Da Paolo Gastronomia @ Great World - Latest Addition Centred On An Expanded All-Day Dining And Retail Offering Within An Immersive Setting

Da Paolo Gastronomia at Great World is the latest and the eighth gastronomia concept of the group. The concept offers all-day dining and a full retail selection. Customers at the new outlet can dine, purchase a takeaway or shop for pantry essentials.

Balanced Bowl 4/5

From the Greens and Grains section, customers can customise their bowl from a selection of grains, proteins and vegetables. There is plenty of plant-based, dairy-free, and gluten-free option to choose from too. A Balanced Bowl ($13.90) comes with two grains & bases, one protein, two vegetables and one dollop. For the meat-lover, the Protein Plus Bowl ($16) comes with an extra protein selection. My balanced bowl comprises summer barley salad, Moroccan Chicken Thigh, Shredded Brussels Sprouts, Turnip & Cranberry Salad, Kale, Broccoli Stems & Beetroot Salad and Vegan Chickpea Hummus.

Salami & Sundried Tomatoes Panini 4.8/5

A must-have is the hearty Salami & Sundried Tomatoes Panini ($18). The freshly baked focaccia is generously packed with salami, sundried tomato mayonnaise, caramelised onions and provolone. It is also grilled to a delightful crisp. The customer has a choice of fries, salad or truffle fries for the accompanying side.

Rucola e Crudo 4.2/5

From the pizza bar, we tried the Rucola e Crudo ($28). The freshly stone-baked Roman thin crust pizza is topped with 24-month old Parma ham, locally grown rocket leaves, shaved parmesan and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil

Spaghettone Carbonara Calabrese 4.5/5

The Spaghettone Carbonara Calabrese ($25) may look simple, but it is packed with flavours. The al dente spaghetti is buried in a pool of spicy Calabrian pork salami (Nduja) cream-based sauce, topped with grated pecorino.

Gelato 4/5

For dessert, customers can go for the house churned Gelato made freshly daily. We had the pistachio, salted caramel and dark chocolate. The flavours are not really exciting but classic. They are rich, dense and creamy. 

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Da Paolo Gastronomia
Great World
1 Kim Seng Promenade
#01-163
Singapore 237994
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Website
Nearest MRT: Great World (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Great World MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Grissini @ Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel - Promotional Menu Featuring Sustainable Wild Seafood From Pacific Northwest Seafood

As part of World Gourmet Summit 2021, Pacific Northwest Seafood will be featured on promotional menus across a variety of cuisines in several of Singapore's renowned restaurants. One of the collaborating partners is Grissini at Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel. It has put together a set menu at $158 per person featuring the black cod and dover sole from Pacific Northwest Seafood.

The set menu started with some complimentary bread and breadsticks, followed by three different appetisers.

The three appetisers are Gambero Kataifi, Salmon Cornetto and Proscuitto e Melon. I enjoyed the crispy vermicelli wrapped around the prawn topped with a savoury burst from the ikura. Served in an ice cream cone, the salmon cornette is a textural enjoyment, while the prosciutto e melon is a classic combination that will never go wrong.

Hamachi Carpaccio 4.5/5

Next course, I had the Hamachi Carpaccio paired with Oscietra caviar and heirloom tomato. The ponzu and basil oil brightens the  Japanese Amberjack sashimi.

Casarecce Al Sugo Di Merluzzo 4.2/5

To showcase the Black Cod from Pacific Northwest Seafood, the chef has incorporated the buttery meaty fish in the pasta dish - Casarecce Al Sugo Di Merluzzo. The perfectly cooked pasta in black cod ragu is deliciously addictive in the tomato-based sauce, crowned with a piece of the melt in the mouth black cod.

Sogliola 4.2/5

The next fish featured in collaboration with Pacific Northwest Seafood is the Dover Sole, known for its sweet, delicate and nutty flavour. I enjoyed the sweet sauce that is glazed on the beautiful fish accentuating the flavours. Accompanying the dish, we have green lettuce, maitake mushroom and seaweed at the side. 

Cachi 4.5/5

There is even a pre-dessert course using the Japanese Persimmon with honeymoon and sour cream - a fruity and refreshing pre-dessert to freshen up the palate.

Tiramisu Alle Castagne 3.8/5

For dessert, we had the Triamisu Alle Castagne. It is like having two desserts on a plate. The topping of chestnut cream on the ladyfinger reminds me of mont blanc. The sweetness of the chestnut cream helps to balance the strong flavour from the alcohol-soaked ladyfinger.

Petite Four

Finishing the set course meal is the Petite Four. The promotional menu featuring sustainable wild seafood from Pacific Northwest Seafood is priced at $158 per pax. It is available from 27 October to 6 November 2021. 

Note: This is an invited tasting


Grissini
Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel
392 Havelock Road
Singapore 169663
Tel: +65 62331100
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Website
Nearest MRT: Tiong Bahru (EW Line), Orchard (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tiong Bahru MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop at Tiong Bahru Plaza (Stop ID 10169). Take bus number 123. Alight 4 stops later. Walk to junction of Havelock Road and Kim Seng Road. Cross the junction and turn left. Walk to destination. Journey about 15 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop before Orchard MRT station (Stop ID 09022). Take bus number 16 or 175. Alight 5 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 18 minutes. [Map]

Griglia Open Fire Italian Kitchen @ Craig Road - Treat To The Tastes, Sensations And Emotions Of The Grigliata In A Casual Setting

Another new restaurant has opened in the vibrant Singapore F&B scene, bringing the traditions of Italian summer outdoor grill cook-out to Craig Road in a casual dine-in setting. The restaurant named Griglia is conceptualised by Chef Andrea De Paola and executed by Head Chef Federico Schiraldi, showcasing the culinary essence of grigliata.

Burratina 4/5

We started with a couple of appetisers, beginning with the Burratina ($16++). It is a modern take on the traditional Neapolitan appetiser. Thinly slices of marinated zucchini are served on a thin and crispy tart with a fresh burratina, garnished with herbs and olive oil.

Eggplant 4/5

The other appetiser we tried is the Eggplant ($15++), a lighter rendition of the Neapolitan parmigiana. The layers of grilled eggplants, tomato and basil, are tangy and succulent.

Hiika Squid 4.2/5

From the sea, we tried the Hiika Squid ($18++) and Hokkaido Scallops Crudo ($22++). Best showcasing how Italians like to combine different appetisers on a plate is the Hiika Squid. I like the pairing of the light nduja foam, complementing the savouriness of the smoked calamari.

Hokkaido Scallops Crudo 4.5/5

The other seafood item we had was the Hokkaido Scallop Crudo ($22++). The combination of scallop, corn and lemon is classic grigliata. I adored the sweetness from the caramelised corn, brightening the enjoyment of the briny and tangy scallops.

House-Made Pappardelle 4.8/5

Not to be missed at Griglia is their pasta dishes. The House-made Pappardelle ($20++) has a delightful texture bite, paired with tender pork jowl cooked over long hours in a rich Chianti reduction.

Spaghetti di Martino 4.2/5

Simple but yet deliciously good is the Spaghetti di Martino ($18++). I understand the Datterino tomatoes are brined in seawater from Italy to maintain the freshness of the produce. But, frankly, I can't taste the difference. The star goes to the tomatoes and tomato sauce, elevating the simplicity of the staple pasta dish in Italian cuisine.

Whole Spanish Turbot 3.8/5

A selection of beef, lamb, pork and fish on the menu highlights the open fire grill. We tried the Whole Spanish Turbot ($58++ 400grams/ $98++ 800grams) served with romaine lettuce and almalfi lemon dressing. Nothing fancy, just lightly seasoned with olive oil and sea salt, grilled over the open fire to showcase the natural flavour of the fresh wild-caught turbot from Spain.

Grass Fed Wagyu Striploin 4.5/5

The other mains we had is the Grass Fed Wagyu Striploin MBS 3/4 ($68++ 200 grams) served with pickled mustard, red wine jus, garlic sauce and pickled lettuce dressed with balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. I don't feel any need for the condiments as the wagyu is already so flavoursome on its own. All you need is to sprinkle some sea salt to appreciate the tender and juicy striploin fully.

Potatoes Puree 4.5/5

An enticing selection of refreshing sides complements the main course. Some notable small plates include Gratinated Bone Marrow with rosemary and wild garlic crumbs, Cherry Tomatoes with cucumber, Olives and Rocket Salad and Potatoes Puree ($10++) with horseradish and smoked caciocavallo.

Capri in a Cake 4.2/5

We wrapped up the dinner on a sweet note with the Capri in a Cake ($12++). The classic limoncello caprese is served with Amalfi lemon cream and extra virgin olive oil ice cream.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Griglia Open Fire Italian Kitchen
37 Craig Road
Singapore 089675
Tel: +65 89497011
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Website
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Outram Park (EW Line, NE Line)

Opening Hours;
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm
Sat: 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Walk to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road. Walk to Craig Road. Turn left and walk down Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit H. Walk to Duxton Plain Park. Turn right and walk to Neil Road. Cross the road using the underpass. Take the staircase and walk to Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

LINO Restaurant and Cafe @ Forum The Shopping Mall - Hearty Italian Favourites, Outlet-exclusive Dishes And Cafe Bites

LINO, the casual dining brand by Les Amis Group, has recently opened its second outlet LINO Restaurant and Cafe, at Forum The Shopping Mall. Lino is known for its repertoire of hearty Italian favourites such as pizza and pasta. The second outlet offers a holistic dining experience with an extensive menu comprising exclusive dishes and café bites accompanied by specially designed cocktail selections. A kid-friendly menu is available as well.

Smoked Scamorza 4/5

Our dinner began with a couple of Cold and Hot Antipasti. The Smoked Scamorza ($22) is weighty with chunks of warm lightly-torched smoked Scamorza (South Italian cow's milk cheese) served on a bed of fresh rockets. It is topped with ribbons of luscious parma ham and finished with a slightly sweet balsamic glaze drizzle. Rich in texture and flavour, this dish is perfect if you have a drink on hand.

Octopus 4.2/5

Alongside is a stunning Octopus ($34) - Beautifully chargrilled tentacles, served with smokey and fruity Palermo sweet pepper, punctuated with piquant capers and parsley.

Lamb Ragu Garganelli 4.5/5

For Mains, we had Lamb Ragu Garganelli ($29). Australian lamb shoulder is slow-braised for three hours with eggplant caviar, rosemary and fresh tomatoes. The resulting lamb ragu was meaty yet tender, rich with flavours and aromatics. The choice of pasta is Garganelli pasta done al dente– small cylindrical-shaped tubes with points at both ends and ribbed sides ideal for soaking up and catching on the vibrant and luscious sauce.

Pan-fried Veal Escalope 4/5

Pan-fried Veal Escalope ($44) is outlet-exclusive. This classic secondi features Dutch milk-fed veal fillet lightly pounded till flattened and pan-fried. As the meat was tender and offered a much delicate flavour, the accompanying creamy and chunky mushroom sauce sweetened with a splash of Marsala wine complemented excellently.

Profiteroles 4.5/5

Our dessert was just as hearty as all the courses. The Profiteroles ($14) gave us two generous scoops of vanilla bean ice cream sandwiched between light house-made choux pastry, drizzled with warm, velvety melted dark chocolate and toasted almond slices.

To celebrate the opening of the restaurant, a line-up of promotions are available:
1) From 18 October to 31 October 2021, diners can enjoy 20% off Café menu with minimum spend of $60 daily between 11am and 5.30pm.

2)From 27 September to 31 October 2021, guests can also enjoy Select Cocktails at only $14++ daily from 11.30am to 2.30pm and 6pm to 9.30pm.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


LINO Restaurant and Cafe
The Forum Shopping Mall
583 Orchard Road
#01-01/04
Singapore 238884
Tel: +65 62358690
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Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hour:
Restaurant Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 6pm - 930pm
Cafe Daily: 11am - 530pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheelock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Walk down Orchard Road to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

La Dame de Pic @ Raffles Hotel Singapore - New Autumn Menu By Newly Appointed Chef de Cuisine Francesco Di Marzio

I am back at La Dame de Pic, Raffles Hotel, for their new seasonal menu this Autumn, specially curated by the newly appointed Chef de Cuisine Francesco Di Marzio. The new Autumn menu comes in 6-course Experience Menu ($248++ per pax) and 7-course Elegance Menu ($338++ per pax).

Our dinner started with a couple of Amuse Bouche. Bite in the sphere-shaped amuse bouche and get a burst of flavours from the cherry and sake liquid combination inside, waking up the senses. Next, is the delightful brioche ball stuffed with crab meats inside.

Moving on, a duo of crispy delights comes in the shape of a lotus root reminds me of the Indian murukku, while the other comes in a kueh pie tee shell stuffed with sweet shrimp. Completing the amuse bouche is a fruity and fresh combination of melon ball, dollop burrata, caviar and melon broth.

Scallop from Hokkaido 4.5/5

We started our meal with the Scallop from Hokkaido. The sweet and thinly sliced scallop carpaccio is glazed with mikan, Tsukudani and Pike-perch roe. It is finished with mint and marigold lactic vinaigrette.

Berlingots 4.2/5

An iconic dish in every Anne-Sophie Pic restaurant is the Berlingots. The flavour of the pasta parcel changes with seasons. The pasta parcels are filled with French cheese fondue for the Autumn menu, served with refreshing yet subtle leek dashi infused with green cardamom and matcha.

The Blue Lobster from Brittany 5/5

The dish that I enjoyed most on the new menu is The Blue Lobster from Brittany. The lobster is cooked over coals giving it a pleasant smokey aroma and retaining a sashimi-like texture. It is served with sushi rice with sencha leaves and yuzu, elevated by the rich and robust crustacean bisque with genmaicha and Madras curry. That is not all. It even comes with a side of thin cracker sandwiched with lobster meat.

The Pigeon from Bresse 4.5/5

For the mains, we have The Pigeon from Bresse smoked and marinated with gallium odorant and sobacha, paired with Chartreuse and fennel dauphine. The bird has been cooked to tender with light seasoning, allowing the beautiful flavour to shine through the smoky aroma.

Organic Welsh Lamb 4.5/5

The other main we tried is the Organic Welsh Lamb marinated with fig and Sakura leaves. It comes in three different cuts, and the tender and juicy red meat are paired with lamb jus. Noteworthy is the fig and coffee condiment that helps to balance the richness.

Picodon Cheese with Kalamata Olives 4.2/5

For the cheese course, we had the Picodon Cheese with Kalamata Olives. I love how the layer of kalamata olives complement the milky goat cheese.

French Conference Pear and White Tea

Moving on to the dessert, we had the French Conference Pear with White Tea. Inside the dome is chestnut flower honey mousse, surrounded by the sweet French Conference pear. It also comes with Nashi Tatin and Silver Needle White Tea Ice Cream at the side.

White Mille-feuille 4.5/5

Another renowned signature at La Dame de Pic is the White Mille-feuille. The luxurious yet delicate sweet delights comprised rose light cream, hibiscus jelly and spiked with Tasmanian pepper emulsion. Cutting into the cube reveals the layer of crispy pastry for that textural enjoyment.

Petite Four

Wrapping up the wonderful lunch at La Dame de Pic is the customary Petite Fours. Overall, I have enjoyed the new menu put together by the new chef. However, I always wonder why it has not gotten its Michelin Star? Another thing I notice is the restaurant has increased its price yet again. My advice is to visit it before it eventually gets its Michelin Star. The price may even be much higher.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


La Dame de Pic
Raffles Hotel Singapore
1 Beach Road
Singapore 189673
Tel: +65 63371886
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW Line, NS Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch (Fri-Sat): 12pm - 145pm
Dinner (Tue-Sat): 630pm - 845pm
(Closed on Sun and Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk to the junction of Beach Road and Bras Basah Road. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Junction of North Bridge Road and Bras Basah Road. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]