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

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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]

Allora Ristorante & Bar @ Crowne Plaza Changi Airport - Offers Authentic Italian Cuisine, Transporting One to the Heart of Italy

Nestled on Level 1 of Crowne Plaza Changi Airport, Allora Ristorante and Bar offers a slice of Italy with its authentic cuisine, inviting ambience, and diverse dining spaces. Opened in January 2024, Allora is part of the hotel's S$22 million asset enhancement. The restaurant promises not just a meal but an experience that transports you to the heart of Italy.

Upon entering Allora, you're immediately drawn to the live pizza-making station, a centrepiece of culinary artistry. The station's arched design, with its dark, sleek surfaces and contemporary lighting fixtures, creates an intimate and inviting atmosphere. The aroma of freshly baked dough and the sight of the chef expertly manoeuvring the pizza peels add an element of excitement and authenticity to your dining experience.

Complimentary Bread 3/5

As in most Italian restaurants, we were served with complimentary bread at the start of the meal. What we got was Sliced Baguettes, accompanied by what seemed to be marinara sauce instead of the usual olive oil and balsamic vinegar. However, the bread wasn't warm enough, and the sauce was cold from the chiller.

Bruschetta Ham & Truffle 3.8/5

We were recommended a Bruschetta ($14) starter to share, and we picked the Ham & Truffle flavour topped with Cheese Fondue, cooked Ham and Black Truffle Sauce. It used the same sliced baguette, but these were crispier and warm. The cheese and truffle flavours were relatively light; the more prominent taste came from the savouriness of the ham.

Polpo & Patate 3.5/5

Polpo & Patate ($24), their signature antipasti, features tender grilled octopus served with potatoes, cherry tomato confit, green beans, parsley, and bagna cauda, an Italian sauce made from garlic, anchovies, and olive oil. While the octopus was tender, it lacked the desired char flavour. However, the fried potato pieces were tasty and complemented the dish well.

Lobster Pasta 4.2/5

The Lobster Pasta ($38), made with homemade black ink tagliolini, offers a striking visual appeal without the concern of black stains. This is because the black ink is infused into the pasta rather than used as a sauce.

This exquisite pasta is paired with half a Boston lobster, adding succulent, sweet meat to the dish. The lobster is perfectly complemented by a luxurious bisque cherry tomato sauce and fresh basil, infusing the pasta with a vibrant and aromatic blend of flavours. A hint of lemon adds a refreshing citrus note, balancing the richness and enhancing the overall taste experience. We really like this, and it's a dish we will return for.

Bari Pizza 4/5

The Bari Pizza ($34), inspired by Chef Enzo's hometown of Bari, pays culinary homage to the flavours of Southern Italy. Instead of placing a whole burrata in the centre, the creamy burrata is spread over the pizza, providing a rich and velvety texture in every bite. Fresh tomato pulp filets add a burst of vibrant, tangy flavour. Savoury anchovies and Pantelleria capers introduce a delightful brininess, perfectly complemented by fragrant basil leaves. This combination of ingredients creates a harmonious and authentic taste experience, transporting us to what we imagine Bari to be like, even though we haven't been there.

Tagliata 3.8/5

We were looking for a beef entrée and were recommended the Tagliata ($78), which pairs chargrilled Australian Angus Beef Ribeye with local farm organic arugula and vine cherry tomatoes. The tender and skilfully seasoned beef is complemented by roasted garlic and balsamic jus. The crisp arugula was really fresh and refreshing, but the dish leans towards a salad with meat rather than the expected substantial, juicy steak served alongside a side salad.

Cannolo 3/5

Upon spotting the Cannolo ($16) on the menu, a rendition of the classic Italian Cannoli, we were eager to try it. Filled with creamy ricotta cheese and adorned with delicate candied fruit and chocolate chips, it struck a delightful balance of sweetness. However, we noted that the fried pastry shells, while flavourful, arrived slightly soggy, suggesting they may have been pre-made and chilled before serving.

Alloramisú 3.8/5

Alloramisú ($16), Allora's signature dessert, provided a sophisticated sweet finale with tableside assembly upon ordering. It showcased homemade Savoiardi cookies soaked in espresso coffee, layered with mascarpone cream and coffee jelly, and generously dusted with cocoa powder. While the flavours were delightful and balanced, we prefer our tiramisu to be creamier and "wetter," which left us feeling it fell slightly short of our preferences.

Allora offers a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where guests can select their preferred setting from a range of spaces: the chic dining room, lively lobby lounge, inviting alfresco area, and stylish bar. The bar also features live music, creating a relaxed vibe. Allora caters to various occasions with its versatile ambience.

Starting in Q2 2024, Allora has introduced an Italian Weekend Brunch Buffet. Pricing and menu details are currently unavailable; please visit their website closer to the launch date for more information.

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Allora Ristorante & Bar
Crowne Plaza Changi Airport
75 Airport Boulevard
Singapore 819664
Tel: +65 68235354
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Changi Airport (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 630am - 11am, 12pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Changi Airport MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

SIP Wine Bistro @ Regency House - Sharing Good Wines Over Delicious Food

SIP Wine Bistro is a cosy dining spot located at Regency House, right in the heart of the city, yet away from the hustle and bustle. Co-founder Martin, who has been in the wine business for a decade, created this bistro out of his passion for sharing good wines over delicious food. Six months into its opening, the menu has been refreshed with a more focused curation of dishes.

Pani Puri Bruschetta 4/5

Beef Cubes 3.8/5

For starters, we had the delightful sharing plates of Pani Puri Bruschetta ($12) and Beef Cubes ($24). The crispy, paper-thin Pani Puri papad was stuffed with homemade salsa that had a delightful bite, featuring the sharpness of onions, the sweetness of tomatoes, and the crunch of capsicum. The beef cubes, made from sirloin, were flavourful on their own and served simply with mustard and salt flakes for the fullest appreciation of its natural flavour.

Goat Cheese Salad 5/5

The St. Maure Goat Cheese Salad was a highlight. It was served warm and soft with caramelised surfaces. The assertive flavour of the goat cheese was well balanced by the sweetness of the apples and candied walnuts. The salad was brought together with a dressing made from honey and apple cider vinegar, adding a hint of acidity. I believe such combination would also make for a delicious tartine.

Beef Tartare 4.5/5

For the main course, I had the pleasure of enjoying the Beef Tartare ($36), a rare delight. The tartare mix included chunky knife-cut beef, capers, and gherkins and was seasoned with Worcestershire sauce and mustard. The dish was completed with toasted sourdough and crispy shoestring fries. Indulging in this dish with a glass of Chateau Cordet Margaux 2016 was an exceptional experience. Martin works closely with small wine producers, ensuring an exquisite selection of wines at SIP.

Tiramisu 5/5

Rounding up my meal was a simple yet decadent Tiramisu. The airy, light layers of mascarpone cheese, combined with bittersweet coffee and Havana-soaked sponge fingers, made for a delightful finish.

SIP Wine Bistro has a very conducive environment for a laid-back coffee break. Sunday Brunch is also available. SIP collaborates with a local coffee roaster for its own blend of coffee.

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.


SIP Wine Bistro
Regency House
123 Penang Road
#01-12
Singapore 238465
Tel: +65 6022 1878
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 12midnight
Sat: 5pm - 12midnight
Sun: 11am - 5pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit D. Turn left and walk down Someset Road to Penang Road. Cross the road at the junction of Penang Road and Oxley Road. Walk down Penang Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

L’Espresso @ Goodwood Park Hotel - Afternoon Tea Buffet with English Classics and European Delights

From now until the end of April, L'Espresso at Goodwood Park Hotel presents an Afternoon Tea Buffet featuring English Classics and European Delights. You can indulge in a delectable array of European-themed sweets and savouries alongside traditional English Classics, which include quintessential sandwiches, a live Carving Station, and more. L'Espresso also introduces its latest Scone Bar, offering a delightful selection of freshly baked scones in assorted flavours.

Seafood Croquettes

Prawn Twister

Golden Crispy Battered Fish Fillet

The Hot Delights section is where you will find all the scrumptious fried morsels, such as Golden Crispy Battered Fish Fillet, Seafood Croquettes, and Prawn Twister. Each item is served with its respective pairing sauce — Tartar Sauce & Malt Vinegar for the English touch, Rémoulade for a French flair, and Roasted Garlic Aioli for a taste of Spain.

Spanish-style Chicken Drumettes

Pork Schnitzel

Grilled Bratwurst with Sauerkraut

For some meatier delicacies, there are Spanish-style Chicken Drumettes, Swiss-style Pork Schnitzel with Cheese, and Grilled Bratwurst with Sauerkraut. The Pork Schnitzel, reminiscent of the one I enjoyed in Vienna, was a delightful surprise. It was well executed - perfectly flat as it should be, with a tender texture that made each bite pleasurable.

Sourdough Pizza Margherita

Not forgetting the Italian touch, you can savour the Sourdough Pizza Margherita, where the simplicity of the ingredients accentuates the sourdough crust's airy texture.

Beef Bourguignon

One of the standout offerings was this French Beef Bourguignon. It was hearty and flavoursome, featuring tender beef cubes alongside chunks of moreish courgettes and soft, sweet carrots.

Croffle Herb-roasted NZ Beef Tenderloin

The Chef Action Station is also a key highlight of this buffet, offering freshly made Croffle topped with Herb-roasted NZ Beef Tenderloin. While the tenderloin was commendable, some inconsistencies were noted. My first plate was delighting with thin slices of beef tenderloin, yet the second serving was disappointing with an overdone tenderloin and a thicker cut.

Prawn Cocktail with Fresh Mango

Under the Sandwiches section, selections include Finger Sandwiches, Open-Faced Sandwiches and Croissant Sandwiches. Similar to hot delights, you get both a touch of English and European flavours — Prawn Cocktail with Fresh Mango & Lime Zest (English), Ham & Swiss Cheese (Swiss), Bocadillo de Atún (Tuna & Egg) (Spanish) and Basil Pesto Caprese (Italian).

Herb & Garlic Cheese Tartlet with Cranberry Compote, Smoked Salmon Bruschetta with Mascarpone

The Open Sandwiches offers dainty Herb & Garlic Cheese Tartlet with Cranberry Compote and Smoked Salmon Bruschetta with Mascarpone. I like how each small bite was so packed with mouthfeel and flavours.

Salmon Gravlax

Charcuterie

I visited this section the most for the luscious slices of Salmon Gravlax. The chilled section also offers a selection of Charcuterie with Pickles & Mustard.

Plain, Raisin, Coffee, Apricot, Pistachio & Maple Pecan Scone

As mentioned, a brand new Scone Bar has been added to the buffet menu, presenting an assortment of scones with new flavours such as Coffee, Apricot, Pistachio, and Maple Pecan alongside classics like Plain and Raisin. The Plain remained my top choice, followed by Maple Pecan for the additional nuttiness, which worked well with the wide selection of condiments, which even includes Lemon Curd and Caramel Banana, among others.

Tarta De Manzana

Desserts

I enjoyed the wide variety of desserts from various parts of Europe. The German Donauwellen (Marble Cake) was yummy with tart cherries embedded. The Spanish Tarta De Manzana (Apple Tart) is a must-try, boasting a layer of beautiful custard base topped with apples. Equally satisfying was the Swiss Apricot Cake, which highlighted the flavours of the summer fruit.

Limited-time Chef Specials will be available only twice during Monday to Thursday seatings and once during each seating from Friday to Sunday and Public Holidays. What was served during my visit was Creamy Chicken Pot Pie with Puff Pastry and Peppermint & Strawberry Lollipop.

Afternoon Tea Buffet with English Classics and European Delights
8 March – 30 April 2024
Mon-Thu: 2pm - 5:30pm ($65 per adult/ $39 per child)
Fri-Sun & PH: 12pm - 2:30pm, 3pm - 5:30pm ($68 per adult/ $40.80 per child)

Photograph and written 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.


L'Espresso
Goodwood Park Hotel
22 Scotts Road
Singapore 228221
Tel: +65 67301746
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 2pm - 5:30pm 
Fri-Sun & PH: 12pm - 2:30pm, 3pm - 5:30pm (

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk down Scotts Road to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]