What makes a good Italian restaurant in Singapore? Is it the authenticity, or is it simply how good you felt while dining there? I would vote for the latter. Despite adding a local touch, there are many good Italian restaurants in Singapore that still make pretty damn good pasta and pizzas.
In this guide to the best Italian restaurants in Singapore, I tried different Italian restaurants across the country, all with their own styles. I’d have to say that after talking with chefs, authentic Italian cuisine is just too diverse from region to region. From Sardinia to Sicilian, the differences are astounding and each Italian chef focuses on his own region’s cuisine.
It’s hard to say which is better when we’re comparing cuisines from different regions against each other, but Italian food is definitely beyond just pasta and pizzas, as most Singaporeans will assume.
And then there are local chefs who trained under Italian restaurants, and started creating their own style of Italian-Singaporean cooking that wonderfully pleases the local palate. There are many Italian restaurants here that are rather authentic, but there are bound to be certain tweaks here and there to suit the market.
I’m certainly not complaining as long as I find it delicious, and I hope you do too. This article is based on what locals and expats like, which may not necessarily imply authenticity. After all the burrata, risotto, pasta and tiramisu, here are 30 Italian restaurants to relish in Singapore.
1. Kucina Italian Restaurant
Singapore’s first authentic Italian halal restaurant, Kucina, is helmed by Chef Gero, who’s had 25 years of experience in Italian cooking in prestigious restaurants like Da Paolo and the Garibaldi Group. After becoming a Muslim revert, he was inspired to open his own restaurant that catered to the Muslim community without compromising the authenticity of Italian food, leading to the birth of Kucina.
Unique to Kucina, the La Barca Funghi E Tartufo (S$28.90) is a boat-like pizza filled with the richness of mozzarella and the nuttiness of mushroom sauce with black truffle pate. To eat this dish, simply tear the pizza dough around its sides and dip it into the creamy centre!
11 Tanjong Katong Road, KINEX, #B1-09/10, Singapore 437157
+65 6493 2154
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
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2. Cicheti
Melding ‘traditional Italian heritage with distinct Mediterranean influences’, Cicheti is a rustic-chic trattoria tucked in the backstreet of Kampong Glam. Spearheaded by an all-local kitchen team, the eatery offers an Italian feast earmarked by regional specialities.
As a delectable reminder to get your basics right, the Margherita Pizza (S$19) does their huge wood fire oven justice with a smoky, crisp crust and a chewy dough. The tomato and cheese sits well on a thin base, presenting savoury and tangy tastes. Also, the basil leaf is baked into the pizza, covering its bitterness so non-basil fans have nary to worry about.
Comforting and heart-warming dishes aside, Cicheti’s cosy ambience also makes it an ideal destination for an intimate catch-up or a romantic date night!
52 Kandahar Street, Singapore 198901
+65 9725 6255
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10.30pm
Sun: 12pm – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10pm
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3. Gotti Italiano
One of the most exciting additions to our list— and to the local fine dining scene— is Gotti Italiano at Amoy Street. Named after notorious New York Sicilian mobster John Gotti, it embraces all of the mafia kingpin’s easy charm and fascinating extravagance.
While aristocratic decor and ambience certainly play their part in drawing the crowds, the authentic Napoli cuisine is the real charm. More than just ingredients and cooking techniques, this is achieved with the right equipment.
For example, every pizza is prepared in a stone-fired Napoli pizza oven, a rarity in Singapore. Pair that with traditional Sicilian recipes made using specially-sourced ingredients and you are rewarded with flavour and texture passed down over centuries. This commitment to authenticity pays off handsomely— the pizzas are easily some of the best we have had.
Our recommendation for must-have goes to the Signor Gotti (S$36) pizza. Paying homage to the legend himself, this pizza comes with Bufala mozzarella, grana Padano and rucola-laden 12-hour slow-cooked wagyu beef cheek.
Their handmade pasta is tangibly superior, as proven in the Guanciale di Manzo (S$32). 12 hours slow cooked wagyu beef cheek ragu and red wine served with fusilli, this is an easy favourite.
It’s matched by the Salmone Trottole (S$32), where smoked salmon, capers, cream dill sauce and white wine play together in wild abandon.
We strongly recommend the magnificent Risotto Al Granchio (S$32). Here, red crab meat, grana padano and lobster bisque work well with the Carnaroli rice to indulge both your taste and olfactory senses.
Gotti Italiano has a very interesting set of revolving daily specials and set lunches. The Executive Set Lunch (S$32++) available from Monday to Friday is a great option for working professionals in the area. Fine for a meeting between colleagues, the interesting decor can be an entertaining background for a client meeting, too.
Gotti Italiano’s Signature 5 Course Set Dinner (S$118++) does the same after nightfall. If you are hosting a very important client or a particularly hot date, though, then there is no better option than the Chefs Signature Omakase (S$168++ onwards). It can be curated to your tastes and preferences.
At the bar, Italian cocktails are handcrafted from the finest ingredients, some rare, from across the continent. Your taste buds are taken on a journey of the ‘spirit’ from the Amalfi Coast to the burrows of New York.
Gotti Italiano maintains a collection of true-blue Italian wines, too. If you are a connoisseur, the Wine Dinners with Master Sommeliers twice a month are a worthy investment of your time.
78 Amoy Street, Singapore 069897
+65 3157 4226
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm & 5pm – 12am
Sat: 6pm – 12am
Closed on Sun
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4. Griglia Open Fire Italian Kitchen
Griglia Open Fire Italian Kitchen, boasting 2 locations within the vibrant neighbourhoods of Tanjong Pagar and Katong (newly-opened), offers a culinary experience that transcends mere dining. Inspired by the cherished Italian summer tradition of “grigliata,” a gathering centred around the warmth of a shared grill and delectable platters, Griglia fosters an immersive atmosphere for guests to embark on a delectable journey to Italy.
The menu delves into the rich tapestry of Italian regional cuisines, inviting guests to explore the stories behind even the most obscure ingredients. Beyond signature dishes like Pappardelle and Gratinated Bone Marrow, the menu highlights fresh seasonal ingredients.
The Heirloom Tomato Carpaccio, sourced from Sicily and dressed with oregano and Tarallo crumbs, exemplifies this focus, marrying elegant presentation with bold flavors. This leads into the saporous Ravioli Caciocavallo, featuring cave-smoked cheese in a delicate pasta parcel, further enhanced with zucchini and tomatoes brined in Italian seawater.
For meat lovers, the menu boasts slivers of 36 Months Aged Parma Ham. Chef Andrea adds a playful twist with smoked pears, replacing the traditional rock melon. This unexpected pairing creates a delightful balance of tangy, crisp flavours that complement the ham’s savoury sweetness.
The open fire grill takes centre stage, showcasing perfectly seared Italian classics like the Tuscan-inspired 30-Day Dry-Aged Porterhouse ‘Fiorentina’ (our favourite, pictured above) and the Whole Spanish Turbot. Craving a feast for the whole crew? Sharing is encouraged with the 200-Day Grain-Fed Angus Beef Prime Rib ‘Costata’, perfect for 4 to 5 guests.
Griglia beckons with a warm ambiance and exceptional service, ideal for both casual business lunches and lively dinners. Create lasting memories with loved ones surrounded by the aroma of open fire cooking and the taste of Italy.
For location, opening hours, contact number, and menu, please click here for Katong outlet.
For location, opening hours, contact number, and menu, please click here for Craig Road outlet.
5. Prego
For those who enjoy timeless Italian classics, Prego is definitely a must-visit. Located within Fairmont Singapore, the establishment’s mod-industrial style interior and “Gatsby-esque” island bar create a space that is timelessly elegant.
With a selection of more than 10 pizzas in the menu, you will be spoilt for choice just deciding on which flavour to get. Meat-lovers will delight in the Rustica (S$38) which is laden with homemade Italian sausages and pepperoni. If you are in for a creamy option, then try the Prego (S$40) for a rich and cheesy slice generously topped with ham, sun-dried tomatoes, and wild mushrooms.
To go with your Happy Hour beverage that happens daily from 12pm to 5pm, you can choose from any of their six of their sharing platters (S$48 to S$68 per board) for a variety of cured meats.
80 Bras Basah Road, Fairmont Singapore Level 1, Singapore 189560
+65 6431 6156
Daily: 6.30am – 10.30am & 12pm – 10.30pm
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6. LINO
Nestled in the residential enclave of Binjai Park, LINO is a contemporary restaurant specialising in homely Italian dishes for the entire family.
LINO’s menu boasts a repertoire of hearty and soulful classics, such as the LINO signature Burrata Pizza (S$28). Having been proofed for 48 hours, the pizza dough is light and airy. Adorned with zingy slow-roasted cherry tomato and passata finished with a ball of burrata cheese topped with basil pesto, this pizza is the epitome of Italian flavours done right.
Another dish that will leave you feeling hale and hearty is the Braised Lamb Shank (S$36). Though slightly gamey, the lamb’s full-bodied flavour is substantial and comforting — an ideal dish to savour on a cold rainy day.
Tiramisu (S$14) aside, LINO also serves toothsome Profiteroles (S$16 for four pieces) that is sure to excite. Sandwiched between choux pastry are scoops of vanilla ice cream and drizzled with chocolate sauce, these profiteroles are so addictive, you won’t be able to stop at one!
7 Binjai Park, Singapore 589821
+65 9738 0891
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm & 5.30pm – 9.30pm
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7. Trovato
Trovato is a hidden Italian restaurant tucked away in the friendly neighbourhood of Jln Selaseh in the Yio Chu Kang vicinity. This eatery is a welcoming cafe by day and by night, it transforms into a laid-back and cosy contemporary Italian restaurant. On weekends, they also have a breakfast and brunch menu.
The warm and romantic ambience at Trovato makes it an appealing location for date nights, and you’ll have no problem finding parking space either, due to the ample parking lots situated right outside the restaurant and in nearby private estates.
Trovato’s pizzas are hand-stretched and baked in their brick-fire oven. They also use a unique charcoal base specifically for their signature pizza, making it stand out even more.
Trovato’s Special Pizza (S$35.90++) is a dish that you must try. It is made with a charcoal base and topped with 4 ingredients of the chef’s choice — our pizza was topped with mushrooms, beef bolognese, prosciutto and smoked salmon. If you’re always unable to decide on which pizza flavour you want, this is the perfect option for you.
Each quarter of Trovato’s Special Pizza boasts its own unique flavours. For instance, the portion topped with mushrooms was juicy and earthy, with a lovely hint of truffle. The prosciutto portion, on the other hand, had a sharper and saltier profile, especially since it also contained shaved parmigiano and rocket leaves!
Trovato’s Risotto Ai Gamberi (S$25.90++) was another remarkable dish that wow-ed me. The risotto base was slightly sweet and a little tangy, with the freshness of the tomato sauce shining through. The tiger prawns on top were huge and fresh, too.
Seafood lovers have to get the Octopus A La Plancha (S$28.90++), which was spectacular both in taste and presentation. The octopus leg was incredibly rich in flavour with a smoky aroma permeating throughout. It tasted multi-dimensional with elements of sweetness complementing its umami tones, and I couldn’t get enough.
The Tiramisu (S$12.80++) was the perfect way to end the meal. The dessert as a whole wasn’t too sweet, yet managed to effectively satisfy my sweet tooth. Aside from having a strong coffee aroma, the Tiramisu had also been infused with coffee liqueur, further enhancing its robust flavours.
Trovato is a must-try spot for fans of Italian cuisine, with their reasonable prices and quality food. I loved the ambience of the restaurant, and the dishes were all value for money.
To make things even better, Trovato offers Happy Hour every day from 1pm to 6pm, allowing diners to savour their extensive selection of alcohol at affordable prices. On weekdays, they also have a Lunch Set Menu from 11am to 2pm, making their dishes even more affordable!
26 Jln Selaseh, Singapore 808445
+65 8842 9826
Tue to Thu: 11am – 10pm
Fri: 11am – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 8.30am – 11pm
Closed on Mon
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8. Da Paolo Dempsey
Beginning as a modest, casual Italian-style trattoria in 1989, the Da Paolo brand has since been serving diners with an array of modest, casual Italian fare.
Da Paolo Dempsey however, offers a modern twist to the traditional Italian cuisine with a live pasta making counter, Italian wood-fire oven for hand-stretched pizza alongside an extensive beverage menu.
From fresh hand-made pasta to Da Paolo’s signature Classic Tiramisu, Da Paolo Dempsey is sure to delight you with their mouth-watering dishes at friendly and affordable prices!
Dempsey Road, Blk 8, #01-13, Singapore 247696
+65 6261 3128
Sun to Thu: 8am – 11.30pm
Fri & Sat: 8am – 12am
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9. Bella Pasta
Located along Robertson Quay, the tranquil riverfront view gives Bella Pasta one of the best settings for an incredible dining experience.
Bella Pasta is the sister restaurant of the famous pizzeria, Bella Pizza. Established in 2010, Bella Pasta serves authentic Italian pasta dishes to diners as they enjoy a picturesque view of the Singapore River.
The Linguine Frutti di Mare (S$28) is loaded with fresh seafood and just the right amount of roasted garlic. Each strand of linguine is coated in the perfect amount of olive oil, making it an absolute treat!
The Scamorza Affumicata Con Prosciutto (S$21) is a delicious change of pace from the usual burrata salad. It’s light, meaty and very appetising.
30 Robertson Quay, #01-09, Singapore 238251
+65 6836 5692
Mon, Wed to Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm & 6pm – 11pm
Sat: 11.30am – 11.30pm
Sun: 11.30am – 11pm
Closed on Tue
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10. Latteria Mozzarella Bar
True cheese fans know that there are only three top cheese-producing countries, and Italy is one of them. Step into Latteria Mozzarella Bar in Duxton Hill, and you won’t have to leave Singapore to enjoy a little slice of Southern Italy.
Specialising in fresh cheeses as well as traditional Italian cuisine, Latteria Mozzarella Bar offers the largest range of mozzarella and burrata in Singapore, all flown in directly from Italy twice a week. Dining at this Italian restaurant gives you a choice of dining on the lush al fresco terrace, or the cosy indoor seating.
Dig into the Burrata Peperonata (S$35), a massive portion of 300g of burrata from Puglia, served with sweet peppers. Each mouthful is sure to be creamy and crunchy all at once, melting on your tongue.
The Homemade Gnocchi With Porcini Mushrooms (S$34) is a good choice for truffle lovers. Earthy truffle, nutty porcini and comforting, soft gnocchi make up this elevated comfort dish.
If you’re a big eater, then you have to go for the Sunday Brunch (S$68++ per pax), a traditional Italian lunch following a sharing-style concept. The menu changes every Sunday, so you’re in for a treat.
40 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089618
+65 6025 6025
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10.30pm
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11. Pasta Brava
If you are looking for a good place to wind down on Friday night after work, Pasta Brava comes highly recommended, though reservations are necessary. The prices are similar to other Italian eateries along the Bukit Timah, Holland and Orchard belt, but the quality of the food is probably one of my favourites in Singapore with very reasonable pricing.
The Pasta Brava Spaghetti Del Pescatore (S$28.80) is probably one of the most well-known items on the menu and definitely a crowd favourite. The Risotto Al Funghi Porcini Mantecato Al Parmigiano (S$27.50) is another winner for me, with its cheesy base and thick mushroom stock.
33 Erskine Road, Scarlet Hotel, #01-13, Singapore 069333
+65 6222 0879
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Sun: 11.30am – 9.30pm
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12. Basilico Italian Restaurant
Basilico Italian Restaurant in Regent Hotel has long been regarded as one of the people’s favourite Italian restaurants in Singapore, and what adds to their recognition is the constant evolution of their menu.
One of the biggest draws is the Italian Weekday Lunch Buffet (S$68++ per adult) on Mondays to Fridays, from 12pm to 3pm. It’s a great hit, and you typically see the restaurant full during weekday lunches.
If buffets aren’t your thing, choose from their a la carte options too, such as Burrata di Putignano (S$30), Wagyu Beef Lasagna (S$36) and Pizza ai Funghi e Salsiccia Sarda (S$33).
1 Cuscaden Road, Regent Hotel, Level 2, Singapore 249715
+65 6725 3232
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 3pm & 6pm – 10.30pm
Sat & Sun: 12pm – 3.30pm & 6pm – 10.30pm
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13. La Braceria Pizza & Grill
Situated in the upscale and serene Greenwood neighbourhood that’s accessible only by car, La Braceria Pizza & Grill features authentic Italian cuisine from the Southern Amalfi coast.
The restaurant is owned by Chef Fabio Iannone and managed by his younger brother Adriano Iannone and their business partner, Chef Mauro. Try their dishes like the Linguine Alla Polpa di Granchio (S$26), Ravioli di Ricotta e Spinaci (S$24) and Prosciutto e Funghi Pizza (S$24).
5 Greendale Avenue, Singapore 289501
+65 6465 5918
Tue to Sun: 11.30am – 2.30pm & 5.30pm – 10.30pm
Closed on Mon
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14. Ristorante Pietrasanta
Ristorante Pietrasanta is a family business in Fusionopolis that’s run by two Italian brothers, and it’s inspired by the quaint simplicity of the town of Pietrasanta in Tuscany, Italy. Focusing on an authentic Tuscan dining experience, you can expect fresh and delicious Italian fare, complemented by a great glass of wine.
The rustic homely interior is an ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city to enjoy homely Italian cooking by Chef Loris. A pasta dish you can look forward to is the Linguine con Vongole e Bottarga di Muggine (S$28.90), containing linguine clams, grey mullet bottarga, EVO oil, white wine, parsley, garlic and fresh Italian tomatoes.
1 Fusionopolis Way, Connexis, #01-08, Singapore 138632
+65 9863 9253
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm & 5.30pm – 10pm
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15. Al Forno East Coast Restaurant
Al Forno East Coast was set up in 1995, and was purportedly the first Italian restaurant to start importing fresh ingredients like tomatoes and cheese directly from Italy.
The restaurant name comes from ‘Al Forno‘ dishes, referring to food that is baked in an oven, which commonly includes Italian favourites like pizzas, bread, and pasta dishes.
You can tell that their pizzas and bread are one of the highlights here, being baked in a traditional wood-fired oven with undivided attention. Select from pizza variations like Pizza Frutti Di Mare (S$27), Pizza Con Carne (S$28) and classics like Pizza Margherita (S$23) and Pizza Al Formaggi (S$25).
400 East Coast Road, Singapore 428996
+65 6348 8781
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 2pm & 6pm – 10pm
Fri to Sun: 11.30am – 2pm & 5.30pm – 10pm
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16. Pietro Ristorante Italiano
You wouldn’t think to find one of the best Italian joints nestled within the homely estate of Jalan Kelulut. Only a couple of minutes away from Jalan Kayu, Pietro Ristorante Italiano serves piping hot pizzas, a plethora of pasta options, and definitely, one of the most impressive fried calamari we’ve ever tasted.
Their Spaghetti Al Nero di Seppia (S$28.90) is served with a mountain of seafood such as squid, prawns, clams, and crab meat, drenched in aromatic garlic and white wine sauce.
Don’t forget to sweeten the meal with Tiramisu Classico (S$13.90) — you won’t regret sneaking this lil’ treat into your diet.
12 Jalan Kelulut, Singapore 809030
+65 6484 5528
Mon to Fri: 11am – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 2.30pm & 5pm – 10pm
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17. ETNA Italian Restaurant
The friendly Italian chef-owner Anna Borrasi greets guests to ETNA Italian Restaurant with a wide smile, offering an Italian dining experience with a highly personal touch. It is no wonder the restaurant is actually an abbreviation for “Every Table Needs Attention”. Service is really one of the most outstanding aspects of ETNA, in addition to the amazing Italian cuisine.
ETNA is one of the 20 authentic Italian restaurants in Singapore proudly awarded the Ospitalita Italiana Gold Seal Award, which guarantees each customer high quality authentic Italian food.
In the cosy space that’s decorated with unique Italian trinkets, ETNA serves up pleasant contemporary Italian cuisine with a Sicilian touch in a semi-fine dining setting.
The dishes at ETNA command centre-stage with its explosion of colours and tastes, using only the finest authentic products imported from Italy.
Make a reservation at ETNA outlets: Duxton | Upp East Coast
For a list of locations, opening hours and contact numbers, refer here.
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18. Garibaldi Italian Restaurant & Bar
Garibaldi Italian Restaurant & Bar is one of Singapore’s most popular fine-dining Italian restaurants. Modern and elegant, Garibaldi brings a hip and contemporary touch to Italian dining and distinguishes itself with amazing service standards.
Classic European fine-dining mandates a drink at the front bar first before entering the dining hall for a proper meal. Garibaldi even serves a small welcome alcoholic beverage as a nice gesture to guests. Also, the extensive wine menu is mind-blowing.
The enticing menu emphasises authentic Italian cuisine prepared with the utmost care and the best ingredients, which are mainly imported directly from Italy. The main dining hall’s tables can be a bit too close together though, with some moments bordering on eavesdropping.
36 Purvis Street, #01-02, Singapore 188613
+65 6837 1468
Daily: 12pm – 2pm & 6pm – 10pm
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19. No Menu Restaurant
An authentic Italian family operation run by Chef Osvaldo Forlino, it seems like the whole Forlino family is working here at No Menu Restaurant, including his sister, daughter, niece, nephew and occasionally even his mother.
And yes, Chef Osvaldo first made his name in Singapore at the Forlino before venturing out on his own.
Expect traditional, rustic Italian cooking, but with a little local twist.
As the name suggests, No Menu Restaurant doesn’t have a menu and food selection hinges on recommendations by the floor staff. This can be quite scary, as the antipasti total might be priced astronomically high if you are too open to their recommendations.
Watch the budget and don’t feel too pressured by the well-trained servers into getting more than you can stomach.
23 Boon Tat Street, Singapore 069621
+65 6224 0091
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 2pm & 6pm – 9pm
Sat: 6pm – 9pm
Closed on Sun
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20. Limoncello Pizza & Grill
Bringing authentic Italian fare from the Amalfi Coast, Chef Fabio Iannone has set up Limoncello Pizza & Grill along the Singapore River for similar effect and romance. The huge al fresco area by the river is definitely a top candidate for a romantic night out.
The Bistecca Alla Griglia (S$59), a 300g grilled Australian grain-fed ribeye, is a great choice for steak lovers, given its size and affordability. The homemade Lasagna (S$24) using his mother’s recipe is also highly raved about and pretty affordable for its hearty portion.
95 Robertson Quay, #01-19/20, Singapore 238256
+65 6634 5117
Mon & Tue: 5.30pm – 11pm
Wed to Sun: 12pm – 3pm & 5.30pm – 11pm
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21. Ristorante Da Valentino
Ristorante Da Valentino is an Italian restaurant in Singapore, started in 2005 and managed by Chef Valentino and his family. Since relocating to The Grandstand, the restaurant now seats 134 pax with a multitude of private rooms as well as al fresco dining spaces.
Ristorante Da Valentino continues to maintain its Italian ambience and prides itself on serving classic Italian food with Chef Valentino and his family’s touch and creativity. The restaurant also serves seasonal dishes, based on which ingredients are in season.
Valentino imports small quantities of seasonal ingredients directly from Italy, and serves it the day that it arrives in Singapore so that customers can enjoy the freshness of these seasonal dishes.
One of the most well-known and established fine-dining Italian restaurants in Singapore, Ristorante Da Valentino is the place to go for that special occasion if you don’t mind spending some moolah.
200 Turf Club Road, The Grandstand, #01-19, Singapore 287994
+65 6462 0555
Mon & Tue: 6pm – 10.30pm
Thu to Sun: 12pm – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10.30pm
Closed on Wed
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22. La Forketta Gastronomia Italiana
La Forketta Gastronomia Italiana is an Italian restaurant housed in a former barrack in Dempsey. The ornate wooden beams and high ceilings have been beautifully restored and successfully integrated with the restaurant’s overall classy cosmopolitan Italian charm.
Managed by an Italian couple, La Forketta is not a new player in the mushrooming Italian dining scene, having been one of the pioneers in the early 90s.
They take pride in their Italian roots with ingredients (down to the flour grain) being sourced from the Mezzogiorno region of Italy. Pizzas and bread like the Messicana (S$29 for small, S$35 for large) above are made with organic flour to create a feather-light crust with no preservatives.
If you are looking for a fresh and elegant take on Italian cuisine, look no further.
9 Dempsey Road, Dempsey Hill, #01-09, Singapore 247697
+65 6475 2298
Mon: 11.30am – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10pm
Tue to Thu: 12pm – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10pm
Fri: 12pm – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10.30pm
Sat: 11.30am – 4.30pm & 6pm – 10pm
Sun: 11.30am – 4.30pm & 6pm – 9.30pm
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23. Blue Label Pizza & Wine
A modern twist on the Italian neighbourhood pizzeria, Blue Label Pizza & Wine presents intricate wood detailing, stunning art pieces and supple leather seating that makes for the perfect intimate and cosy date.
Their concise menu of salads and pizzas hold as much character as their 70s and 80s rock playlist, and their rendition of a margherita pizza, The Original Famous (S$32), is a prime example.
Go in for a bite and you’ll realise how crisp and chewy the crust is, with a slight touch of char — doing the long ferment dough justice. The melange of tomato and its signature five-cheese blend lends savoury and tangy flavours to this classic. It’s a number that signals high standards of Blue Label, a definite pizzeria you’d want to visit on date nights.
For a list of locations, opening hours and contact numbers, refer here.
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24. Chooby Pizza
The result of a marriage between sourdough bread and pizza is Chooby Pizza, minted along Owen Road, presenting Napoli-style sourdough pizzas in a scant menu of six choices. Made with quality Italian ingredients and imbued with a delicious char, these are hand-stretched pizzas done right.
Before you scoff at another truffle-doused item, their Truffled Mushroom Pizza (S$18.50) will remind you of the good of it. The inclusion of bechamel, Parmigiano Reggiano and raw red onions en masse complements the chewy sourdough crust, which will leave you satiated, truffle lover or nay.
Another must-order is their Pulled Pork Pizza (S$18), likened to an Asian spin on the classic Hawaiian pizza. With kimchi, pineapple and chutney that provide interesting tastes while the pulled pork takes the lead with smoky savouriness, it’s one that’ll delight the palate.
125 Owen Road, Singapore 218929
+65 8923 9814
Wed to Fri: 6pm – 10pm
Closed from Sat to Tue
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25. La Mensa
At the basement of Guoco Tower lies La Mensa, a pasta joint that’s dedicated to the art of Italian carbs. Spelt clear in its words of “Pasta For The People” across its tiled floor, they offer solid and straightforward pasta dishes that beckon subsequent visits.
All talk about pasta isn’t complete without the Carbonara (S$13.50), which is a peak of silky tagliatelle draped in yolk sauce, with guanciale, black pepper and pecorino thrown deliciously into the mix. Yes, not all carbonaras are created equal, the one here ranks high.
The Polpette (S$12) makes for a fuss-free but delicious side. It’s a dish of meatballs slathered in tangy tomato sauce, with a dollop of whipped ricotta cheese, to be mopped up by two sourdough slices. Simplicity with quality is the theme they have going here, which results in plates of delicious Italian fare.
1 Wallich Street, Guoco Tower, #B2-15, Singapore 078881
Mon to Sat: 11am – 9pm
Closed on Sun
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26. Altro Zafferano
Situated on level 43 of the esteemed Ocean Financial Centre, Altro Zafferano is where you should head to for a breathtaking panorama of Singapore’s Marina Bay area and gastronomic nosh in full grandeur.
Curate your own 4 Course Experience Menu at S$148++ per pax, and choose your own starter, pasta, main course and dessert. Of course, You can opt to get each dish a la carte, with options like Wild Red Bream Crudo, Tomato, Basil and Frisella Bread (S$48++), House-made Tagliolini with Langoustine Carpaccio (S$48++), Mediterranean Sea Bass with Caponata Elements (S$68++) and Giffoni Hazelnut, Guanaja Dark Chocolate and Raspberry (S$18++).
10 Collyer Quay, Ocean Financial Centre, Level 43, Singapore 049315
+65 6509 1488
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 3pm & 6pm – 11pm
Sat: 6pm – 11pm
Closed on Sun
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27. Forma
Forma is an upscale trattoria by The Cicheti Group and is helmed by Yumhwa Lee of Ben Fatto, who is touted as Singapore’s foremost pasta artisan. Forma prides itself on its pasta preparation methods that pre-date modern machinery. The most notable part about the restaurant’s design is the glass-encased pasta production kitchen, where diners can watch as the pasta is hand-crafted and shaped, both within the dining room and from the front pavement.
I was the most impressed by Forma’s selection of pastas, including the Busiate con Pesto alla Trapanese (S$28), a flavourful pesto dish dating back to the ancient town of Trapani in Western Sicily, and Struncatura Ammollicata (S$32), once called a “poor man’s dish” as it used to be made with residual wheat mills swept from the floor and peddled to the most destitute people in Reggio Calabria.
Though the portions are smaller and the prices are steep, each dish teemed with flavour and thoroughly impressed me.
128 Tembeling Road, Singapore 423638
+65 6513 2286
Tue to Thu: 6pm – 10.30pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10.30pm
Sun: 12pm – 3.30pm
Closed on Mon
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28. LUCE by Davide Giacomelli
Located within the InterContinental Singapore, LUCE by Davide Giacomelli is helmed by Chef de Cuisine Davide Giacomelli, an esteemed chef who has been trained under multiple Michelin-starred chefs.
The Acquerello Lobster (S$58) is a risotto dish made with carnaroli rice cooked in lobster stock, topped with half a Boston lobster and chervil. You can also opt for the fresh homemade pastas, like the Fettuccine alla Coda di Manzo (S$42), which comes with deboned oxtail, and Spaghetti “Giuseppe Cocco” Vongole, Zucchine e Zafferano (S$44), topped with clams, courgette and saffron pistil.
80 Middle Road, InterContinental Hotel, Singapore 188966
+65 6825 1008
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 2.30pm & 5.30pm – 10pm
Closed on Mon
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29. Caffe Fernet
Situated along Collyer Quay, Caffe Fernet offers a beautiful view of the bay while you dine on their Italian dishes.
Have a light bite with Caffe Fernet’s small plate dishes, like the Truffle Ricotta (S$30), Steak Tartare (S$34), Burrata (S$27) and Soft Shell Crab (S$28). You could also opt to share a large dish, such as the Red Grouper (S$46), served with smoked mussel, carentan leek and young potatoes and the Berkshire Pork Chop (S$56), made with buttermilk picatta, lemon and trout roe.
Many of Caffe Fernet’s dishes also come with a gluten-free option, such as their Cacio e Pepe Pasta (S$27) and Spicy Vodka Pasta (S$29).
70 Collyer Quay, Customs House, #01-05, Singapore 049323
+65 9178 1105
Mon to Thu: 5pm – 11pm
Fri to Sun: 12pm – 11pm
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30. Publico Ristorante
Publico Ristorante in the InterContinental Singapore at Robertson Quay is a lively Italian restaurant situated along the Singapore River.
From 3pm to 5pm, check out Publico Ristorante’s afternoon menu, with woodfired pizzas including Margherita (S$25), Burrata (S$32), Quattro Formaggi (S$27) and Chorizo (S$31). Classic antipasti dishes you can try are the Prosciutto e Melone (S$19) and Spicy Tomato Bruschetta (S$15).
From 5pm onwards, the selection of dishes becomes even wider. Choose from pasta dishes like Truffle Cacio e Pepe (S$32), Clam & Bottarga Linguine (S$34) and Foie Gras & Porcini Risotto (S$36). Alternatively, opt for mains like the Bistecca Ribeye (S$52), Barramundi (S$38) and Iberico Pork (S$44).
1 Nanson Road, InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay, Singapore 238909
+65 6826 5040
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 11pm
Sun: 12pm – 10pm
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*This post contains branded content.
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