La Cuccina

You would never think to look at Josephine’s Mill in Newlands, that a place as vibrant as La Cuccina exists. Simply cross the threshold and observe wait staff interacting with both first-time visitors and returning guests in a personable way; then you’ll understand. Originally founded in Hout Bay in 2009, the restaurant eventually relocated to Newlands in 2019, bringing its ethos of honest, flavour-driven cooking to a new community while retaining its original heart and soul.

La Cuccina is owned by chef-owner Ian Gersowsky, whose passion for food stems from childhood memories of cooking with family. Together with his management team, the restaurant has built a loyal following of locals and visitors alike.

What makes La Cuccina’s approach distinct isn’t just the food; it’s the way the eatery champions community and local culture. Long before ‘local sourcing’ became trendy, the team here was committed to working with small-scale, artisanal producers around the Western Cape. By prioritising ingredients from free-range farms, local beekeepers and specialty cheesemakers La Cuccina delivers dishes that taste of place and season, and supports the community that nurtures them.

The restaurant’s setting only adds to its charm. Fairy lights frame the outdoor seating areas beside a gently flowing stream, and a recently revived water wheel adds a touch of romantic nostalgia perfect for leisurely lunches or al-fresco dinners. The vibe is relaxed yet vibrant, with breezy indoor and outdoor sections that make diners feel at home the moment they arrive.

One of La Cuccina’s signature draws is its harvest table: a daily-rotating, self-serve buffet of freshly prepared salads, mains and seasonal dishes that diners can help themselves from at leisure. Traditional staples like samp and beans have been known to feature from time to time thanks to the skilled hands of cooks Zanele and Monica. In addition to the harvest table, the à la carte menu is equally generous and hearty. There’s something to satisfy every appetite, whether you’re after a classic comfort dish, a creative chef special or a vibrant vegetarian option. The deli counter also offers a selection of ready-to-take-home items, fresh baked goods and artisan treats.

Every Friday afternoon, the mood shifts to relaxed sophistication with live jazz performances on the terrace — a perfect way for professionals in the area to linger over lunch and wait out rush-hour traffic.

Mobility: The outside dining area would be best suited for those in wheelchairs, though the rest of the restaurant is fairly accessible barring a small step that separates the indoor dining area from the balcony around the back.

Sustainability: By working with smaller producers within the area, La Cuccina maintains its commitment to providing diners with premium produce

Ethicality: Long-serving staff and management are integral to how the restaurant operates, some team members have been with La Cuccina since it was in Hout Bay.