Punchinello’s new menu puts Fourways’ food back on the map

When it first opened with a menu developed by Billy Gallagher, Punchinello’s was one of the most talked about restaurants in the Northern suburbs of Johannesburg. Its Mediterranean inspired menu was lauded about town, but recently, as a variety of different head chefs took over and introduced their own takes, the original flare was lost. Now under group development chef Kieran Conway the menu is being modernised and revamped all with Gallagher’s original intentions in mind and the result is phenomenal.

As the hotel restaurant at Southern Sun Monte Casino, the decor is simple, but elegant, with a large wooden deck that looks out over a pond dotted by ducks. It’s a surprisingly peaceful place for the location in the heart of Fourways and it comes as no surprise that this is a popular Sunday lunch venue.

The new menu credits the surrounding ambience perfectly. Light and beautifully put together the new Mediterranean dishes were developed as a tribute to Gallagher and keep his original menu in mind while updating the flavours and catering to modern tastes. The result is a resounding success as everything from the simple vegetarian tomato tart starter, with roasted vine tomatoes dipped in rock salt to the stuffed calamari succeeds in blending subtle, but complimentary flavours, and uses only the freshest ingredients.

KIERAN CONWAY – group development chef – Tsogo Sun

For main course, the braised short-rib with a Guinness infused jus, Colcannon and Minted crushed peas, and the grilled Salmon trout with a Sardinian artichoke pasta and Parmesan sauce are both highly recommended. Expertly prepared the short-rib is tender and imbued with a rich flavour that pairs perfectly with the side dishes. The salmon has a crisp skin and is perfectly light, allowing the flavours to melt over the tongue as only a fish of this quality can do.

Each of the five desserts that we tried were immaculate, both in presentation and flavour. From the airy and decadent chocolate mousse to the crisp and creamy tiramisu inspired tart, the desserts are for the most part an ode to the things one usually finds on the menu in SA with a delightful twist that updates the concept. Like with the main courses, the desserts are airy, and delicate, while still offering rich flavour in beautiful balance. As a result, it’s likely any guest may be tempted to leave space for two of these special treats.

The new menu is without a doubt a resounding success and makes the restaurant a definite destination venue for those who live in the surrounding suburbs and beyond. If you are looking for a peaceful, calm, and expertly curated experience you should look no further than Punchinellos.

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