Italian cuisine may be best known for pizza and pasta, but Johannesburg diners are being invited to explore a lesser-known side of Italy’s culinary heritage as Settebello brings back its popular La Ciccia dining experience for a third year.
Reimagined as “The Butcher’s Table”, this year’s La Ciccia experience celebrates Italy’s centuries-old meat-cooking traditions through an indulgent nine-course feast designed to showcase regional flavours, artisanal techniques and the communal spirit of Italian dining.
The exclusive event, which has developed a loyal following since its launch, offers guests a family-style dining experience where around 50 diners gather around a communal table to share dishes, wine and conversation, recreating the atmosphere of a traditional Italian family gathering.
Having attended a recent tasting of the nine-course menu, it was clear why the event has become one of Settebello’s most anticipated culinary experiences. The sheer variety and generosity of the menu make it exceptional value for money, although arriving hungry is highly recommended. With nine carefully crafted courses on offer, getting through every dish is a challenge in itself.
The culinary journey begins with whipped lard drizzled with honey and chilli on mini bruschette, accompanied by a selection of cured meats. Diners then move through a series of dishes, including beef carpaccio with rocket and Parmesan shavings, crispy supplì filled with slow-braised red wine beef, and handmade agnolotti finished with burnt butter and sage.
A refreshing lemon sorbet palate cleanser prepares guests for the heartier courses that follow, including slow-cooked ossobuco served with creamy risotto, grilled lamb chop with layered potato and rosemary jus, and pork belly paired with fennel and orange salad.
The centrepiece of the evening is a dramatic fire-grilled Florentina steak, designed for sharing and embodying the convivial spirit that sits at the heart of the La Ciccia concept.
The feast concludes with a classic semifreddo dessert.
“People often think Italian cuisine is only pizza, pasta and tomatoes,” says Settebello co-owner Pino Di Benedetto. “But Italy has an incredible meat culture rooted in family traditions, regional recipes and simple ingredients treated with care and respect. La Ciccia allows us to showcase that side of Italian food in a way that feels authentic, indulgent and memorable.”
Co-owner Ramiro “Miro” Marques says the experience responds to growing demand for authentic and immersive dining experiences.
“There’s something emotional and nostalgic about this style of dining. It’s generous, it’s social, and it tells a story. Our aim with the La Ciccia experience is to get diners to feel like they’re sitting around a table in Italy with family and friends, sharing incredible food slowly over conversation, wine and laughter,” he says.
At a time when diners are increasingly seeking authenticity and storytelling alongside exceptional food, La Ciccia offers a refreshing return to traditional hospitality, where meals are shared, celebrated and enjoyed at a leisurely pace.
La Ciccia takes place once a month and costs R950 per person. Upcoming events are scheduled for 23 July, 20 August, 17 September, 22 October and 26 November 2026. Bookings are essential.
