95 Keerom in Cape Town’s CBD has been named one of the world’s best Italian eateries outside of Italy. I’ve had the fortune of eating there last year and can vouch for this well-deserved accolade.
The 50 Top Italy list celebrates the finest Italian restaurants outside of Italy and 95 Keerom ranked 47th. A panel of judges from the Italian haute cuisine congress, Le Strade Della Mozzarella Paestum, compiled the list.
95 Keerom is the only African representative on the global list. First place was scooped up by Restaurant Passerini in Paris, France. Second went to Don Alfonso 1890 in Toronto, Canada. Third went to Heinz Beck in Tokyo, Japan.
95 Keerom’s chef patron Giorgio Nava has been in South Africa since 1999 and opened shop in 2003. Speaking to Times Live, Nava said: “We are 16 years old and won many awards but this latest one proves that the standard is very high and we’re still doing the best. It puts us in a league with the best in the world. Never give up, that is my motto.” Aside from Nava, his entire team are South African.
If you want to treat your tastebuds to a delectable evening at 95 Keerom, I highly recommend the L’ Insalata di Avocado as a starter, the Gli Gnocchi al Gorgonzola e Noci as a main and the I Sorbetti alla Frutta for dessert. Opt to sit upstairs to encompass yourself in the warm atmosphere.
Situated in the building that once housed the stables and slaves of the Company’s Garden, the restaurant has since been restored but kept many original elements, like the brick walls and façade. 95 Keerom has perfectly intersected South African history with traditional Italy. This is an incredibly unique dining experience that you have to experience at least once.
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Or call 021 422 0765
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