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| The View |
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| The Master Minds and I |
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| The Celler/romantic eating area |
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| Attention to detail |
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| My brother and Michelle |
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| Katia and I |
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| Vino! |
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| My lunch – Pasta – My favourite |
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| Dessert – Home made Ice – cream |
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| Katia’s Espresso |
Every year around this time I start planning my birthday lunch or dinner. I try keep it as simple as possible. I had no idea where I wanted to go this year. So I decided to use my trusty Google, I typed in “Top ten restaurants in Pretoria” and
Ritrovo Ristorante came up. Ever since my trip to Italy 3 years ago, I have fallen in love with Italian culture and food. After reading comments online as well as asking some of my friends if they have been to Ritrovo, my mind was made up.
Father and son team Giovanni and Fortunato Mazzone (both very charming) dreamt of opening Pretoria’s first true Italian fine dining establishment at the top of the Waterkloof Ridge.Ritrovo has become the iconic destination of choice. Ritrovo consists of four classic European style dining rooms,all dining rooms are non smoking. The main dining room holds 60 in a warm atmosphere rich with real wood and old school comfort, we sat in the more relaxed area for lunch. The decor is less formal in the Deli/Bistro area – however proudly Italian – it made me feel like I was in Italy again.
Ritrovo has recieved over 50 major food and critical awards in the last 18 years ensuring that it is without doubt South Africa’s most recognised Italian food rendezvous. The cuisine is authentic and the service is old-school at Ritrovo. What attracts all is the unpretentious and warm feeling one encounters whilst indulging in
The Ritrovo Experience.
Food: I could not decide what to eat, but with the help of the owner “Forti”, I decided to go with the Penne Frutti Di Mare” which was delicious. The penne is made fresh in their kitchen, the sauce is not too creamy and has so much flavour.
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Wine: They have a cellar, bottle their own wine and offer a spectacular selection.
Service: I was lucky enough to have “Forti” help me pick out food and take me on a tour of the restaurant. However, his staff are just as helpful and friendly .
Ambience: One thing is for sure, the minute you walk in,you feel the passion from everyone who works there. Its a very chilled environment. One think Forti told me that I will not for get is: ” You only as good as your last meal”. It was such an honest thing to say, I appreciate his sencerity and pride for what he does. He believes in Ritrovo and strives to make it better. I appreciate this, I cannot wait for what the future has to bring for Ritrovo.
Last but not least: I definitely recommend trying out Ritrovo, it is a little more premium in price, but the food speaks for itself and is worth it.
Miss V
