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Dolci Café Johannesburg: Authentic Italian Restaurant in Craighall Park

Published

3 months ago

May 21, 2025

Chiraag

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A Family-Run Italian Gem in the Heart of Joburg

Nestled in the leafy suburb of Craighall Park, Dolci Café has become one of Johannesburg’s go-to spots for authentic Italian dining since opening its doors in September 2015. Founded by husband-and-wife team Jacqueline Righi-Boyd and Clayton Boyd, Dolci started as a quaint pasticceria offering fresh pastries, breakfast, and lunch. The warm reception from locals sparked a rapid expansion of both the menu and the space.

In 2017, restaurateur Zoran Mijailovic joined the team, introducing a dinner menu that was so well-loved, the café expanded twice within a year. The family connection grew stronger when Jacqueline’s mother, acclaimed chef Luciana Righi, brought her expertise to Dolci in 2018 – blending traditional Italian recipes with modern twists.

Also read: Qunu Restaurant Sandhurst: Fine Dining in Sandton, Johannesburg

What Makes Dolci Café Special?

Dolci Café serves a menu crafted with fresh, local ingredients and inspired by classic Northern Italian cuisine. From handmade pastas to wood-fired pizzas, here’s a taste of what you can expect:

Tortelli Bufala – Pasta parcels stuffed with creamy buffalo mozzarella, served in a rich Napoli sauce.
Tagliatelle Ragù – House-made flat pasta with slow-cooked Bolognese sauce.
Lasagne Brie – A delicate lasagne layered with brie cheese and asparagus.
Cotoletta di Pollo – Crispy chicken schnitzel accompanied by baby potatoes and homemade cheese sauce.
Veal Porcini – Tender veal with a savory porcini mushroom sauce.

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Image 1: Carlos Damian (Pexels)

Dolci Bar & Pizzeria: A Casual Neighbourhood Favourite

In October 2019, Dolci expanded to include Dolci Bar & Pizzeria – a casual space serving Northern Italian-style thin-crust pizzas alongside a carefully curated drinks menu. Whether it’s a laid-back dinner or catching up with friends over cocktails and local Mad Giant craft beer, this spot is perfect for a relaxed evening out.

Popular pizzas include:

Antica Margherita – Fior di latte mozzarella, Italian tomatoes, and fresh basil.
Diavola Piccante – Spicy beef salami with a kick of heat.
Contadina – A vegetarian delight topped with olives, mushrooms, red peppers, and ricotta.
Calzone – Folded pizza packed with flavourful fillings.

Sweet Italian Traditions to Finish

No Italian meal is complete without dessert. Dolci Café offers indulgent options like:

Dolce Della Nonna – A family recipe combining zabaglione, cream, Amaretti biscuits, pecan nuts, and dark chocolate.
Tiramisu – Classic coffee-soaked ladyfingers layered with mascarpone.
Cannoli – Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cream.

Visit Dolci Café

Address: Shop 4-6, Lancaster Village, 28 Clarence Ave, Craighall Park, Randburg, 2024
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday (Closed Mondays)
Website: www.dolci.co.za

Why Dolci Café Is a Must-Visit

Whether you’re seeking an authentic Italian meal, a casual night out with friends, or just a great coffee and pastry to start your day, Dolci Café offers a warm, welcoming environment and dishes made with passion and tradition. It’s no surprise this family-run restaurant has become a treasured part of Johannesburg’s vibrant food scene.