Pietrasanta @ Connexis Tower, Fusionpolis - Returning To Its Tuscan Roots

Pietrasanta at Fusionopolis is returning to its Tuscan roots. Drawing inspiration from Pietrasanta in Tuscany, the hometown of founders Niccolò and Chef Loris, the restaurant has created a selection of dishes that captures the rustic flavours, traditions and warm hospitality of Tuscany.

Crudo Di Ricciola 4.2/5

We started with two cold appetisers that showcased the simplicity and elegance of Tuscan cuisine. Crudo Di Ricciola ($28.90) featured firm, meaty amberjack paired with sweet-tart tomato confit, lightly dressed with lemon and extra-virgin olive oil, and accented with delicate floral notes from pink peppercorns.

Battuta Di Manzo Con Pecorino Toscano 4/5

Battuta Di Manzo Con Pecorino Toscano ($27.90) highlighted the sharp, intensely savoury character of aged Pecorino Toscano, which was incorporated into the beef tartare alongside lemon and capers, resulting in a bright, balanced finish.

Fritto Viareggino 4/5

Fritto Viareggino ($26.90) was a moreish medley of battered squid, prawns, sardines and vegetables inspired by the coastal town of Viareggio, served with a marinara mayo dipping sauce.

Coccoli Ricotta e Finocchiona 4.2/5

The highlight for me among the appetisers was Coccoli Ricotta e Finocchiona ($24.90), a nostalgic Tuscan street food featuring warm deep-fried dough served with burrata cream and Finocchiona salami. Stuffing the fluffy dough with the milky burrata and herbaceous, garlicky salami created a mouthwatering combination of flavours and textures that left me wanting more.

Pici all’Aglione 4.5/5

Moving on to the mains, Pici all’Aglione ($24.90), the signature Tuscan thick hand-rolled pasta was skilfully executed, delivering a delightful bounce with every bite. The dish embraces the Tuscan philosophy of simplicity, tossing the pasta with just tomato, garlic, and olive oil to let the ingredients’ quality shine.

Risotto Gamberi e Zucchine 4/5

We also tried two risotto dishes. Cooked with lobster bisque, the Risotto Gamberi e Zucchine ($32.90) was crowd-pleasing, with creamy, flavourful Carnaroli risotto studded with chunky prawns, creating textural enjoyment in every bite.

Peposo Di Manzo Con Risotto Al Porri 4.2/5

The Peposo Di Manzo Con Risotto Al Porri ($37.90) featured a firmer, more al dente risotto that I personally preferred, paired with satisfyingly tender braised beef cheek. The renewed menu also embraces regional Tuscan flavours through its artisanal pizzas.

Salsiccia e Cavolo Nero 4.5/5

Among all the mains, the Salsiccia e Cavolo Nero ($28.90) was my absolute favourite and worth returning for. The dough had an excellent structure, providing the perfect foundation for the toppings of mozzarella fior di latte, Tuscan black kale (cavolo nero), flavourful Italian pork sausage, and aged pecorino. Finished with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and black pepper, every bite was remarkably balanced, delivering a little of everything at once. It was particularly impressive how the wilted kale contributed so much texture and character to the pizza.

Tiramisu 4/5

Zuccotto alla Fiorentina 4.2/5

For dessert, while the Tiramisu ($14.90) was undeniably delectable, the Zuccotto alla Fiorentina ($14.90) offered a rare glimpse into a traditional Florentine sweet. Originating from Florence, this classic dessert is typically crafted in a distinctive pumpkin-shaped mould. Beneath its cake exterior lies a creamy ricotta ice cream filling, complemented by a contrasting sweet-tart berry sauce.

Pietrasanta has long been a staple in the area, and it’s no surprise given its rustic flavours and traditional recipes executed with finesse. While the dishes embrace simplicity, they are rich in character, with the Salsiccia e Cavolo Nero pizza and Pici all’Aglione standing out as highlights worth returning for.

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.


Ristorante Pietrasanta
1 Fusionpolis Way
#01-08
Singapore 138632
Tel: +65 98639253
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Nearest MRT: One-North (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at One-North MRT station. Take Exit C. Turn right and walk out of the building. Turn left and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Acqua e Farina @ Keong Saik - Budget-Friendly Italian Lunches Meet Bold New Creations

Acqua e Farina refreshes its menus at both outlets, introducing an enticing selection of new dishes ranging from comforting Italian lunch classics to more refined à la carte creations. The newly curated lunch menu offers an accessible, wallet-friendly entry point for diners seeking authentic Italian flavours, while the all-day à la carte selection showcases deeper, more robust interpretations that reflect the kitchen’s creativity and craftsmanship. We had the opportunity to sample several highlights from the new menu, and it proved to be a satisfying journey through both tradition and innovation.

Mortadella and Scamorza Cheese Rolls 4.5/5

We began with the Mortadella and Scamorza Cheese Rolls ($17), a delightful take on a beloved Italian street snack. Each roll features slices of mortadella wrapped around creamy, lightly smoked scamorza cheese, then carefully breaded and fried until golden. What appears deceptively simple is in fact a labour-intensive process, with each component meticulously prepared by hand. Biting into the crisp exterior reveals a molten, stretchy cheese centre that melds seamlessly with the savoury richness of the mortadella. The accompanying housemade spicy tomato sauce adds a gentle tang and subtle heat, tying the dish together harmoniously without overpowering its core flavours.

Linguine tossed with Smoked Salmon in Cream Pesto Sauce 4.8/5

Another standout from the lunch selection is the Linguine tossed with Smoked Salmon in Cream Pesto Sauce ($23). This dish carries a personal story from Chef Antonio, inspired by a memorable flavour combination that left a lasting impression on him. The result is a beautifully balanced plate of pasta that surprises with its duality — rich yet refreshing. The linguine is cooked to a perfect al dente texture and coated in a luscious cream sauce, punctuated by generous flakes of smoky, delicate salmon. What elevates the dish is the addition of pesto, whose bright, herbaceous notes cut through the richness and lend an aromatic complexity. It is an unexpectedly harmonious pairing that works brilliantly, making it one of the most memorable dishes of the meal.

Sardine Fritte 5/5

From the à la carte menu, the Sardine Fritte ($34) emerged as a clear favourite. Featuring wild-caught sardines from the Tyrrhenian Sea, flown into Singapore multiple times a week, the dish highlights the restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and meticulous preparation. Each sardine is painstakingly deboned and butterflied by hand before being breaded and deep-fried to golden perfection. The result is an incredibly crisp exterior that gives way to tender, flavourful flesh within. Notably, the batter adds an extra dimension of texture — light yet crunchy, almost reminiscent of popping sensations that make each bite particularly enjoyable. Paired with a housemade tartar sauce of aioli, onions and capers, the dish achieves a satisfying balance between briny freshness and creamy indulgence, evoking the coastal flavours of Southern Italy.

Rigatoni alla Vaccinara 4.2/5

Another hearty addition is the Rigatoni alla Vaccinara ($37), a dish deeply rooted in Roman culinary history. Originating from the Testaccio district, this humble yet robust recipe was born from necessity, transforming lesser cuts such as oxtail into a rich, slow-cooked delicacy. At Acqua e Farina, the oxtail is first seared, then braised in the oven for over five hours, and further simmered in a terracotta pot for another three. The result is incredibly tender meat infused with a deeply concentrated sauce of tomatoes, vegetables and natural juices. Tossed with firm, ridged rigatoni and finished with Parmigiano Reggiano, the dish delivers bold, comforting flavours that speak of tradition and patience.

Mini Dessert Trio 4/5

To round off the meal, we enjoyed the Mini Dessert Trio ($10), available as part of the lunch set. This thoughtfully curated platter features three classic Italian desserts in petite portions, each made in-house. The Crème Brûlée offers a rich, velvety custard topped with a delicate layer of caramelised sugar, while the Panna Cotta is smooth and creamy, complemented by a bright berry compote that adds a refreshing contrast. Completing the trio is the Tiramisù, crafted from an authentic recipe inspired by Milan’s famed Savini restaurant, layering espresso-soaked ladyfingers with mascarpone cream and a generous dusting of cocoa. It is a well-balanced and satisfying finale that allows diners to sample a variety of sweet treats without feeling overly indulgent.

Overall, the new menu at Acqua e Farina successfully bridges the gap between approachable Italian comfort food and more refined culinary expressions. Whether you are visiting for a casual weekday lunch or a more indulgent dining experience, the expanded offerings cater to every palate. With its thoughtful execution and dedication to authentic flavours, Acqua e Farina continues to establish itself as a reliable destination for Italian cuisine in Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Acqua e Farina
35A Keong Saik Road
Singapore 089142
Tel: +65 9105 2377
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park MRT (EW, TE, NE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11.30am - 2.30pm, 5.30pm - 10.30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight towards Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Siak Road. Walk down Keong Siak Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk straight down Neil Road to Teck Lim Road. Turn right onto Teck Lim Road. Walk down Teck Lim Road to Keong Saik Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 3 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]

Bouillon Gavroche @ Mandarin Gallery - Asia’s First Traditional Parisian Bouillon

Bringing a slice of 19th-century Paris to the heart of Orchard Road, Bouillon Gavroche at Mandarin Gallery introduces Singapore to the timeless charm of the traditional French bouillon. As Asia’s first of its kind, the concept revives a historic dining culture that predates the brasserie and bistro, where hearty, honest French fare is served all day in a lively, convivial setting.

Unlike its more refined sibling, Brasserie Gavroche, this new concept embraces accessibility — both in pricing and atmosphere — offering a menu of comforting French classics designed for everyday dining. With starters from $6, mains from $16, and desserts from $6, it is a refreshing addition to the local dining scene, where quality French cuisine is often associated with heftier price tags.

Camembert Pané 4/5

The Camembert Pané ($14) is a quintessential French comfort starter. Encased in a golden, crisp breadcrumb crust, the thick wheel of Camembert reveals a luscious molten centre upon cutting. The richness of the cheese is thoughtfully balanced by a side of fresh greens, whose light acidity cuts through the indulgence. It is simple yet deeply satisfying.

Oeufs Mimosa 4/5

A staple across Parisian bouillons, the Oeufs Mimosa ($6) celebrates the beauty of simplicity. Hard-boiled eggs are halved and filled with a creamy yolk mixture bound with mayonnaise and lightly seasoned with herbs. Unpretentious and nostalgic, the dish reflects the restaurant’s ethos, humble ingredients, executed with care.

Rillettes de Saumon 4.2/5

The Rillettes de Saumon ($12) offers a delightful interplay of textures and flavours. Combining both poached and smoked salmon, the spread achieves a balance between delicate freshness and savoury depth. Lightly bound with crème fraîche and lifted with a hint of lemon zest, it remains refreshing on the palate. Paired with toasted bread, it makes for an easy yet refined starter.

Salade d’Endives 3.5/5

The Salade d’Endives ($12) is a vibrant composition of contrasting flavours and textures. Crisp endive leaves bring a gentle bitterness, complemented by the creamy saltiness of Roquefort, the crunch of toasted walnuts, and the sweetness of fresh apple slices. While refreshing, its assertive flavour profile may not appeal to all, but it serves well as a palate cleanser amid richer dishes.

Ravioles de Royan aux Épinards 4/5

The Ravioles de Royan aux Épinards ($16) showcases a regional French speciality from the Dauphiné. These delicate, bite-sized pasta parcels feature thin, silky skins that almost dissolve in the mouth, encasing a creamy cheese filling. Served atop a bed of sautéed spinach, the dish achieves a lovely balance between richness and earthy freshness.

Beef Bourguignon, Coquillettes 4.2/5

A highlight on the menu, the Beef Bourguignon, Coquillettes ($26) delivers deep, comforting flavours. The beef is braised until fork-tender in a rich red wine reduction, imbued with the sweetness of slow-cooked vegetables. Instead of the usual potatoes, it is paired with coquillettes, small elbow pasta that soaks up the robust sauce beautifully. Nostalgic and hearty, it captures the soul of traditional French home cooking.

Parmentier de Canard 4/5

The Parmentier de Canard ($22) is a rustic, comforting dish akin to a French-style shepherd’s pie. Beneath a blanket of smooth, buttery mashed potatoes lies shredded duck confit, rich and deeply flavourful. Baked to a light golden finish, it is a hearty, no-frills dish that embodies the essence of French “cuisine bourgeoise” — honest, filling, and immensely satisfying.

Profiterole 4.5/5

The Profiterole ($10) is a standout dessert. The airy choux pastry, lightly crisp on the outside, encases a swirl of vanilla soft serve. What elevates the dish is the warm, luscious chocolate sauce poured generously over the top, creating a delightful contrast of hot and cold while slowly melting the ice cream into a creamy pool.

Tarte Fine aux Pommes 4.2/5

The Tarte Fine aux Pommes ($8) is a study in restraint and precision. A thin sheet of puff pastry forms the base, baked until crisp and buttery, topped with delicately sliced apples arranged in a neat pattern. Lightly caramelised at the edges, the apples retain their natural tartness, allowing the fruit to shine without excessive sweetness.

Mousse au Chocolat 4.2/5

Ending on a classic note, the Mousse au Chocolat ($8) delivers a rich yet airy indulgence. Smooth and velvety with a slight density, it strikes a fine balance between lightness and depth, offering a satisfying chocolate finish without being overly heavy.

Bouillon Gavroche successfully captures the spirit of Parisian bouillon dining — approachable, comforting, and steeped in tradition. The menu focuses on familiar French classics executed with finesse, while the pricing makes it accessible for casual, repeat visits. In a dining landscape where French cuisine often leans towards the formal and extravagant, Bouillon Gavroche stands out with its relaxed charm and honest cooking. In this place, one can simply drop in, enjoy a hearty meal, and return time and again.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Bouillon Gavroche
Mandarin Gallery
333A Orchard Road
#01-16/17
Singapore 238897
Tel: +65 8522 0998
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. Cross the road and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Lucine by LUNA @ Somerset - New Halal Certified Savoury Menu with Over 30 Options Under $20

Starting 28 April, Lucine by LUNA at Somerset will launch its brand-new savoury menu, featuring more than 30 items, all priced under $20.

The cafe, newly Halal-certified and located at 111 Somerset, is best known for its intricate petit cakes from homegrown patisserie LUNA.

Korean Spicy Marinated Egg with Scrambled Eggs Toast 3/5

The viral Korean marinated egg, also known as Mayak ("drug") eggs, inspired Lucine's Korean Spicy Marinated Egg with Scrambled Eggs Toast ($14.90). Served on toasted brioche, it is topped with creamy scrambled eggs and a savoury-sweet marinated egg with a jammy centre. We would have preferred a thicker brioche for better texture and a stronger marination on the egg.

Crispy Breaded Chicken 2.8/5

Next was the Crispy Breaded Chicken ($16.90), featuring boneless chicken thigh coated in a house-made breadcrumb crust.

Superb Dry Laksa 3.5/5

Lucine's expanded menu also introduces a wider selection of pasta dishes. The Superb Dry Laksa ($16.90) is one of the new additions, with pasta tossed in a house-made rempah and paired with prawns, fishcake and taupok. While the pasta could have had a better bite, we enjoyed the bold, flavourful rempah with a pleasant heat.

Tofu 4.2/5

The gorgeous petit cakes remain the highlight, and we were spoilt for choice. Our first pick was the crowd favourite, Tofu ($8.50), featuring a unique combination of silken tofu cream, hazelnut ganache, and buckwheat-infused crème anglaise mousse, all atop a crisp sablée base. It was delightfully light and well-balanced.

LUNA 2.0 Petite 4.2/5

For chocolate lovers, the LUNA 2.0 Petite ($9) is a must-try. Dig into the Valrhona Guanaja 70% chocolate mousse layered with hazelnut sponge, and you'll uncover a crunchy centre of crushed hazelnuts, salted caramel, hazelnut dacquoise and dark chocolate-coated feuilletine.

Photos and words by Jo. A lady who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Lucine by LUNA
111 Somerset Road
#01-06
Singapore 238164
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 930am - 630pm
Fri-Sat: 930am - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]