Stretta Cafe brings simple fresh Italian cuisine combined with an artisanal brand of coffee to Durban. With freshly roasted Lineage Coffee and a refined menu of pizzas, pastas, craft beers and quality wines, Stretta's no-fuss approach to good food utilises classic components such as Italian flour, fresh homemade tomato sauce and a wood-fired oven while their bar area, equally honest, focuses on craft beers, a small wine and craft whisky selection, and expertly pulled espressos. Chef Greg Clellands menu is well-considered and surprisingly affordable. Popular favourites include the Pizza Enzo (with bufala mozzarella, parma ham and rocket), the uniquely spiced Penne Picanti (with bolognaise, cream, brandy and a dash of chilli) and the ever popular Sams Baby Chicken (roasted in the pizza oven and served with a choice of lemon & herb or peri-peri). A pastry and dessert menu varies weekly with homemade Italian classics such as Tiramisu and Panacotta and fresh muffins baked daily. The Cafe's sunny verandah has also become a popular meeting spot for breakfast complemented by freshly ground Lineage coffee. Balsamic Tomato Paninis and the Breakfast Pans of chorizo, cherry tomatoes, bacon and eggs are hearty and flavoursome staples. Lighter options such as Daniellas Muesli and Greek Yoghurt and Mixed Berry Smoothies are also popular. Lineage coffee, newly launched by Durban coffee connoisseur Craig Charity, will be exclusively served at Stretta. The micro roastery's beans are curated by Craig who, having competed in the National Barista Championships several times, has a wealth of coffee knowledge which he enjoys sharing with interested customers. Ryan Metzler, a well-known face on the Durban restaurant scene, is another addition to the team, taking up the reins at front of house. The interior is warm and spacious with the signature minimal palette of natural materials and some clever tiling.