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Italian Kitchen & Grill at Emperors Palace: A Tasty Escape in Kempton Park

Published

3 months ago

July 15, 2025

Chiraag

Italian Kitchen & Grill interior, Emperors Palace restaurant, wood-fired pizza, flame-grilled meat tableside, Italian pasta dishes, seafood platter, Kempton Park dining, Joburg ETC

Where Italian flair meets entertainment

Inside the dazzling world of Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, Italian Kitchen & Grill offers more than just Italian food; it delivers drama, flavour, and flair in equal measure. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just craving a wood-fired pizza with a side of showmanship, this eatery turns an ordinary dinner into something memorable.

With almost 4,900 followers on Instagram and a menu that fires up tables, literally, Italian Kitchen & Grill is where food meets performance and casual meets chic.

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From focaccia to fire: What’s on the menu

This isn’t your average pizza joint. Italian Kitchen & Grill’s menu reads like a curated journey through Italy’s comfort classics, but with theatrical touches throughout.

Starters include crisp focaccia, calamari, beef carpaccio, and a rich mussel pot.
Wood-fired pizzas range from the timeless Margherita and Regina to the spicy, flame-kissed Pollo Tandoori.
Pastas include creamy Gamberi alla Crema, Zucchini Tagliatelle, and indulgent Lasagna Al Forno.
Italian Flame mains, like flame-grilled fillet and seafood platters, are prepared tableside with a live fire show.
Desserts and granitas include Bar One cheesecake and refreshing blueberry citrus options.

Whether you’re after something light or something flaming, the menu caters for every mood and appetite.

It’s not just food; it’s a vibe

What sets this place apart is the energy. Upstairs, a sleek lounge space offers a softer setting for quieter dinners, while weekends often come alive with DJs, themed dinners, and dinner-and-dance nights that blur the line between dining and nightlife.

On Instagram, guests rave about the atmosphere, calling it “unexpectedly elegant” and “a complete experience.” And while most reviews praise the food and service, a few note that seating can feel “a little worn,” and some starters take longer to arrive than expected. Still, the overall vibe is one of celebration.

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Image 1: Facebook/Italian kitchen & grill at emperors palace casino resort

What locals are saying

“The waitress was very friendly… the food was 10/10. I’d recommend it to someone and try it again.” Google Review

“The ambiance is charming, staff are incredibly friendly and attentive, food is delicious, drinks impressive.” Restaurant Guru

The restaurant’s growing online fan base reflects its reputation as a favourite for couples, groups, and locals looking for a night out that feels a bit elevated.

Need-to-know before you book

Address: Emperors Palace, 64 Jones Road, Jurgenspark, Kempton Park
Hours: Daily (varies by day)
Contact: Booking recommended for weekends and events. Call 011 928 1352
Best for: Date nights, family dinners, birthday celebrations, and weekend dining with a twist

Why it stands out in 2025

In a Joburg dining scene filled with trendy minimalism, Italian Kitchen & Grill leans into bold flavour and fun. It’s not afraid of spectacle. Whether it’s a flaming seafood platter or a DJ spinning tunes while pasta hits the table, this is a place built for good food and a good time.

If you’re near the East Rand and want to eat well without losing the thrill of being out, Italian Kitchen & Grill is worth the reservation.