After taking Umhlanga by storm when it opened in 2015, Old Town Italy is gearing up to open its second store in Pretoria this coming September. Set to open its doors to the public on 21 September in the new Menlyn Maine Shopping Centre, one can look forward to a destination that encompasses all the traits of a traditional, Italian-style market.
A culmination of traditional Italian values, wholesome foods, and memorable experiences await.
The concept behind Old Town Italy was born from a passion to help slow things down, eschewing mass consumerism by creating a melting pot of traditional, romantic yet authentic Italian values and ways. Premium, hearty and healthy is the name of the game at Old Town Italy, where one can find café dishes, organic products, superfood items, premium imported goods, locally and ethically sourced fresh produce as well as hidden homeware gems, all under one roof.
The idea is that the moment you walk into our store, you feel as if you have been transported back in time, to a place where you know your baker and butcher by name, a place where product knowledge, a sincere smile and sound advice is given freely. This type of environment is hard to come by these days, it’s the nature of the lifestyles we now lead. Life is extremely fast paced, and sometimes we need to slow things down, celebrate ethics, preserve standards and rediscover quality – says Renzo Scribante, Founder of Old Town Italy.
Smell and sample the enchanting artisanal breads and baked goods coming straight out of the bakery, delight in the fresh tastes and aromas from the deli, pick out the perfect cut of meat or take home an array of imported cured meats and cheeses from the Butcher’s Shop. Shop for fresh, organic local produce as well as premium imported pastas, canned goods and chocolates to name a few. If it’s hot outside, even if it’s not, take pleasure in savouring the sweetness of the homemade gelato whilst casually perusing the homeware section which showcases a fine selection of Europe’s exceptional, high end goods.
After browsing the market, step into the Italian, café-style restaurant and enjoy some truly delicious and genuinely Italian dishes, made with high quality, organic ingredients. A medley of hearty breakfasts, café lights, antipasti snacks, flavoursome main meals and artisanal pizzas will certainly satisfy the palate, but don’t forget to enjoy a cup of freshly brewed La Dolce Vita coffee, made the way Italians like it.
As Menlyn Maine is set to become one of South Africa’s first green cities, the centre perfectly aligns with the Old Town Italy’s core values. With a strong focus on authentic, organic produce, and locally sourced ingredients, it is the brand’s vision to become the meeting place and local grocer for residents, as well as bring something completely unique to the table. Old Town Italy, being a premium food emporium, fits perfectly into the 1000 square metre store at this boutique shopping centre, creating a market where you can shop, talk, eat and learn.
Hi there,
So when can we expect one in Cape Town as well please?
My friends and I visited Old Town Italy at Menlyn Maine last night for dinner. I was so impressed with the decor but very disappointed with the food and service. The dish that the waiter recommended was not impressive at all-it definitely wasn’t worth the R100 + they charged and when we wanted to buy some nice imported nougat, another waiter had such an arrogant and rude attitude with us and told us his till was already closed/cashed up and then he called the manager who was also very dismissive, I assume it was because it was past 9pm and apparently as soon as 9pm comes around the place shuts down, you can’t even get a cup of coffee! All we wanted to do was buy some nougat and it was as if the waiter and manager were doing us a favor by allowing us to buy a couple of bars of the most expensive nougat I’ve ever bought! I’m very disappointed with the whole experience and I won’t be visiting this restaurant in a hurry again.