If ever there was an argument in favour of this elusive "rainbow nation", it is a black guy born in Lesotho and raised in Italy, who owns Gemelli - a popular new Italian restaurant in Jozi.IF EVER there was an argument in favour of this elusive "rainbow nation", it is a black guy born in Lesotho and raised in Italy, who owns Gemelli - a popular new Italian restaurant in Jozi.He was destined to run this enterprise, as his name, Alessandro, attests.One of the things that makes the Gemelli experience exceptional is the familiarity that the owner builds with his patrons.Everyone who walks through the doors is an instant friend and is treated as such.The food is unmistakably Italian - the ingredients and the names make this clear. But unlike many other "Italian" restaurants, this gem doesn't rely on the ubiquitous pizza to satisfy the easily impressed. The ingredients in each dish are there for a reason - they add to the tastedi Italia.Gemelli is refreshingly unpretentious. The cuisine is so well designed it's both simple and sophisticated at the same time.A few comments about the cocktails are apt because they're the anchor that holds any lunch or dinner outing together.At first sight the cocktail ingredients look unnecessarily complicated, but each cocktail is in equal parts delicious and strong - a drinker's dream.Some are served in thematic goblets. The Lesotho Lady is served in a miniature potjie, and the Peach Lady comes in a small silver vase - hipster without being annoying.The entire feel of the ristorante (said with the Italian ''pinched fingers") is very Soho-meets-Little Italy in everything from the elaborate wall-papered walls and high ceilings, to the brass and wood accents. Even the name-in-lights entrance meets the Manhattan décor theme.It is a fun, easy vibe sprinkled with the cosmopolitan air all Johannesburgers crave. Date nights and family luncheons are perfect for this locale.For bookings visit gemellirestaurant.co.za NEED TO KNOW:WHO TO TAKE: There isn't much for kids to do, so adult members of your family or your boo.HOW MUCH: About R350 for a three-course meal and a cocktail.WHAT TO EAT: Starters: Crostata.Main: Seafood pasta or lamb loin.Dessert: "Best cheesecake in Joburg".Cocktail: Peach julep.WHEN TO GO: Weekday evenings because #nokids.THE PHRASE THAT PAYS: ''I know..." - mention one of the owner's friends or his girlfriend and get that VVIP treatment...