CAFÉ DEL SOL CLASSICO

BEST FOR Business lunches and romantic dinners. FOOD Expect comfort food with panache – taking Italian classics and reimagining them with flair. For starters, you can’t go wrong with any one of the three carpaccios: smoked salmon, springbok or beetroot. Notable, too, are the creamy sage and mustard chicken livers and the crumbed squid heads served with a roasted garlic mayonnaise. Favourite mains are balsamico fillet and lamb rack; or try a freshly made pasta. Another standout is the chicken with porcini-and-pea risotto. Voluptuous cakes are a showstopper – the cheesecake and chocolate cake are musts, or try the salted caramel crème brûlée with popcorn ice cream. DRINKS An ample list of varietals, both local and international. A comprehensive list by the glass, including champagne. SERVICE Hands-on management and knowledgeable waiters work the floor as a team. AMBIENCE It’s fresh and inviting, with quirky quotes decorating the walls. The open-plan kitchen takes centre stage. (KL)