Open Farm Community @ Dempsey - Bringing Its Beloved Weekend Brunch to Diners Every Day of The Week

Brunch has become a daily affair at Open Farm Community at Dempsey. You can now enjoy its once-weekend brunch menu any day of the week, surrounded by the lush greenery of its open farm and edible gardens. Even better, your furry companions are warmly welcomed, as guests who choose to dine alfresco with their pets will enjoy a discount on their bill.

OFC Farm Bread 4/5

Burrata 4/5

For starters, the OFC Farm Bread ($12) features the restaurant’s beloved sourdough and focaccia, served with a subtly flavoured salted butter. We paired it with the Burrata ($28), which whetted my appetite with savoury and meaty San Daniele ham, complemented by the acidity and sweetness of charred grapes and tomato jam, and a satisfying crunch from toasted pine nuts.

Beef Tongue Yakitori 5/5

For something bolder, the Beef Tongue Yakitori was a standout. The Bak Kut Teh marinated beef tongue was expertly prepared, with a slightly charred exterior that complemented its rich flavour. Shredded ginger flowers added freshness and helped balance the gaminess, resulting in a well-rounded dish.

Pulled Pork Benedict 4.5/5

The Brunch and Lunch menu features a lineup of well-loved classics. My favourite brunch item was the Pulled Pork Benedict ($29), a satisfying plate with tender and flavourful pork ragout accompanied by creamy sous vide eggs that enriched every bite with a luxurious mouthfeel. The hollandaise, done espuma style, delivered the same tangy richness in a lighter and airier form, enhancing the dish without the usual heaviness.

Shakshuka 3/5

Avocado Toast 3/5

Shakshuka and Avocado Toast are both presented in bowl form, similar to one another. The former features spiced tomato sauce and feta, while the latter is topped with mashed avocado and tomato salsa. While this format makes for easier eating, it slightly diminishes the essence of the dishes, especially the shakshuka. It would have been much more exciting to have it served hot in a pan with eggs poached directly in the sauce. The flavours leaned mild, with just a faint hint of fennel rather than the expected spice-forward kick. Still, both dishes remained wholesome, anchored by perfectly creamy yolks.

Spanish Omelette 3/5

The Spanish Omelette was given a local twist, topped with a heap of minced meat and mushrooms seasoned like bak chor mee. Though it had a beautifully golden exterior, it resembled more of a potato frittata, with more egg than potato, lacking the creamy and slightly starchy consistency that defines a traditional Spanish omelette made with slow-cooked potatoes.

Buttermilk Pancakes 3.5/5

For something sweet, the Buttermilk Pancakes ($22), served with banana brûlée and ice cream, were delightful, featuring a subtle bounce in texture.

Granola Yoghurt Bowl 2/5

The Granola Yoghurt Bowl ($18), however, was slightly too sweet, with yoghurt that was both thinner and sweeter than ideal. A version with tangier yoghurt and crunchy granola would have provided better contrast and balance.

Beer-Battered Fish & Chips 4/5

From the lunch selections, the Beer-Battered Fish & Chips ($34) impressed with its light, crisp batter encasing flavourful fish, complemented by equally well-executed chips.

Creamy Mushroom Mafaldine Pasta 4/5

The Creamy Mushroom Mafaldine Pasta, made with local mixed mushrooms, stood out for its firm and chewy texture. Meanwhile, the sauce, cheesy and accented with sharp Pecorino Romano, had just the right consistency to coat each ribbon beautifully. 15% off their bill.

Lemon Meringue Pavlova 3.5/5

Deconstructed Tiramisu 4.5/5

For desserts, the Deconstructed Tiramisu ($19) and Lemon Meringue Pavlova ($19) offer two very different experiences. I found the former more memorable, featuring an intense layer of Kahlua-soaked sponge complemented by light, aerated chocolate bites.

What truly stood out for me was the atmosphere at Open Farm Community. The space exudes a relaxed, nature-filled charm that invites one to linger. Offering a 15% discount to those who dine at the spacious alfresco area with their pets is also a thoughtful touch, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to food, nature, community, and sustainability.

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.


Open Farm Community
130E Minden Road
Singapore 248819
Tel: +65 64710306
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Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 9pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 330pm, 6pm - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to Minden Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 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]

Torno Subito @ COMO Dempsey - Playful Italian Dining with a Riviera Twist

At Torno Subito, Italian dining takes on a playful new rhythm with refreshed menus that include a revamped à la carte selection, a renewed three-course Formula Lunch, and an updated Riviera Tour tasting experience. Helmed by Executive Chef Alessio Pirozzi and part of renowned chef Massimo Bottura’s culinary family, the Dempsey outpost continues to reinterpret classic Italian flavours through a modern, Riviera-inspired lens.

Our dinner began with complimentary freshly baked bread paired with anchovy butter. It is a comforting trio to warm the stomach before the meal proper. My favourite was the tomato sourdough, with its light tanginess that paired beautifully with the savoury butter.

Alta Marea 3.5/5

The Alta Marea ($98) was a striking platter of raw, cured and smoked seafood, akin to a “seafood charcuterie board.” Unique and rarely seen in restaurants, it offered a range of flavours and textures. The standout for me was the cuttlefish, which had a clean, sweet flavour.

Fichi 4/5

The Fichi Pizza ($38/$58) arrived topped with Fior di Latte cheese, culatello ham, marinated fig, and pecorino foam. The chewy dough base tied the savoury and sweet elements together harmoniously, making each bite a joy.

Tagliatella 4.5/5

The Tagliatella ($48) was the star of the evening. Perfectly cooked traditional egg pasta paired with a bold, richly flavoured hand-chopped Wagyu ragu, one of Massimo Bottura’s favourites. Comforting, indulgent, and deeply satisfying.

Tortellino 4/5

The Tortellino ($48) featured miniature stuffed pasta in a creamy sauce made from 36-month-aged Parmigiano Reggiano. Silky and luxurious, it was reminiscent of cereal in milk, but in the most decadent, cheesy way possible.

Prochetta 4.2/5

Perfect for sharing, the Prochetta ($98) showcased roasted milk-fed suckling pig rolled into a roulade, served with peach compote and Swiss chard. The sweet and bitter notes of the accompaniments perfectly balanced the richness of the meat.

Cocco Bello 4/5

For dessert, the Cocco Bello ($20) offered a refreshing finish with lemon and mint sorbet, foamy coconut, and kaffir lime meringue. Light, sweet, and zesty, it was the perfect dessert after all the richness in the meal.

Tiramisubito 4/5

The Tiramisubito ($22) reinvented tradition in a modern presentation while retaining the classic flavours of coffee, mascarpone, and cocoa. Familiar yet novel, each spoonful was comforting and indulgent.

The meal concluded with a thoughtful petit four, a lovely sweet touch that served as a fitting closure to an evening that showcased Torno Subito’s ability to bring playful creativity and Riviera flair to Italian dining in Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Torno Subito
26 Dempsey Road
#01-01
Singapore 249686
Tel: +65 6486 1053
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Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm
(Closed on Mon-Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to bus stop at Napier Station (Stop ID 13011). Take bus number 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123 or 174. Alight 2 stops later. Take the stairs up to Dempsey Road. Continue taking the stairs up to the hill to block 26. Turn left and walk to destination. Journey time about 8 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]

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]