Has Treviso Café moved to New Doornfontein, Maboneng Extension, Ellis Park or Troyeville? It’s any or all of the above, depending on what map you use or who you ask. The new café, which has relocated from Craighall Park, is now oddly positioned on the fourth floor of a light-industrial building in the centre of Joburg, called Morkel House. But, from arty Ellis House a couple of blocks away, the draped Italian flag above the restaurant’s outdoor deck is a tantalising lure.

The one place we know Treviso Café is not is the city of Treviso in Veneto, Italy, which is where owner Sergio Caon’s father has his roots. Although Sergio does use that region’s food as a reference, rather than reproducing the fare exactly. What he prefers is simple, wonderful food made from scratch.

The view from Treviso. Photo supplied.

Every day, Sergio is at work at dawn, making sure the bread is ready. Breakfasts start at 7am and there’s quite a range, from very good omelettes and eggs and bacon to French toast, utilising that great bread with syrup and bacon, and muesli trifle, richly layered with yoghurt and honey, in a jar. The coffee is excellent, of course.

Breakfast at Treviso. Photo supplied.

The other meals, available until late afternoon, might include excellent pizza, fresh and lightly toasted tramezzini, and panini made with that scrumptious sourdough. The fresh penne dishes are richly sauced with everything hand-made here, like fresh and nutty basil pesto sauce. And while the Italian city of Treviso is the prosecco capital of that country, this Treviso is unlicenced, so do bring your own bubbly or whatever you fancy.

The view is a great pull. Guests strive to find a seat on the sunny deck, which is the scene of much photography, looking as it does out over a novel aspect of the Joburg skyline. Once you eat here, you’ll inevitably be back.

Moody city views from Treviso’s new location. Photo supplied.