Italy on Hillcrest's doorstep today.
Cuisine and camaraderie
One of the best things about dining at an authentic Italian restaurant is the sense of community it provides. When you step in for lunch or dinner, you're not just enjoying a meal - you're becoming a part of the centuries-old tradition of hospitality and warmth. From the friendly staff who are always willing to offer recommendations or help with menu choices, to the lively chatter of other patrons, there's a sense of camaraderie and connection that can't be replicated anywhere else. If however, you can't drop by, San Giuseppe Pizzaria E Trattoria's dishes are available for delivery in Hillcrest on the Mr. D app!
What sets this restaurant apart is the perfect balance of simplicity and quality. San Giuseppe's crispy, chewy and slightly charred crust offers the perfect base (made from a sourdough that is fermented for up to 48 hours) that is topped with the finest and freshest ingredients. These pizzas are crafted with just a handful of carefully selected ingredients, allowing the natural flavours of each element to shine through. The 'Giuseppina' is a must-try, boasting Napoletana sugo, mozzarella, olives, salami, pecorino and dried tomatoes. The focus is not on complexity or ornamentation, but on showcasing the beauty of each ingredient in the purest form. Apart from their delicious pizzas, San Giuseppe's also offers a variety of mouthwatering pasta including 'Pasta Al Forno' and 'Melenzane Parmigiano'. For those with a sweet tooth, check the daily specials board for a variety of mouthwatering desserts as well as their selection of frappes and gelato.
A cellar ageing to perfection
The restaurant is currently undergoing renovations to add a much-anticipated wine cellar. From the bold reds of Tuscany to the crisp whites of Sicily, we can't wait to see the variety of wines available to pair with the dishes on the menu.
Whether you're in the mood for a hearty bowl of pasta or a crispy mouthwatering pizza, visit San Giuseppe's on 45 Ridge Road, Hillcrest. With its rich flavours, warm atmosphere and sense of community, it's truly a feast for the senses and a reminder of why we love food and community so much.