Caffe Fernet @ Customs House - Italian Dining with Marina Bay's View

Sitting along the Singapore River with an unobstructed view of Marina Bay Sands, Caffe Fernet is one of those spots where the location is part of the experience. The open-concept space feels relaxed and breezy, making it an easy choice for after-work drinks, a casual dinner or a leisurely evening by the waterfront. The menu lends itself particularly well to sharing, with a selection of small plates, pastas and larger dishes that make it tempting to order a little bit of everything.

Hamachi Crudo 3.5/5

We started with the Hamachi Crudo ($29), served with fennel and pickled celery. The thick slices of hamachi were fresh and refreshing, and the pickled celery added acidity to the dish. It was enjoyable on its own, but compared to some of the other small plates we had that evening, it was one of the less memorable ones.

Zucchini Noodle Salad 4.8/5

Now this is one salad I would happily have an entire portion to myself! The Zucchini Noodle Salad ($22) was surprisingly flavourful, with mint, pine nuts and ricotta salata coating every strand of the zucchini noodles. Fresh and light yet packed with flavour, this was easily one of our favourites of the meal. Who knew zucchini noodles could be this addictive?

Iberico Pork Pluma 4.8/5

Another small plate we shared was the Iberico Pork Pluma ($29), served with salsa verde. The slightly sweet pork immediately reminded us of char siew in the best possible way. The slices were generous and incredibly tender, while the salsa verde helped cut through the richness. Definitely another dish we would order again.

Mafaldine Cacio e Pepe 5/5

The star of the meal for us was undoubtedly the Mafaldine Cacio e Pepe ($29). Deceptively simple, relying on just a handful of ingredients, Caffe Fernet’s version combines peppercorns, Parmesan and Pecorino with beautifully chewy, al dente mafaldine.

The chef shared that three different types of peppercorns are used, giving the pasta plenty of fragrance and depth. We loved it so much that we actually asked for more pepper for an extra kick, and the chef generously added more Parmesan for us too! It’s also a great pasta to share if you want to save room for more of the smaller plates.

Tiramisu 4/5

Of course, we couldn’t end an Italian-inspired meal without Tiramisu ($18). This classic dessert came with layers of rich mascarpone cream and ladyfingers soaked in dark rum and espresso. Creamy, boozy and coffee-forward, it was a satisfying way to round off the meal without getting overly complicated.

Singapore Sling and Yuzu & Cinnamon Lemonade

Peach Boulevardier

Caffe Fernet clearly puts plenty of thought into its drinks too. We tried three during our meal: the Singapore Sling ($23), Peach Boulevardier ($25) and a non-alcoholic Yuzu & Cinnamon Lemonade ($18). With the restaurant’s waterfront location and Marina Bay Sands right across the river, it’s easy to imagine coming here even just for drinks, especially as the evening sets in.

Come for the view but definitely stay for the food. Caffe Fernet has one of those locations that immediately sets the mood, right in the CBD, overlooking the Singapore River with Marina Bay Sands in full view. The open-concept setting can get rather windy (and yes, a little humid because this is Singapore!), but we loved the relaxed atmosphere.

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


Caffe Fernet
Customs House
70 Collyer Quay
#01-05
Singapore 049323
Tel: +65 91781105
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT Station. Take Exit A. Walk to Clifford Centre. Cut across Clifford Centre and walk to Collyer Quay Road. Cross the road via the OUE Link. Turn right and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Gotti Italiano @ Amoy Street - A Refreshed Menu Rooted In Italian Culinary Tradition

Gotti Italiano at Amoy Street is now led by newly appointed Executive Chef Alessandro Giustetti. Born and trained in Italy and having led kitchens across Singapore and Europe, Chef Alessandro’s cooking is deeply rooted in Italian tradition. Marking a new chapter for Gotti is a refreshed menu featuring more than 20 new dishes, paying homage to native Italian culinary traditions through slow-built sauces, seasonal ingredients, handmade pasta and more.

Tentacolo di Polpo 4.5/5

We started with one of the menu highlights, Tentacolo di Polpo ($36), a dish inspired by summers spent in Calabria, southern Italy, where tomatoes are abundant. The grilled, wild-caught Australian octopus leg had an enticing smoky flavour from its charred surface, which paired particularly well with the fruity sweetness of the cherry tomato coulis. Slow-cooked confit tomatoes were jammy and sweet, building on the dish’s tomato-forward character, while a drizzle of mint oil added a fresh, herbaceous accent. Sprinkles of almond slices provided a pleasant touch of nuttiness and crunch.

Guanciale di Manzo 4.8/5

For pasta, Guanciale di Manzo ($34) brings the slow-cooked comfort of a 12-hour Wagyu beef cheek ragù. Deep, savoury and richly flavoured, the tender, melt-in-the-mouth beef clung beautifully to the homemade fusilli, which was al dente with a satisfying bite. The pizzas didn’t disappoint either.

Crudo e Rucola 4.8/5

Crudo e Rucola ($38) features luscious ribbons of Parma ham that were so tender they were almost creamy when eaten together with the milky burrata. The dough was well-aerated, with a lightness that balanced the generous toppings without losing its satisfying bite.

Pere e Cioccolato 2.8/5

Millefoglie alla Ciliegia 4.2/5

For desserts, we found Pere e Cioccolato ($16) slightly disappointing. The warm Valrhona chocolate and pear cake was moist but lacked the chocolate intensity we expected. Millefoglie alla Ciliegia ($16), however, delighted us with buttery layers of puff pastry, tart mascarpone-cherry custard and macerated strawberries.

With Chef Alessandro at the helm, Gotti Italiano’s refreshed menu focuses on the fundamentals of Italian cooking, from slow-built sauces and handmade pasta to quality seasonal ingredients.

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.


Gotti Italiano
78 Amoy Street
Singapore 069897
Tel +65 3129 0321
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Tue, Thu: 11:30am - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm
Wed & Fri: 11:30am - 3pm, 6pm - 1am
Sat-Sun: 11:30 - 4pm, 6pm - 11pm

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

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk down Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Waterfall Ristorante Italiano @ Shangri-La Singapore - A Taste of Puglian Tradition by Mamma Ria

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
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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 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]

Medusa by the Fortuna Group @ South Beach Avenue - Singapore’s first-ever Italian Osteria Romana

Medusa, Singapore’s first osteria Romana, draws inspiration straight from the heart of Rome, where food is bold, comforting and meant to be enjoyed loudly. This latest concept by Fortuna Group channels the spirit of traditional Roman trattorias with a relaxed, vintage charm that feels instantly welcoming rather than intimidating. Helmed by Rome natives Head Chef Federico Scordo and General Manager Federico Burci, Medusa offers a dining experience that is hearty, honest and full of character.

From the moment you step inside, the vibrant red interiors set the tone for what’s to come. The space feels energetic and convivial, echoing the buzz of Roman neighbourhood eateries where conversations flow as freely as the wine. Add to that the warm, attentive hospitality, and it’s the kind of place that makes you want to linger and return.

Medusa Cocktail 4/5

We kicked off the evening with the Medusa cocktail ($30), a playful yet well-balanced drink that leans towards the sweeter end of the spectrum. Featuring smoked banana, rum infused with dates, and a house-made bitter chocolate, this cocktail surprises with layers of flavour without being cloying.

Fritto Misto 4/5

For starters, the Fritto Misto ($24) was a solid showcase of quality ingredients done right. Lightly fried zucchini, tiger prawns, calamari, sage and prawn are coated in a delicate batter that stays crisp without feeling heavy or greasy. The seafood is notably fresh, and a sprinkle of lemon salt brings brightness and balance to each bite.

Porchetta 4.5/5

Prosciuttella Pizza 4/5

We picked a main and a pizza to share this time. The Porchetta ($42) was easily a highlight of the meal. The skin is beautifully crisp, delivering that addictive crackle, while the meat beneath remains juicy and well-seasoned. Importantly, it’s not overly fatty, which makes it much easier to enjoy generously.

The Prosciuttella Pizza ($36) is a classic combination that doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel and doesn’t need to. Topped with prosciutto, sweet cherry tomatoes and peppery rocket, the flavours come together effortlessly. Pizza is a must-have at any Fortuna Group restaurant if you are into a chewy, fragrant dough.

Medusa is lively and gets noticeably noisy when the restaurant is full, so if you’re planning a quieter catch-up, it’s worth requesting seating in a calmer area. Alfresco tables are also available if you prefer dining outdoors.

All in all, Medusa is a fun, flavour-forward spot that captures the essence of Roman comfort cooking while offering a vibrant dining experience in Singapore.

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


Medusa
26 Beach Road
#B1-22
South Beach Avenue
Singapore 189768
Tel: +65 8226 0116
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Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours
Mon to Thu: 12pm to 3pm, 6pm to 1030pm
Fri to Sun: 12pm to 3pm, 6pm to 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT Station. Take Exit F. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Casa Vostra @ JEM - Bringing Its Heartfelt Italian Fare to the West

If you’ve ever been to Raffles City, chances are you’ve noticed the ever-long snaking queue outside Casa Vostra. The good news for Westies! The beloved Italian eatery has opened its second outlet at JEM, marking a new chapter for fans of its signature pizzas and handmade pastas. The new outlet seats up to 80 guests, approximately 30% more than its Raffles City flagship, offering a more spacious dining experience with outlet-exclusive dishes, a kid-friendly menu, and even some family-friendly activities thrown in.

Carnivora Pizza 4/5

Exclusive to the JEM outlet, the Carnivora ($28) is a hearty indulgence that will satisfy any meat lover. Built on a San Marzano tomato base, the pizza is topped with creamy Fiordilatte, Mortadella, prosciutto, spicy salame, porchetta, and Pepperone Crusco (a traditional sweet pepper from Italy’s Basilicata region, sun-dried and lightly fried). The result is a beautifully layered pizza that is savoury, smoky, and subtly sweet, with the crispy pepper adding an aromatic crunch.

Polpette alla Fonduta 3.5/5

Another JEM-exclusive, the Polpette alla Fonduta ($16) features well-seasoned beef meatballs that are fried to a nice crust, paired with a creamy Taleggio fondue that lends a rich, cheesy flavour. While the fondue adds decadence, the dish could use a bit more punch or contrast to balance its heavy notes. For those who enjoy an extra touch of luxury, you can add truffle oil for an additional $10.

Agnolotti all’Anatra in Brodo 4/5

The Agnolotti all’Anatra in Brodo ($28) showcases Casa Vostra’s finesse with handmade pasta. Each delicate parcel is filled with roasted duck and served in a deeply flavoured consommé made from the same bird. The broth is light yet flavourful, complementing the al dente pasta. It’s a comforting dish that highlights Italian simplicity at its best.

Coppa al Pistachio 4.5/5

For dessert, the Coppa al Pistachio ($14) is an absolute must-try. The combination of creamy pistachio gelato, crunchy nuts, and fluffy whipped cream makes for a delightful, nutty finale. It’s indulgent yet balanced. It is the kind of dessert you’d happily return for.

Adding to the fun, the JEM outlet also introduces a Casa Claw Machine from 3 Oct to 2 Nov 2025. Spend $100 per table to earn one sure-win play. Prizes include pizza plushies, vouchers for complimentary panna cotta, or iced teas and coffees for your next visit. Fans can also pick up exclusive Casa Vostra Caps ($25) and Cacio e Pepe Thins ($8), available at both Raffles City and JEM while stocks last.

With its larger space, exclusive menu, and playful family-friendly touches, Casa Vostra JEM is set to become a new favourite dining destination for Italian food lovers in the West.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Casa Vostra
JEM
50 Jurong Gateway Road
#01-03
Singapore 608549
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Nearest MRT: Jurong East (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

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

L'antica Pizzeria Da Michele @ Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre - Celebrating SG60 with Special $60nett Pizza & Wine Promotion

In celebration of Singapore’s 60th birthday, L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele, located at the new Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre, rolled out a limited-time promotion — a Chef’s Special Pizza paired with a glass of wine for just $60 nett.

Chef's Special Pizza 4.2/5

For the Chef’s Special Pizza, we had the Mariano Pizza — a tomato-based creation topped with ham, burrata, tomato, and anchovy. Interestingly, the red and white tones from the tomato and burrata resemble the Singapore flag, a thoughtful touch for the nation’s birthday. The creamy burrata, savoury ham, and briny anchovy came together harmoniously atop the restaurant’s signature chewy dough, creating a burst of flavours reminiscent of celebratory fireworks.

Fritto Di Mare 4.2/5

We also tried the Fritto Di Mare ($26), a seafood basket filled with calamari, prawns, Amalfi coast fin fish, and battered zucchini, all encased in a light and crispy golden batter. A squeeze of lemon adds a bright, zesty lift, while dipping into the accompanying mayonnaise gives it a satisfying richness. Perfect as a sharing starter.

King Prawn Linguine 4.2/5

From the daily specials, we opted for the King Prawn Linguine ($42), which was limited to just seven portions that day. The pasta was cooked al dente and coated in a luscious crustacean sauce, full of depth and umami. The dish was crowned with two impressively large king prawns, adding a touch of indulgence to the already hearty plate. It was a staff recommendation that truly paid off.

With its celebratory SG60 promotion, indulgent pasta specials, and reliable classics, L’antica Pizzeria Da Michele is a solid pick whether you’re planning a casual date night, a dinner with friends, or simply looking for a comforting Italian meal in the heart of the city. The warm hospitality and thoughtfully crafted dishes make it a place worth returning to.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


L'antica Pizzeria da Michele
Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre
8 Club Street
#01-08
Singapore 069472
Tel: +65 9823 5724
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Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT, NE Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

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

2) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight down Pagoda Street to North Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk to Mohd Ali Lane. Walk down Mohd Ali Lane. 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 and breezy interiors, the ambience sets the stage for a culinary journey through Southern Italy, where fresh, high-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, spiked with lemon zest and complemented by 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 the Downtown MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

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