Mamma Roma Newlands — Restaurant in Newlands

Mamma Roma’s has a homely, cosy atmosphere and first class service, but the white wine, cream and garlic mussels miss the mark. We ordered the white wine, cream and garlic mussels. The fresh ciabatta bread arrived promptly at the table along with two generous carafes of wine. When the mussels were served they were fragrant and the smell of the creamy, garlicky sauce aroused all of my senses. However, the mussels turned out to the slightly over cooked, with a tough, chewy texture. It certainly didn’t have the “Wow-this-is-fresh-out-the-ocean” factor. The creamy, garlicky white wine sauce was hearty, rich and heavy. While this is great for dipping fresh ciabatta in, it overpowered the flavour of the mussels. Our waiter was charming and really attentive and the laidback, Italian kitchen atmosphere would make me visit...

Went with friends for their last dinner in Cape Town. The pasta and gnocchi were splendid and very filling. Great salad bowl and delicious dessert, especially the sorbet which highlighted the end to a wonderful evening. Loved that it's a family run business, and that the owner checked on everyone and made sure we were all comfortable and enjoying the experience. Do book in advance and know that there is parking in the basement or on the road for you. It was lovely to see many local elderly ladies and gentlemen having dinner. We could see they were mostly regulars who grew up with the restaurant itself and enjoyed every moment of their stay. Thank you for the great memory created for everyone. Their will definitely be mentions of Mamma Roma when anyone wants delicious...

On a very cold night, Mamma Roma provided not only some proper comfort food but a friendly, welcoming experience - it was like we were visiting Nonna! Asparagus soup with wonderful, fresh ciabatta warmed our souls. The lamb stew which followed was a work of art in its simplicity, but the depth of flavour and richness of the gravy was nothing short of glorious. One person in our party of three had calamari and grilled linefish, which were pronounced equally fabulous. We enjoyed a wonderful Italian Lambrusco with one of the heartiest meals I have had in a restaurant in a long, long time. Cristina and Romano and their staff are the ultimate hosts. I understand why the family member I was visiting goes to Mamma Roma on a weekly basis. I would too if I...