Settebello Revives La Ciccia
Italian cuisine is famous around the world for its pizza and pasta, but Settebello is once again reminding diners that Italy’s rich culinary heritage extends far beyond its beloved carbohydrates. Returning for its third year after overwhelming demand, the restaurant’s celebrated La Ciccia dining experience is back with an exciting new edition titled ‘The Butcher’s Table’, a nine-course feast dedicated to Italy’s centuries-old meat traditions.
Inspired by the craftsmanship of the Italian macellaio (butcher), this exclusive culinary experience pays tribute to the country’s regional recipes, slow-cooked meats and family-style dining culture that has been passed down through generations.
A Journey Through Italy’s Meat Heritage
‘La Ciccia‘, an Italian slang term loosely meaning “the good stuff” or simply “meat”, embraces the rustic, comforting flavours that have defined Italian kitchens for centuries.
This year’s carefully curated menu takes guests on a memorable gastronomic journey, beginning with whipped lard drizzled with honey and chilli served on mini bruschette alongside an assortment of cured meats.
The experience continues with an impressive selection of dishes, including delicate beef carpaccio topped 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 diners for the heartier courses that follow, including slow-cooked ossobuco paired with creamy risotto, grilled lamb chop served with layered potato and rosemary jus, and succulent pork belly accompanied by fennel and orange salad.
The evening reaches its spectacular finale with a fire-grilled Florentina steak designed for sharing before concluding with a classic semifreddo dessert.
Dining the Italian Way
One of the defining features of La Ciccia is its communal dining concept. Around 50 guests gather around a shared family-style table where dishes, side plates and wines are enjoyed together, recreating the warm atmosphere of a traditional Italian family celebration.
The immersive format encourages conversation, connection and the simple pleasure of sharing exceptional food.
Celebrating Authentic Italian Cuisine
According to co-owner Pino Di Benedetto, La Ciccia offers diners an opportunity to discover a side of Italian cuisine that is often overlooked.
“People often think Italian cuisine is only pizza, pasta and tomatoes. 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 believes the event reflects a growing appreciation for authentic 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 sitting around a table in Italy with family and friends, sharing incredible food slowly over conversation, wine and laughter.”
Limited Monthly Experiences
Following three successful years, La Ciccia has become one of Settebello’s signature culinary events, attracting guests looking to experience traditional Italian meat cuisine prepared with patience, craftsmanship and passion.
The exclusive nine-course dinners are priced at R950 per person and will take place on the following dates:
- 23 July 2026
- 20 August 2026
- 17 September 2026
- 22 October 2026
- 26 November 2026
Held on selected evenings each month, the intimate events have limited seating, making advance bookings essential.
For food lovers seeking an authentic taste of Italy beyond pizza and pasta, The Butcher’s Table promises an unforgettable celebration of regional flavours, communal dining and timeless Italian hospitality.
