I have been wanting to try La Trinita for a long time, given the rave reviews on TA and its recurrent #1 spot.
The signore in charge were very charming, if rather scattered and stressed. They clearly love what they do and do it with...a slightly exaggerated, operatic air that doesn't always ring true. The menu is 'classic Italian' and there are several specials which do not appear on the rather pedestrian general menu published on the website. On the night we visited, there was a fillet, calamari and several other pasta specials, two of which we ordered but were nothing to write home about. Good no doubt, with some subtle flavours, but not particularly memorable. The starter portion of melanzane was passable, but small. There was apparently some problem in the kitchen which meant that the main courses arrived 90 minutes after they were ordered. The prices are quite high all considered.
In short, an interesting experience, and a genuine trattoria (I think 'ristorante' is clearly an over-statement), but rather dull on the tastebuds. A little more originality would go a long way. That said, it was about three quarters full in a normal week night in Covid, so it's obviously popular; and unlike the classic Da Graziella which I hear has closed down, and was streets ahead of most ordinary Italian places in Johannesburg, managed to survive the crisis. Well done for that!More