A Feast for Foodies: Giorgio Nava Dishes Out Exciting Culinary Updates

Words: Crush

Chef-proprietor, Giorgio Nava, stands as a culinary stalwart in the vibrant Cape Town food scene. Two of his most iconic establishments, 95 on Keerom and Carné on Keerom, undeniably pioneered Cape Town’s fledgling dining culture in the early 2000s. Exciting developments are on the horizon for the group, as previously closed restaurants re-emerge and new life is infused into beloved classics.

Humble Beginnings

Giorgio’s journey began in 1999 when he chose Cape Town as his home, with the ambitious idea of producing mozzarella. Despite crafting a top-quality product under the guidance of two cheese makers from Italy, the venture proved to be ahead of its time. With a non-existent fresh cheese culture in South Africa, it was simply too early for mozzarella (a regret we now feel deeply!). Undeterred, Giorgio soon realised that there was a genuine opportunity to establish a high-quality Italian restaurant in Cape Town – and the rest is history.

95 on Keerom

Drawing inspiration from classic Milanese cuisine, Giorgio delighted Cape Town palates with authentic Italian cuisine at 95 on Keerom from 2003. He was among the first to introduce a wide selection of fish and beef carpaccio, delicately handcrafted pasta, as well as the indulgent chocolate fondant to South Africans.

For many years, 95 on Keerom shone as a beacon of Italian cuisine in the heart of the city, captivating diners with its genuine flavours and elegant ambience. In 2023, we celebrate 20 years of Giorgio sharing his Italian culinary passion with Capetonians and the many visitors to the city – truly an achievement worth celebrating.

95 on Keerom

Carné on Keerom

Carné on Keerom opened its doors in 2008, redefining the steakhouse experience. Giorgio pioneered a fresh approach to savouring a diverse range of prime cuts, allowing the meat to speak for itself in the true Italian minimalist tradition. Carné on Keerom was a natural extension of his passion for Romagnola beef, Dorper lamb, and venison sourced from the Karoo.

carne

His unwavering dedication to sourcing the finest ingredients, his innovative techniques, and his commitment to excellence continue to inspire a new generation of chefs and food enthusiasts, solidifying his status as an enduring icon in Cape Town’s food and lifestyle scene.

Fun Fact: Chef Giorgio Nava made a guest appearance on the Netflix destination food series “Somebody Feed Phil.” Catch him in the 2nd series, episode 4, titled “Cape Town.” Presenter Phil Rosenthal orders the ‘Safari Platter’ and embarks on a tantalizing taste journey through a selection of African wild meats.

More from Giorgio Nava!

Cape Town food enthusiasts will be thrilled to learn that Giorgio is meticulously reinvigorating his restaurant portfolio following the global pandemic. He’s reopening 95 at Parks in Constantia, Carné on Keerom, and Carné on Kloof, all within the city. Additionally, Giorgio’s authentic Italian pâtisserie and coffee bar – Caffé Milano Pasticceria & Bar – has found a new home at LOCAL on Heritage Square, providing an ideal city pitstop for exquisite pastries and superb coffee.carne Giorgio Nava

Giorgio Nava

2023 marks 20 years of Giorgio sharing his Italian culinary passion with Capetonians and the city’s many visitors – an achievement that unquestionably deserves celebration.

Hot News!

Giorgio’s very first restaurant in Cape Town, the signature 95 Keerom, is poised to reopen this October. Stay tuned for more updates coming soon.

Book your table at one of Giorgio Nava’s restaurants.

Booking details for Carné on Keerom: 70 Keerom Street, Cape Town. Open Monday to Saturday: 18h00-21h30. Call +27 (0)21 424 3460, email or reserve your table online via carne-sa.com

Booking details for Carné on Kloof: 153 Kloof Street, Cape Town. Open for Lunch: Friday and Saturday: 12h30 – 15h00 and Dinner: Monday to Saturday: 18h00 -21h30. Call +27 (0)21 426 5566, email or reserve your table online via www.carne-sa.com

Booking details for 95 at Parks: 14 Constantia Main Road, Cape Town. Open for Lunch: Friday to Sunday: 12h00 – 15h00 and Dinner: Tuesday to Saturday: 18h00 – 21h30. Call +27 (0) 21 761 0247, email or reserve your table online via: 95atparks.co.za

Caffé Milano Pasticceria & Bar: 100 Shortmarket Street, Heritage Square, Cape Town: Open Monday to Saturday: 08h00 – 17h00.

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