I’m coming clean – as much as I enjoy residing in the busy suburb of Sandton, I’ve got to admit that sometimes I just want to escape to somewhere green, lush and tranquil. Being a former Capetonian, can you blame me? I’m all about those long, lazy alfresco brunches!
If you share this consensus, you’ll be delighted to know that there’s a charming little restaurant situated on the Montrose Nursery property in Morningside that ticks all the boxes – outstanding food, enthusiastic service, a beautiful garden setting, and a cheerful, laid-back atmosphere. Say hello to Gia’s on Montrose!
Last weekend, I decided to pop into this well-loved little eatery for the first time, and I’m so glad I did. I arrived with a good friend of mine in the late morning for a boozy brunch. We were instantly made to feel right at home by the owner, Michelle, and her tremendously ambitious staff.
We were lucky enough to secure a table under the trees, which was a real treat on such a beautiful, sunny day. To start off, my friend and I had a round of cappuccinos with cream and we could taste the fine Italian quality. That’s just one of the things you can look forward to at Gia’s.
Looking through the menu, we agreed that deciding on a single dish would be a tough task. With many different options, ranging from hearty breakfasts and fresh salads to home-made burgers and speciality mains, you’re truly spoilt for choice here. Eventually, I decided on the Eggs Benedict with ham, while my friend went for the Nordic Sunrise Breakfast.
While we waited, we sipped shaken martinis while enjoying the garden ambience. Our breakfasts arrived beautifully presented and my Eggs Benedict was oozing with mozzarella cheese and drenched in the most perfect hollandaise sauce. You can bet that I scoffed every last mouthful!
My friend was kind enough to let me have a little taste of his gourmet breakfast, which was 40g grilled, smoked salmon, poached eggs, grilled halloumi, grilled rosemary-infused mushrooms, grilled tomato, and rye toast. A delicious spread and the salmon was sublime! I’ll definitely be returning to tuck into my own brekkie like this. I also loved the edible flowers that both our plates were garnished with.
After quite literally cleaning our plates, we decided to order another round of cocktails – this time cosmopolitans – and then to end off our outstanding brunch on a sweet note, we had Gia’s signature baked cheesecake to share. It was love at first bite! I don’t think I’ve tasted better cheesecake anywhere.
Gia's really is a hidden gem and not only for summer dining. In winter, a fireplace keeps you warm and cosy inside and they’re also child-friendly with a play area out back. I highly recommend them and I’m sure you’ll find yourself returning time and again.
Last weekend, I decided to pop into this well-loved little eatery for the first time, and I’m so glad I did. I arrived with a good friend of mine in the late morning for a boozy brunch. We were instantly made to feel right at home by the owner, Michelle, and her tremendously ambitious staff.
We were lucky enough to secure a table under the trees, which was a real treat on such a beautiful, sunny day. To start off, my friend and I had a round of cappuccinos with cream and we could taste the fine Italian quality. That’s just one of the things you can look forward to at Gia’s.
Looking through the menu, we agreed that deciding on a single dish would be a tough task. With many different options, ranging from hearty breakfasts and fresh salads to home-made burgers and speciality mains, you’re truly spoilt for choice here. Eventually, I decided on the Eggs Benedict with ham, while my friend went for the Nordic Sunrise Breakfast.
While we waited, we sipped shaken martinis while enjoying the garden ambience. Our breakfasts arrived beautifully presented and my Eggs Benedict was oozing with mozzarella cheese and drenched in the most perfect hollandaise sauce. You can bet that I scoffed every last mouthful!
My friend was kind enough to let me have a little taste of his gourmet breakfast, which was 40g grilled, smoked salmon, poached eggs, grilled halloumi, grilled rosemary-infused mushrooms, grilled tomato, and rye toast. A delicious spread and the salmon was sublime! I’ll definitely be returning to tuck into my own brekkie like this. I also loved the edible flowers that both our plates were garnished with.
After quite literally cleaning our plates, we decided to order another round of cocktails – this time cosmopolitans – and then to end off our outstanding brunch on a sweet note, we had Gia’s signature baked cheesecake to share. It was love at first bite! I don’t think I’ve tasted better cheesecake anywhere.
Gia's really is a hidden gem and not only for summer dining. In winter, a fireplace keeps you warm and cosy inside and they’re also child-friendly with a play area out back. I highly recommend them and I’m sure you’ll find yourself returning time and again.
