Category: Papa Giovannis

Papa Giovanni’s (also styled Papa Giovannis / Papa G’s) in Hillcrest, Durban (KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa), is a long-running Italian restaurant/pizzeria & grill known for wood-fired pizzas, pastas, a lively casual atmosphere, outdoor seating, and regular live music plus value specials.

Location & Contact

  • Address: Shop 20F (or nearby units in the centre; some listings note 40/42 Old Main Rd), Hillcrest Centre, Hillcrest, Durban, 3610.
  • Phone/Bookings: 031 765 3617 (strongly recommended, especially for Saturdays and specials, as tables fill up).
  • Website: papagiovannis.co.za (basic info on menu exploration, events, takeaway/delivery).
  • Delivery/Takeaway: Available via Mr D and Uber Eats; dedicated takeaway area on-site.

Typical opening hours (confirm directly as they can vary): roughly 11:30 AM–9/10 PM most days, with some variation by day.

Live Music

Live music is a signature feature, primarily every Saturday from approximately 1–4 pm. It creates a relaxed afternoon vibe with wood-fired pizza, cocktails/drinks, and a dance-friendly atmosphere that locals praise for weekend energy.

  • Rotating local bands/acts (examples from recent/ongoing promotions: Tiaan Rivers Band, DV8, Sea Level, Sons of Hurricane, Golden Super Hawks/Hot Fuzz, Beats Working, and others).
  • Occasional Sunday live music or family karaoke (e.g., from 2 pm in some promotions).
  • Music continues as usual even on days with private functions (dine-in may be limited later in the evening, with takeaways still available).
  • Check their Instagram (@papa.giovannis) or call for the specific band that weekend, as line-ups change monthly.

The space supports both intimate dining and a more energetic pub-like feel on music days (some reviews note it can feel rowdier during peak weekend times).

Specials & Regular Events

They run consistent value-driven specials that make it popular for groups, dates, and ladies’ nights:

  • Ladies Night – Every Thursday: Meal + a drink for R129. Popular for groups of friends; atmosphere is welcoming and lively.
  • Date Night specials: Couple packages such as a 2-course meal + a drink each for around R395, or fuller 3-course + bottle of wine options in the R450 range (exact inclusions and pricing can vary—confirm when booking). Promoted as romantic Italian evenings.
  • Sip & Paint nights: Creative events combining painting with food/drinks (often hosted or partnered; details vary by date and may require separate booking).
  • Other occasional promotions: wine/whiskey/gin tastings, private functions, rugby screenings with music on big match days, and general “amazing specials” frequently mentioned by regulars.
  • Menu highlights (typical pricing from delivery platforms; dine-in similar): Pizzas from ~R139–R229 (Regina, Hawaiian, BBQ Chicken, Salami, seafood, vegetarian, build-your-own, etc.), pastas (Carbonara, Alfredo, Bolognese, seafood, etc.) from ~R129–R239, burgers, schnitzels, ribs, chicken dishes, and specials. Price range overall roughly R200–300 per person.