In existence for over 30 years, Mario's is one of the oldest restaurants in Cape Town and was opened by Mario and Pina Marzagalli in 1971. For the past 12 years Pina has been at the helm, and runs the restaurant with the assistance of her two children Marilena and Marco. Pina, with her vivacious personality and great charm has built up a loyal following of customers and the walls of the restaurant
bear witness to this, as every available space is covered with names and comments from satisfied customers over the past 30 years. The relaxed informal atmosphere has ensured the on-going popularity of Mario's and it was recently awarded a Wine Magazine certificate as one of the S.A. This is indeed a fitting tribute to Pina Marzagalli for her continued hard work and service to her customers. Her love of cooking is evident and she makes her own pasta including the ravioli and gnocchi, and she continues to import the Parma Ham and Salami to ensure the quality of these important ingredients. The menu offers traditional Italian fare and there are regular specials such as Pina's delicious bean soup which is popular in the winter months, as well as more unusual offerings such as crumbed calf brains with capers, or marrow bones served with toast. Veal Saltimbocca with Parma ham, sage, brandy and white wine is a popular choice from the veal dishes, and for starters the Parmigiana de Melanzane - sliced fried brinjals with mozzarella and cooked tomato is highly recommended. Pina's signature dish however, is the stuffed baby chicken which is served with roast potatoes, vegetables and Pina’s homemade fruit mustard. It not only looks impressive on the plate, but tastes superb with a delicately flavoured stuffing mixture to enhance the flavour of the chicken. We are a fully airconditioned restaurant.
