RESTAURANT REVIEW- BELLAGIO – Fresh Flavors from the Sea and Cocktails that Shine
By Gift Khosa
We are calling all Cape Town seafood enthusiasts! Dive into the vibrant world of Bellagio, a new restaurant bringing a contemporary twist to classic Mediterranean cuisine right here on our shores. Helmed by renowned chef and restaurateur Louise Castle (the culinary mastermind behind Johannesburg’s Bellagio and a master of Italian training), expect a feast for the senses featuring the freshest and most delectable seafood creations.
Setting:
Nestled in the charming Greenpoint/De Waterkant area, Bellagio’s facade might be a tad tricky to locate at first, but follow the friendly signs and you’ll soon be transported to a sun-kissed Mediterranean haven. While the simple décor exudes a certain elegance, it could benefit from a touch of personality. We snagged a table on the sunny terrace, the perfect setting for a delightful al fresco experience.
Menu:
Bellagio’s menu boasts a delightful breadth, catering to various palates. Dive into the world of fresh starters like tuna, salmon, and beef carpaccio, or indulge in seafood staples like oysters and mussels. Salad enthusiasts will rejoice in the diverse selection, while carnivores can explore delectable meat options. And don’t forget to save room for the tempting array of desserts! You can view the menu here: https://www.bellagiorestaurant.co.za/
Foodie Adventures:
Our culinary journey began with the “Zucchini Fritti,” an absolute revelation. Crispy, savory, and perfectly cooked, these little bites left us wanting more. We then embarked on a refreshing odyssey with the “Tuna Ceviche” and a platter of “Fresh Oysters” adorned with a variety of delicious toppings. The tuna was melt-in-your-mouth fresh and surprisingly generous in portion (prepare to be pleasantly surprised!).
For mains, we dove into the creamy indulgence of “Spaghetti al Salmone Vodka,” its delicate smokiness and caviar burst leaving us utterly satisfied. A must-try indeed! We also embarked on a vibrant seafood adventure with the “Seafood Risotto,” a symphony of perfectly al dente rice, beautifully cooked seafood, and an incredible sauce that had us savoring every bite. Highly recommend!
Liquid Sunshine:
No Cape Town dining experience is complete without a stellar cocktail, and Bellagio doesn’t disappoint. Their bartenders are master mixologists, guiding you through a carefully curated selection of Instagram-worthy creations at reasonable prices.
Sweet Endings:
We capped off our evening with the “Cheesecake,” a rich and decadent delight perfect for sharing (although you might be tempted to keep it all to yourself!). The “Grapefruit Sorbet” provided a refreshing finale, leaving our taste buds cleansed and delighted.
The Guide Rating:
Location: 6/10
Interior: 6/10
Ambiance: 8/10
Food: 8/10
Drinks: 9/10
Bellagio’s team delivered an exceptional dining experience. Everything felt seamlessly orchestrated from the friendly service to the exquisite food and captivating cocktails. We can’t wait to see this culinary gem evolve and become a major player in Cape Town’s vibrant food scene. Highly recommend visiting Bellagio – your taste buds will thank you!
Location: 74 Prestwich St, De Waterkant, Cape Town, 8001
