There’s a new, Italian dining experience in Cape Town and it’s bursting with flavour, style and potential to become a firm favourite in the bustling business area, writes Cape {town} Etc’s James Redman. Gusto Urban Italian Restaurant, located in Century City’s Bridgewater Hotel, is serving the flavours of traditional Italy in a modern setting, and I had the pleasure of visiting.
Infused with contemporary and urban touches, Gusto has a far more modern setting than your traditional trattoria or pizzeria. Although the restaurant is partly separate from the four-star Bridgewater Hotel that houses it, there is a sense of class and opulence exuded by the decor and furnishings that make up its interior.
There are intimate booths, long tables finished with elegant wooden tops, comfortable sofas where guests might enjoy a designer cocktail, and a slick bar stocked with the finest local and imported spirits and liqueurs.
Gusto’s main menu is hefty and lends well to a three-course dining experience.
To start, L’insalata Caprese is as good as it gets. It celebrates fresh tomatoes, basil, chopped capers and creamy buffalo mozzarella from Naples. Selezione di Formaggi (a selection of Italian and South African cheese with jam, nuts and fresh berries) is the perfect starter option to share with a partner. The jam is so yummy that they might consider serving more of it to accompany the generous cheese portions.
The pizzas here are impressive too. The base is large, light, and topped with the finest ingredients. The Pizza con Mortadella, is sublime; Pomodoro San Marzano, Fior di Latte mozzarella, Mortadella ham, extra virgin olive oil, basil and parmesan.
If you’re looking to release your inner carnivore, Gusto has a meaty selection from the grill. The sirloin was cooked to perfection and served with parmesan mashed potatoes and a sauce of your choice. I had the béarnaise which was subtle. The vegetable side could use some love.
Choosing a dessert was tough. But much like the ravioli, creme brûlée is always a good judge of character, and the character of Gusto is classically divine. Gusto’s limoncello and espresso Martinis are pretty fantastic too!
Gusto’s extensive wine list features both local and Italian favourites — curated by the collaboration of a South African sommelier and Italian chef, ensuring the wine and food complement each other and remain true to the Urban Italian inspiration of Gusto.
Whether it’s the start or end of your day, celebrate it with a plate of Gusto!
Visit Gusto Urban Italian Restaurant:
- Location: Bridgewater, 4 Conference Ln, Century City, Cape Town
- Bookings: 021 202 9142
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Picture: Amy Wentzel