The stuff of fromage fantasies.
Love cheese? Puglia Cheese is about to launch what promises to be a cheese-lover’s paradise. Having recently relocated their artisanal cheese factory to Waterkloof Wines (where they are already busy producing their legendary handmade creamy burrata, robiola, fior di latte and other cheeses), the champions of authentic Italian cheese are opening a brand-new eatery: Osteria Cheese Bar: “a space where the cheese is king,” says owner, Davide Ostuni.
Cheese in the making
Glass windows open onto the cheese factory from the cheese bar, so you can watch the Puglia team at work making and maturing the various cheeses that you are eating, and taste new and traditional ways of using the cheeses in true Italian style. “The concept was born out of necessity,” Davide says. “We have realised that most of our cheeses need not only an introduction but also an explanation of how to cook with them.”
Sweet dreams are made of cheese
A delicious education awaits: think gnocchi made with ricotta served in brown butter scented with truffles; homemade pappardelle with wild mushrooms, porcini and Puglia Cheese labneh; uova al purgatorio (a Neopolitan way of cooking eggs in tomato); mozzarella in carrozza (fried mozzarella sandwich); and sourdough pizzas where the cheeses are the star of the show. Breakfasts, homemade cakes, local and imported Italian charcuterie and fresh homemade pastas complete the picture.
Initially Osteria Cheese Bar will open for breakfast and lunch, and the plan is to extend opening hours to include dinner after a few weeks.
Beyond cheese
Once their wine license comes through, wine tastings of Waterkloof wines, plus both local and imported Italian wines, add to the experience.
And you can of course shop for cheeses, cold meats and homemade pastas from the chilled room to take home.
Glorious Somerset West Winelands views, a relaxed atmosphere, and some of the creamiest cheeses in South Africa make this one for every foodie’s list.
Opening 25 October 2022
Opening times Tuesday – Sunday, 7.30am – 5pm
Contact 021 556 7188, info@puglia.co.za
Where to find it Waterkloof Wines, Somerset West
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