Those who find themselves meandering around the Midlands in KwaZulu-Natal should know of Il Postino, a family-run hidden gem in Dargle. Located next to a post office – hence the name, which translates to ‘the postman’ – this unassuming Italian spot is always buzzing with locals and passers-by. Eat Out critic Nikita Buxton takes a trip inland and hunkers down for some of the best pizza in KZN.

The cosy interior at Il Postino in Dargle. Photo by Bolton Inc. Pictures.

Fast facts

Serves: No-fuss Italian fare
Cost: R100 average for a main
Best for: A cosy Midlands Meander refuel
Star rating: Food 4, service 4, ambience 4

Food

The menu here features all the makings of a good Italian feast. Start off with antipasti like the hearty minestrone soup (perfectly paired with the crackling fireplaces inside if it’s winter), or a lighter dish of Sicilian-style grilled calamari. The snails in garlic butter are also a favourite, if that’s your kind of dish.

A calamari antipasti at Il Postino. Photo by Bolton Inc. Pictures.

The mains here are what you want, though. The pastas are fresh with classic sauces of creamy mushrooms, carbonara or slow-cooked ragù. The ultra-rich blue cheese gnocchi is great with perfect, cloud-like pillows and a heavy-hitting sauce, while the light rose-coloured pasta with tomatoes and a hint of cream will please most palates.

Pizzas are wood-fired and homemade. The traditional thin base is crisp and lightly charred to perfection. Top your pizza off with one of the usual suspects – you can’t go wrong with the golden margherita here – or go for one of the exotic options. These include the chef’s choice with spicy sausage and fresh basil, the Della Toscana, with caramelised onions, olives and anchovies, or the glorious Alla Daniela, with creamy Danish feta, Parma ham and peppery rocket. You can also create your own pizza with a huge range of fresh toppings. There are also gluten-free options available.

A thin-crust pizza at Il Postino. Photo by Bolton Inc. Pictures.

For dessert, the affogato is comforting with a kick; else there is a rich Bar One cake for something more decadent.

Drinks

The Il Postino wine list is cleverly presented in library form on the wall, where you get to pick your poison. Easy-drinking bottles from Boschendal, Newton Johnson, La Bri, Longridge and Thelema often feature. You’ll also be able to grab a craft beer on tap from the adjoining bar section with great local options.

Service

Friendly and attentive. The kind of warmth you’d expect from the peaceful Midlands area.

The quaint entrance of Il Postino in Dargle, KZN. Photo supplied.

Ambience

Il Postino sits quietly on its own on the side of Dargle Road. Old paintings, red-and-white checked tablecloths and a roaring wood-fired oven make this a perfect place to linger. Summer days are best enjoyed out on the stoep, while cooler weather is thawed by two cosy fireplaces – three, if you count the oven. The adjoining bar area, complete with rugby memorabilia and wine-barrel tables, is a vibey spot for a Friday night.

The warm bar at Il Postino hosts music and quiz evenings. Photo by Bolton Inc. Pictures.

And…

Take advantage of the half-price pizza nights on Tuesdays, pensioner’s discount of 25% on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and live music on Friday nights and Sunday lunches.

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Eat Out critics arrive unannounced and pay for their meals in full. Read our editorial policy here.