While fans of Stelle’s original location in the suburb of Parkview were sad to hear that this authentic Italian restaurant was moving to Sandton, it didn’t take long for them to make the 15-minute trip to what is an enviable location.

Stelle, influenced by Northern Italian cuisine, and headed by chef Alda Porelli and baker Tony Graziero, is now housed in Acorn Lane, a rambling and secluded estate shaded by acorn trees. Acorn Lane offers villa accommodation and conferencing facilities within walking distance of busy Sandton central.

The restaurant is spacious and flows out into a large and picturesque courtyard and garden perfect for lazy afternoon meals. An upmarket setting the space is good both for intimate meals or large groups.

The menu has stayed pretty much the same and Stelle still offers plenty of delicious options. If you are an anchovy fan this place is heaven: try the the bell peppers served in traditional bagna caoda, a superb sauce of anchovies and garlic, or the fresh shredded cabbage served with these flavours. Also not to be missed is the mozzarella in carrozza, a deep fried mozzarella sandwich served with rocket and anchovy sauce. There’s plenty more to choose from on the starters menu. Ask about the specials, seasonal dishes that include porcini mushrooms or artichokes when the time is right.

The pastas are light and homemade and if you are a meat-eater try the shredded fillet with mushrooms or fettucine lamb ragu, both winning dishes.

Service is friendly and the food and atmosphere dictate that you should eat at an unhurried pace.

Remember to save space. Desserts are Graziero's delicate hand-crafted choux pastry selection.

Get there with the Gautrain: Stelle restaurant is located a 15 minute walk along Rivonia Road from the Sandton Gautrain station.