AUGUST 2022

BY DINESH AJITH

From rustic homestyle classics to elevated champagne brunches, there’s no shortage of ways to experience excellent Italian cuisine in Singapore. Here are our top picks for risotto, pasta, pizza and more. Osteria BBR by Alain Ducasse Located in the historic Bar & Billiard Room, one of the oldest parts of Raffles Hotel Singapore (and fabled for the last tiger that was apparently subdued here in 1902!), Osteria BBR by Alain Ducasse showcases the rich, warm flavours of the Italian Riviera as seen through the lens of this world-renowned French chef. There are plenty of delights to enjoy here; they include Mazara del Vallo red prawn tartare, presented with creamy buffalo mozzarella and delicate jelly, and topped with a dollop of Kristal caviar; Eliche di Gragnano, a pasta featuring succulent Maine lobster; and bistecca alla Fiorentina, a wagyu porterhouse steak grilled Fiorentina-style. For the ultimate Osteria BBR experience, indulge in the Menu Tentazioni, “Temptation Menu”, a specially curated set menu presenting must-try signatures. Complete the experience with a selection of Italian cocktails, wines and spirits. On Sunday, you can enjoy a leisurely brunch with special dishes and a 90-minute flow of choice bubbly.

Raffles Singapore, 1 Beach Road | 6337 1886 | osteriabbr.com.sg

Dolce Vita For a bellissimo brunch in the heart of the city, completewith resplendent bay views, try Dolce Vita inMandarin Oriental, Singapore. More than just an Italian restaurant, it’s also the perfect spot for a birthday brunch or ladies’ luncheon as the setting is fresh and summery. The premium produce used in the kitchen here is flown in directly from Italy, so you know you’re in for a treat. The three-hour brunch takes place from 12pm to 3pm on Saturdays, and costs $188 per person including unlimited “R” de Ruinart Champagne, house pour wines and beers. Brunch begins in antipasto style with a selection of fine Italian cold cuts and cheeses, and refreshing light bites such as oysters on ice, or cured salmon with fennel, sour cream and citrus dressing. There are some comforting and rustic pastas to overload on too, including homemade orecchiette with seafood ragout, and wild mushroom risotto. For mains, options include a hearty Angus beef tagliata with mashed potato and wine jus, and vibrant pan-roasted barramundi with purple potatoes, broccolini and white wine sauce.

Mandarin Oriental, Singapore, 5 Raffles Avenue 6885 3500 | mandarinoriental.com

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AUGUST2022