Table of ATE

CELEBRARE LA VITA!
The concept of OUR TABLE OF 8 was born from Derek’s love for cooking, my love for Italy and the desire to share this with others. Our experience in Tuscany showed that authentic Italian restaurants are nothing like how we experience them in South Africa and the food is not served in the same way either. Italian restaurants in Tuscany and Umbria (and I imagine Italy as a whole) are light and noisy. The noise is totally devoid of music, but is rather, the sound of people talking animatedly and passionately without a care for those at other tables, especially in small intimate spaces. In the rural areas the owner of the restaurant is much more involved in all goings on, from preparation of food to serving and socialising with the patrons, and this is how Derek likes to spend his time, as do I. I have always dreamed of harnessing all of these experiences into something that can be shared with friends and strangers alike and I hope that you will enjoy what we have to offer. The recipes I have chosen are all authentic, and I have tried to steer away from dishes that can be found in South African restaurants in my quest to give you a new experience. True to Italian tradition, all of these dishes are rich in all of the so called “forbidden by the heart foundation” foods and are hearty and filled with the feeling of love and contentment that eating delicious food brings. There is no finesse to this food as it is “artisan” food, which is the new trend for “homemade” or “handmade”. We have kept the menu simple with robust flavours for your enjoyment.
We hope you enjoy eating it as much as we have enjoyed preparing it.
Your Hosts

Derek & Venessa