What should I order at The Cousins Trattoria?
The Cousins Trattoria
Cousins Pasta
Most frequently recommended signature dish; praised for its creamy truffle sauce, handmade fresh pasta, and the theatrical Parmesan-wheel preparation at the table. Reviewers repeatedly called it delicious, indulgent, and a must-try.
Tagliatelle in Parmesan Wheel
Recommended for the memorable tableside preparation and rich flavor. Reviewers highlighted the fresh pasta being stirred in a wheel of parmesan cheese as both an experience and a standout dish.
Bolognese
Mentioned as outstanding and part of the restaurant’s highly praised pasta selection. Reviewers described it as fresh, light, flavorful, and comparable to pasta enjoyed in Italy.
Mushroom Tagliatelle
Recommended for its rich taste and the dramatic Parmesan-wheel finishing. One reviewer called it 'so freaking good,' emphasizing both the flavor and presentation.
Lamb Gnocchi
Highlighted as incredible and a top-notch main course. Reviewers appreciated its flavor and the overall quality of the dish.
Chocolate Temptations
Recommended as a standout dessert; reviewers said it was delicious and especially enjoyable because of the rich chocolate sauce that could be sipped like hot chocolate.
Beignets with Citrus Cream and Chocolate Sauce
Praised as absolutely to die for, with the citrus cream and warm chocolate sauce making it a memorable dessert worth returning for.
Tiramisu
Frequently mentioned as a dessert choice, described as creamy and enjoyable by some diners, though one review noted it was less impressive than the other desserts.
Hours
| Monday | 5 to 10 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 5 to 10 PM |
| Wednesday | 5 to 10 PM |
| Thursday | 5 to 10 PM |
| Friday | 5 to 10 PM |
| Saturday | 5 to 10 PM |
| Sunday | 5 to 10 PM |
About The Cousins Trattoria
The Cousins Trattoria is an Italian restaurant in Cape Town, South Africa, known for handmade pasta and table-side dishes finished in a Parmesan cheese wheel. Reviewers consistently praise the fresh pasta, especially the signature Cousins Pasta, along with attentive service and a warm, cozy dining room. The atmosphere is described as casual, romantic, and upscale, with a wine list and cocktails that pair well with the food. It is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, and reservations are recommended.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Reservations required
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Parking
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Frequently asked questions
What is The Cousins Trattoria known for?
It is best known for its cheese wheel pasta, especially the signature Cousins Pasta, which reviewers describe as creamy tagliolini with truffle sauce or freshly made pasta tossed at the table in a Parmesan wheel. People also repeatedly mention the authentic Italian feel, handmade pasta, and the table-side preparation as the standout experience.
What dishes are most recommended at The Cousins Trattoria?
Reviewers most often highlight the cheese wheel pasta, lamb gnocchi, seafood pasta, beef carpaccio, and the bolognese. Other specific favorites include mushroom tagliatelle, veal meatballs, Caprese salad, and chocolate desserts like the chocolate temptations or beignets with citrus cream.
What is the atmosphere like at The Cousins Trattoria?
The space is described as cozy, warmly lit, and sophisticated, with a relaxed but polished feel. It suits couples looking for a romantic dinner, groups such as tables of 4 to 18, and solo diners who want attentive service in a lively Italian setting.
Is The Cousins Trattoria good value?
The restaurant is priced above average, but reviewers say the handmade pasta and service make it worth it. The value is strongest if you want a special-occasion Italian meal in Cape Town with fresh pasta, a good wine list, and table-side preparation rather than a budget option.
Do you need a reservation at The Cousins Trattoria?
Yes, reservations are recommended for both lunch and dinner, and the listing says reservations are accepted and required. Reviewers also mention that the restaurant can handle larger groups well, but booking ahead helps avoid disappointment.
Is parking available at The Cousins Trattoria?
Yes. Free street parking, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Does The Cousins Trattoria have vegetarian options?
Yes, The Cousins Trattoria offers vegan options.
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