Il Leone Mastrantonio

Found this on Google and made a reservation via email, for our wedding anniversary as we were on vacation. Coincidentally found out that it was also one of the recommended restaurants in the hood, by our accommodation hosts. The restaurant is rather lovely with many art pieces, but if I’d to nitpick, it’d be the proximity of the tables. Servers tend to have to squeeze between tables and my chair was cornered at a pillar (which they’d offer to change the position, but I’d be almost next to another diner, so I declined). This also meant it gets uncomfortable if your neighbours were loud. Food wise, we’d the ceviche, mussels in white wine, burrata for starters and grilled chicken and queen prawns for mains. Mussels had a slight stench and chicken less salty, but the rest were delicious, especially the prawns. Service was immaculate nonetheless, which really made our night(: Shoutout to our wonderful waitress Indya, easily the best service I’ve had since arriving in Cape Town.

High quality Italian food, so simple dishes with so much care put into every dish and ingredient. Very cool and clean aesthetic. We always come back.

I was quite excited to finally dine at this establishment. Food: a great menu selection across different proteins and vegetables. However, all 6 of our dishes just lacked salt. We had to add salt, pepper, chilli and garlic in order to bring some life to the dish. Service: decent service and friendly staff, kept trying to up sell, but we stood strong lol. Atmosphere: warm, welcoming and comfortable.

My experience at this Italian restaurant was amazing from start to finish. They responded to my email promptly and positively, and we got a reservation right away. When we arrived, we were greeted warmly and personally. As a passionate home cook, winner of a TV cooking show, and someone with Italian roots, I hold Italian cuisine to very high standards. I have to say—this was the best Italian food I’ve ever had outside of Italy. The dishes were wonderfully seasoned, and neither of us had to add a single thing. The service was impeccable. We can’t wait to return and will absolutely recommend this place to our friends and family.

Excellent Italian food, relaxed but vibey atmosphere and attentive staff. The seafood pasta is *chef's kiss*

Absolutely delicious, simple but complex Italian food. Incredibly attentive waiters. Was a very good lunch experience.

What a great meal in the heart of Cape Town! Great service, quick meal as I had a plane to catch and delicious food! I had the Fiorentina Steak and we had grilled calamari and lobster tails. Would love to come back!! Thanks to our host Pelin who was very warm and welcoming!!

Lovely selection of Italian dishes and wines. We opted for two seafood pastas, which were both delicious and really decent serving sizes. The service was amazing, the drinks were good, and atmosphere was warm and comfortable.