Waterfall Ristorante Italiano @ Shangri-La Singapore - Unveils a Revamped Menu Celebrating Southern Italian Flavours

Waterfall Ristorante Italiano at Shangri-La Singapore has introduced a newly refreshed à la carte menu featuring over 20 new dishes inspired by the culinary traditions of Puglia, the Southern Italian hometown of Chef de Cuisine Simone Loisi. The updated offerings blend timeless Italian classics with modern techniques, providing both loyal patrons and newcomers with a vibrant take on Italian dining.

Focaccia 4.2/5

We began our dinner with a warmly baked Focaccia, golden and crisp on the outside, yet moist and fluffy on the inside, with a gentle chew. The addition of olives and herbs elevated its aroma and flavour, offering a comforting and aromatic start to the meal.

Frittura Di Pesce 4.5/5

From the antipasti selection, the Frittura Di Pesce was a standout, an assortment of lightly battered and perfectly fried seafood, including baby cuttlefish, octopus, and prawns. The thin, crispy coating provided just the right crunch, while a squeeze of lemon and a dollop of aioli added brightness and creaminess that tied the dish together beautifully.

Orecchiette Al Ragu Di Braciole 4/5

For pasta, we opted for the Orecchiette Al Ragu Di Braciole. The small, ear-shaped pasta was cooked al dente, offering a satisfying bite. Its concave shape was ideal for holding the rich tomato-based sauce, which was deeply flavoured from slow-cooked pork, pecorino cheese, and fresh parsley. Each mouthful was a comforting balance of savoury and herbaceous notes.

Rustica 4/5

From the pizza selection, we chose the Rustica. Topped with mozzarella, goat cheese, thyme, honey, walnut crumble, and dried figs, it was an impressive harmony of flavours. The savouriness of the cheese paired delightfully with the sweetness of the honey and figs, while the walnut crumble added texture and earthiness. It is a well-executed, sweet and savoury finish.

Tiramisu Classico 4/5

To end the meal, we indulged in a trio of desserts: Tiramisu Classico, Cannoli Siciliano Fatto In Casa, and Torta Al Formaggio E Pistacchio.

The Tiramisu Classico was my personal favourite, featuring the classic elements of savoiardi ladyfingers, mascarpone, coffee, and cocoa powder, all perfectly balanced and executed with finesse.

Cannoli Siciliano Fatto In Casa 3.8/5

The Cannoli Siciliano Fatto In Casa featured a crispy homemade shell piped with sweetened ricotta, elevated by hints of orange zest, bitter chocolate chips, and crushed pistachios. It was rich, textured, and satisfying. The Torta Al Formaggio E Pistacchio was enjoyable, with a creamy texture and nutty undertones. However, the pistachio flavour could have been more pronounced to leave a stronger impression.

Totra Al Formaggio E Pistacchio 3/5

Waterfall Ristorante Italiano's refreshed menu is a warm tribute to Chef Simone Loisi's Southern Italian roots. With elevated classics, quality ingredients, and thoughtful execution of flavours, the restaurant continues to deliver an authentic yet refined Italian dining experience in an elegant resort setting.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Waterfall Ristorante Italiano
Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore
22 Orange Grove Road
Level One, Garden Wing
Singapore 258350
Tel: +65 62134398
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheellock Place via ION. Exit Wheellock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards Royal Thai Embassy. Walk down to the end of Orchard Road. Turn right onto Orange Grove Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 23 minutes. [Map]

Riviera @ One Fullerton - Experience the Diverse Flavours of The Mediterranean

Nestled on the second floor of One Fullerton, Riviera offers more than just a dining experience — it's a visual and culinary journey across the diverse flavours of the Mediterranean. Overlooking the breathtaking Marina Bay waterfront and Singapore's iconic Merlion, Riviera is the perfect spot for a romantic night out, a special celebration, or an indulgent evening of fine dining.

Before dinner, start with a pre-dinner drink at the elegant lounge. With the gorgeous view and luxurious ambience, it's the ideal setting to ease into the evening.

Our visit saw us try the Taste of The Riviera 4-course dinner menu ($128++ per pax). It began with a complimentary trio of bread — charcoal Parmesan Bagel, Brioche, and Sourdough — paired with salted butter. Each had its own texture and flavour profile, which was a great introduction to attention to detail throughout the meal.

AMUSE BOUCHE 4.2/5

We kicked off with two beautifully presented bites: a Crab Tartlet, where the sweetness of the crab is elevated with pink peppercorn, and a Butternut Squash sphere that bursts with sweet flavour sitting atop a savoury parmesan base for that satisfying crunch. These are small bites with big impressions.

ROSSO DI MAZARA 5/5

A standout starter, the Rosso Di Mazara features Sicilian Red Prawn Carpaccio seasoned with hazelnut vinaigrette. The red prawns were supremely sweet and melt-in-the-mouth, perfectly complemented by seasonal white asparagus. It was a refreshing yet luxurious opening to the meal.

L'OURSIN 4.8/5

This dish showcases Riviera's creative flair. Bafun uni crowns a bed of Black Bean Tea Pudding with saffron nage, delivering a dish full of surprises. The pudding has a unique texture and earthy flavour, unlike anything we've had before — in the best way possible. It is complex, layered, and sophisticated.

LE CANARD DE CHALLANS 4.5/5

For my main, I chose the Le Canard de Challans. The Challans Duck Breast was cooked beautifully, seasoned just enough to let its natural flavours shine through. Accompanied by a rich bordelaise sauce, the dish felt refined and comforting.

LA TRUITE 4.8/5

My dining partner opted for the La Truite, a filleted French Rainbow Trout topped with smoked caviar and a crisp piece of skin. Served with a smooth petit pois velouté and charred baby endive, it was a well-balanced dish with elegance and complexity.

“MONS” SELECTION OF MATURED CHEESES 4/5

You can add a cheese course for $38. The Mons Cheese Platter includes a variety of soft and hard cheeses, ideal for cheese lovers looking to extend their Mediterranean journey. It's a great way to slow down the meal before dessert.

CANNOLIS AU CHOCOLAT 4.8/5

I've never been a fan of Cannoli because of the hard shell, but Riviera's version won me over. Infused with star anise, the shell is perfectly crisp, and when paired with the Jivara orange chocolate mousse and Grand Marnier sauce, it becomes a divine dessert experience. A creative spin that's both nostalgic and exciting.

As tradition goes, we ended the meal with a selection of petit fours – a sweet little finale that tied everything together.

Riviera isn't just a place to eat; it's a place to savour life. Riviera delivers on every front with breathtaking views, impeccable service, and a menu that showcases both Mediterranean tradition and modern refinement. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary, Riviera makes the experience worth it.

Enjoy 15% off any dinner set menu when you book via Riviera.sg and mention the promo code "DTXRIVIERA" in the comment section of the booking. This offer is valid until 31 May 2025. Don't miss this opportunity to indulge in one of Singapore's most scenic and delicious dining destinations.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Riviera
One Fullerton
1 Fullerton Road
#02-06
Singapore 049213
Tel: +65 6690 7564
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 630pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun and Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT. Take Exit A or B. Walk to Clifford Centre and then Change Alley. Take escalator to level 2. Cross the road using the OUE Link. Turn left towards Fullerton Bay Hotel. Walk to towards the bay and destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Locanda @ Rowell Road (Jalan Besar) - A Cosy Italian Trattoria Offering Hearty Classics

Locanda is a delightful new Italian trattoria nestled in the vibrant heritage district of Little India. Conceptualized by the Michelin-starred team behind Buona Terra, Locanda exudes the warmth and charm of a classic Italian "inn." In the past, locandas in Italy were places where weary travellers could find refuge and refuel with simple, hearty meals. Locanda brings this tradition to life in Singapore with a menu filled with comforting Italian classics.

Locanda Soft Roll with Eggplant, Tomato Dip 4.2/5

We began the evening with the Locanda Soft Roll with Eggplant, Tomato Dip ($8). The bread was warm, soft, and buttery, making it the perfect pairing with the tangy, flavourful eggplant and tomato dip. It was a simple yet satisfying start to our meal.

Gnocco Fritto E Affettati 3.5/5

Next, we moved on to the Gnocco Fritto E Affettati ($15/50g of selected cold cuts). The Gnocco Fritto — golden-brown fried dough puffs — was an absolute delight. The crispy exterior gave way to a soft, airy interior, which paired beautifully with the selection of classic Italian cold cuts.

Focaccia Bread, Casera Cheese, Lardo, Hazelnuts, Truffle, Honey 4/5

Focaccia, Scamorza, Black Pepper, Grilled Zucchini 4/5

We had the pleasure of trying two variations of focaccia, starting with the Focaccia Bread, Casera Cheese, Lardo, Hazelnuts, Truffle, Honey ($18). Topped with melted Casera cheese, lardo, and toasted Piedmont hazelnuts, it was finished with a drizzle of truffle honey and shaved black truffle. Every bite was a symphony of creamy, nutty, and earthy flavours.

The second version, Focaccia with Scamorza, Black Pepper, Grilled Zucchini ($18), was equally delightful. The smoky Scamorza cheese paired with the fresh crunch of grilled zucchini and a hint of black pepper. Both focaccia options were so good that I honestly couldn't choose a favourite.

Deep Fried Marinated Sardine, Onion and Raisin 4.2/5

One of the standouts for me was the Deep-Fried Marinated Sardine, Onion, and Raisin ($22). Deep-fried and marinated in vinegar, the sardines were served atop a crispy fried polenta base, accompanied by braised onions, raisins, pine nuts, and a hint of mint. It was a perfect blend of sweet, savoury, and tangy flavours.

Yellowtail, Lemon, Fennel Oil 3.8/5

We also tried the Yellowtail, Lemon, Fennel Oil ($28), a light and clean dish featuring fresh slices of yellowtail dressed with a bright lemon dressing and a sprinkle of sea salt. The charred orange segments added a hint of bitterness that balanced the dish beautifully, while the fennel oil provided an aromatic finish.

Veal Eye Round, Tuna Sauce and Capers Berry 4/5

The Veal Eye Round ($24) is a boneless cut from the rear leg of the calf that's first sous-vide, then seared to perfection in the pan. It's thinly sliced and served with a classic tonnato sauce, then garnished with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and caper berries. The dish is understated, focusing on the pure tenderness of the veal and its mild, delicate flavour. It's a straightforward preparation that highlights the quality of the meat without unnecessary embellishments, perfect for those who enjoy simple yet expertly executed dishes.

Tagliolini, Fresh Tomato, Crab, Lemon 4.2/5

When it comes to pasta, Locanda does not disappoint. The Tagliolini, Fresh Tomato, Crab, Lemon ($28) was one of my favourites, featuring perfectly cooked tagliolini in a sweet and tangy tomato sauce with generous chunks of crab and a zesty hint of lemon. It reminded me of a refined version of Singapore's chilli crab but with pasta — a real treat for seafood lovers.

Pappardelle Ragu Genovese, Mix Mushrooms 4.2/5

The Pappardelle Ragu Genovese, Mixed Mushrooms ($24) was another excellent option. The wide, ribbon-like pasta was coated in a rich, hearty beef ragu made from different cuts of Australian beef, slow-braised until tender. The addition of braised mushrooms added depth to the dish, creating a perfect balance of flavours and textures.

Malloreddus, Red Wine Octopus Ragu, Capers 3.8/5

We tried the Malloreddus, Red Wine Octopus Ragu, Capers ($28) for something a bit different. The shell-like pasta had a pleasant bite, and the octopus ragu was flavorful and rich, elevated by the capers' briny punch.

Spaghetti ai Frutti di Mare 4.5/5

I recommend the Spaghetti ai Frutti di Mare ($118++) for larger groups, which is good for up to 4 people. This seafood pasta was tossed in a luscious tomato sauce and topped with an assortment of sautéed seafood, including clams, lobster, scampi, and red prawns. A seafood lover's dream!

Secreto Iberico Pork, Braised Endive, Apple 4.2/5

The Secreto Iberico Pork, Braised Endive, Apple ($39) stood out among the mains. The Iberico pork was beautifully glazed with pork jus, honey, and spices, then grilled over binchotan for a smoky, caramelized exterior. The tender meat was perfectly complemented by the slightly bitter braised endives and sweet apple sauce.

Hanging Tender, Rucola & Parmesan 4.2/5

We also tried the Hanging Tender, Rucola & Parmesan ($42). The lesser-known cut of beef was simply seasoned with salt and grilled to perfection, served with beef jus, a peppery rucola salad, and shavings of Parmesan. It was a no-frills dish that allowed the beef's rich, natural flavour to shine.

Gelati & Sorbetti 4/5

To finish, we had a scoop of Gelati & Sorbetti ($9/scoop). While the pistachio and chocolate gelati were delicious, I found them a bit pricey for the portion size. However, the real star of the dessert menu was the Sicilian Cannolo ($15/2pc). Each cannolo was filled with a luscious mix of Artigiana ricotta, chopped Valrhona 55% chocolate, candied orange and lemon, and finished with Sicilian pistachio on each end. It's a perfect sweet ending to an indulgent meal.

Sicilian Cannolo 4/5

Locanda brings the warmth and hospitality of a traditional Italian inn to Singapore, with a menu full of comforting and well-executed Italian classics. Whether you're in the mood for delicious pasta, hearty meat dishes, or an authentic Italian dessert, Locanda delivers a memorable dining experience in the heart of Little India. It is an excellent spot for a cosy meal with friends or family, and I'll definitely be back to try more of their offerings.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Locanda
109 Rowell Road
Singapore 208033
Tel: +65 9619 2691
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Nearest MRT: Jalan Besar (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Fri: 6pm - 12midnight
Sat-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Jalan Besar MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk straight down Jalan Besar Road. Walk to Rowell Road. Turn left onto Rowell Road. Walk to destination. 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
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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]