Firangi Superstar @ Craig Road - Enters Its Next Delicious Chapter

Firangi Superstar, the modern Indian restaurant along Craig Road known for its cinematic flair and fearless flavours, ushers in a new chapter with a refreshed menu of creative debuts and beloved returning favourites. Inspired by India's diverse culinary regions, each dish here is vibrant, layered, and imaginative, offering thoughtful vegetarian alternatives for most plates to cater to all dietary preferences.

Papi’s Jammed Gun 4/5

Papi's Jammed Gun ($29) pairs wagyu beef tartare with crispy papdi, finished with caviar, grated egg, and Firangi's signature gunpowder spice for a punchy, umami-rich bite. The vegetarian version swaps in beetroot tartare and Moai Caviar, delivering the same savoury depth without the meat. It is an excellent introduction to their modern Indian approach.

Big Baller Peperoner 4.2/5

A playful reimagination of the classic paneer Manchurian, the Big Baller Peperoner ($28) features a golden-brown burrata sphere atop tangy, umami-packed Manchurian chilli sauce. The combination of creamy indulgence and bold spice makes this fusion dish both comforting and exciting.

This is Also Not Aloo Gobi 3.5/5

Firangi's twist on the traditional cauliflower-and-potato Aloo Gobi ($18) swaps in bite-sized Romanesco Cauliflower over a spiced potato foam, finished with crispy potato strips and a dusting of aromatic spices. While visually appealing, it leans more subtle in flavour compared to the other bolder offerings.

The Nut Kraken 4.2/5

Octopus cooked pollichathu-style, marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaf, and grilled to smoky perfection – is served over a sweet, smoky gravy with banana leaf oil and crispy coconut chips for texture. The Nut Kraken ($32) strikes a nice balance between spice, smokiness, and freshness.

The Bengal Bake Off 5/5

My highlight of the night, The Bengal Bake Off ($108), features tender seabass baked in salt dough with a creamy Kasundi marinade. The mustard's bright tang, mellowed by cream and lifted with aromatic banana leaf oil, brings depth and layers of flavour that linger beautifully on the palate. A smart, brilliant pairing that elevates the dish to star status.

Back In The Saddle 4.5/5

Naan 4.2/5

A returning crowd favourite, Back In The Saddle ($21 per 100g) is Tandoori-spiced lamb cooked until tender, infused with confit garlic and fragrant curry leaves. The sauce is rich and flavourful – perfect for scooping up with Firangi’s signature naans, which have a satisfying chew and char.

Rasmalai “Tres Leches” 4.2/5

The Rasmalai "Tres Leches" ($16) is an inventive dessert that sees layers of cake soaked in rose-saffron cream, topped with pistachios and served with a scoop of saffron ice cream. It's a fragrant, floral twist on the Latin American classic.

Banoffee Fritters 4.5/5

A playful nod to local goreng pisang, the Banoffee Fritters ($14) feature churros-style crunch with crisp spring roll pastry filled with banana mousse, coated in dark spiced chocolate, and plated with crushed Parle-G biscuits for extra crunch. Comforting, nostalgic, yet refined.

Firangi Superstar’s refreshed menu keeps its signature flair intact while adding clever new creations that span the spectrum from playful to elegant. Whether you’re here for a bold, spice-laden main or a quirky dessert that channels local flavours, this cinematic Indian dining experience continues to deliver both style and substance.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Firangi Superstar
20 Craig Road
#01-03
Singapore 089692
Tel: +65 63043022
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 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 Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Turn righ and walk to Neil Road. Cross Neil Road. Walk to Duxton Road. Turn right onto Duxton Hill. Walk to Craig Place. Cut through Craig Place to Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

IL Giardino @ The Garage (Singapore Botanic Gardens) - Italian Cicchetti Dining with Asian Twists

il Giardino is the newest addition to The Garage at Level 2 of the Singapore Botanic Gardens, introducing an Italian dining concept served cicchetti-style, perfect for sharing among groups. Opening in time to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Gardens' UNESCO World Heritage status this month, the restaurant offers a lush, garden-side setting with Italian creations elevated by fragrant local herbs and subtle Asian touches. It's an inviting spot for couples, families, and friends to gather over good food and conversation.

Beer Bread 'Gnoco Fritto' with Ginger Flower Salsa Verde 4/5

We began with the Beer Bread ‘Gnoco Fritto’, served warm with a ginger flower salsa verde. The bread had a pleasant chew, reminiscent of our local ‘butterfly’ snack, with an airy pocket inside. The salsa verde added brightness and a subtle floral lift.

Artigiana Burratina 4.2/5

The Artigiana Burratina ($19) was luxuriously soft and creamy, paired with sour plum tomatoes, carrot purée, and trapanese & mint pesto for a vibrant punch of flavour. Almond nuts added a nutty crunch to contrast the creaminess.

Panzanella 'Singapura' 3.5/5

Panzanella 'Singapura' ($16) reimagines the rustic Italian dish with local twists comprising green mango, croutons, cashew nuts, and "ugly" heirloom tomatoes that might otherwise be discarded. The smoked tamarind vinaigrette tied it together with bright, tropical acidity.

il Giardino Hand-Cut Pressed Potatoes 4.2/5

These il Giardino Hand-Cut Pressed Potatoes ($16) delivered a crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy interior. Scallion and kelp lent an aromatic lift, while the roasted garlic aioli dip added a creamy, savoury depth.

il Giardino Slow Cooked Venetian Octopus 4.2/5

Seafood lovers can savour il Giardino's signature Slow-Cooked Venetian Octopus ($22 S / $32 L), tender and delicately infused with fresh lemon and Laudemio extra virgin olive oil (a premium blend from 21 historic estates in Tuscany). The dish is further elevated with housemade gremolata and ginger flower salsa verde, served alongside warm house bread. Adding to its charm, the octopus is plated tableside from a large pot, exuding a rustic elegance.

Spaghetti alle Vongole 4.2/5

Cooked to an al dente bite, the Spaghetti alle Vongole ($19 S / $28 L) was perfumed with fresh clams, garlic, white wine, and parsley. Herb crumbs on top added extra texture and savouriness.

Porcini & Ricotta Cheese Ravioli 4/5

The Porcini & Ricotta Cheese Ravioli ($16 S / $24 L) was rich with a five-cheese sauce, enhanced by fried sage and hazelnut for fragrance and crunch. The pear compote offered a refreshing contrast to the cheese’s richness.

Parma Pizza 3.8/5

From the Ciabatta Romana Pizza selection, the Parma Ham ($19 S/ $28 L) version came topped with parma ham, mushrooms, arugula, honey, and truffle cream. It offered a lively mix of sweet, savoury, and earthy flavours on a satisfying dough base.

Pan Roasted King Salmon 3.8/5

The Pan Roasted King Salmon ($28) was crowned with a crisp parsley and pine nut crust. The ginger flower salsa verde and Chef Felix's eggplant caponata, which was tangy and flavour-packed, made for a bright pairing.

Half Roasted Corn-fed Chicken 3/5

The Half Roasted Corn-fed Chicken ($18 half / $28 whole) was moist and succulent from brining and roasting, finished with a light Amalfi lemon caper sauce. A deeper char or punchier seasoning could elevate it further.

Slow Braised Osso Bucco 4/5

The Slow-Braised Osso Bucco ($28 S / $38 L) presents fork-tender veal bathed in a luxurious Barolo wine jus, paired with silky whipped potatoes and brightened by a zesty kaffir lime gremolata. This refreshing Asian twist cuts through the richness. Of the three mains, this was easily my favourite.

il Giardino Affogato 3.8/5

A decadent finale, the il Giardino Affogato ($14) featured gelato on a crunchy buttered base of almond and upcycled ground coffee. A hot espresso pour melted the Valrhona chocolate shell, revealing berries and mint — aromatic, dramatic, and delicious.

Crispy, Fried Italian Pastries 'Chiacchiere' 3/5

Choose from vanilla, hazelnut, honey ginger, or blood orange sorbet/gelato with these airy, crispy Fried Italian Pastries 'Chiacchiere' ($16). Dusted generously with powdered sugar, they were light and sweet, though more memorable for texture than flavour.

With its cicchetti-style Italian menu infused with local and Asian touches, il Giardino makes for a charming dining experience in one of Singapore’s most scenic settings. While some dishes could use a little more punch, most plates hit a satisfying balance between creativity and comfort, making it a welcome addition to the Botanic Gardens dining scene.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


IL Giardino
The Garage (Singapore Botanic Gardens)
Level 2
50 Cluny Park Road
Singapore 257488
Tel: +65 9831 1106
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Nearest MRT: Botanic Gardens (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Fri: 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Botanic Gardens MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Cluny Park Road. Turn left onto Cluny Park Road and continue walking down the road. At Cluny Park Gate, walk in and walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Fortuna @ Craig Road - A New Vibrant Menu Inspired by the Street Food Culture of Napoli

FORTUNA, the lively Italian pizzeria nestled in Tanjong Pagar, has launched a vibrant new menu inspired by the street food culture of Napoli. Think bold flavours, soulful dishes and warm hospitality that whisk you straight to Southern Italy.

Wood Fire Bread 4.5/5

Ricotta Dip 4.5/5

We kicked things off with the Wood Fire Bread ($18), served piping hot with Sicilian EVOO and wild oregano, providing an aromatic and crusty texture and the perfect companion to the Ricotta Dip ($12). This creamy whipped ricotta, paired with spicy honey, was an addictive start. It was sweet, savoury and silky smooth, which made us scrape the bowl clean.

Burrata 4.2/5

A classic Burrata ($26) followed, elevated with crispy chilli oil, taralli crumb and basil. That house-made chilli oil? Served on every table and a must-try. Pro tip: Use it liberally, especially with the bread.

Mafalde Ragu 4.8/5

From their hearty pasta offerings, the Mafalde Ragu ($36) stood out; our server highly recommended it and we now understand why. Perfectly al dente ribbons of pasta were coated in a rich beef and pork ragu, finished tableside with smoked provolone flambéed on the spot. Smoky, cheesy and saucy. This is a flavour bomb that we'll return for.

Singapore Tribute Piccola 4/5

The Singapore Tribute Piccola pizza ($35 for 4 slices, $48 for 6) was an instant eye-catcher. Paying homage to our local flavours, it's topped with chilli crab sauce, crab meat, Fior di Latte, lemon zest and fresh herbs. With its airy, flavourful crust, which is fermented over 50 hours and baked in a wood-fired Valoriani oven, this was a standout. Add their signature crispy chilli oil to take it up a notch.

Broccolini 4/5

To balance the richness, we had the Broccolini ($20), charred and tossed in anchovy butter with lemon breadcrumbs and Parmigiano. Light, bright and a welcome palette cleanser in between the heavier dishes.

Fortunamisu 3.8/5

We wrapped up with the Fortunamisu ($18). While we wished the ladyfingers were a little more soaked, the malted crumb and that sweet, fruity liqueur added a fun twist to this Italian classic.

The vibe? Warm, buzzy and utterly inviting, which is very much in line with its Napoli roots. FORTUNA is perfect for gatherings over good food and conversation. Be sure to book ahead, as it was packed even on Friday lunch.

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


Fortuna
7 Craig Road
Singapore 089667
Tel: +65 9115 1597
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Wed: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 930pm
Thu-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Orchid Hotel. Walk to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road and walk to Craig Road. Continue on Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Cross the road and walk to Duxton Road. Walk down Duxton Road. Turn right onto Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Sospiri @ IOI Central Boulevard Towers - Chic Italian Restaurant in the Heart of Singapore

Perched atop the newly opened IOI Central Boulevard Towers, Sospiri is one of the newest additions to Singapore's Italian dining scene. From the moment you step in, you're transported into a charming Italian-Mediterranean retreat, reminiscent of a Roman holiday villa. Bathed in natural light with breezy interiors, the ambience sets the stage for a food journey through Southern Italy, where fresh, quality ingredients take centre stage.

Burrata di Andria ai Pistacchi 4.8/5

We began our meal with the Burrata di Andria ai Pistacchi ($26), a beautifully composed starter featuring creamy burrata, smooth avocado, and prized Bronte pistachios. The pairing worked harmoniously, offering a balanced contrast of rich, milky cheese and the buttery crunch of nuts. A dish that's as elegant as it is satisfying.

Battuta di Tonno 4.2/5

Another highlight from the antipasti selection was the Battuta di Tonno ($26). The zesty brightness of Amalfi lemon, aromatic salmoriglio, and briny Pantelleria capers lifted this refined bluefin tuna tartare. Light, fresh, and layered with Mediterranean character, it made for a refreshing start.

Ravioli alla Vaccinara 4.2/5

Moving on to our pasta, we had the Ravioli alla Vaccinara ($35). Each homemade ravioli is filled with tender and flavourful ox tail, perked with lemon zest and complemented by the addition of pine nuts for a nutty finish.

Spaghetti alla Puttanesca 5/5

The standout dish of the evening was the Spaghetti alla Puttanesca ($30). The spaghetti was perfectly cooked al dente and coated in a punchy, spicy tomato sauce that brought depth and vibrancy to every bite. The dish was thoughtfully paired with summer vegetables, which added a refreshing contrast and balance to the bold, savoury flavours. It was a bright, satisfying plate that delivered both comfort and complexity, a clear favourite of the night.

Tiramisu 4/5

To round off the meal, we had the classic Tiramisu ($22). Well-balanced with just the right touch of bitterness from the espresso and sweetness from the cream, it was a familiar yet delightful finish to the dinner.

Sospiri al Limone 4.8/5

If you’ve got room for one more bite, don’t miss the Sospiri al Limone ($12). These airy, fluffy Amalfi lemon angel cake puffs are light, zesty, and highly addictive. I’d gladly save room or find a second stomach for these again.

Sospiri offers an elevated Southern Italian dining experience, serving refined dishes that remain true to their regional roots. With stunning city views, warm hospitality, and an exquisite menu that marries tradition and creativity, it's a welcome new gem in the heart of the CBD.


Sospiri
IOI Central Boulevard Towers
2 Central Boulevard
#07-02
Singapore 018916
Tel: +65 94780906
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Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Shenton Way (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 230pm, 3pm - 12midnight
Sat: 1130am - 12midnight
Sun: 113am - 11pm

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

2) Alight at Shento Way MRT station. Take Exit 4 or 6. Walk to Commerce Street. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Vincenzo Capuano @ Robertson Quay - World Champion of Contemporay Pizza, Opens First Asia Outpost in Singapore

With over 30 outlets across the globe and a prestigious #12 ranking on the 50 Top World Artisan Pizza Chains 2025, Vincenzo Capuano brings his award-winning pizzas to Asia for the very first time, right here in Singapore. Best known for clinching the title of World Champion of Contemporary Pizza in 2022, Chef Vincenzo’s philosophy lies in tradition, craftsmanship, and a dough that defies gravity.

At the heart of his pizza is a long-leavened, highly hydrated dough made with “Nuvola Super” flour, specially developed in collaboration with a flour mill. The result? A feather-light, airy crust that almost melts in your mouth. In a nod to Neapolitan dining culture, diners are encouraged to use the pair of golden scissors at each table to slice through the pillowy pizza crust themselves, an interactive touch that highlights the dough’s soft structure and signature puffed edge.

Insalata Al Salmone 3.5/5

We kicked off the meal with the Insalata Al Salmone ($26), a hearty salad that’s pleasingly more protein-forward than leafy. Smoked salmon mingles with rucola, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and capers, all dressed in a roasted truffle sesame vinaigrette. It's tangy and refreshing, though more of a light prelude than a standout.

Burrata Classica 4/5

Next, the Burrata Classica ($26) shined with its creamy centre and fresh pairing of rucola, cherry tomatoes, basil pesto, and balsamic. Enhanced with olive oil caviar for a modern touch, this was simple yet elegantly executed, a reliable classic done right.

Guanciale Di Manzo 4.2/5

Don't skip the pasta here. The Guanciale Di Manzo ($30) features housemade fusilli bathed in a deeply savoury, 12-hour slow-cooked wagyu beef cheek ragù. Cooked al dente, the pasta clung perfectly to the robust sauce, giving each bite a rich, meaty depth.

Carbonara 4.8/5

A standout dish of the night, the Carbonara ($28) is a purist's dream, comprising housemade fettuccine tossed with 12-hour slow-cooked Iberico pork jowl, egg yolk, and Parmigiano. No cream, no shortcuts, just authenticity and balance. Easily one of the best carbonaras in town.

Provola E Pepe 4.2/5

As the pizza that won the 19th Pizza World Championship, the Provola E Pepe ($28) did not disappoint. Smoky provola cheese sits atop hand-crushed tomatoes, mixed pepper, roasted cherry tomatoes, EVOO, and basil. Bold and balanced, it's a smoky, savoury medley with a lightly tangy kick.

Tetti Illuminati 4.5/5

My personal favourite of the trio, the Tetti Illuminati ($28), is a textural and flavour bomb comprising mortadella IGP, fior di latte, crushed pistachios, pistachio cream, pecorino Romano flakes, and basil. It is a decadent yet harmonious combination, elevated by the pistachio's nuttiness.

Don Egidio 4/5

The Don Egidio ($28) stood out with its unique use of courgette cream as the base. Topped with zucchini chips, meatballs (a family recipe from Nonno Enzo), burrata heart, EVOO, and basil, this pizza offered contrasting textures, especially with the extra crunch from the zucchini chips.

Creme Brulee 3/5

The Crème Brûlée ($14) ended things on a quieter note. While the custard was smooth and creamy, the caramelised rapadura layer didn't quite offer the crackly finish one might expect. It's a serviceable dessert but not the highlight.

Tiramisu All'Amaretto 4/5

We much preferred the Tiramisù All'Amaretto ($17). Layered with mascarpone Lombardo, savoiardi biscuits, pistachios, and a generous splash of amaretto, it was light, creamy, and nuanced. It was a delightful finish to the meal.

Vincenzo Capuano's Singapore outpost lives up to its celebrated name, especially in the realm of authentic Neapolitan pizza and pasta that speak of slow-cooked care. With dough that's light as air and sauces that burst with flavour, it's a worthy pilgrimage for pizza purists and carb lovers alike. Come for the world-class pizza — stay for the carbonara.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Vincenzo Capuano
The Pier @ Robertson
80 Mohamed Sultan Road
Singapore 239013
Tel: +65 6485 9153
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Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic junction of Clemenceau Ave and River Valley. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Clemenceau Ave. Turn right onto Unity Street. Then left onto Merbau Road. Walk straight towards the river. Turn right at the river. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]