By Nokwanda Ncwane
Situated within the secluded Cotswold Downs Golf & Country Estate in Hillcrest, on the Outer West of Durban, Grimaldi’s is a restaurant where beautiful surroundings, delicious food and excellent service come together to create a memorable dining experience.
Located just over 30km from Durban’s city centre, Hillcrest has evolved from what was once primarily a farming community into a thriving suburb with a growing food scene. Nestled within the tranquil and picturesque Cotswold Downs Estate, Grimaldi’s is an Italian restaurant that welcomes both estate residents and the general public.
We booked a table for five for lunch and, before our visit, received all the information we needed to access the estate, making the arrival process seamless and stress-free.
From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with warm smiles and genuine hospitality. The staff made us feel right at home, and the service remained attentive throughout our visit without ever feeling intrusive. Although I can’t remember our waiter’s name, he was knowledgeable, friendly and ensured that we were well looked after.
We started with drinks, which arrived promptly. There was a slightly longer wait for our meals, but it was understandable, especially considering that everything was freshly prepared.
As a seafood lover, I chose the beer-battered fish served with chips, tartar sauce and a side of grilled vegetables, including butternut, sweet potato and beetroot. One of my colleagues ordered pizza while others ordered the tomahawk steak and rump steak, both served with a side of vegetables; spinach and butternut. Naturally, we sampled each other’s meals, and every dish was flavourful, well-seasoned and beautifully prepared. The quality of the ingredients and the care taken with each plate were evident.
For dessert, I enjoyed the baked blueberry cheesecake, while one of my colleagues opted for the tiramisu. Both desserts were rich, indulgent and the perfect way to end the meal. The creamy textures and balanced flavours made every bite enjoyable.
The portions were generous, offering excellent value for money. In fact, none of us managed to finish our meals, so we happily requested takeaway containers to enjoy the leftovers later.
The restaurant itself is tastefully designed, with elegant décor and plenty of natural light that creates a warm and inviting ambience. One of the highlights was the peaceful atmosphere. The background music was played at just the right volume, allowing us to enjoy our conversations without having to raise our voices.
Throughout the afternoon, we took a few strolls outside to admire the beautiful homes within the estate, watch golfers making their way around the course and simply enjoy the tranquil surroundings while letting our meal settle. Families will also appreciate the dedicated children’s play area, allowing little ones to stay entertained while adults relax and enjoy their dining experience.
Whether you’re planning a family lunch, dinner with friends, a business meeting or celebrating a special occasion, Grimaldi’s offers the perfect setting. With its picturesque location, warm hospitality, generous portions and delicious food, it’s well worth a visit if you’re looking for a relaxed dining experience in Hillcrest.
