With sweeping views from its enviable location, Forti Grill and Bar positions itself perfectly for spectacular meals that suit any occasion.
Chef Fortunato Mazzone: A Culinary Master’s Vision
Internationally acclaimed chef patron Fortunato Mazzone (or Forti, as people affectionately know him) has painstakingly crafted the menu using his years of experience, his insatiable love of food, and inspiration from his Italian heritage.
What’s more, Mazzone holds impressive credentials as a Commandeur de Bordeaux and Chevalier of the Côteaux du Champagne. Not only was he the youngest member when the Academy of Chefs of the South African Chef Association inducted him, but he also serves as Vice-Echanson of The Ordre Mondial and as an officer of the gastronomic organisation Chaine des Rotisseurs.
From Dream to Reality at Time Square
The restaurant represents Mazzone’s dream, as he designed it as the flagship restaurant at Time Square. This marks the first restaurant in South Africa to carry his name. Before this venture, Mazzone owned the multi-award-winning Ristorante Ritrovo in Pretoria with his father, Giovanni Mazzone, for 23 years.
Forti Grill and Bar, which boasts its own string of awards and accolades, delivers upmarket dining with Italian flair while emphasising hospitality and exceptional food. As a result, every diner feels at home, like family.
Catering to Discerning Clientele
While private diners discover this warm atmosphere, Forti also caters for events and functions. In addition to regular guests, Sun International VIP clientele, diplomats, high-profile businessmen, and socialites frequent the establishment.
The contemporary decor and striking artwork create an atmosphere that matches the food—classically inspired yet undoubtedly modern.
A Menu That Celebrates Italian Excellence
Pizzas and pastas naturally feature prominently. The starter selection offers a wide variety, including Parma ham with melon, Insalata Tricolore with imported Italian buffalo mozzarella, avocado, tomato and basil, along with Parmigiana Di Melanzane – layered brinjals and parmesan with tomato that chefs bake to perfection.
For those seeking something unique, Vitello Tonnato features flash-grilled veal with a tuna-and-caper sauce. For sharing, the antipasto platter is ideal.
Main course options include fish (the delightfully named Prawns Of My Father Giovanni, which chefs roast in the oven with Champagne, garlic and tomato sauce, then serve with creamy parmesan rice), poultry, veal, and meat such as porchetta – a slow-roasted, crispy roll of pork belly, Roman style.
You simply cannot pass up on a tiramisu for dessert.
Guest Experiences That Create Memories
A recent diner shared their experience on Dineplan this week:
“My boyfriend and I came here for our first anniversary since our first date was at Forti too. The staff were absolutely amazing in terms of friendliness, professionalism and their extensive knowledge of the wines and dishes.
I had the lumaconi pasta and my boyfriend had the wagyu burger – PHENOMENAL! When we asked for our bill, our waiter brought out a complimentary dessert platter with ‘Happy Anniversary’ written on it and Forti himself came to wish us many more years together. Thank you for the super special experience, my boyfriend and I are already planning on when we’re coming back!”
For the curious, the Lumaconi features pasta shells that chefs stuff with beef and mushroom, oven roast, then serve with creamy rosé sauce, mozzarella and parmesan.
“Life should never be static or boring, and you can taste the passion and happiness in my food!”
~ Fortunato Mazzone
Private Dining and Exclusive Experiences at Forti Grill and Bar
With two private dining areas, Forti Grill and Bar offers many options, whether for a celebration, business meeting or a simple private gathering.
The outdoor terrace features screened off pergolas with private tables, outdoor tables, communal seating at raised tables and lounge seating for those who just want to relax. As a result, this represents one of the most exclusive rooftop terraces in South Africa, offering Italian dining under the stars.
Forti Grill and Bar: Beverages and Cigars for Connoisseurs
Forti Grill and Bar maintains an extensive wine, spirit and gin selection to please even the most discerning connoisseur’s desires, featuring selections from the top South African wineries to exclusive international vineyards. In addition to this impressive collection, for guests who enjoy a quality cigar, the establishment stocks a full humidor featuring cigars from some of the world’s top brands.
“Whenever you visit Forti Grill & Bar, we’ll make sure you feel like you’re part of the family.”
~ Fortunato Mazzone
Visit Forti Grill and Bar
Experience Italian excellence at its finest at Forti Grill and Bar, located on the top floor of Time Square Casino.
- Location: Shop G03, Time Square, 209 Aramist Avenue, Menlyn
- Trading Hours: Sundays-Thursdays 11:45-22:00, Fridays and Saturdays 11:45-00:00
- Contact: +27 (0)12 003 6180 or +27 (0)76 260 3025
- Email: info@forti.co.za or forti@forti.co.za
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