Eat delicious Italian fare in the heart of Hermanus

Wood-fired pizzas, Hemel en Aarde wine + mountain views from an old fisherman’s cottage

The town of Hermanus is frequently changing: New restaurants, stores, bakeries. But one thing that has remained the same is the little Italian restaurant in the heart of Hermanus. Rossi’s Italian Restaurant opened in 1985 and, with its good portions and friendly environment, has maintained its popularity with locals and tourists. 

Rossi's operates in a converted fisherman's cottage and has a delightful, relaxed atmosphere inside.

DINE, THEN SHOP OR LOOK AT ART 

Hermanus is a cosy seaside town known for its festivals, art galleries and Blue Flag beaches. It is part of the Overberg, which has numerous amazing and diverse restaurants. Rossi’s is one of the oldest operating restaurants in the area. It first opened its doors in 1985 in a small, converted fisherman's cottage, two blocks away from the sea, and remains there to this day. It’s set on the charming High Street next to well-known pub Barney’s, close to art galleries and coffee shops.

High Street is a quiet street that runs parallel to Main Road and is lined with shops and art galleries. Image: Rossi’s Italian Restaurant

PAIR PIZZA WITH SOME OF THE COUNTRY’S TOP WINE 

There's something for everyone at this homely gem, from pizza and pasta, to steaks and succulent chicken. The thin-based pizzas are made in the traditional Italian way in a wood-fired oven. It’s the perfect crispy treat, best eaten with a glass of wine from the famous Hemel en Aarde valley close by. You can bring your own: Corkage is R30 a bottle. Rossi’s also offers takeaways.

Rossi’s menu is committedly Italian, from pizza and pasta to pollo, and the food is affordable and portions are substantial.

DINE AL FRESCO OR IN A COSY BOOTH

The restaurant has two seating areas: An outdoor veranda overlooking High Street with the dramatic Overberg mountains in the background, or the inside seating area. 

The covered outdoor area is relaxed, with wooden tables, hanging plants and trees, and murals on the wall. 

The outdoor area is perfect for a laid-back lunch or dinner on a warm day, while the inside seating is toasty thanks to the wood-fired oven. On the walls, there are mosaic tiles, murals and artworks painted by local artists. 

Inside seating offers booths and tables, and little nooks for an even more private dining experience.

EXPERIENCE LITTLE ITALY IN HERMANUS

Rossi’s not only serves Italian food, it feels like Italy, too. The decor is red, green and white, with wooden furnishings. Meals are prepared in full view from an open kitchen, adding to the dining experience. 

You can watch the chefs placing the pizzas into the wood-fired oven. 

OPENING HOURS + CONTACT DETAILS

Rossi’s Italian Restaurant is open: Sunday to Thursday, 11am-9.30pm; Friday + Saturday, 11am - 10pm

Email: info@rossis.co.za

Call: 028 312 2848

Address: 10 High Street | Hermanus | Western Cape

Price range: R45 - R180

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By Lara van Zyl

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DISCOVER MORE OF WHAT HERMANUS HAS TO OFFER

Try out this quirky + vegan/vegetarian spot by the sea.

Kick your feet up and enjoy a cocktail at the Dutchies Summer Lounge.

Explore more Summer fun with Fick's Pool.

Find more things to do over the weekend.

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