Spiga

Owned by the Santoniccolo family since 1979, Spiga has earned its place in Durban's culinary DNA. While long-time regulars think fondly of the courtyard in Spiga’s old Florida Road home – the scene of many glasses of wine, birthday dinners, first dates, and long lunches – its Morningside location suits it perfectly, too. The relaxed terrace tables are perfect for people-watching over a glass of something from the well-priced wine list. On the menu, you’ll find comforting Italian classics – bruschetta, antipasti, thin-crust pizzas, fresh seafood – but it's the pasta that steals the show every time. Tuesday wine-tasting nights and a kitchen that runs until late seven days a week make Spiga as practical as it is pleasurable. Vivere con passione, indeed.

Don't leave without trying:
Any of the pastas. Start at the top of the menu with the pasta alla Sergio (named after the family patriarch): pickled red chillies, garlic and extra virgin olive oil, available with mushroom and rocket; mushroom, pea and cream; calamari and rocket; or prawns.