Italian food has the ability to appeal to most diners thanks to the familiarity and comfort its flavors provide. In the past few months, we’ve seen a crop of new Italian restaurants opening in Singapore, as well as a few familiar names that are waiting to welcome you back. Here are our top spots.
LOCANDA
A comfortable, homey vibe permeates through Locanda, the new Italian concept brought to you by the people behind 1-Michelin-starred Buona Terra. Peruse the pasta-centric menu at this convivial hotspot located along Rowell Road, which was crafted by Chef Denis Lucchi, Buona Terra’s Italian resident chef, and supported by Head Chef William Bai and Sous Chef Anthony Chang.
Pasta standouts include the Tagliolini with Fresh Tomato and Crab, and brightened by lemon, the hearty Pappardelle Ragu Genovese with Mixed Mushrooms, and the Spaghetti al Frutti di Mare – a crowd-pleaser chockfull of fresh clams, lobster, scampi, and Carabinero prawns. Complement the meal with an assortment of breads and flavorful starters, which include the Gnocco Fritto served with classic Italian cold cuts, the Locanda Soft Roll with eggplant and tomato dip, and a classic Vitello Tonnato.
PETE'S PLACE
For over 50 years, Pete’s Place has set the standard for Italian cuisine in Singapore. The institution has finally reopened its doors following the completion of Grand Hyatt Singapore’s extensive refurbishment and is now ready to welcome a new generation of diners and satisfy the cravings of its loyal following.
Under the guidance of newly-appointed Chef Salvatore Giorgio Catania, the restaurant features a menu comprised of signature pizzas, homemade pastas, the famous antipasti bar, Tiramisu served tableside, as well as specialties like the Cotolleta alla Milanese – a breadcrumb-coated veal cutlet fried to perfection. In addition, the refreshed space features a private dining room, a chef’s table offering kitchen-to-table service, as well as a grand wine cellar.
ACQUA E FARINA
Northern and Southern Italian specialties meet at Acqua e Farina, an intimate Italian restaurant along Keong Saik Road. Run by Antonio Manetto and Roberto Galbiati, Acqua e Farina lets diners savor a unique blend of flavors through dishes made with the freshest and most authentic Italian ingredients – from seasonal produce to indispensable pantry staples.
Begin the Italian culinary journey with the Tegamino con Cipolle, Asparagi e Guanciale (sweet, braised onions with green asparagus and pan-fried guanciale), followed by the Montanara – a twice-cooked pizza (deep fried and baked) topped with a tangy tomato sauce, pork sausage, nduja, and burrata. You’re also sure to enjoy every spoonful of the Risotto ai Ricci di Mare e Bottarga, which is flavored with sea urchin broth and briny bursts of sun-dried, salt-cured bottarga. An extensive selection of Italian wines and cocktails are also available to complete the experience.
BASILICO
Ask about the best buffet experiences in Singapore and Basilico at Conrad Singapore Orchard will surely be mentioned. Following a recent refurbishment, the 235-seater restaurant now boasts a refreshed raw bar with fresh seafood and salad options, grill stations with chargrilled prawns, sirloin, and tomahawk steak, as well as an assortment of pastas and Roman-style pizzas that feature a light and airy texture. If cheese is something you find irresistible, then make a beeline for the signature Cheese Room where 50 varieties of artisanal cheeses and cheesy dishes await.
Also new to the Basilico experience is the Basilico Bar, which is Singapore’s first vermouth-focused bar. Here you can leisurely sip on an extensive selection of vermouths and grappa, as well as work your way through a dedicated negroni program.
SOSPIRI
Sospiri, a new Southern Italian restaurant and rooftop bar by the ilLido Group, has opened in Singapore's central business district, offering authentic flavors and a stylish dining experience. Located at the IOI Central Boulevard Towers, the 128-seat restaurant, led by Michelin-starred Chef Matteo Ponti, features a menu inspired by the sun-soaked ingredients of Southern Italy, with handmade pasta, seafood, and signature dishes like Grilled Swordfish Belly and Octopus. Meanwhile, the rooftop bar offers a mouth-watering selection of snacks like Truffle Stracciatella and Mortadella Schiacciata, Italian beers and spirit-foward cocktails, and panoramic views of Marina Bay Sands, making it an ideal spot for casual drinks and even corporate events.
