A concept by Les Amis Group, LINO Restaurant is an Italian restaurant that serves handmade pizza, pasta and classic Italian dishes.

LINO Restaurant has opened a new outlet at Forum The Shopping Mall, taking over the premise of the now-defunct Jamie’s Italian Singapore.

LINO Restaurant currently has two outlets at Binjal Park and Forum The Shopping Mall.

There is also LINO Pizza & Pasta Bar, a casual version of the restaurant, at Shaw Centre.

LINO Restaurant at Forum The Shopping Mall will also have a cafe concept and the cafe menu—a concise menu offering a smaller selection of pasta, pizza, desserts and drinks—is available from 11am – 5.30pm daily.

To celebrate the opening of the new outlet, enjoy S$14++ selected cocktails, from 27 Sep to 31 Oct 2021.

LINO Restaurant
583 Orchard Rd, #01-01/04
Singapore 238884

Located at the historic Customs House, Caffe Fernet is an idyllic Italian restaurant that promises fresh air and a gorgeous waterfront view of the Marina Bay with its alfresco dining concept.

Opened by the group behind Jigger & Pony, Gibson Bar, Sugar Hall, Humpback and Live Twice, Caffe Fernet offers a fresh take on Italian cuisine and cocktails.

With Jigger & Pony’s background in the cocktail industry, you can naturally expect a selection of well-crafted cocktails. You won’t go wrong with the classic Aperol Spritz (S$17), which had a distinctive sunset orange colour and a sweet tinge to the taste.

Start off your meal with a selection of small plates including Beef Tartare (S$31), Burrata (S$24), and Brussels Sprouts (S$21).

We recommend the Grilled Octopus (S$32) for the seafood lovers. The octopus is tender and goes well with the marinated beans and the chilli vinegar that has just the right amount of spice.

There are three choices under the pasta section. Caffe Fernet is well known for its Mafaldine Cacio E Pepe (S$26) with parmesan, pecorino, four pepper. Otherwise, you can go for the Tonnarelli Vongole (S$29) with flower clams. Gluten-free options are available upon request.

Overall, Caffe Fernet is a great place along the Marina Bay if you’re a fan of classic Italian craft cocktails with a twist, and authentic Italian food that will leave you wanting to come back for more.

Caffe Fernet
70 Collyer Quay
#01-05 Customs House
Singapore 049323
Tel: +65 9178 1105

Pasta, risotto, pizza and all sorts of Italian food, in general, is hard to say no to. Known to be hearty and indulgent with distinct, classic flavours, Italian cuisine is one that boasts a unique set of flavours which your taste buds will identify upon the first mouthful.

Granted that Italian restaurants, cafés and eateries in Singapore are dime a dozen, some may find difficulty in searching for Muslim-friendly ones, and even more so one that is affordable on top of being Muslim-friendly.

Here we have sussed out 5 Muslim-friendly restaurants and cafés in Singapore where you can get absolutely delizioso Italian fare at prices that are economical for the masses. Buon appetito!

Photo Credit: Positano Risto

POSITANO RISTO

Inspired by the founders’ travels to Positano in Italy, Positano Risto is a casual restaurant that sits in Kampong Glam which aims is to bring a slice of Italy and its heartwarming cuisine to locals here.

100% Muslim-owned, you can expect to dig into a mind-boggling array of handmade pasta dishes such as their Spaghetti and Meatballs (S$16.95) and Soft Shell Crab Linguine (S$22.95). They also have a variety of pizzas which are perfect for sharing!

66 Bussorah Street
Singapore 199479
Tel: +65 6292 1866
Sun to Thu: 11.30am – 10pm
Fri: 11.30am – 11pm
Sat: 11.30am – 12am
Nearest Station: Bugis

THE BRAVERY CAFÉ

Adorned with simple lighting and decor that exudes a homely ambience, The Bravery Café is a Muslim-owned café whose menu boasts a great selection of coffee alongside various brunch and dinner items.

The selection of pasta offerings are kept fairly simple and that is exactly what the chefs take pride in. Using simple ingredients and techniques to whip up their grub, a meal over at The Bravery Café surely will not disappoint.

66 Horne Road
Singapore 209073
Tel: +65 9388 2973
Sun to Mon, Wed to Thu: 9am – 6pm
Fri and Sat: 9am – 10pm
(Closed on Tuesday)
Nearest Station: Lavender

ROYZ ET VOUS

Best known for their speciality black coffee made and churned out from freshly roasted beans, Royz et Vous also serves an array of delectable Italian-inspired food that you wouldn’t want to miss out on.

Their Signature Prawn and Crayfish Pasta (S$19.90) has constantly been the crowd-favourite, but be sure to try out the other equally tantalizing dishes there such as the Salmon Slide (S$24.90) and Almost Magical Smoked Duck (S$26.90).

137 Telok Ayer Street #01-01
Singapore 068602
Tel: +65 6293 0270
Mon to Fri: 11am – 4pm, 5pm – 10pm
Sat: 12pm – 4pm, 5pm – 11pm
Sun: 12pm – 4pm, 5pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Downtown

BADOQUE

Looking for monster portions of pasta dishes, pizzas and steak? Badoque is one of the few stalls in Bedok’s bustling cafe scene that boasts a wide array of Italian fare with a touch of Asian and Mediterranean flavours.

With 10 different types of pasta dishes and pizzas to choose from, we reckon that there is surely something for everyone at Badoque!

298 Bedok Road
Bedok Shopping Complex
Singapore 469454
Tel: +65 6446 6928
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 11pm
(Closed on Monday)
Nearest Station: Bedok

Photo Credit: Kucina Italian Restaurant 

KUCINA ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Dubbing themselves as Singapore’s first authentic Halal Italian restaurant, Kucina Italian Restaurant is a must-to-go for a huge myriad of Italian fare in the likes of pasta, risotto, pizzas and soups.

Helmed by Executive Chef Gero DiMaria Mohammed Omar—who has over 25 years worth of experience in Italian cooking—, diners can expect to enjoy hearty Italian food in an elegant setting.

11 Tanjong Katong Road
Kinex Shopping Mall #B1-09/10
Singapore 437157
Tel: +65 6493 2154
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Paya Lebar

Greenwood Avenue. Unbeknownst to many, this particular enclave is not just a place filled with flashy cars, big houses and upperclassmen. In fact, this supposed ‘rich man’s land’ is a foodie haven that houses some of the most interesting eats.

Don’t let these restaurants intimidate you with their chic facades and the extensive wine displays scare you because many of the eateries nestled along Greenwood Avenue offer great nosh at not-so-exorbitant prices. What’s more, the quiet and relaxing vibe of the neighbourhood provides a great escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Many restaurants have come and gone over the years in this enclave so here is our updated food guide to Greenwood Avenue.

73@HILLCREST

Perhaps one of the more wallet-friendly eateries in the area, 73@Hillcrest serves as a coffee shop by day and transforms into a bistro by night. Most of the items on their menu are kept below S$13 and there is no GST and service charge.

If you pop by for brunch, do try their Avocado & Poached Egg (S$12.80). Think perfectly poached eggs with a luscious runny centre and generous servings of ripe avocado and kale.

73 Hillcrest Road
Singapore 288945
Tel:+65 9694 5888
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Fri: 11.30am – 11pm
Sat: 8.30am – 11pm
Sun: 8.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

BAKER & COOK

This cosy artisanal bakery at the end of the stretch is an ideal place to relax with a book while sipping on a hot coffee.

Fresh bakes include cakes, fruit tarts and bagels—of which all are available for takeaway too. But of course, eating it fresh and warm on the spot is best.

77 Hillcrest Road,
Singapore 288951
Tel: +65 6469 8834
Sun to Thu: 7am – 8pm
Fri & Sat: 7am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

FARANGSE

Offering a French-Issan dining experience in Greenwood Avenue, Farangse features French and Thai fare in a cosy and comfortable space that also has an al fresco dining area.

Utilising traditional cooking methods and the freshest produce, Farangse promises that everything used in their food is freshly made in their restaurant.

24 Greenwood Ave
Singapore 289221
Tel: +65 9630 4526
Tue: 6pm – 10pm
Wed to Sun: 11.30am – 2pm, 6pm – 10pm
(Closed on Monday)
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

FRATINI LA TRATTORIA

Omakase dining is something synonymous with Japanese cuisine, but what if we told you that this unassuming Italian joint up in Greenwood Avenue adopts a similar dining concept as well?

At Fratini La Trattoria, the menu changes as and when the chefs see fit—which happens often—so diners can look forward to an ever-changing menu featuring the finest Italian flavours, exceptional wine pairings and delectable desserts.

10 Greenwood Avenue
Hillcrest Park
Singapore 289201
Tel: +65 6468 2868
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

GREENWOOD FISH MARKET

For many years now, Greenwood Fish Market has been around and still, it continues to wow us with their stellar fish and chips and seafood offerings. This is a no-nonsense and minimal extravagance sort of joint—just fresh, honest seafood prepared with simple cooking techniques.

If you are looking to splurge, the seasonal Alaskan king crab will do just the trick. If not, nothing like a plate of crispy fish and chips to put your tummy in a happy place.

34 & 38 Greenwood Avenue,
Singapore 289236
Tel: +65 6467 4950
Daily: 12pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

MO & JO SOURDOUGH BURGERS

Mo & Jo Sourdough Burgers dish up honest and simple burgers that are incredibly irresistible due to the wholesome ingredients and pillowy soft buns that they use in their food.

Not only do they serve mouth-watering burgers, but their restaurant is also child and dog-friendly!

8 Greenwood Ave
Singapore 289198
Tel: +65 6463 4626
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 3pm, 5pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

PEPERONI PIZZERIA

This family favourite offers affordably priced pies topped with copious amounts of fresh toppings from sun-dried tomatoes to prosciutto, pancetta and seafood. Their family pizza is colossal, to say the least, and is worth getting for groups of 4 or more.

Their pasta offerings are pretty decent as well but the one dish that trumps all others (to us) is their Crispy Portobello and Chicken starter.

6 Greenwood Avenue,
Singapore 289195
Tel: +65 6465 6556
Mon to Thu: 12pm – 3pm, 5pm – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 11pm
Sun: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

ROSSO BIANCO

Be transported onto the streets of Rome at Rosso Bianco, this restaurant takes pride in their authentic yet wholesome Italian cuisine.

From classic dishes such as Lasagna Fatta in Cassa to the unique Bismark Pizza and hearty Iberico Pork Chop; Rosso Bianco is a must-try at Greenwood Avenue.

2 Greenwood Avenue
Singapore 289189
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5pm – 10.30pm
Fri to Sun: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

RUBATO ITALIAN RESTAURANT & WINE BAR

With its massive restaurant space and flashy sign, Rubato is a hard one to miss. Just like its decor, the menu offerings are kept simple yet fresh and inviting.

Their pasta is handmade and prepared à la minute and pizzas are all tasty with a thin, crispy and mildly charred crust courtesy of their in-house wood-fired oven.

12 Greenwood Avenue,
Singapore 289204
Tel: +65 6252 3200
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 12am
Sat & Sun: 11am – 12am
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

SATISFOOD

Combining a bakery, deli, grocer and sit-down restaurant all in one, Satisfood is sure to satisfy any hungry soul.

Daily, their in-house pastry chef kneads fresh dough into bread and sculpts artisanal desserts, the chef meticulously transforms fresh produce into culinary works of art and the barista thumps away, brewing up some killer coffee for the weary hearts.

2 Greenwood Avenue,
Singapore 289189
Tel: +65 6463 4206
Mon to Fri: 10am – 12am
Sat & Sun: 8.30am – 12am
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

SHIN YUU JAPANESE CUISINE

Over at Shin Yuu, you can bet that you will get quality out of every buck.

From their fresh sashimi to sushi rolls, nigiri, grilled meats and tempura, you will be spoiled for choice. Portion sizes are generous and the items served here are loads better than many commercial buffet restaurants out there.

16 Greenwood Avenue,
Singapore 289209
Tel: +65 9688 2996
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

THE CHEESE ARTISANS

Lovers of wine and cheese and every other fancy European delicacy in between are in for a treat at The Cheese Artisans. Inspired by artisanal cheese shops in the iconic cities and country towns of Europe, these folks here mean serious business.

With over 80 varieties of European artisanal cheeses—from Comte to their in-house aged Smokey Blue Yan Xun Wei with Chinese Tea Leaves—there will be something to suit every palette and every mood.

18 Greenwood Avenue,
Singapore 289212
Tel: +65 6463 2711
Mon to Fri: 9am – 6pm
(Closed on Saturday and Sunday)
Nearest Station: Tan Kah Kee

Boasting swanky interiors and offering a series of authentic, high-quality Italian dishes without the over-exorbitant price tag attached, PocoLoco impresses with their commitment to providing both tasty food and memorable dining experiences for all. Known to take up residence in Singapore’s heartlands, the restaurant opened its most recent one in Wisteria Mall, located within the Yishun heartland.

Believe us when we say that these folks don’t mess around when it comes to quality Italian food. Featuring a host of unique gems, our breaths were taken away by the likes of the Uni Risotto, Tagliatelle Al Ragu De Angelo and Filleto De Manzo with Foie Gras in Red Wine Sauce, each boasting heavenly sauces and dressings made entirely from scratch.

Their new space is a culmination of good vibes, offering diners a cosy ambience that’s neither pretentious nor intimidating, solid service and authentic Italian food that is just unbelievably good considering its price point. That’s right, their food is all priced relatively affordable to cater to the masses.

PORTOBELLO

To start off, we tried the Portobello (S$12.90) that features two overturned portobello mushrooms, oven-baked and stuffed generously with soft, creamy burrata cheese along with a modest drizzling of their homemade truffle essence.

Straightforward from taste to the presentation and elevated with the Earthy scent of truffle, this simple starter impressed with its lovely chewy texture coupled with the rich, creamy molten cheese that spills out onto the tongue.

COLD CAPPELLINI

Served cold, the Cold Cappellini (S$20), yet another awesome starter worth considering, features a mound of chilled angel hair pasta dressed in truffle essence that is topped with fresh slices of Hokkaido scallops, sea urchin and shio kombu.

Nicely balanced with the various components dealt in humble portions, this refreshing dish is an umami bomb that does well to get the appetite going without being too overbearing on the palate.

TAGLIATELLE AL RAGU DE ANGELO

If proper nourishment and meaty comfort is needed after a long, arduous day at work, then why not consider the Tagliatelle Al Ragu De Angelo (S$15.90). The dish comprises a generous portion of handmade tagliatelle, neatly assembled and well coated in a hearty meat-based sauce before finished with a portion of a lamb rack.

Indulgent, the sauce was thick, resembling more of a stew rather than a sauce. The lamb was cooked perfectly, boasting a succulent pink interior and a crusty exterior. The real money-maker, however, was the homemade pasta which had a nice bite to it and served as a vessel to sponge up all the amazing flavour.

TAGLIATELLE PROSCIUTTO

Another pasta option to consider—one that offers a good balance between tartness, saltiness and freshness—is the Tagliatelle Prosciutto (S$15.90). Veal jus forms the base of this stunner, with other components such as capers, cherry tomatoes, olives and arugula added to give the sauce texture and depth.

The parma ham was as thin as paper, melting nicely on the tongue and coating every inch of it in a fatty flavour that was just divine. The arugula was also a nice touch as its peppery qualities did well to cut through the richness and saltiness of the other components.

UNI RISOTTO

Combining the briny ocean flavours of uni with the creamy, velvety texture that is perfectly cooked risotto, the Uni Risotto (S$20) is one that warrants a return visit and is a true hallmark of Italian flair and Japanese precision.

This creamy Italian rice dish is accented with speckles of garlic but is nicely mellowed out by the delicate creaminess of the parmesan cheese. The fresh Hokkaido-sourced sea urchin gave the dish a distinct seafood aroma and umami that played off the cheese nicely.

FILLETO DI MANZO WITH FOIE GRAS

A dish that we would gladly return for is the Filleto De Manzo with Foie Gras in Red Wine Sauce (S$27.90). Placed in the centre of the dish is a perfectly seared tenderloin steak, and perched on top of it is a sizeable medallion of freshly pan-seared foie gras.

Buttery and indulgent, the sweet and tangy balsamic glaze drizzled over top was an excellent (and much needed) touch.

TIRAMISU

Made authentically the Italian way, their Tiramisu (S$7.90) features ladyfinger biscuits soaked in a mixture of espresso and rum, layered with a light and airy mascarpone cream and dusted with cocoa powder.

Surprisingly light with a subtle alcoholic punch that hits you right at the end, this Italian classic honestly ranks high among the many that we’ve tried.

MATCHA LAVA

Promising nothing but sheer indulgence, with a subtle bitterness that works is the Matcha Lava (S$10.90). Unlike the classic chocolate lava cake, this rendition features a fondant that is made using fresh matcha powder, giving it its distinct and complex aroma.

When cut into, the outer shell breaks open, revealing an incredibly sexy flow of molten matcha. Best enjoyed with vanilla ice cream, this dessert boasts an alluring sweetness that begs to be devoured entirely (and immediately).

PocoLoco
598 Yishun Ring Road, #01-37/38,
Singapore 768698
Tel: +65 8826 1919
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Yishun

408 Ang Mo Kio Ave 10 #01-779
Singapore 560408
Tel: +65 8436 3363

21 Jurong Town Hall Road
Snow City Level 2
Singapore 609433

Tel: +65 8866 4646

103 Irrawaddy Road
#02-08 Royal Square@Novena
Singapore 329565
Tel: +65 8699 6664

This post was brought to you by PocoLoco. 

A place where discerning diners and lovers of good vibes gather, Two Chefs Bar is the ideal place to be should you find yourself in the mood for after-work drinks, casual gatherings and tasty food. Serving up a mixture of both Mexican and Italian grub, many might find the contrast odd but contrary to preliminary expectations, this isn’t one of those hipster joints where they try to mix and combine flavours together in hopes of producing unique.

Instead, what diners can hope to expect from the restaurant’s menu is a myriad of Mexican and Italian dishes—more than 100 food items in fact—encompassing a wide spectrum of flavours and characteristics but remaining delicious nonetheless. Whether you’re pining for spicy, searing-hot fajitas served on a hot plate, a rustic Angus beef burger or something a little less assertive like pasta or pizza, you’re bound to find something you’ll love here at Two Chefs Bar.

While their first outlet over at Quayside Isle may prove ideal for romantic dates and corporate events, their second outlet is better suited for office workers, fun get-togethers and those hankering for punchy cocktails, affordable comfort food and all-day happy hour deals—did we mention their Holland Village outlet boasts a massive selection of craft beers and ciders as well?

GREAT AMBIENCE, FULL TABLE, SERVICE WITH NO GST CHARGE

Diners rejoice for this restaurant and bar provides full table service with no GST charge. Indulge in the pleasures of excellent food as everything is made fresh daily without compromise using the freshest and finest ingredients.

For those who fancy sitting outdoors, the cosy alfresco seating decorated with colourful vintage posters is where you’ll want to be, sipping on those well-deserved beers and margaritas. The bonus – it’s fitted with a retractable canopy that makes it perfect be it rain or shine. Holland Village is easily accessible by car with plenty of parking lots making parking a breeze.

We’re not crazy over salads, but for those of you who simply cannot do without, their Prawn and Chicken Avocado Salad (S$20+) should sit with you just right. Comprising rocket leaves, fresh avocado, feta cheese, tiger prawns, a grilled chicken fillet and coated with a citrus dressing, the flavours were well rounded. Props to the chef for seasoning and grilling the chicken so well. Without it, the dish would probably have needed some help taste-wise.

If you’re looking to snack on something to accompany your tipple, a great option to consider is their Chips with Dips or Nachos. Served in good-sized portions, this crunchy snack is great for sharing among friends. The flavourful guacamole and salsa is sure to hit the mark.

CHEESY TACO

What’s Mexican food without tacos? Crunchy, messy and fun to eat, tacos always have a special place in our hearts. If there’s one thing we can say about Two Chefs Bar, it is that their Mexican food is spot-on, and a testament to that is their Cheesy Taco (S$20+).

We opted for the chicken option but they also have beef, fish and vegetable options as well. Stuffed with generous amounts of tender, shredded chicken and cheese before being topped with sour cream, salsa and fresh cabbage, the dish hit all the right spots for us.

The crispy taco shell provided a nice textural contrast to the melty cheese and the fresh flavours from the refried beans and coriander Mexican rice served at the side gave the dish a nice, aromatic lift.

ASSORTED MEXICAN FAJITAS

Served to us piping hot and sizzling on a cast iron pan, the Chicken Fajitas (S$22+) is a must-order if you’re a sucker for soft, caramelised vegetables coupled with heavenly-spiced meat.

The dish features a massive portion of perfectly-grilled chicken flavoured with their special house marinade that sits neatly atop a bed of caramelised onions and bell peppers; served alongside warm flour tortilla wraps, housemade salsa, guacamole and shredded cheese.

Apart from tacos and fajitas, other drool-worthy Mexican mains include burritos, enchiladas and the popular chimichangas; deep-fried tortilla flour stuffed with various fillings and a meat option of your choice, served with Mexican rice, sour cream and guacamole.

HEARTY BURGERS

While burgers neither fall under the Italian nor the Mexican category, we must say that the ones you can find here are pretty good. The Angus Beef Burger (S$22+) comes with everything a burger needs—a thick, juicy patty coated with melted cheese, a fried onion ring for an extra taste and textural kick, lettuce and two slices of juicy tomatoes.

FULL-ON MEATY MAINS

The restaurant’s various meat offerings lean more towards Italian flavours. To fulfil your carnivorous tendencies, go for the 200g Grilled Angus Beef Tenderloin (S$44+).

Properly seared from end to end, the tenderloin sports a beautifully-seared sheen coupled with flecks of toasted peppercorns. The meat itself cuts like butter, revealing a gloriously pink interior so immaculate that to stop to take a photo and have all its beefy goodness spill out would almost be a crime.

A decent alternative to opt for is their Iberico Pork Chop (S$28+). Although we found the chop a tad tough to cut into, the flavour of it was on point—making the dry texture of the meat passable. The pepper sauce that glazes it is terrific and goes well with everything on the plate.

A TASTE OF ITALY – PIZZA PARADISE

Among the many pizza offerings from the pizza bar—and mind you there are plenty to choose from—the Pepperoni & Cheese (S$24+) was the one we went for. Simply comprising a tomato sauce base, cheese and pepperoni slices, it was the best pizza to choose for us to best judge the quality of their chefs—and boy were we blown away.

The dough was freshly handmade, stretched to delicate perfection and topped with a generous slathering of their housemade tomato sauce before being sent into a roaring oven where it achieved a crispy, evenly charred exterior. The salty pepperoni developed a crusty exterior as well which further elevated the taste and textural experience.

EXTENSIVE DRINKS MENU WITH A WIDE RANGE OF CRAFT BEERS & CIDERS

The reinvented bar at their Holland Village outlet provides an extensive drinks menu ranging from a fine selection of red wines, white wines and champagnes to speciality cocktails, notable craft beer and cider labels as well as premium liquors—all carefully selected and paired to perfectly complement their menu.

The casual chill vibes, vibrant atmosphere and pocket-friendly prices are sure to make this your favourite hangout for drinks.

HAPPY HOUR ALL DAY, EVERY DAY

Casual Italian restaurant Pasta J is one of our favourite hangout spots along Upper Thomson Road. The restaurant has been gaining a reputation for itself among the public for serving a toothsome array of homemade pasta and steaks. As Pasta J is also a pet-friendly dining place, you will find pet owners who are residing in the area dropping by on a frequent basis with their fur babies.

Pasta J’s humble beginnings started when owner John Chan was selling his own pesto sauce creation at events. Upon receiving many positive feedbacks, he decided to open his own stall at a hawker centre and eventually become so successful that he could open his own restaurant. Till today, diners are treated to a curated menu featuring John’s personal recipes.

Signature items on their menu include Pesto Pasta, The Break-Up Steak and Caramel Carnivore. Guests who are interested in their special sauces are able to buy them off the shelves too.

The unpretentious restaurant is spacious and cosy—guests are greeted with warm lighting, white communal tables and large sofa seats; Pasta J makes you feel right at home from the moment you step in.

What we love most is that the hospitality at Pasta J extends to your pet too. The restaurant welcomes small dogs and they are given a bowl of iced water and even free kibbles that will have your puppy’s tail wagging with joy.

While you may think that Pasta J is more well-known for their pasta, the owner actually recommends the restaurant’s delectable selection of meats—The Super Striploin (S$31.90) and the Terribly Troublesome Pork Chops (S$17.90++).

That being said, their signature pasta dishes are not to be missed either. If you are looking for a crowd-favourite, the Wholesome Chicken Soup Pasta (S$16.90++) will do the trick. You get half a chicken leg placed in a light chicken soup that is made from pressure-cooked chicken bones and barley.

Alternatively, you may also want to consider Garlic Herb Chicken (S$16.90++) and The Bourdain (S$16.90++).

Pasta J
205 Upper Thomson Road
Singapore 574345
Tel: +65 9004 1800
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 12 Midnight
Sat: 10.30am – 12 Midnight
Sun: 10.30am – 11pm
PH (excluding Sundays): 10.30am – 12 Midnight
Nearest Station: Marymount

Encompassing 4 historical buildings and 2 new tower blocks within its premises, the stunning South Beach Singapore is a breathtaking architecture that is set to impress. However, most people are unaware that within the buildings is South Beach Avenue, a massive area that includes 16 dining and lifestyle concepts.

South Beach Avenue is easily accessible as it sits right on top of Esplanade MRT, right in Central Singapore. A multitude of trendy bars, photogenic cafes and gorgeous restaurants awaits to be discovered and there are endless reasons why South Beach Avenue deserves a visit.

With South Beach Avenue, your search for a weekend hideout with great ambience, food and drinks can finally come to an end. Be it a weekend with the family, a romantic partner or friends, trust us when we say that South Beach Avenue is definitely the hottest dining destination right now.

Here are 12 Restaurants at South Beach Avenue you wish you knew earlier.

ALCHEMIST BEER LAB

Alchemist Beer Lab is an elegant bar that caught our attention because of their massive range of craft beer and fruit-infused beer that are made in-house. Think crazy concoctions such as the Obama (S$12/Happy Hour, S$15/regular)—stout infused with toasted marshmallows, vanilla pods and mint leaves.

Of all the fantastic and innovative Premium Infusion Taps, our favourites were the Passionista (Tap 10) and the 50 Shades of Pink (Tap 14). Both infusions were fruity and refreshing and would be a great fit for those who prefer light drinks.

Dig into bar bites after sampling the unique beers. The chef highly recommends the Ale Battered Sea Bass (S$15.90/set lunch) that features soft and flaky sea bass.

26 Beach Road, #B1-16 South Beach Avenue,
Singapore 189768
Tel: +65 6386 4365
Sun to Thu: 4pm – 1am
Fri & Sat: 4pm – 2am
Nearest Station: Esplanade

ATMASTEL

Led by Andrea Tarini, an Italian chef with a 3-Michelin-star background, Atmastel is a modern Italian casual restaurant with a purist vision of Italian food in Singapore. Walk into Atmastel and be greeted by a swanky open-concept kitchen, a pizza bakery, Crudo, drinks bar and a well-stocked retail section with more than 70 varieties of artisanal cold cuts, cheeses, wines and condiments.

Chef Tarini and his team have exquisitely crafted a menu that features only the very best of artisanal ingredients. Fresh San Marzano tomatoes, San Daniele ham and mozzarella are just some of the ingredients that are air-flown weekly from Italy.

Start off your meal with the Cold Cut Platter (S$45) which is recommended for sharing. Comprising of assorted artisanal cheese, manually sliced artisanal cured meats such as San Daniele DOP Proscuitto and the Shoulder Iberico ham, candied fruit, olives, pickles and toasted homemade bread, this spread was beyond impressive.

The Zuppa di Pesce (S$68), market-fresh fish and seafood stewed in a Mediterranean sauce with toasted garlic bread, will make for a hearty main. Finish off your splendid meal with a deconstructed Tiramisu (S$14.90) or the Portuguese Egg Tart (S$4.20) topped off with cinnamon powder. One tip is to order in advance for the Portuguese Egg tart as they are a hot favourite and are usually sold out very quickly!

26 Beach Road, #B1-22 South Beach Avenue,
Singapore 189768
Tel: +65 6581 0085
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 11.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

BLACK COW

A contemporary Japanese restaurant, Black Cow has made a name for its Japanese Wagyu beef—Matsusaka & Kagoshima.

If you are looking for a reputable Japanese restaurant to dine at when in South Beach Avenue, Black Cow has a menu of Shabu Shabu & Sukiyaki.

26 Beach Road, #B1-20 South Beach Avenue,
Singapore 189768
Tel: +65 6386 6720
Mon to Thu: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

CAFFÈ VERGNANO 1882

Experience true Italian espresso at Caffè Vergnano 1882, Italy’s oldest family-owned coffee roaster dedicated to serving a good cup of coffee and hot chocolate. Coffee is brewed using Arabica beans sourced from Central America, which will give subtle hints of citrus fruit and floral notes in your brew.

This cafe bar also boasts a beautiful interior, made perfect by the rays of sunlight streaming in seamlessly through its bay windows. If you are a coffee and chocolate enthusiast, a weekend spent at the gorgeous Caffè Vergnano 1882 will be like a vacation in a chocolate and coffee wonderland.

Besides that, you must try one of Caffè Vergnano 1882′s signature drinks. The Bicerin (S$6) is a crowd favourite as it consists of 75% rich chocolate with a shot of espresso. If you prefer something cold, the 1882 Affogato is a sweeter alternative, consisting of vanilla ice cream topped with espresso for that caffeine kick.

26 Beach Road, #B1-17 South Beach Avenue,
Singapore 189768
Tel: +65 6385 5579
Mon to Fri: 7am – 8pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

FASTA

Fasta takes pride in serving up delicious pasta quickly, hence the punny name ‘Fasta’. They have a decent range of pasta choices on the menu at inexpensive prices. We like that you can even pick your choice of pasta or grains and some add-ons for a little something extra.

We dug into the Scallop Wallop (S$16), a linguine pasta with pan-seared scallops, crab meat, diced tomato and bacon bits with a rich yuzu-infused broth.  The overall flavour was delicious and the pasta was pleasantly al dente. The Siow Ba Mee (S$13) is also one of their bestselling pasta, topped with the local-favourite pork belly.

One of the highlights of Fasta is customising your own pasta, so be sure to check that out too.

26 Beach Road, #B1-23 South Beach Avenue,
Singapore 189768
Tel: +65 9111 1245
Mon to Sat: 11am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

FYNN’S

Fynn’s is the talk of the town now and is a popular and charming brunch spot with a botanical inspired interior that is so highly-Instagrammable. This modern Australian restaurant believes in serving up dishes with simplicity so as to draw out the true essence and flavour of the ingredients.

We went with our gut and got the Corn Fritters (S$22) with poached eggs, bacon, sautéed spinach, grilled tomato and jalepeño jama and we never looked back. The corn fritters paired with the other components is a match made in heaven.

For a lighter meal, opt for the Chia Seed Pudding, Pineapple, Granola, Gula Melaka (S$14). Be sure to pair your food with a Common Man Roasters Iced Latte (S$5.50) too.

26 Beach Road, #B1-21 South Beach Avenue,
Singapore 189768
Tel: +65 6384 1878
Tue to Fri: 9am – 10pm
Sat: 11am – 10pm
Sun: 11am – 5pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

HARRY’S

Harry’s is a familiar face in Singapore’s drinking scene and many love the popular Harry’s Premium Lager, their very own brew. Though its South Beach Avenue outlet oozes elegance and style, it also has a laid-back vibe and there could be no better place to kick back and relax during the weekend.

Try the popular cocktail Harry’s 1992 (S$16), a bright vodka-based concoction.

Bar bites to try include the Soy-Glazed Beef Cubes (S$18.90)  and the Chicken Masala (S$23). Something to share is The Harry’s Seven (S$36.90).

26 Beach Road, #01-18 South Beach Avenue,
Singapore 189768
Tel: +65 6386 6306
Daily: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

LADY M® CONFECTIONS

We have yet to find someone who has not heard of Lady M® Confections since the brand opened its first outlet in Singapore a few years back. Their Mille Crêpe cakes are a favourite among Singaporeans.

Adding to their collection of cake boutiques in Singapore is the new Lady M® Confections outlet at South Beach Avenue, which will be opening very soon! Look forward to the Lady M® Earl Grey Mille Crêpes (S$9.50++/slice), a South Beach exclusive seasonal flavour which will be in stores for a limited period only.

The handmade crepe cake is layered with pastry cream that is infused with earl grey tea and garnished with earl grey tea leaves and blue corn leaves.

Of course, you can also expect to see other popular flavours on the menu such as their signature Lady M® Mille Crêpes (S$9.50++/slice), Red Velvet (S$9.50++/slice) and White Chocolate Mini Choux (S$2.50++/piece).

Lady M® Confections
26 Beach Road, #01-17 South Beach Avenue,
Singapore 189768
Nearest Station: Esplanade

QUAICH BAR

Established in 2006, Quaich Bar is the first whisky bar in Singapore which houses more than 500 whiskies, of which 95% are sourced from boutique distilleries in Scotland. It is quintessentially a heaven on earth for all whisky lovers. Many of the whiskys are also exclusive to them only and cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Instead of lazing the weekend away, you should gather your fellow whisky enthusiasts to further hone your appreciation and understanding of whisky at the Quaich Bar. Tutored tastings are available for a group of between 4 to 6 pax for the Flavours of Singapore Malt tasting set. Prices range from S$45 for 4 tasting portions.

We had a taste of a few exquisite single malts such as the Hazelburn Aged 12 Years, Bunnahabhain Aged 12 Years, Deanston Virgin Oak and Ledaig Aged 10 Years, each with its own unique flavour. There is also a cosy private room at Quaich Bar where you can book in advance.

Prices for whisky by the glass range from S$17 to S$416 and S$200 to S$32,000 for a bottle.

30 Beach Road, #01-16 South Beach Avenue,
Singapore 189763
Tel: +65 6386 5366
Mon to Thu: 5pm – 1am
Fri & Sat: 5pm – 2am
Nearest Station: Esplanade

REAL FOOD

Real Food specialises in meatless food that is good for your body. All dishes served at Real Food are free from processed ingredients, artificial preservatives and trans-fat. Nonetheless, they are still just as delicious.

We tried the Soy Curry Soup Noodles (S$12.80) and it reminded us of home. Comforting, warm and extremely tasty, despite being made with oat milk and extra virgin organic coconut oil.

An interesting concoction is the Baked Stuffed Portobello Mushroom with Soy Cheese (S$11.80). The mushroom is stuffed with minced vegetables, covered with cheddar cheese. It is almost like a recreation of a vegetable dumpling with a juicy mushroom encasing it.

26 Beach Road, #B1-19 South Beach Avenue,
Singapore 189768
Tel: +65 6384 2206
Mon to Sat: 10am – 9pm
Sun: 9.30am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

THE ARMOURY CRAFT BEER BAR

Situated in a rustic colonial building in the South Beach Quarter, The Armoury Craft Beer Bar is a contemporary gastro-bar and cafe by day and Craft beer and Wine bar by night. Experience traditional and sophisticated European and Asian flavours in this comfortable and cosy dining establishment, which is an ideal weekend getaway for groups and families.

The Curry Chicken Prata Taco and Pork Belly Bao (S$6 each) are great munchies to start your meal off with. And we thoroughly enjoyed the Salted Egg Chicken Burger (S$19) because of the rich and creamy sauce.

From 7pm on weekends, dig into the all-you-can-eat steak buffet for just S$29.90. It is a huge steal considering that you can pick from 4 different cuts: Ribeye, Hangar Steak, Striploin and Wagyu Patty. Choose your desired sauce and sides, and eat to your heart’s content!

Mileslife is our favourite app to accumulate miles through everyday spending. You can earn 2 miles for every dollar spent at this restaurant. Download and try Mileslife out now! You can use our code ‘Ladyironchef‘ upon your first spending to get 1,000 miles.

36 Beach Road, #01-01 South Beach Quarter,
Singapore 189766
Tel: +65 6385 3173
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 11pm
Fri: 11.30am – 1am

Sat: 11.30am – 12am
Sun: 11am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

VATOS URBAN TACOS

When you think of good tacos in Singapore, Vatos Urban Tacos will come to mind. For a weekend with the lads, Vatos Urban Tacos, which originates from Seoul, is a must-visit if you fancy some Korean-Mexican fusion bar grub to go along with your drinks.

The signature “URBAN” tacos served on homemade tortillas is a must-try. The Galbi Short Rib Tacos (S$13 for 2, S$18for 3) and Baja Fish (S$12 for 2, S$17 for 3) were executed flawlessly with a touch of cilantro which highlighted the freshness of the ingredients. Otherwise, the Mango Prawn Quesadilla (S$22), Kimchi Carnitas Fries (S$18) and Honey Tequila Chicken Wings (S$18) are other interesting delights worth every calorie.

36 Beach Road, #01-03 South Beach Quarter,
Singapore 189766
Tel: +65 6385 6010
Mon to Thu, Sun: 12am – 11am
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Esplanade

S$5 PARKING REBATE AT SOUTH BEACH AVENUE

When you spend a minimum of S$50 nett at participating restaurants and services at South Beach Avenue, you can receive a S$5 parking rebate (valid all-day, including weekends and Public Holidays). For more information on the restaurants and parking rebate promotion at South Beach Avenue, please go to SouthBeachAvenue.com.

This post is brought to you by South Beach Consortium Singapore.

Prego at Fairmont Singapore is one of the most reputable Italian restaurants in Singapore, and they are known for signature Italian favourites such as wood-fired pizza. But what we truly love is the all-new Italian Sunday Brunch Buffet—one of the best indulgences if you have a hankering for Italiano-everything.

Prego’s head chef Antonio Facchinetti and his team have introduced a whole new gastronomic experience and the Italian Sunday Brunch happens every Sunday from 12pm to 3pm. It is a massive showcase of Italian fiesta, from cold cuts and premium cheeses to a la minute pasta and grilled meats.

Here are some of the highlights you can expect at Prego’s Sunday Brunch Buffet, and why you should start your year right with a great Italian Brunch.

THE STYLISH INTERIOR

With Parmesan cheese wheels, sausages and Italian Prosciutto as part of the decorations, you would be impressed at how the modern Italian restaurant is still able to keep its traditions strong.

The warm hues in Prego also make for a very relaxed yet casual chic dining atmosphere—perfect for family brunch and couples who are looking to have a romantic date.

It is hard to find a place in Singapore where you can go to for a true Italian communal dining experience.

FREE-FLOW SPARKLING WINE

Sunday brunch is just not the same without some bubbles! And at Prego, you can choose to indulge in free-flow Berlucchi ’61 Brut Franciacorta as part of your feast. The sweet Italian Sparkling Wine is carefully selected to pair with the curated line-up.

So, go on. Drink up because free-flow sparkling wine is the perfect way to spend Sunday afternoons.

THE BEST OF ITALIAN CHEESE AT THE SEASONAL STATIONS

Italians take pride in producing some of the best cheeses in the world. Taste a slice of Italy right here at Prego, where you have creamy Ricotta, milky Burrata and very smooth Mozzarella to indulge in all you want.

The menus for the four seasonal stations in Prego change from time to time based on seasonality. Some of the dishes on rotation are exquisite creations by the chefs which include Wagyu Beef Carpaccio with Truffle Breadcrumbs, Wild Frittata with Mushrooms and Grilled Portobello “Steak” Salad.

An assortment of Italian bread and bruschetta is also part of the line-up.

And just beside the Home-Crafted Rustic Italian Bread & Bruschetta Station, there are more Italian farm cheeses in the likes of Asiago and Taleggio. Those who prefer hard cheeses can opt for these!

LIVE PASTA CRAFTING AND RISOTTO BAR

The star of our Sunday Buffet Brunch goes to the ‘live’ pasta crafting and risotto bar. Visitors get to watch the chefs in action as they masterfully craft out fresh pasta right before you.

The fun part? You get to create your own pasta dish at this station! Choose from various kinds of pasta such as ravioli, spaghetti and squid ink pasta (depending on season).

When you are done, pick a sauce of your choice including Spiced Tomato Sauce with Seafood, traditional Bolognese sauce, creamy Carbonara or the seasonal Truffle cream sauce. There are plenty of toppings to go with your pasta too—mushrooms, peppers, ham etc.

At the risotto bar, you get a generous serving of Black Truffle Risotto from the chef who uses only premium Acquerello Rice—one of Italy’s top risotto rice producer. Needless to say, this was one of the best truffle risottos we had. Every grain was full and plump, and lavishly coated with cream and cheese, then topped off with a generous serving of seasonal black truffle.

The risotto counter showcases the most premium of seasonal produce – expect different seasonal specialties when you return to Prego. *Hint: Asparagus and Roasted King Prawns Risotto next!

MEAT AND SEAFOOD GRILL

Here’s the one station that will get the carnivores all excited—the grill. This is where you can have your meat and seafood grilled a la minute and served warm to you.

Get ready for the wide selection on offer which includes Lamb Rack with Garlic & Thyme, Salmon Fillet with Dill & Lemon, Beef Sirloin with Rosemary and Chicken Thigh with Lemon & Oregano.

FRESH SEAFOOD

If grilled seafood ain’t your thing, go for the oysters, scallops and poached Alaska crab legs instead. This station is the epitome of seafood luxury and the sheer selection will leave you bewildered!

We love how easy it is to slurp up the freshly shucked oysters and dig into the pre-cracked crab legs. Seriously, ready-to-eat fresh crabs is a luxury beyond imagination!

ITALIAN GELATO CART AND ALL KINDS OF DESSERTS

We were blown away by the limelight of the dessert counter. What do you know, it was an Italian gelato cart! Build your very own Italian gelato on a cone with the various flavours.

Did we mention there’s tiramisu as well? You can have a whole tray of tiramisu all to yourself! And that’s not all. The dessert counter also comes with Traditional Cannoli, Wild Berries Pannacotta, Chocolate Salame, Ricotta Cheesecake, among other sweet delights!

Sunday Brunch Buffet at Prego (12pm – 3pm)
Adult: S$128++**, S$98++*
Child: S$49++*

**includes unlimited Berlucchi ’61 Brut Franciacorta, Italian Signature Cocktails, House Wines, Tiger Draught, Juices and Soft Drinks
* includes unlimited non-alcoholic drinks

Prego 
Fairmont Singapore, Level 1
80 Bras Basah Road
Singapore 189560
Tel: +65 6431 6156
Nearest Station: City Hall

This post is brought to you by Fairmont Singapore.

Pietro Ristorante Italiano is tucked in a corner of Jalan Kelulut—a private residential area in Yio Chu Kang—and it has been dishing out authentic Italian dishes to its regulars since 2012.

The restaurant is segregated into two areas—al fresco dining and indoor seating. Deep shades of red on the wall, wooden furniture and a hanging chandelier; the restaurant gives off a homely and cosy ambience.

Helmed by Chef Aaron Png, Pietro Ristorante Italiano offers a wide variety on their menu. Go for the complete Italian experience by having a taste of the antipasti, salads, pasta, pizzas, mains and desserts.

From now until 15 December 2016, our readers can quote “ladyironchef” to enjoy 1-for-1 antipasti, pasta, pizza and mains from Mondays to Thursdays (lunch and dinner), as well as Saturdays (lunch) at Pietro Ristorante Italiano.

ANTIPASTI (APPETISERS)

The Antipasti menu features a selection of classic Italian starters such as Calamari Fritti (S$18++), Carpaccio di Manzo (S$22++) and the excellent Calamari e Gamberoni (S$28++)—an entire squid, grilled to perfection with King prawn stuffing, garlic, butter, a few drops of lemon and a dash of white wine.

PRIMI PIATTI (PASTA)

Italians actually have their pasta as a starting course before proceeding to their mains, so the term “Primi Piatti” refers to first dishes. Although it is unlike our culture to have it as a starter, do not shy away from doing so; after all, it is only right we do the Italian way when in an Italian restaurant.

People often comment that it is a mistake to order a squid ink pasta on your first date, but we would do so anyway with the Spaghetti al Nero di Seppia (S$28++) because it is one of the best things on the menu. It comes fashionably with prawns, squid, scallop, clams and garnished with chilli.

Other pasta that you can find on the menu include Spaghetti Aglio Olio e Fungi (S$18++), Linguine Alfredo al Frutti di Mare (S$26++) and Spaghetti alla Carbonara (S$18++).

RISOTTO

We Asians can never back away from our staple, even at an Italian restaurant. That is especially true at Pietro Ristorante Italiano, because the Risotto di Mare e Zafferano (S$28++) looks extremely fine.

The risotto rice comes in a bright shade of yellow due to its buttery saffron cream sauce and has toppings such as prawns, clams, squid and scallop.

DAL FORNO O (TRADITIONAL BRICK PIZZA OVEN)

There is a counter right at the end of the restaurant where you can watch the chef assemble your pizza before putting them into a traditional brick pizza oven.

The Pizza Carnivora (S$26++) was served with edges slightly charred, but that’s how we love our pizzas. Generous chunks of mushrooms, ham, minced beef, homemade sausage, cherry tomatoes and mozzarella cheese were placed on top of the thin crust which was lavishly smeared with tomato sauce.

The purists will enjoy the Pizza Margherita (S$16++) and Pizza Funghi (S$20++). For something more extravagant, go for the Pizza Prosciutto di Parma (S$32++).

There are seven pizzas—including Pizza Margherita, Pizza Hawaiian, Pizza Romana—that you can get with the 1-for-1 promotion.

CARNE & PESCE (MEAT & SEAFOOD)

The Pancetta Arrosto (S$24++) blew our minds. This is a roasted pork belly dish with the best crackling skin we can ever ask for; it was extremely crispy and falls into crumbs in our mouths.

You will also find porcini mushrooms and kidney beans on the side, with apple sauce for dips. Now, listen up—no one steps out of Pietro Ristorante Italiano without trying this.

That’s not all. You can also have the sublime Merluzzo (S$34++)—a perfectly cooked Cod fish with white wine, purple grapes and cherry tomato sauce; and the ever-popular Filetto di Manzo—grilled Australian beef tenderloin with red wine porcini sauce.

From the Meat & Seafood menu, you can enjoy 1-for-1 promotion on the Pan-fried Salmon Fillet (S$26++), Rosemary Chicken (S$22++) and Crispy John Dory Fish (S$22++) with white wine sauce.

DESSERTS

Forget about your usual chocolate lava cake. At Pietro, there is a Tortino di Cioccolato al Pistachio (S$15++)—pistachio flavoured lava cake so well done that all it takes is just one cut on the cake to unleash the warm pistachio flood. It is paired with a scoop of vanilla gelato, and when eaten together, everything is just a creamy goodness that is unbelivable.

Another popular dessert item is the Tiramisu al Pistachio (S$14++). Yes, the tiramisu is filled with layers of Mascarpone cream for the sweet tooth! This one has strong espresso coffee flavours with a subtle hint of pistachio taste.

From now until 15 December 2016, our readers can quote “ladyironchef” to enjoy 1-for-1 antipasti, pasta and pizza (on selected dishes) at Pietro Ristorante Italiano. The promotion is valid from Mondays to Thursdays (lunch and dinner), as well as Saturdays (lunch).

Pietro Ristorante Italiano
12 Jln Kelulut
Singapore 809030
Tel: +65 6484 5528
Daily: 11am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Buangkok/ Fernvale

This post was brought to you by Pietro Ristorante Italiano.

It is finally here – PizzaExpress is now open in Singapore, and it sits on the basement level of Scotts Square. The name should be no stranger to you as they have over 500 outlets in United Kingdom, various European countries, Hong Kong, India and the Middle East.

Founder Peter Boizot created this wildly successful pizzeria chain because having tried and tested the best and most authentic pizzas during his holidays in Italy, he was unsatisfied with what he had in London. PizzaExpress was thus conceived in United Kingdom, with the notion of offering authentic Italian pizza outside of Italy to the masses.

Having tried and loved PizzaExpress when we were in London, we are extremely stoked to have them here in our own country. We popped by for a preview and had a taste of their world-renowned pizzas – made from scratch in store with fresh ingredients. Besides pizzas, the menu is pretty much similar to that of U.K’s, with a whole range of salads, pastas and bite-size snacks.

Most of the dishes on PizzaExpress’ menu are priced under S$20 – they are extremely reasonable for the quality and huge portions. Here’s what you can expect from PizzaExpress’s first outlet in Singapore – which is officially opening its doors to the public this coming Friday (29 July 2016).

STARTERS – FRESH BURRATA, PROSCIUTTO & MORE

If you head down in a big group, the Classic Italian Antipasto (S$26) is a must-try, especially if you are a fan of fresh Italian mozzarella, Italian sausages and more. This huge platter consists of Calabria-style sausage, spicy Italian sausage, prosciutto crodo, fresh mozzarella, sun-blushed tomatoes, peppadew, rocket leaves and freshly-made flatbread.

We especially loved the mozzarella cheese together with the spicy sausage; the light and refreshing mozzarella cheese really evens out the taste of the sausage’s intense flavours and saltiness.

Want a starter just for yourself? The Gambaretti Piccante (S$12) should do the trick. It is essentially a serving of fresh jumbo prawns, sitting on top of passata, chilli flakes, garlic and flatbread. Passata is basically a kind of tomato puree, hence it adds a nice tanginess to each bite.

The Fungotto (S$12) is a pair of huge portobello mushrooms, stuffed with goat’s cheese, mozzarella, bread crumbs and parsley. We are a fan of the slightly crisp breadcrumbs that contrasts well with the soft and juicy mushrooms.

GREAT SALAD CHOICES

Who wants salads when you can have great pizzas, right?

Actually, this does not hold true at PizzaExpress. If you are looking for a quick, simple and fuss-free dish, PizzaExpress’ range of salads makes great options. The Leggera Superfood (S$13 small, S$20 large) stood out amongst the rest with its generous portion.

This massive (the large portion can serve 2-4 people as a side or starter) salad consists of spinach, cucumber, avocado, butternut squash, lentils, fresh mozzarella, beetroot, basil, balsamic syrup and pine kernels. Basically, all the kinds of goodness and the single serving is less than 500 calories. Health nuts can now dine in PizzaExpress.

CLASSIC PIZZAS

Now, we are on to the top dogs – the pizzas! The classic pizza range includes a variety of different flavours on a slightly thicker dough. The doughs are all made fresh on the spot, and you can watch the chefs in action via the open kitchen. We had a taste of a popular flavour – Lava (S$20). It looked “normal” at first, just like your everyday Margherita.

But upon your first bite, you will be greeted with an explosion of flavours. This is not your regular Joe; it is topped with olives, burrata cheese, chilli oil, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella and passata, and fresh basil. The pizza dough is fluffy and fragrant, and we liked that the addition of chilli oil amped up the otherwise “regular” pizza. Classic, with a nice spicy twist.

The classic pizzas are slightly smaller in size, and are great for solo diners with a bigger appetite. Else, two persons with small appetites can share one.

ROMANA PIZZAS – BIGGER, THINNER & CRISPIER

If you want a bigger sharing portion that will feed 2-3 people decently, try their Romana pizzas. They are thinner and crispier, inspired by the pizzas from Rome. Besides the quintessential Italian flavours, PizzaExpress also offers some spicy concoctions that are out of this world – specifically the Pollo Forza (S$23) and American Hottest (S$24).

These thin-crust pizzas won our hearts. The Pollo Forza is a dream come true. It is topped with chicken with smoked chilli, garlic oil, dried chilli flakes, red and yellow peppers, jalapeño and mozzarella, then finished off with grana padano, chilli oil and parsley. The heat, textures and cheeses blended beautifully together, producing a robust flavours with underlying spicy notes.

The American Hottest is another one that you must try. We cannot get enough of these spicy pizzas! This one here is topped with pepperoni, hot green and roquito peppers, fresh red chilli, spicy Italian sausage, passata and buffalo mozzarella. After it is baked and taken out of the oven, the chef scatters torn buffalo mozzarella  (yes, more mozzarella for extra cheesy goodness) atop, together with chopped parsley and fragrant chilli oil.

ITALIAN PASTAS

For Italian pastas, we always lean towards the tomato ones and the pomodoro-based ones. Both the Farfalle di Calabria (S$22) and Spaghetti Frutti De Mare (S$24) are great choices. The former is simply farfalle pasta tossed with spicy Italian sausage and salami, with fresh basil, grana padano and cherry tomatoes in a creamy pomodoro sauce.

The Spaghetti Fruitti De Mare is our favourite. The classic dish is tossed with fresh and generous amounts of prawns, clams, mussels and squid, in a spiced pomodoro sauce. It has everything we love about a good pasta – a great sauce base made with fresh tomatoes, al dente pasta and lots of seafood!

And this is a little tip – enjoy all your PizzaExpress dishes with a glass of the signature Lemonade (S$6), featuring freshly squeezed lemon and lime, soda, and mint. Italian food can be pretty rich and heavy so this drink definitely helps in balancing the flavours and keeping you refreshed throughout your meal!

PizzaExpress
6 Scotts Rd, Scotts Square
Singapore 228209
Tel: +65 6538 0083
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

This post is brought to you by PizzaExpress.

Spizza Mercato at Capitol Piazza might just be our newfound favourite already! It is a slightly different concept from the ever popular casual dining pizzeria chain – Spizza by The Senso Group, and you will see why we love it so.

The huge and edgy outlet at Capitol Piazza boasts a large dining area by the fountain, and a “market” – where Spizza offers retail items such as authentic Italian ingredients and condiments and homemade pasta.

Spizza Mercato has a super affordable menu and a wide variety of pizzas (but of course), and what it is exceptionally popular during lunch for its amazing weekday lunch deals – S$12 for a dry pasta with classic sauce or a 10 inch pizza, anyone?

Pizzas are the limelight here at Spizza Mercato, but that ain’t all. Here, we share with you the highlights of our meal, and all that we love at and about Spizza Mercato.

Stepping in, we were impressed by the very sleek and vibrant interior. Passing by the retail area, we fell in love with the “mercato” and was so distracted by all the takeaway items such as paninis and salads, for the busy professionals or those who choose to takeaway their meal.

APPETISERS & ANTIPASTI

This show-stopping antipasti of burrata cheese and parma ham, in a dish called “Burratina” (S$22), started our meal with a bang. As cheesy as this may sound, we really cannot tell you how much we are deprived of good burrata in Singapore and how this one here totally made it to our list.

Smooth, creamy, milky goodness is every burrata lover’s dream, and there is an inexplicable sense of gratification from cutting the burrata apart and being rewarded by fine shreds of silky white cheese. Served with the classic pairing of aged parma ham and arugula, the Burratina had us all succumbed.

We settled for a second appetiser of freshly prepared Calamari (S$13.80) that comes with a spicy ‘pizzaiolo’ dip. The calamari itself boasted the right amount of crunch and was pretty addictive. The sauce was not as memorable for us, but we were just happy the rings itself tasted so wonderful on its own. This appetizer makes a great sharing plate for two or more.

FRESH PASTA

Fresh stuffed pasta are not commonly served as they take up a lot of time to prepare, and requires a certain level of culinary skill to perfect it. And when we spotted some of these on the menu, we knew we had to have a go with them.

So it was the Red Tomato Mezzelune (S$15) and Black Squid Ink Round Ravioli (S$14) for lunch.

The former is basically a smoked duck ravioli and it was more than awesome. The smoked duck flavour really took the whole pasta dish up a notch, and we were in love that we really couldn’t nitpick much even if we’d wanted to!

The latter features minced seafood stuffing, which garnered mixed reviews from our team. It might be a little fishy and rich, but if that is the way you love your seafood, go for it!

The Gnocchi (S$18) was a surprise find too. Even though they were just essentially potato dumplings, the gnocchi was cooked with gorgonzola and other cheeses, and it was an entirely flavourful dish that would make the perfect main for any cream pasta lovers.

SPECIALTY PIZZAS

Pizzas are, without a doubt, Spizza’s speciality and it is no different here in Spizza Mercato, where they offer the same selection of pizzas. For lunch, you can enjoy a 10-inch pizza (or a dry pasta with sauce) for just S$12++. We now realise why the lunch crowd is crazy here, because this is for sure an unbeatable deal.

We had two pizzas, both signatures – Quinta (S$19, 10″) and Tara (S$20, 10″). Quinta is a meatless pizza that features mozzarella, a full egg and black truffle paste. The paste was so generously spread out and the smell of black truffle was incredibly distinct the moment it was laid on our table. We knew we would love this, and we sure did.

Tara is one of the classics with a slight twist. This pizza features mozzarella, a full egg, bacon and button mushrooms. Think of all kinds of happiness all in one pizza; that was the exact thought that got us excited. Well, you bet the pizza tasted even better when soaked slightly in the runny egg yolk.

By the way, for the large pizzas (12″), you can customize them to be half-half. In other words, two flavours in one pizza. Yes, yes and yes.

CLASSIC ITALIAN DESSERTS

The great thing about the food at Spizza Mercato is that it will always leave you and your tummy ultra satisfied. We ended our meal off on a sweet note with two classic Italian desserts – Panna Cotta (S$8) and Tiramisu (S$9.50).

While the former was a good dish as a whole, it was nothing to shout about. Especially when compared to the star – the Tiramisu. The tiramisu was light, just the way we like it, with strong notes of fragrant coffee and light mascarpone cheese.

DELIVERY MADE EASY

This is a life saver! And it might just be your next favourite pizza delivery option. We’ve tried the delivery too, and were completely amazed by how our food arrived hot.

You would think it is “just hot”, and that’s that. But wait. Would you believe it if we told you our pasta was still moist and warm, our chicken wings were still crispy, and our pizza was ever fresh? God knows how they do it, but we are so done with soggy delivered food, and that’s why we are sticking to Spizza’s delivery already.

And our order arrived even earlier than the promised time. Yay to zero frustrations from long waiting times!

Spizza delivery can be made via www.spizza.sg, or through their mobile apps (iTunes and Google Play).

SPIZZA FOR FRIENDS REWARS

This rewards programme is put in place for all who celebrate their love for Spizza. Enjoy a 10% rebate with a minimum spend of S$50 at any Spizza outlet, as well as delivery orders. And these rebates can be utilized on your next visit to or delivery from Spizza.

Note that Spizza Mercato has the same menu as other Spizza outlets, with an added Light Bites & Snacks and Pasta Ripiena section.

Spizza Mercato
13 Stamford Road #B2-52
Capitol Piazza
Singapore 178905
Tel: +65 6702 1835
Daily: 10.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

This post is brought to you by Spizza Mercato.

Perched atop Telok Blangah Hill is an opulent colonial building occupied by Italian Restaurant Alkaff Mansion Ristorante. The bungalow was once a highly sought-after destination amongst the entitled in the 1930s, where it was renowned for the most extravagant socialite parties.

Painstakingly restored to its grandeur in 2011, all present-day visitors are warmly welcomed to experience the glorious splendour of yesteryears while enjoying authentic Italian fare. And on Sundays, Alkaff Mansion Ristorante offers a decadent buffet spread of Italian gourmet alongside unlimited flow of Prosecco, White and Red wines for only S$98++ per adult.

The seemingly hefty price tag is actually an amazing deal, especially when compared to the average rates in Singapore’s fine dining industry. Diners get to indulge in unlimited servings of fresh seafood, fine meats, pastas in a variety of sauces, and refreshing bubbles! You would probably have to pay twice more when ordering such amounts in other fancy establishments.

So, what’s not to love about Alkaff Mansion Ristorante’s Sunday Prosecco Brunch?

The two-storey stunning Alkaff Mansion is nestled in lush greenery and its remote location offers unrivalled tranquility. Its serene outdoor area features majestic water fountains and a beautiful gazebo that overlooks Telok Blangah Hill Park.

Drivers will be glad to know that free parking is available at Telok Blangah Hill Park’s Car Park 2. Complimentary valet parking services are also offered after 6.30pm daily.

The romantic Italian restaurant is transformed to a gastronomical extravaganza with its value-for-money free-flow Prosecco Brunch every Sunday from 11.30pm – 3pm. The magnificent Tudor-style dining hall is beyond stunning with its shimmering chandeliers and makes a great Sunday lunch date destination.

Priced reasonably at S$98++ per adult and S$58++ per child, patrons get to enjoy a mouthwatering selection of authentic Italian fare. The variety is so exhaustive that you will find yourselves spoilt rotten for choice. The featured dishes may differ every week, depending on the availability of ingredients.

Executive Chef Simone Depalmas is a native of Sardinia, Italy. With his rich gastronomy experiences, we always trust him to come up with the most delicious Italian fare.

Using only the freshest produce, mostly imported from Italy directly, Chef Simone believes in creating his dishes from scratch, and that includes the sauces! His fiery passion for cooking is evident in his repertoire of hearty culinary inventions that never fail to excite us.

The antipasti menu boasts a mind-blowing array of cold cuts and delectable raw seafood, so go on and pile your plates endlessly! We particularly enjoyed the ultra refreshing Scottish Salmon ‘Carpaccio’ With Caviar Dressing.

Luxuriate further with their other signature seafood items such as Octopus Carpaccio with Yellow Frisee Salad (also Chef Simone’s signature antipasti), Black Olives and Balsamic Reduction and Seasonal Freshly-Shucked Oysters. Oh, if you are lucky to be there on days that they serve the Beef Carpaccio, you totally have to try that!

The other cured meats, namely Cold Cut Veal Loin with Tuna Sauce & Capers and Parma Ham with Rock Melon, are must-try items too. We were unabashedly ashamed of returning for seconds, thirds and more; life of a glutton, right?

The feast also includes a selection of Italian premium cheeses – including the classic burrata – that will perfectly complement your unlimited wines. We have nothing but praises for the cheeses.

The next-door room features live stations of freshly prepared Cheesy Penne Pasta, Oven Baked Beef Sirloin, Roasted Atlantic Cod and more. If you are in need of more carbohydrates to fill your growling tummies, dive straight for the piping hot slices of Pepperoni and Prawn Pizzas. Look carefully and you will notice that each cheesy pizza is decorated with pretty edible flower petals.

The selection of pastas is also on rotation, and there will always be something new to try. No matter what you have a taste for – cream base or fresh tomatoes paste – there will be something to please. Oh, there is a huge cauldron of hot soup that bears a taste of home too!

Complete your decadent meal with the prettiest desserts. The dessert table is filled with an extensive variation of Italian classics and contemporary renditions. From bite-size crème brûlée and walnut brownies to deconstructed tiramisu, the abundance of sweet treats still surprise even the most regular customers. And with authentic Italian desserts being rather scarce in Singapore, we know we can always count on Alkaff Mansion Ristorante when we need some “Italiano Desserto” fix.

The seating capacity of Alkaff Mansion Ristorante’s dining hall for Sundy Prosecco Brunch is capped at 180 pax, but you will be surprised how well received this weekly event is with the expatriate community. Reservations are definitely recommended, even if it is just a table for two. Do note that credit card details will be required for group bookings of 8 or more guests.

Alkaff Mansion Ristorante is an extremely popular events venue, especially for solemnizations and wedding ceremonies. So do call in advance just to ensure that the restaurant is not fully booked for private receptions before you drop by. Prices are also subjected to change on selected festive public holidays.

Sunday Prosecco Brunch
Sun and P.H: 11.30am – 3pm (last order/pour at 2.30pm)
S$98++ per adult, S$58++ per child (ages 5 – 12)

Alkaff Mansion Ristorante
10 Telok Blangah Green
Singapore 109178
Tel: +65 6510 3068
Nearest Station: Harbourfront or Telok Blangah

This post is brought to you by Alkaff Mansion Ristorante.

Tucked away in a little corner in Telok Blangah is what used to be a retreat bungalow owned by the Yemeni Alkaff family. Alkaff Mansion Ristorante provides a nice respite from the fast paced city areas in Singapore, perching on top of Telok Blangah Hill (used to be known as Washington Hill). This well-known location was once the centre of high society parties and other events, besides being a family home to the Alkaff family.

Since the mid 1990s, Alkaff Mansion Ristorante has been known to serve award-winning cuisine to patrons but ever since LHN Culinary Concepts took over the reigns in 2010, the restaurant finally restored its splendour and has become one of Singapore’s go-to dining spots and event venue for corporate, private events and weddings.

Here is what we enjoyed the most from Executive Chef Simone Depalmas’ intricately crafted menu, strongly influenced by his Italian roots.

To kick-start your gastronomic adventure here at Alkaff Mansion Ristorante, a popular antipasti to start with is the Fresh Octopus Carpaccio (S$24). This dish, according to Chef Depalmas, is one of the most frequently ordered starters at the restaurant.

Sliced thinly into delicate and translucent pieces, the octopus is enhanced with the added frisee salad and San Marzano cherry tomatoes on top, and dressed sparingly with balsamic reduction for a hint of tanginess to the dish. Chef imports his seafood fresh directly from his hometown of Sardinia, an island in Italy, so you are guaranteed only the freshest seafood will be served here.

If you are dining in a pair, pick the Seafood Platter (S$68) instead to try a variety of seafood dishes. Dig into plump tiger prawns, a generous serving of tuna tartare with croutons crowning it, thinly sliced sea bass carpaccio, chunky octopus salad and fresh lobster chunks dressed in a tart citrus sauce. The platter is exceptionally big so it can be shared up to four diners.

Moving on to the fresh pasta dishes, the Sardinian Fregola with Assorted Seafood (S$28) is a stunner. Fregola is essentially a ‘cous cous’-like pasta, imported all the way from Italy. The mussels that are tossed in with the pasta is exceptionally juicy as they are fresh from Sardinian waters, without being frozen when flown over. Cooked with other fresh seafood such as squid and clams, the rich flavours of the pasta shone through with the added use of herbs and dried tomatoes.

We were served this next dish wrapped up in a thin sheet of plastic. Yes, the Homemade Squid Ink Tagliatelle (S$32) is skillfully prepared in the hands of chef as he tosses this pasta dish into the oven for a couple of minutes before serving to bring out the robust flavours.

Adding an oomph to this marvellous pasta dish are the plump and juicy mussels and an assortment of other fresh Sardinian seafood.

It is hard to come by really good risotto in Singapore as many restaurants here do not use the correct grains to cook the dish, or simply fare poorly in execution. Thankfully, the Porcini Mushroom Risotto Superfino Acquerello (S$28) here at Alkaff Mansion Ristorante exceeded our expectations.

Chef uses the Superfino Acquerello grains in this risotto dish and it is a high quality grain prized for producing the best risotto dishes. The porcini mushrooms and thyme also enhanced the flavours of the dish.

Served flambéed, the Oven Baked Sea Bass in Salt (S$48/600g, S$56/700g, S$64/800g) produced the most tender and juicy flesh. As the fish was baked in salt, the inner ‘meat’ of the sea bass has absorbed a great part of it, making it good to eat even on its own.

We were served the sea bass with a tangy squeeze of lemon, some fresh vegetables and delicious dried tomatoes; they all make great companions to the fish.

If red meats are your go-to choice for a hearty (or romantic) dinner here at Alkaff Mansion Ristorante, the Oven-Baked Lamb Rack (S$45) or the Sliced Beef Tenderloin (S$45) should be your top picks.

Cooked to a perfect medium pink, the lamb rack is served with a smooth dollop of mashed potatoes, pearl onions and a rich prune sauce that has been reduced overnight to bring out the most intensive flavours to complement the meat.

For steak lovers, a guaranteed satisfying meal will be made better with the sliced tenderloin; cooked to your preferred doneness, of course. The steak is sliced up for easier consumption and served alongside roasted potatoes and fresh or grilled vegetables.

What makes a good suckling pig? A crisp skin outer layer with flavourful and tender meat inside. This is exactly what Chef Depalmas brought to the table with an Italian spin to this classic dish. And you bet we fell head over heels in love.

The Slow Cooked Sardinian Style Suckling Pig (S$46) is roasted for several hours at a specific temperature of 70 degree Celsius to produce fork-tender meat and a divine crisp to the skin. Served with a sweet berry compote to balance out the salty-rich flavours of the pork, we couldn’t help but believe that we must have done something so darn right in our past lives to be able to enjoy such a heavenly suckling pig.

Every good meal must end with an equally or even better tasting dessert. Chef puts in the same amount of love and care into his savoury dishes and sweet desserts, hence producing incredibly decadent desserts that you will polish off even if you were already ‘full’ from your mains.

Chef Depalmas’ Alkaff Mansion Tiramisu (S$14) is a simple dish but done the traditional and authentic way without any addition of cream – only light and premium mascarpone cheese. The added acidity of the fruits and berries adds dimensions to this otherwise light dessert.

The clear winner of the desserts is none other than the Fresh Mint Vanilla Panna Cotta with Mixed Berries and Raspberry Sauce (S$14). The Panna Cotta itself was as wobbly as a good Panna Cotta should be, and the fragrance of the mint was refreshing without being over-powering. This is a nice palate cleanser for your hearty meal.

It was a really splendid experience at Alkaff Mansion Ristorante, and one that we will not soon forget. It is little wonder this place is so popular among couples for wedding ceremonies and dinners, and yes, it is an ideal romantic dining location indeed.

For the latest updates, go to www.alkaff.com.sg, like Alkaff Mansion Ristorante on Facebook and Instagram.

Alkaff Mansion Ristorante
10 Telok Blangah Green
Singapore 109178
Reservations: +65 6510 3068
Events: +65 6510 1010
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3.00pm, 6pm – 11.00pm
Sat & Sun: 11.30am – 3.00pm, 6pm – 11.00pm
Nearest Station: Harbourfront or Telok Blangah

This post is brought to you by Alkaff Mansion Ristorante.

Concetto by Saveur is one of the ventures by the successful Saveur group, serving a range of Italian food instead of their usual French fare.

Concetto sports a chic and current industrial-style interior that screams minimalistic without being overly pretentious. With a simple and to-the-point menu, we saw countless of options from fresh pastas to heartier red meat options.

As Concetto’s menu has been newly revamped not long ago, we will be highlighting the new dishes on their menu instead. However, we did love the older version of the Concetto Pasta (S$4.90) with ikura and crab meat just a little more than their current version with squid and enoki.

A dish that stayed throughout since their opening last year is the ever popular Carbonara (S$12.90). This mouth-watering plate showcases a range of flavours and textures, from the homemade fettucine to the sous vide egg and confit confit pork belly.

The Beef Oyster Blade (S$16.90) is one to remember with incredibly tender meat from braising for 36 hours. We also liked the Kurobuta Pork Cheek (S$16.90) that is equally tender and served alongside chewy potato gnocchi and flavourful squid ink.

Concetto by Saveur is a great place in Orchard Road to venture to if you are feeling fancy but rather not burn a hole in your pocket!

Concetto by Saveur
2 Handy Road
Singapore 229233
Tel: +65 6735 1141
Daily: 12pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

For more recommendations, read our guide to Singapore’s top 20 inexpensive restaurants.

About the writer:
Cheryl is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She loves a good steak and an even better cuppa. She eats just about anything and everything. In her free time, she regularly starts on sci-fi or fantasy movie marathons.

Tucked away in a small corner of Tiong Bahru, it’s easy to walk past this gem of a stall at the Day & Night coffee shop along Eng Hoon Street. Ah Bong’s Italian shares the same space as a traditional Yong Tau Foo shop at the coffee shop, which transforms into a bar at night.

Packed with a steady crowd, it is no surprise that this humble stall has been gaining popularity ever since it opened as they churn out new surprises every day with no fixed menu. The prices of the pasta range from S$7 to S$10.

Ah Bong’s Italian’s rustic charm reflects perfectly on their dishes as they use traditional plates used way back then in coffee shops and features a straightforward menu with no more than five items daily.

A dish that we have recommended before but could not sing enough praises of is their Basil Pesto Pasta (S$7). First impressions were already a hit as the aroma of the herbs greets our senses with a bang. Upon further tasting of the pasta, we knew that this is one of the best pesto pastas we’ve ever eaten, with an even better price tag.

The Spaghetti Bolognese (S$8) may be a simple dish, but it packs a punch with a perfectly executed sauce that coats the al dente pasta evenly. Ah Bong’s Italian is indeed worth travelling for.

Ah Bong’s Italian
56 Eng Hoon Street
#01-46
Tel: +65 9650 6194
Daily: 10am – 2pm
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru

About the writer:
Cheryl is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She loves a good steak and an even better cuppa. She eats just about anything and everything. In her free time, she regularly starts on sci-fi or fantasy movie marathons.

Italian cuisine is too underrated in Singapore. Not enough attention is given, or it is because there are not enough authentic options in town? We can never say no to a good Italian meal, because the sheer variety is enough to keep us occupied. There is always something new to explore, new flavours to fall in love with, and different textures to entice us.

For one, Waterfall Ristorante Italiano at Shangri-la Hotel, Singapore offers a daily spread that is sumptuous no less, and we can always count on the chefs for an authentic Italian affair. If you haven’t heard, the former Waterfall Cafe has been transformed into a Southern Italian trattoria that features handmade pastas and fresh seafood.

Prices are still very reasonable, but the dishes are better and heartier than ever. The new Chef de Cuisine, Marco De Vincentis, hails from Naples. And his experience will bring you nothing but the most authentic tastes of Southern Italy.

Think fresh seafood from the Southern Riviera, nutty flavours, and lots of lemon touches. Nothing overly fanciful too, just really playing around with fresh and quality ingredients to accentuate the essence and to showcase the true Italian flavours.

Take a trip to Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore – one of Singapore’s best hotels – and have a quiet Italian meal. You will love their new menu. Here are some highlights from Waterfall Ristorante Italiano’s new menu that we sampled:

INSALATA DI MARE ALL’AMALFITANA

Originating from the coast of Amalfi, the Insalata di Mare All’Amalfitnana (S$23) is a refreshing seafood salad of prawns, crab legs and other treasures of the Italian sea. The sheer simplicity of fresh seafood is complimented with light citrusy dressing of lemon, and it is surely one salad to whet your appetite.

PARMIGIANA DI MELANZANE

Much has been debated about the origin of eggplant parmesan, but one thing is for sure – it is a staple in Southern Italian cuisine and you must try it when you are dining at Waterfall Ristorante Italiano where Chef Marco has mastered this classic dish. Layered in a casserole with parmigiano, tomatoes and eggplants, the Parmigian di Melanzane is a classic appetiser ala Italiano style – our palate won’t quite soon forget about it.

INSALATA DI ARANCE E FINOCCHI

A light and refreshing Sicilian mixed salad of orange, fennel, black olive, cherry tomato and Tropea onion, the Insalata di Arance e Finocchi (S$16) is a great option for vegetarians or those who prefer something lighter to start your meal with.

SPAGHETTONI AI RICCI DI MARE

With 13 homemade pastas to choose from, deciding on what to order is almost quite as tough as making life decisions. But let us help you streamline your options – Spaghettoni ai Ricci di Mare (S$29) has to be on the list.

Combining promptly cooked homemade spaghettoni with the freshness of sea urchin, gorgeous red tomatoes, olive oil, garlic and herb, this is one of our favourite pasta dishes from Waterfall Ristorante Italino’s new menu.

PACCHERI ALL’ASTICE

The Paccheri all’ Astice (S$32) is another pasta dish that we thoroughly enjoyed. Thick sheets of hand-cut pasta prepared al dente, then doused in a fragrant blend of lobster sauce, cherry tomato, brandy, chilli, basil, parsley and extra-virgin olive oil – think rich but balanced flavours that is nothing short of rustic and satisfying.

TAGLIOLINI AL PESTO SICILIANO

The Tagliolini al Pesto Sicilaino (S$22) – with tomato, ricotta, pine nut, basil, roasted almond – may sound like a simple dish, but the flavours are anything but ordinary. Sure, there is no fancy ingredients. But it is one fuss-free classic pasta option that will always have the hearts of the Southern Italians.

Other pastas on the menu include the usual classics like Fusilli Carbonara (S$18), Spaghetti alle Vongole (S$22), Tagliatelle alla Bolognese (S$18) and Spaghetti Aglio Olio (S$18) – most of them are reasonably priced from S$18 to S$24.

SOGLIOLA AL LIMONE AMALFITANO

We love a good Dover sole, but we’ve got some issues – not many restaurants in Singapore stock this fish, otherwise if they do, prices are usually exorbitant. But boy, were we stoked to see it on Waterfall Ristorante Italiano’s new menu. At S$38 for a whole sole, this is one dish that represents great value. The pan-fried sole with grilled seasonal greens has single-handedly earned our loyalty towards Waterfall Ristorante Italiano.

PORCHETTA SARDA

Love your suckling pig? Try Waterfall Ristorante Italino‘s Porchette Sarda (S$35). Roasted suckling pig roll served with rosemary potato and spring onion – quite unlike your usual suckling pigs, this one here is presented in an elegant manner and you can do without the mess.

TORTA CAPRESE

Named after the island of Capri where it originated from, Torta Caprese (S$16) is a traditional gluten-free flourless chocolate cake. Waterfall Ristorante Italiano‘s rendition has a hint of almond, and is served with a sorbet; the tartness of the sorbet cuts through the sweetness of the chocolate cake, making it the perfect complement and we are just dying for more now.

TIRAMISU

Now, what is an Italian meal without the classic “pick-me-up” dessert? We always love a good tiramisu (S$15), and here at Waterfall Ristorante Italiano, Chef Marco does a pretty mean version that saw us wolfing it down within minutes. Warning: one serving is not enough!

ANTIPASTI SEMI LUNCH BUFFET

During lunch, Waterfall Ristorante Italino which includes daily fish special, salads, cold cuts, cheeses, fresh seasfood, live pasta and meat carving stations, pizza station and gelato.

For reservations and enquiries, please call +65 6213 4138 or go to Shangri-la Hotel Singapore’s dining website. For the latest updates, like Shangri-la Hotel Singapore on Facebook, and follow them on Instagram.

Waterfall Ristorante Italino
Garden Wing, Level One, Shangri-la Hotel
22 Orange Grove Road
Tel: +65 6213 4138
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Email: dining.sls@shangri-la.com

This post is brought to you by Shangri-la Hotel, Singapore.

Pete’s Place at Grand Hyatt Singapore has been around for so many decades and is a longstanding favourite among its many loyal customers. Conveniently located in town, it is a rustic and homely outlet that dishes out nothing but the most authentic Italian dishes.

Since joining Pete’s Place, Chef Andrea Bontempi has been working to include elements from Northern Italy – from the high plateau of Piedmont to the coastal cities of Livorno and Genoa, and his home in Brescia – into the new a la carte menu.

Among the new additions to the menu, we enjoyed the Burrata e Caponata (S$22). Any good Italian worth its salt will have a good burrata on its menu, and Pete’s Place is no exception. Drizzled with aged balsamic vinegar, the burrata sat atop an eggplant caponata.

The pastas at Pete’s Place are freshly handmade from scratch, and there are twelve options on the menu to choose from. The Ravioli Astice (S$36) is a delicious combination of lobster ravioli with burrata cheese and saffron zucchini sauce, but the standout dish for us was definitely the Gamberi e Nero di Seppia (S$29) – squid ink linguine with seared sustainable prawns and calamari.

The Cacciucco alla Livornese (S$34) brought back memories from our trip to Livorno last year. Originated from the coastal city in Tuscany, this seafood stew is a classic dish that is popularly enjoyed by Italian fishermen. Traditionally, fishermen used what was left over from their catch to make the stew. What makes Pete’s Place’s rendition different is the use of the freshest seafood – a melting pot of squid, baby octopus, prawns, sustainable barramundi, cod, white bait, mussels and clams.

La Cotoletta alla Milanese (S$45) is a Milanese speciality, and something that we always order whenever we are at Milan. Very few places in Singapore serve this dish, so you could imagine our elation when we saw it on Pete’s Place new menu. The breaded veal chop is accompanied by a simple herb salad and tomato confit.

For desserts, you must get our all-time favourite Tiramisu (S$12) but make sure you save room for the Bonnet Astigiana (S$10). We loved how Chef Andrea has given the traditional Amaretti Chocolate Pudding a refreshing touch by adding orange blossom and basil cress.

For reservations at Pete’s Place, please visit singapore.grand.hyattrestaurants.com. For enquiries or information, kindly call +65 6732 1234 or e-mail petesplace.sg@hyatt.com.

Pete’s Place
Grand Hyatt Singapore
10 Scotts Road
Tel: +65 6416 7322
Daily: 12pm – 4.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sunday: 11.30am – 2.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

This post is brought to you by Grand Hyatt Singapore.

What’s better than Italian food? An Italian Sunday brunch with free flow of wine and prosecco, of course! One of the oldest Italian restaurants in Singapore, Pete’s Place at Grand Hyatt Singapore presents its Sunday Italian Prosecco Brunch (S$58++ with selected juices and coffee/tea, S$82++ for free flow of house red/white wine, prosecco, Tiger draft beer and Campari cocktails).

As soon as we stepped in to the charming restaurant located at the basement of Grand Hyatt Singapore, we knew it was going to be a good meal. Checkered table cloth, brick walls, wine cellars, and an impressive buffet spread welcomed us. It did not take us long to fall in love with this hidden gem in town that radiates an undeniable rustic enchantment.

Your feast begins at the fresh seafood section – dig in to crabs, mussels, prawns, scallops and freshly shucked oysters. Equally enticing was the cold cuts station, where we indulged in salamis, ham and endless servings of freshly shaved prosciutto with rock melon. The mains include chickan cacciatore, deep fried calamari, braised beef cheeks, and the very addictive squid ink gnocchi. Pasta lovers who cannot do without your first course will also be treated to freshly prepared pasta-of-the-day.

Wait, we haven’t mentioned that there are also freshly baked pizzas from the wood-fired oven, have we? But save some tummy space for the carving station where roasted beef sirloin and lamb leg await us. For something less heavy, there is also an oven baked whole barramundi.

We were also blown away by the dessert offerings at Pete’s Place. Chocolate pistachio cake, black forest cake, cheese cake, almond biscotti, mango mousse; Viva la dolce vita! But the tiramisu completely stole the show. It was one of the better tiramisu that we have had in Singapore, and we would come back to Pete’s Place just for this. The rocky road was also exceptional. The Sunday brunch also comes with a selection of quality homemade Italian gelato – quite the perfect ending to a marvellous Sunday.

For the latest updates, follow Grand Hyatt Singapore on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Pete’s Place
Grand Hyatt Singapore
10 Scotts Road
Tel: +65 6416 7322
Daily: 12pm – 4.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sunday: 11.30am – 2.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

This post is brought to you by Grand Hyatt Singapore.

When the news came that Jamie Oliver is opening a restaurant in Singapore – the first Jamie’s Italian in Asia – the hype about it was overwhelming and unbelievably crazy. Jamie Oliver is a household name, and arguably one of the most famous British chefs in the world. The arrival of his restaurant in Singapore further emphasises Singapore’s position as a dining destination in Asia.

Jamie’s Italian Singapore officially opens its door at Vivo City today, and here are some of the highlights that you can expect from Jamie Oliver’s new restaurant.

As with all the Jamie’s Italian restaurants around the world, the menu is extensive, with offerings of antipasti, pasta and risotto dishes, and main courses that are hearty and rustic.

The Planks – platters of meat and fish – are a great way to start, especially if you are in a big group. The Meat Plank (S$15.50/pax) consists of cured meats, cheeses, pickles and a crunchy salad. We also sampled the Fish Plank (S$17/pax), a seafood version with an assortment of beetroot-cured salmon, roasted shellfish, smoked mackerel pate and delicious fritto misto, which tastes great with yuzu mayo.

If you are a fan of olives, you should also go for their World’s Best Olives on Ice (S$7.50). The other starter that we had was the Baked Mushrooms (S$12.50). It was decent, but nothing to write home about. The Crispy Squid (S$11.50) and Crispy Stuffed Risotto Balls (S$11.50) sound promising, and we would probably get them the next time.

At Jamie’s Italian, pastas are made fresh in-house daily, and they are naturally one of the highlights. The best part is that they come in two portions – a smaller serving which is meant to be an appetiser, and the regular size as a main course – which gives you the option of getting more dishes for sharing.

The most popular pasta on the menu is the Prawn Linguine (S$17/25) with fried garlicky prawns. But while we have not tried this, we have to give mentions to the Tagliatelle Bolognese (S$15/22) – which we had when we were in Jamie’s Italian London previously, and it is surely one dish not to be missed because this classic pasta is so satisfying.

We could not resist ordering the Wild Truffle Risotto (S$16/24.50). It was excellent, with subtle taste of the finely chopped truffle lingering on the tongue. We had this same dish at London and much to our surprise, we felt the Singapore’s version was significantly more impressive. Also good was the Jools’ Favourite Sicilian Tuna Fusilli (S$14/21), which is apparently the must-have dish for Jools (Jamie Oliver’s wife) whenever she is at the restaurant. We loved how the herby breadcrumbs added an extra texture to the flavourful pasta with slow-cooked tuna, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.

Other pastas on the menu include the Pasta Alla Norma (S$12.50/19), Penne Arrabbiata (S$12.50/19), Black Angel Spagehtti (S$16/24.50), and Sausage Pappardelle (S$16/24).

Among the main courses, you might be tempted by the Veal Flash Steak (S$32.50) and The Jamie’s Italian Wagyu Burger (S$27.50). One of the exclusive dishes for Jamie’s Italian Singapore is the Pink Snapper Acqua Pazza (S$32). While it was not out-of-the-world-good, it was a pleasantly comforting dish that you can eat on a regular basis – which is exactly what Jamie Oliver is known for.

Sweet treats such as Tutti Frutti Lemon Meringue Pie (S$11.50) and the Sour Cherry Bakewell (S$9.50) were decent, but not particularly outstanding.

But what we really loved were the Tiramisu (S$11.50) and Panna Cotta (S$9). The former – a strong and intense coffee-flavoured triffle with orange mascarpone and chocolate, and the latter – a simple and well-made dessert which is rich and creamy yet not overly sweet, exactly how a good panna cotta should be. We dare say it is one of the better renditions in town.

Jamie’s Italian takes reservations, but from what we understand, it is already fully-booked for the next few weeks. So, the only way is to try your luck for a table as walk-in guests.

While Jamie Oliver is a household name and brand, expectations are naturally developed and raised. However, one pointer that you may want to take note of prior to your visit to the inaugural Asian outlet – Jamie’s Italian is positioned to be a casual Italian restaurant, catering to the masses with fuss-free cuisine of rustic and homely pastas. Definitely not the posh fine-dining establishment that many might be expecting across all Jamie Oliver’s restaurants.

I like Jamie’s Italian and I think it blends in perfectly with Singapore’s local food scene. I would not be surprised if they were to open more branches in Singapore in the near future, and eventually in the rest of Asia.

Jamie’s Italian Singapore
1 HarbourFront Walk,
VivoCity, #01-165/167
Tel: +65 67335500
Daily: 11.30am to 11pm (All day dining)
Nearest Station: Harbourfront
Note: This was an invited media tasting.

For more recommendations, read my list of best Italian restaurants in Singapore