This May, have a taste of authentic Puglian flavours at Waterfall Ristorante Italiano, located within Shangri-La Singapore. Brought to you by Mrs Maria Matera, affectionately known as Mamma Ria, the heart of the Carbotti family and mother of Restaurant Manager Andreano Carbotti, this special showcase runs till 17 May.
Delve into Puglian traditions as you witness Mamma Ria handcraft fresh pastas such as Orecchiette and Cavatelli using family recipes passed down through generations, which is a familiar scene in the Carbotti household. Joining her is Michelangelo Carbotti, Andreano’s father and a distinguished sommelier with a master’s diploma, who brings over a decade of expertise in curating wine pairings to complete the Puglian dining experience.
Focaccia Mortadella E Provola 4/5
We had the pleasure of trying Mamma Ria’s Specials Menu. To start, we had the Focaccia Mortadella E Provola ($22), featuring the restaurant’s signature housemade focaccia layered with Mortadella ham and Provola cheese. What stood out was the focaccia’s lightly crisp exterior, contrasting with its soft, fluffy interior, which paired beautifully with the savoury folds of Mortadella. I only wish there were a little more provolone cheese for a heartier bite.
Sagne alla Briciola 4/5
Next came the three pastas lovingly handcrafted by Mamma Ria. The Sagne alla Briciola ($28) features handmade sagne pasta coated in a moreish savoury sauce of anchovies, garlic, chilli, and parsley, finished with toasted breadcrumbs. The spiral-shaped pasta delivered a delightful springy bite while catching every bit of the garlicky sauce. It was my first experience trying sagne pasta, and it certainly left a strong impression.
Orecchiette Salsiccia E Zafferano 4.8/5
My favourite of the evening was the Orecchiette Salsiccia E Zafferano ($32). Store-bought dried orecchiette often falls flat in both flavour and texture, but this completely changed my perception of the pasta. The handmade orecchiette had an incredible chew and texture that dried versions simply cannot replicate. It instantly reminded me of how homemade Mee Hoon Kueh always tastes best. Mamma Ria’s orecchiette held the sauce beautifully, with its deep pockets capturing the rich, meaty blend of pork sausage, Pecorino cheese, crispy bacon, and saffron.
Cavatelli Cozze E Fagioli 4/5
The Cavatelli Cozze E Fagioli ($38), handmade instead by Michelangelo Carbotti, featured cavatelli tossed in a lightly creamy sauce of cannellini beans, garlic, and pepper, brightened by the sweetness of fresh mussels and cherry tomatoes.
It is truly a rare opportunity to try pastas handmade by both parents of the restaurant’s very own manager, rooted in Puglian heritage. Mamma Ria’s Specials Menu offers an authentic taste of Puglian tradition. If you enjoy authentic Italian cooking with a personal touch, this limited-time experience at Waterfall Ristorante Italiano is worth checking out before 17 May.
A La Carte Menu Specials
Friday, 8 May - Sunday, 17 May 2026
Lunch 12:00pm - 2:30pm
Dinner 6:00pm - 10:00pm
Except Sunday Brunch Buffet
Photos and words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.
Waterfall Ristorante Italiano
Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore
22 Orange Grove Road
Level One, Garden Wing
Singapore 258350
Tel: +65 62134398
Website
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 Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheellock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards the Royal Thai Embassy. Walk down to the end of Orchard Road. Turn right onto Orange Grove Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 23 minutes. [Map]
