It’s a sad day for Cape Town as we said goodbye to an institution that became a huge part of the Muslim communities’ lives over the last almost 20 years. La Rocca in Canal Walk has closed down as of Sunday 18 August 2024. I hear the collective oh noooooo…… as you read this and I feel it with you.

They have been operating as La Rocca since 2011. But I remember when they first opened about 3 or 4 years before that as Nino’s in the spot where Col’cacchio is now. They were already a popular place as it was the only halaal spot in the mall. Transitioning to La Rocca and moving to the bigger site opposite Woolworths moved them out of franchise status to independent restaurant with its own personality.

For people in the northern suburbs it quickly became a spot where we gathered for girl dates, birthday celebrations, corporate functions or a much needed a refuel after furious shopping. After countless trammezini’s, pasta al forno’s and mango juices with extra ice (ok that’s just me) how could it not?!? It became part of our lives and special moments.

They leave a huge gap in peoples’ hearts and will be sorely missed. We bid them a fond farewell and wish them amazing things for the future.

For die hard La Rocca fans, their menu will still be available at Brocka, their sister branch from 15 September.

We’ve heard there will be another halaal restaurant taking their place and we will update you as soon as we have more details.