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Italian food has long been called the GOAT of cuisines. Whether you agree with that statement or not, it is undoubtedly sad to lose a spot that represents the cuisine in its most authentic form. That spot is Porta Porta Italian Restaurant at Simpang Bedok, and it is closing after a 33-year run.
Their last day of business is on 31 Dec 2026; what a sad way to end the year. Before they officially close, I intend to visit them, with my only regret that I didn’t visit them sooner.
The restaurant itself feels like those Italian movies, those romantic, down-to-earth productions that make it feel like you’re visiting your grandma’s house. Pastel colours fade into the background and the walls are busy with stunning paintings, instruments and other souvenirs that add character to the home.
And that’s exactly what it is. The entire restaurant feels more like home than anything else. And there’s nothing sadder than when your home is no longer there.
You are probably wondering why they are closing in the first place. Co-founder Rozianah Baharudin Laino — known as Rozi — wants to spend more time with her family, and her son, Danesh Laino, has established a career outside of F&B. That led to her decision to close after 33 long years.
What makes this spot so remarkable to me is the story. Rozi founded Porta Porta with her late husband, Antonino Laino, or Nino, who passed away in 2012. They began as an Italian cooking school before deciding to serve instead of teach. Their first spot was a small kitchen in Changi, and after years of hard work, they moved to their current home in 2019.
This restaurant is also Muslim-owned, which made it accessible to almost everyone. They take pride in their ability to be a home for all, and even their name represents this admirable mission. The name Porta Porta means “door to door” in Italian. With the name came the idea that the door would always be open for anyone hungry. Unfortunately, every door has to close.
While they’re still operating, I implore my fellow foodies to show them the support they deserve. I’m happy Rozi and her family managed to have a business that lasted as long as it did, in an F&B scene as cutthroat as Singapore’s. I wish them the best in their future endeavours.
