OUR OPINION
Rocks, Umhlanga
Old Town Italy
Old Town Italy Umhlanga, speaks to a different time. To a simpler, slower pace of life and a dedication to quality. It’s about embracing a bygone era where the focus was on upholding maintaining quality rather than saving time, and rediscovering the joy in these values.
Old town Italy is not simply a place to eat; it’s a culinary journey which embraces the historical romantic roots of those deep Italian values. It fits perfectly into its own unique place in the rich tapestry of cultural heritage and influences that the Durban Vibe embraces. One of the top restaurants in Durban with its deep cultural Italian roots.
At Old Town Italy you’ll find a menu bursting with authentic Italian flavours and creative twists. Let’s start with the wood-fired pizzas. Each pizza is a masterpiece, with a thin, crispy crust and toppings that explode with flavour. Our favourites include the classic Margherita, topped with Piennolo tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the quality to shine through, creating a pizza that is both comforting and delicious. Another favourite of ours is the spicy Diavola, featuring Mama’s Pomodoro, chorizo sausage, red onion and roasted pepper that tantalise the taste buds with every bite.
Moving on to pasta, Old Town Italy never disappoints. Their homemade pasta dishes are a true delight, crafted with care and bursting with flavour. Our top picks include the creamy Ravioli di Zucca, filled with roasted butternut squash,Served with parmesan true cream, toasted walnut and garlic Beurre noisette. Then there’s the Spinach and Ricotta Filled Cannelloni baked with Mama’s own Pomodoro, Fior di latte, Parmesana and garnished with fresh basil Each bite is a taste of the Italy of old, transporting us to that vibrant Italian culture with its bold and satisfying flavours.
No meal at Old Town Italy is complete without indulging in one of their decadent desserts. The Tiramisu is a must-try, with layers of coffee-soaked sponge cake, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa powder creating a perfect harmony of flavours that leave us craving more. But our true passion is saved for the amazing Gelato bar. As lovers to great Italian ice cream this does not disappoint. The range of colours and flavours are wide and varied. Made by hand and beautifully creamy and rich as true Italian ices are. Its Italian ice cream mastery at its best.
After your meal, why not take a stroll along the nearby Umhlanga Promenade or visit the iconic Umhlanga Lighthouse? Both of which offer breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and are just a stone’s throw away from the restaurant. Before you leave, wander round the Old Town Italy Food Emporium where true fresh baked Italian artisan bread rub shoulders with premium Italian ingredients and fine wines. We love this place and if you’re visiting a Durban attraction nearby, it’s a must visit.
In summary, Old Town Italy Umhlanga offers an authentic taste of Italy in the heart of Durban. With its creative cuisine, warm ambiance, and central location, it’s no wonder it’s considered one of the best restaurants in Durban. Its focus on the quality of the ingredients, the importance of preparation, and desire to keep to those old traditional romantic ways makes this a location for friends, family, and travellers to gather and enjoy the vibrancy of Italian culture at its best.
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