LA TRATTORIA

BEST FOR A dinner for two or a catch-up with good friends. FOOD The main course wins over the hearts of diners. The Amatriciana with strozzapreti pasta is too good to miss. The rich tomato-based sauce – studded with spicy guanciale, salty pancetta, and nutty pecorino romano – comes draped over hand-rolled twists of flour-andwater pasta. The ragout Bolognese is a balanced mix of slow-cooked pork and beef. There's a short pizza menu and vegetarians will be happy with familiar options. The dessert menu is simple and authentic. There’s homemade gelato, but owner Lionelli prefers to end a meal with limoncello or espresso. DRINKS The wine list is unapologetically Italian, although a small sprinkling of Western Cape wines do make an appearance. SERVICE The well-trained, discreet staff know the menu well. AMBIENCE You'll receive a warm Italian welcome into what feels like the Giovanetti home. (PM)