Showing posts with label Bruschetta. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bruschetta. Show all posts

Friday, February 21, 2025

AMO @ Hong Kong Street - A Feast of Italian Delights in an All New Revamped Menu

AmoJan25-21

Amò, named after the affectionate Italian term for "love," invites diners to rediscover the heart of Italian dining with its refreshed menu. The new offerings promise an unforgettable experience filled with flavour, warmth, and the true Italian spirit.

AmoJan25-2
Artisanal Burrata Cheese with Datterini Tomatoes and Basil Pesto 4.2/5

We began our meal with the Artisanal Burrata Cheese with Datterini Tomatoes and Basil Pesto ($28). The soft, creamy burrata was complemented by the tomatoes' natural sweetness, while the basil pesto added an aromatic lift, bringing the dish together beautifully.

AmoJan25-6
Roman Artichoke Fries with Paprika and Black Truffle Crema 4.2/5

For a crispy, addictive snack, the Roman Artichoke Fries with Paprika and Black Truffle Crema ($18) was a standout. Coated in a light batter, the artichokes had a crispy exterior and fluffy interior, reminiscent of potato wedges but with a richer, earthier flavour.

AmoJan25-9
Wagyu Beef Carpaccio with Rucola, Parmigiano and Truffle Relish 4.2/5

The Wagyu Beef Carpaccio with Rucola, Parmigiano, and Truffle Relish ($26) delivered a melt-in-the-mouth experience. The peppery rucola, savoury Parmigiano, and fragrant truffle relish elevated the silky, tender beef, creating a vibrant and well-balanced dish.

AmoJan25-14
Sourdough Bruschetta with Pizzutelli Tomatoes and Basil Pesto 4/5

Another delightful bite was the Sourdough Bruschetta with Pizzutelli Tomatoes and Basil Pesto ($20). The toasted sourdough provided the perfect base for the sweet Pizzutelli tomatoes and herbaceous basil pesto, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.

AmoJan25-17
Homemade Spaghetti Chitarra with Seafood and Pomodoro 4.5/5

AmoJan25-33
Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe with Pecorino Cheese and Black Pepper 4.2/5

For the pasta course, we tried the Homemade Spaghetti Chitarra with Seafood and Pomodoro ($35) and the Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe with Pecorino Cheese and Black Pepper ($26). The Spaghetti Chitarra stood out with its sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce, perfectly paired with fresh seafood. Meanwhile, the Cacio e Pepe, a creamy and cheese-laden delight, catered to those who enjoy rich, indulgent flavours. However, it felt slightly plain without additional ingredients to enhance the dish.

AmoJan25-38
Quattro Formaggi 4/5

The Quattro Formaggi ($28) was a must-try for cheese lovers. A decadent combination of Smoked Scamorza, Taleggio, Buffalo Mozzarella, and Provolone created a rich, umami-packed pizza with layers of distinct flavours melding together beautifully.

AmoJan25-23
Grilled Wagyu Beef Hanging Tender Tagliata with Truffle Mash 4.2/5

The Grilled Wagyu Beef Hanging Tender Tagliata with Truffle Mash ($42) was grilled to perfection. It boasted a gorgeous charred exterior while remaining tender and full-bodied inside. The luxurious truffle mash added a smooth and creamy complement to the dish.

AmoJan25-26
Grilled Iberico Pork Secreto with Sweet Onion Figgione 4.2/5

Another highlight was the Grilled Iberico Pork Secreto with Sweet Onion Figgione ($36). The succulent, well-marbled pork paired wonderfully with the sweet onion figgione, enhancing the meat's natural flavours with a delightful sweetness.

AmoJan25-44
Roasted Seabass with Artichokes, Capers and Confit Tomatoes 4.5/5

The Roasted Seabass with Artichokes, Capers, and Confit Tomatoes ($42) was a beautifully executed dish for seafood lovers. The crispy skin, flaky flesh, and acidity from the confit tomatoes created a balanced and satisfying bite.

AmoJan25-50
Panna Cotta with Blood Orange Caramel 4.2/5

To round off the meal, we indulged in the Panna Cotta with Blood Orange Caramel ($15). The wobbly, creamy panna cotta was perfectly matched with the rich blood orange caramel, delivering a satisfying balance of sweetness and acidity.

AmoJan25-53
Amo Tiramisu 4.2/5

The Amò Tiramisu ($18) stayed true to tradition, offering a well-executed rendition of this classic Italian dessert. Each bite was light yet flavourful, ticking all the boxes for a great tiramisu.

AmoJan25-60
Pistachio & White Chocolate Lave Cake with Amaretto Cream 3.8/5

The Pistachio & White Chocolate Lava Cake with Amaretto Cream ($16) was a luxurious treat. The nutty aroma of pistachio combined with the sweetness of white chocolate created a delightful harmony, while the Amaretto cream added a nutty, boozy finish to elevate the dish further.

Amò's revamped menu showcases a strong dedication to authentic Italian flavours with a modern touch. From the flavorful antipasti to the indulgent desserts, each dish reflects the warmth and passion of Italian dining. Whether you're a fan of rich cheeses, premium meats, or fresh seafood, there's something on the menu to satisfy every craving.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Amo
33 Hong Kong Street
Singapore 059672
Tel: +65 67237733
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Website
Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Clark Quay MRT station. Take Exit E. Cross the road using the overhead bridge. Turn left and walk down New Bridge Road. Turn left onto Hong Kong Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, December 8, 2024

ANTO Pizza E Aperitivi @ Jiak Chuan Road - A Blend of Artisan Pizzas and World-Class Cocktails

AntoPizeria14

Nestled among the charming heritage shophouses on Jiak Chuan Road, ANTO Pizza E Aperitivi is a restaurant helmed by renowned bartender/entrepreneur Giancarlo Mancino and Master Pizzaiolo Antonio Brancato. Here, authentic Italian pizzas meet innovative world-class cocktails, creating a unique dining experience.

AntoPizeria1
Bruschette - The Classic 4.5/5

We began with Bruschette - The Classic ($16), a timeless appetiser that highlights simplicity at its best. Sourdough bread is topped with oven-baked tomatoes, garlic olive oil, and fresh basil. The vibrant sweetness of the tomatoes combined with the earthy notes of olive oil makes this a refreshing and satisfying start to the meal.

AntoPizeria5
Bruscette - Cetara 4/5

Next was the Bruschette - Cetara ($20), featuring lemon zest butter, Cetara anchovies, and caper flowers. While the buttery richness felt slightly overpowering for some diners (a few were seen scraping off excess butter), the overall balance of zesty, salty, and tangy notes worked well for me.

AntoPizeria11
Rocco 4.2/5

The Rocco ($24) is a Southern Italian-style pizza baked in a small pan at over 250°C for 10-12 minutes. The result is a puffed dough with a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Topped simply with mozzarella, thinly sliced potatoes, and fresh rosemary, each bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavours.

AntoPizeria18
Caponata 4/5

The Caponata ($36) is a vegan pizza topped with tomato sauce, Sicilian-style agrodolce vegetables (zucchini, aubergine, and capsicum), and homemade onion purée. While the combination isn't traditionally associated with pizza, the balance of sweet, tangy, and savoury flavours worked beautifully together.

AntoPizeria19
Rustica 4.2/5

From the more inventive "Le Antonio" section of the menu, the Rustica ($38) is a standout. Created by Chef Antonio a decade ago, this pizza features tomato sauce, fresh salsiccia (fennel pork sausage), smoked Scamorza cheese, radicchio, and rosemary. The play on textures from the smoky cheese and shredded raw chicory elevate this dish, making it a creative yet comforting option.

AntoPizeria28
Melanzana 4/5

Another innovative offering is the Melanzana ($38), a pizza topped with oven-baked eggplants, smoked Scamorza cheese, mint, and peperoncino oil. Specifically crafted for Singapore, the aubergine purée adds a creamy depth, while the fresh mint offers a surprising burst of flavour, giving it a refreshing touch.

AntoPizeria30
Margherita Dolce Fried 3/5

The Margherita Dolce Fried ($22) offers a playful, vegan twist on the classic pizza. It features sweetened house tomato sauce, soy cream in place of mozzarella, and a mint reduction instead of basil. While the dough's texture was enjoyable, the overly sweet sauce was not to my liking, making it less appealing overall.

AntoPizeria35
Classic Panettone 3.5/5

We ended the meal with the Classic Panettone ($20), served with a velvety vermouth zabaglione made using Mancino Vermouth. The dessert is reminiscent of bread pudding, offering a warm and comforting end to the meal, though it could have used a touch more excitement in flavour to leave a lasting impression.

AntoPizzeriaInterior-2

ANTO Pizza E Aperitivi masterfully blends tradition and creativity, offering pizzas that range from classic Italian styles to bold, modern creations. While a couple of dishes missed the mark slightly, the overall experience was delightful, particularly when paired with their expertly crafted cocktails. For pizza enthusiasts and those seeking a unique pizza experience, ANTO Pizza E Aperitivi is worth a visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


ANTO Pizzeria E Aperitivi
2 Jiak Chuan Road
Singapore 089260
Tel: +65 9689 6869
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line), Outram Park (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 330pm, 6pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk down Neil Road to Teck Lim Road. Turn right onto Teck Lim Road. Walk down Teck Lim Road and turn left onto Jiak Chuan Road. Walk down Jiak Chuan Road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight towards Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Siak Road. Walk down Keong Siak Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, September 21, 2024

Birds of A Feather @ Amoy Street - Soaring to New Height with A New Cuisine Approach & Refreshed Menu

BirdsOfAFeatherAug24-44

Birds of A Feather has been a staple of Singapore's dining scene for eight years. Now, Head Chef Eugene See is refreshing the menu with bold new creations that continue to merge East and West, all while paying homage to the restaurant's signature Sichuan influences.

BirdsOfAFeatherAug24-2
Crab and Avocado Bruschetta 4.2/5

We started the evening with the Crab and Avocado Bruschetta ($18). This dish features crab tartare mixed with Sichuan-infused guacamole, served atop toasted brioche and finished with pomegranate seeds, caviar, and slices of green apple. The interplay of creamy avocado, sweet crab, and the slight numbing sensation from the Sichuan peppercorns was delightful. The crunchy brioche was a perfect vessel for the toppings, and the pomegranate pops added sweetness — a satisfying and inventive starter.

BirdsOfAFeatherAug24-6
Yu Xiang Eggplant 4/5

Next was the Yu Xiang Eggplant ($18), Chef Eugene's modern twist on the traditional Sichuan dish, Yu Xiang Qie Zi (鱼香茄子). The dish showcases eggplant in two ways — one is braised in house-made Yu Xiang sauce, and the other is prepared escabeche style, pickled in the same sauce. The combination of soft, braised eggplant and the slightly tangy, pickled version was a unique way to play with textures. The rich, garlicky sauce brought everything together beautifully.

BirdsOfAFeatherAug24-11
Ceviche 4/5

The Ceviche ($21) is a vibrant and fresh dish inspired by the classic Peruvian seafood appetiser but with a Sichuan twist. Here, diced Spanish seabass is cured in a Sichuan-style "Leche de Tigre" with pickled ginger and vine pepper oil, which provides an additional zing to the delicate fish. The balance of acidity and spice made it a refreshing and bold offering, though not as Sichuan-heavy as some might expect.

BirdsOfAFeatherAug24-18
Spinach & Mushroom 3.8/5

Spinach & Mushroom ($17) offers a fusion of flavours rooted in a classic breakfast combination but elevated with Sichuan influences. The spinach is topped with toasted pine nuts, smoked bamboo shoots, and rye croutons, finished with fermented Sichuan black soybean sabayon and a drizzle of Tang Cu sauce. The dish was hearty and well-balanced, with the earthy notes from the smoked bamboo adding an extra layer of flavour. The tanginess from the sauce brought a bright contrast to the rich ingredients.

BirdsOfAFeatherAug24-23
Find the Chicken in the Chillies 4.5/5

A fan-favourite and rightly so, the Find the Chicken in the Chillies ($19) is Chef Eugene's playful take on the iconic Sichuan dish La Zi Ji (辣子鸡). Tender, juicy chicken popcorn is wok-fried with a mix of dried chillies, Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, and leeks. The chicken is first coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and then fried twice to achieve an ultra-crispy exterior. It's addictive, spicy, and flavourful — a must-order for spice lovers. One of the best renditions of La Zi Ji I've had in Singapore.

BirdsOfAFeatherAug24-28
Ume Tomato 4.2/5

The Ume Tomato ($14) was a lighter, refreshing dish made with Looye cherry tomatoes sourced from Holland. The tomatoes are marinated in Ume (plum) and served with Ume granite, sour jelly, and salicornia. The combination of sweet, sour, and salty flavours was intriguing, with the tangy granite providing a nice contrast to the sweetness of the tomatoes. This dish is an ideal palate cleanser to order after the spicy La Zi Ji, as it beautifully cuts through the heat and refreshes the senses.

BirdsOfAFeatherAug24-35
Oriental Duck Consomme 4/5

The Oriental Duck Consomme ($28) is a beautiful representation of Chef Eugene's love for roasted duck. The consommé is poured tableside over duck ravioli, braised daikon, black trumpet mushrooms, and cordyceps flower. The broth is clear yet rich in flavour, and the tender duck ravioli was the star of the dish. Each bite was comforting and elegant and showcased the complexity of the flavours in a subtle way. A dish that will impress both fans of Sichuan and French cuisine.

BirdsOfAFeatherAug24-40
Chow Chow Prawn 4.2/5

A Sichuan-inspired take on the American South's chow chow relish, the Chow Chow Prawn ($43) features wok-fried spiced tiger prawns paired with a Sichuan chow chow relish made from cabbage, onions, and bell peppers. The prawns were perfectly cooked, with a slight char that added smokiness to the dish. The chow chow relish had a nice balance of tang and heat, complementing the sweetness of the prawns — a creative and well-executed dish.

BirdsOfAFeatherAug24-46
Loup De Mer 4.8/5

The Loup De Mer ($98) is a whole European seabass cooked perfectly. The fish is served with asparagus, ratte potato, kale, and vine pepper beurre blanc, and then the fish is finished with Sichuan chopped chilli salsa. The crispy skin, with scales left intact, added a delightful crisp to the tender, flaky fish. The beurre blanc had a slight Sichuan kick, making this a dish that marries European finesse with bold Sichuan flavours —definitely one of the menu's highlights.

BirdsOfAFeatherAug24-47
Homestyle Braised Pork Belly 4.5/5

A hearty, comforting dish, the Homestyle Braised Pork Belly ($63) draws inspiration from claypot rice but is elevated with Chef Eugene's signature touch. The tender pork belly is perfectly braised and served with fried kale, tea tree mushroom, garlic rice, and egg confit. For an added indulgence, shaved truffle is available as an add-on. The dish was rich and satisfying, though the price point might be steep for some.

BirdsOfAFeatherAug24-51
Citrus Block 4/5

Birds of A Feather continues to impress with its new menu, blending traditional Sichuan flavours with contemporary Western techniques. Chef Eugene's creative vision shines through in every dish, particularly in standouts like the Find the Chicken in the Chillies, Loup De Mer, and Homestyle Braised Pork Belly. Whether you're a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, this menu refresh brings a sense of excitement and reinvention to the restaurant's already impressive offerings.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Birds of A Feather
115 Amoy Street
Singapore 069935
Tel: +65 9755 7115
Facebook
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Website
Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 12midnight
Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Cross Street towards Amoy Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Follow the covered walkway to the junction of Mccallum Street, Telok Ayer and Amoy Street. Turn left at the junction onto Amoy Street. Continue on Amoy Street to the end of the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Thursday, July 25, 2024

Duomo Ristorante @ CHIJMES - Italian Classics, Hearty Italian Flavours, Charming Ambience

Photo 29-6-24, 8 26 57 PM

Photo 15-7-24, 11 31 42 PM

Recently opened in January 2024, Duomo Ristorante is an aptly named culinary gem nestled within the beautiful grounds of CHIJMES. The menu offers Italian classics made with fresh ingredients from both the Northern and Southern regions, showcasing the hearty flavours of Italian cuisine.

Photo 29-6-24, 7 06 29 PM

There is a cosy indoor dining area, but the outdoor terrace is particularly delightful, especially on cool evenings. Here, guests can fully immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere while enjoying views of the picturesque CHIJMES hall. The outdoor terrace is thoughtfully accented with Italian decorative touches, creating a charming and inviting ambience that sets the backdrop for a relaxing dining experience.

Photo 29-6-24, 7 42 17 PM
Bruschetta 4.2/5

We started with a variety of antipasti, the first being a delightful Bruschetta ($21). This classic Italian starter showcased simplicity at its finest. Each slice of rustic bread was perfectly toasted and topped with heirloom Sicilian pizzutello tomatoes and Pecorino cheese shavings. The juicy sweetness of the tomatoes made each bite very enjoyable!

Photo 29-6-24, 7 46 35 PM
Wagy Carpaccio 4.2/5

The Wagyu Carpaccio ($28) is also delicious. Delicate slivers of wagyu are elevated with a house-made sauce of truffle cream, butter, and parmesan. To add a refreshing contrast, the dish is generously garnished with rocket leaves, which provide a crisp freshness to balance the richness of the wagyu and the creamy sauce.

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Seafood Cioppino 4.5/5

For something hearty, opt for their Seafood Cioppino ($28). The base of the Seafood Cioppino is a rich tomato broth infused with aromatic herbs and spices and simmered to perfection. The broth provides a comforting warmth that sets the stage for the seafood medley of calamari, clams, and prawns — a harmonious ensemble that reflects the essence of coastal Italian cuisine.

Photo 29-6-24, 8 30 47 PM
Bella Duomo 4.2/5

Whilst they are not particularly a pizza speciality restaurant, the pizza we tried here was pretty good! We had the Bella Duomo ($36), where the star of the show is the rich and savoury mortadella cold cut, which comes straight from Bologna. Accompanying it are crunchy pistachios, adding a delightful texture and nutty flavour, as well as creamy stracciatella cheese generously spread across the pizza.

Photo 29-6-24, 8 25 17 PM
Tagliolini Gamberi & Lemon 4.5/5

Next up were two plates of pasta, both of which I thoroughly relished and savoured. The Tagliolini Gamberi & Lemon ($38) is a dish inspired by the chef's childhood and beautifully captures the essence of an Italian summer with its bright and zesty flavours. Some of my dining companions found it slightly too tangy, but I enjoyed the refreshing acidity imparted by the lemons and capers. Regarding flavour profile, this dish stands out as one of the more distinctive pastas I've had in Singapore. If you opt for this pasta, I recommend mixing it thoroughly with the sauce right away to prevent clumping and to ensure every bite is as delightful as the last.

Photo 29-6-24, 8 23 28 PM
Gnocchi Funghi & Salsiccia 4.5/5

The Gnocchi Funghi & Salsiccia ($28) is another comforting dish that satisfies my palate. The gnocchi, mushrooms, and Italian sausage are enveloped in a luxurious, savoury sauce. The sausage is slow-cooked with a medley of onions, celery, and white wine, infusing the dish with hearty flavours that linger on the taste buds.

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Polipo Arrosto 3.8/5

Polipo Arrosto ($38) celebrates the ocean's bounty with grilled octopus, which offers a slightly crispy exterior with a smoky char while maintaining a firm but not rubbery texture. Accompanying the octopus is a citrusy sauce infused with diced tomatoes and olives, adding a vibrant and tangy contrast to the seafood. Silky smooth potato and rocket salad accompany the dish.

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Nodino di Maiale 3.8/5

The Nodino di Maiale ($38) features a pork chop marinated for 24 hours in a fragrant blend of rosemary and thyme and grilled to perfection. It is complemented by a smooth house-made apple mustard that adds a hint of sweetness. The flavours are good, but our pork cut was pretty lean, and I would have preferred the meat to be juicier.

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Duomo Tiramisu 4/5

For dessert, the Duomo Tiramisu ($16) is a crowd pleaser. Layers of delicate ladyfinger biscuits soaked in espresso impart a robust coffee flavour. Sandwiched between these espresso-soaked layers is a velvety mascarpone cream. The dessert is elegantly finished with a dusting of cocoa powder, balancing the sweetness with a hint of bittersweet cocoa notes. For inclusivity, the Tiramisu is served alcohol-free.

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Panna Cotta Alla Vaniglia 3.5/5

Another option is the Panna Cotta Alla Vaniglia, a creamy and light dessert made from a traditional recipe without gelatin. It's infused with vanilla bean specks and served with some fruits and nuts.

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Duomo Ristorante presents a delightful array of dishes to satisfy diverse tastes, complemented by refreshing drinks and a great ambience perfect for enjoying time with loved ones and friends. Immerse yourself in the essence of la dolce vita whilst savouring a slice of Italy in this cheerful communal dining setting!

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Duomo Ristorante
CHIJMES
30 Victoria Street
#01-32
Singapore 187996
Tel: +65 89114874
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line), Bras Basah (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sat: 12pm - 11pm
Sun: 12pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Cut across Raffles City Shopping Centre to Bras Basah Road. At the junction of Bras Basah Road and North Bridge Road, cross the road to Chijmes. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bras Basah MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk southwards towards Victoria Road. At the junction of Bras Basah Road and Victoria Road, cross the junction to Chijmes. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]