A few weeks ago we had lunch at the well known Ballito eatery Al Pescatore. This Italian and seafood restaurant has been operating since 1989 and is well of the oldest and most popular restaurants on the Dolphin Coast.
Located slap bang on the beach – overlooking Clark Bay in fact, Al Pescatore is popular with both the older and younger generations. The restaurant has a stylishly decorated interior while the wooden deck outside appeals to the younger, more casual crowd who want to come off the beach and have a relaxed lunch.
I like the idea of eating on the deck (which is closed in with large, sliding windows) so I can enjoy the magnificent view of the sea but unfortunately for me it also doubles as the smoking section … and one thing I detest is someone smoking while I try to enjoy my meal!
The menu at Al Pescatore is extensive; there is a good choice between seafood (calamari, kingklip, sole and seafood platters), meat (various types of steak, chicken, spare ribs and curries), pasta dishes and either traditional or gourmet pizzas.
I opted for two starters (I’m on a 12 week gym challenge and my trainer keeps telling me it’s all about portion control!) so in light of that I had Prosciutto Crudo e Melone, which in plain English is melon with Parma ham! It was delicious – something I don’t normally choose but it was tasty all the same. The melon was beautifully fresh and the chef was generous with the Parma.
My dining companions shared the Patagonian Calamari; fried calamari tubes and tentacles served with a soya, chilli, ginger and coriander dip. I also had this for my ‘main course’ – served on a bed of rice it was more than enough.
The other two main courses ordered was one of the specials of the day: seared tuna served with chips and vegetables, and a chicken and mushroom curry, served on a bed of rice. Both meals were enormous and to be honest I’m pleased I opted for my two starter meal! To finish the three of us shared a slice of peppermint crisp tart – in a word, heavenly.
The service at Al Pescatore is brilliant and Trevor, the owner, is always on hand for a chat. Having been in the industry for over 20 years he is on a first name basis with many of his patrons!
Ballito Information
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CONTACT AL PESCATORE
Al Pescatore is located at 14 Edward Place, Ballito.
Parking can at times, be limited, so get there early!
Telephone: +27 (0)32 946-3574
