The Giovannetti family opened La Trattoria in 2016, bringing a piece of Italy to South Africa.
Lionello Giovannetti was born in Rome and raised in Venice. He 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.
La Trattoria prides itself on its authentic menu.
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 ingredients, and nothing is frozen except for the delectable gelato. A glimpse into the Giovannetti pantry reveals stacks of rosy red tomatoes, hand-cured meats, homemade mozzarella cheese and fresh garden herbs.
The Desserts:
Indulge in decadent desserts like cheesecake, apple strudel, tiramisu, affogato and La Trattoria’s homemade gelato made fresh every day.
La Trattoria has carefully curated a collection of more than 100 wines, making wine an integral part of the authentic dining experience.
A passionate wine connoisseur, owner Lionello enforces a strict no-BYO policy. It’s all about pairing, and guests are invited to explore Lionello’s pride and joy, the Western Cape’s largest collection of Italian wines. The restaurant also stocks a diverse selection of South African wines.
The wine list features sought-after vintages, including Collebello Toscana, Livio Chianti, Chianti Classico and Volpaia Chianti Classico. Some selections are exclusive to La Trattoria, handpicked by Lionello, who secures entire batches of exceptional vintages. A selection of organic wines adds further variety.
Italian Digestivi:
To round off your meal, savour artisan Limoncello made by a family friend, or choose from Italian favourites such as Frangelico, Amaretto and Grappa.
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 Don Gelato uses only the freshest ingredients. The irresistible scoops are packed with full-cream milk, fresh cream, free-range eggs and real flavourings including Belgian chocolate and juicy strawberries.
Over 150 flavours of this Italian ‘ice cream’ evolve with the seasons, taste trends and demand. Don Gelato also creates customised flavours including artisan-style concoctions such as the popular caramelised bacon.
Gelato is available 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.
With a passion for creating personalised experiences, La Trattoria is the perfect place to host events that are as delightful as they are delicious. The team will work closely with you to ensure every detail is attended to, from customising the menu to coordinating décor and service.
“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
As we reach the end of a truly wonderful season, we have to prepare to close our doors for a short winter brea...
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!
