Family-Style Dinner Event at La Trattoria
Join us at La Trattoria!
La Trattoria
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The Giovannetti family opened La Trattoria in 2016, bringing a piece of Italy to South Africa. Lionello Giovannetti, born in Rome and raised in Venice, grew up with food and family at the heart of his life. His father, Corrado, ignited his passion for cooking, which Lionello first explored in the gelato industry before attending Italy’s premier pizza-making academy.
After relocating to South Africa in 2013, the Giovannetti family settled in Stanford and launched The House of Don Gelato, which quickly became a favourite in the community. Their warm hospitality and traditional Italian recipes soon led to many memorable meals shared with friends and neighbours. Lionello humorously says, “We were forced to open to the public.”
In keeping with the Italian tradition where the table is the heart of the home, the Giovannetti family invites you to La Trattoria to experience their culture and cuisine firsthand.
At La Trattoria, the menu is more than just a list of dishes; it’s a journey through the rich history of Italian cuisine.
Each dish has a story, detailing its origins, regional influences, and the year it was first created. All pasta and pizza are freshly made by hand in the Giovannetti preparation kitchen, crafted just as Nona and Mamma used to make it.
The kitchen uses only the freshest, finest ingredients, nothing is frozen except for the delectable gelato. A glimpse into the Giovannetti pantry reveals a feast for the eyes, with rosy red tomatoes, fresh herbs, cured meats, and mozzarella cheese made by Lionello himself.
Wine is an integral part of the La Trattoria experience. With a “Don’t bring your own” policy, guests can enjoy a selection of South African wines. Most notably, Lionello takes pride in offering the largest collection of Italian wines in the Western Cape. The wine list includes sought-after vintages like Collebello Toscana, Livio Chianti, Chianti Classico, and Volpaia Chianti Classico. Some wines are exclusive to La Trattoria, as Lionello handpicks and purchases entire batches of outstanding vintages.
There is also a selection of organic wines.
To complete your meal, savour artisan Limoncello made by a family friend, with favourites such as Frangelico, Amaretto, and Grappa.
Decadent desserts like cheesecake, apple strudel, tiramisu, affogato and La Trattoria’s homemade gelato round off the culinary experience.
La Trattoria presents Don Gelato for an authentic Italian experience.
In the Giovannetti household, the bambinos can feast on as much homemade gelato as they like because at Don Gelato only the healthiest and freshest ingredients are used. The irresistible scoops of gelato are crammed with litres of full cream milk, farm fresh cream, free-range eggs and real flavourings such as Belgian chocolate and juicy strawberries.
Over 150 flavours of this Italian ‘ice cream’ forever evolve according to the seasons, trends and demand. Don Gelato creates customised gelatos including artisan-style concoctions such as the popular, caramelised bacon gelato.
Don Gelato can be enjoyed as a dessert at La Trattoria or directly from the kiosk outside the restaurant on Queen Victoria Street in Stanford.
Large quantities are available on order.
La Trattoria provides a charming setting for both regular dining and special events. The restaurant offers an intimate and welcoming atmosphere for functions and can accommodate up to 50 guests, making it an ideal venue for celebrations.
Whether you are planning a family gathering, a corporate event, or a festive party, La Trattoria's warm ambience and exceptional cuisine set the stage for memorable occasions. The dedicated team will work closely with you to ensure every detail is attended to, from customising the menu to coordinating décor and service.
With a focus on creating a personalised and enjoyable experience, La Trattoria is the perfect place to host events that are as delightful as they are delicious.
“La Trattoria is a true Italian restaurant, not just because Italians own the place. Italian food is about Italian spirit and hospitality which you find in spade fulls at La Trattoria. Papa cooks in the kitchen. Son waits tables. You will find yourself transported to Tuscany in no time. Fresh, homemade pasta, locally sourced meats, and their world-famous gelato for dessert is rated #1 in South Africa.” Nairbay
“Let Lionello and Corrado look after you for one night, and you will be back. Having a meal at Lionello’s restaurant today felt like a true taste of Italy. Everything about La Trattoria was special. His gnocchi gorgonzola is a must.” Athos
“What a delightful evening spent at La Trattoria. The food was excellent and the personal service was great. The waitress gave a very detailed explanation of the menu. Great food. We honestly felt we knew a little more about Italian food and culture when we left there. Thank you for the great experience. We will most definitely be back.” Melanie Harel
“La Trattoria has amazing food! The waiters are awesome! I will go back!” Michelle Rall
“I took a friend to La Trattoria for a Sunday birthday lunch, we were served by Lionello and the service was great. His recommendations and wine pairing were excellent. We had a lovely prepared three-course meal. I can highly recommend La Trattoria. The chef also came to the table between courses. It is a family-run business.” Carelcarel
“La Trattoria has authentic Italian food and delicious gelato to finish the meal. The staff are so friendly and they have a super garden for sundowners. We will return” Talita Calitz
Friday night we will land in Trentini Alto Adige.
On Friday evening 4th of February, we will be "dining in Puglia".
Pizza and handmade pasta in full swing at La Trattoria in Stanford!
Set menu, R170 per person for 3 courses and food served in "sharing mode" on your table.
