Rang Mahal Restaurant & Bar @ Naumi Hotel Singapore - Relocate and Rebrand to Its Root as A Family-Run Restaurant

Rang Mahal has found a new home at Naumi Hotel Singapore, now established as Rang Mahal Restaurant & Bar. This marks an evolution for the brand after a remarkable 54-year culinary journey, from its beginnings as a family-run restaurant at the Imperial Hotel to its long-standing presence as a modern Indian fine dining destination at Pan Pacific Singapore from 2000 to 2025. The refreshed concept brings together the best of North, South, and coastal Indian cuisines, while also spotlighting some of the family recipes that add a personal touch to the dining experience.

Khakra & Chutney Dips 5/5

Appetisers set the tone beautifully, offering bold flavours wrapped in comfort and nostalgia. A much more exciting alternative to the traditional papadum, the Khakra & Chutney Dips ($10) features crisp Gujarati-style crackers made with wholemeal flour and aromatic spices, paired with three homemade chutneys — tangy mint, sweet mango, and spiced mustard yoghurt. Nutty and spice-forward, the trio of chutneys enriched every bite with a punch of flavours.

Maa's Chilli Cheese Pakoras 4.5/5

A family recipe from the mother of the Director and second-generation owner, Maa's Chilli Cheese Pakoras ($18) features green chillies stuffed with cheddar and cream cheese, battered in spiced gram flour, then fried to golden perfection. The creamy, mildly sweet cheese filling mellowed the heat of the chilli, balanced by a refreshing mint-beetroot sauce.

Arshiya's Chowpatty Slider 3.5/5

Arshiya's Chowpatty Slider ($20), named after the founder's daughter and inspired by Mumbai's Chowpatty Beach, is a nostalgic street snack of spiced potato patties with onions, chilli powder, chaat masala, and cumin, sandwiched in buttery buns with tamarind and coriander spreads. The sweet-tangy tamarind imparted an unexpected, but welcoming tang to the slider.

Calcutta Pani Puri 4/5

Another quintessential Indian street food, Calcutta Pani Puri ($16), arrived as crispy puris that we had the joy to fill the golden shells ourselves with seasoned potatoes and tamarind-mint water before popping them into our mouths.

Non-Vegetarian Grill Platter 4.5/5

The Mains range from Grill Platters, Curries and Biryani. The Non-Vegetarian Grill Platter ($52) came sizzling with Tandoori Chicken Tikka, Tiger Prawns, and Lamb Seekh Kebab. The meats were well-marinated and tender, flavourful without being overly salted. The Lamb Seekh Kebab, in particular, stood out for its balance of spice and succulence, offering a well-rounded bite.

Kokan Fish Curry 4.5/5

For a taste of coastal Maharashtrian cuisine, the Kokan Fish Curry ($28) was a highlight, featuring moist seabass simmered in a coconut-based Konkani masala, with kokum adding a gentle tang. While the curry was well-balanced, a slightly stronger dose of kokum would have enhanced the dish's brightness.

Old Delhi Butter Chicken 3.5/5

A perennial favourite, the Old Delhi Butter Chicken ($30) featured tandoor-roasted chicken simmered in a rich tomato and fenugreek gravy, finished with cream. While the chicken was perfectly tender, the sauce leaned a touch too creamy and sweet, as I would prefer it to be more savoury.

Hyderabadi Lamb Biryani 3.5/5

Garlic Naan 3/5

The Hyderabadi Lamb Biryani ($30) was fragrant and flavourful, with the rice beautifully cooked and each grain distinct. However, some lamb pieces were slightly dry. The dish paired wonderfully with Burani Raita ($16), a yoghurt spiked with dehydrated garlic, which also complemented the Garlic Naan ($16); however, the naan could be fluffier.

Nani's Lychee Kulfi 5/5

Dessert was Nani's Lychee Kulfi ($16). The homemade kulfi, cut into cubes and laced with bits of lychee for added texture, had well-balanced sweetness and a lingering lychee aroma. Rang Mahal is indeed a brand that has truly stood the test of time.

Its new location and refreshed concept have opened the doors to a broader audience, allowing more diners to experience its enduring charm and refined Indian cuisine. Reservations are recommended via https://www.rangmahal.com.sg/

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.


Rang Mahal Restaurant & Bar
Naumi Hotel Singapore
Level 1
41 Seah Street
Singapore 188396
Tel: +65 9667 4244
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sun: 12pm - 230pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic junction of Bras Basah Road and North Bridge Road. Cross the road. Walk down North Bridge Road towards Seah Street. Turn right onto Seah Street. Walk down Seah Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit F. Cross the road. Turn right and walk down Beach Road. Turn left onto Seah Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

GUPSHUP @ The Serangoon House - The Great Indian Feast, 1-for-1 Promotion

GUPSHUP at The Serangoon House presents the vibrant, diverse flavours of Indian cuisine, elevated with contemporary finesse, under the guidance of Chef Jolly, a former MasterChef India judge and an award-winning culinary personality with over 25 years of global experience. The restaurant is tucked discreetly in the basement of The Serangoon House. Its intimate space, designed in Indian colonial style, carries a sense of grandeur with a touch of mystery. Chef Jolly's curation of regional dishes is wholesome, and some of which may be unfamiliar to the local palate. It is best experienced through the newly launched The Great Indian Feast, an unlimited à la carte dining journey spanning India's rich culinary tapestry.

Lotus Papdi Chaat 3.5/5

The Feast features 13 dishes, beginning with three appetisers: Pani Poori, Bhindi Amchur, and Lotus Papdi Chaat. The Pani Poori was an absolute standout, with paper-thin semolina shells filled with crushed potato and chickpeas. Served alongside were tamarind and spicy mint shots, which were sharp and tart, making each mouthful a punchy delight. The Lotus Papdi Chaat delivered a creamier contrast with yoghurt, pomegranate-mint sauce, and the satisfying crunch of lotus crisps.

Bhindi Amchur 3/5

The Bhindi Amchur are okra fries, dusted with chickpea flour, cumin, and mango powder, leaning more towards crisp finger food than juicy bites, but made for moreish nibbles.

Amritsari Chole 4.5/5

Tandoori Kulcha 4/5

From the Small Plates, the signature Amritsari Chole and Tandoori Kulcha stood out. The curried chickpeas were deeply spiced and hearty, well stewed to tender and soft, while the kulcha, stuffed with spiced potatoes, coriander, lime, and dried pomegranate seeds, was delicious even on its own.

Chicken Chettinad Curry & Parotta 4/5

Chettinad cuisine is renowned for its rich, chilli-driven gravies, and the Chicken Chettinad Curry exemplifies South India's bold, spice-laden profile. The curry carried a robust depth with tender chicken. Unfortunately, the handmade parotta fell short, seemingly undercooked and lacking the full layering of a well-made parotta.

Gosht Seekh Kebab 4/5

Chicken 65 4/5

Chicken Keema Kal Dosa 3.5/5

Other savoury highlights included Gosht Seekh Kebab, featuring tender lamb mince skewers flavoured with garlic, coriander, and mild chillies; Chicken 65, a South Indian classic of spiced, crispy fried chicken morsels; and Chicken Keema Kal Dosa, offering homely rice flatbread topped with spiced minced chicken.

Chilli Paneer 4.5/5

One dish that intrigued me the most was Chilli Paneer, one of the most well-known dishes in Indo-Chinese cuisine. The flour-coated fried paneer is tossed in a Tangra-style sauce that is sweet, spicy, tangy, and garlicky. The flavoursome sauce was a sharp yet delicious contrast to the gentle, milky sweetness of the paneer.

Kulfi Falooda 4/5

For desserts, we had Kulfi Falooda, featuring a house-made frozen reduced milk with almond and pistachio, fragrant with cardamom and rose, topped with vermicelli, holy basil seeds and a drizzle of raspberry sauce.

Other than The Great Indian Feast, GUPSHUP has also launched a refined menu of small plates, hearty mains, and creative desserts, ranging from street-style favourites such as chaat to elevated tandoor-grilled specialities and regional delicacies.

Promotion from 1 Sep to 15 Oct 2025
1-for-1 on The Great Indian Feast, $59++ for 2pax (limit to 90mins)
Only valid on Fri, Sat and Sun lunch

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


GUPSHUP
The Serangoon House
301 Serangoon Road
Basement 1
Singapore 218224
Tel: +65 8866 0947
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Farrer Park (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm – 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Farrer Park MRT Station. Take Exit A. Walk down Rangoon Road to Serangoon Road. Turn right onto Serangoon Road. Walk down Serangoon Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

IL Giardino @ The Garage (Singapore Botanic Gardens) - Italian Cicchetti Dining with Asian Twists

il Giardino is the newest addition to The Garage at Level 2 of the Singapore Botanic Gardens, introducing an Italian dining concept served cicchetti-style, perfect for sharing among groups. Opening in time to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Gardens' UNESCO World Heritage status this month, the restaurant offers a lush, garden-side setting with Italian creations elevated by fragrant local herbs and subtle Asian touches. It's an inviting spot for couples, families, and friends to gather over good food and conversation.

Beer Bread 'Gnoco Fritto' with Ginger Flower Salsa Verde 4/5

We began with the Beer Bread ‘Gnoco Fritto’, served warm with a ginger flower salsa verde. The bread had a pleasant chew, reminiscent of our local ‘butterfly’ snack, with an airy pocket inside. The salsa verde added brightness and a subtle floral lift.

Artigiana Burratina 4.2/5

The Artigiana Burratina ($19) was luxuriously soft and creamy, paired with sour plum tomatoes, carrot purée, and trapanese & mint pesto for a vibrant punch of flavour. Almond nuts added a nutty crunch to contrast the creaminess.

Panzanella 'Singapura' 3.5/5

Panzanella 'Singapura' ($16) reimagines the rustic Italian dish with local twists comprising green mango, croutons, cashew nuts, and "ugly" heirloom tomatoes that might otherwise be discarded. The smoked tamarind vinaigrette tied it together with bright, tropical acidity.

il Giardino Hand-Cut Pressed Potatoes 4.2/5

These il Giardino Hand-Cut Pressed Potatoes ($16) delivered a crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy interior. Scallion and kelp lent an aromatic lift, while the roasted garlic aioli dip added a creamy, savoury depth.

il Giardino Slow Cooked Venetian Octopus 4.2/5

Seafood lovers can savour il Giardino's signature Slow-Cooked Venetian Octopus ($22 S / $32 L), tender and delicately infused with fresh lemon and Laudemio extra virgin olive oil (a premium blend from 21 historic estates in Tuscany). The dish is further elevated with housemade gremolata and ginger flower salsa verde, served alongside warm house bread. Adding to its charm, the octopus is plated tableside from a large pot, exuding a rustic elegance.

Spaghetti alle Vongole 4.2/5

Cooked to an al dente bite, the Spaghetti alle Vongole ($19 S / $28 L) was perfumed with fresh clams, garlic, white wine, and parsley. Herb crumbs on top added extra texture and savouriness.

Porcini & Ricotta Cheese Ravioli 4/5

The Porcini & Ricotta Cheese Ravioli ($16 S / $24 L) was rich with a five-cheese sauce, enhanced by fried sage and hazelnut for fragrance and crunch. The pear compote offered a refreshing contrast to the cheese’s richness.

Parma Pizza 3.8/5

From the Ciabatta Romana Pizza selection, the Parma Ham ($19 S/ $28 L) version came topped with parma ham, mushrooms, arugula, honey, and truffle cream. It offered a lively mix of sweet, savoury, and earthy flavours on a satisfying dough base.

Pan Roasted King Salmon 3.8/5

The Pan Roasted King Salmon ($28) was crowned with a crisp parsley and pine nut crust. The ginger flower salsa verde and Chef Felix's eggplant caponata, which was tangy and flavour-packed, made for a bright pairing.

Half Roasted Corn-fed Chicken 3/5

The Half Roasted Corn-fed Chicken ($18 half / $28 whole) was moist and succulent from brining and roasting, finished with a light Amalfi lemon caper sauce. A deeper char or punchier seasoning could elevate it further.

Slow Braised Osso Bucco 4/5

The Slow-Braised Osso Bucco ($28 S / $38 L) presents fork-tender veal bathed in a luxurious Barolo wine jus, paired with silky whipped potatoes and brightened by a zesty kaffir lime gremolata. This refreshing Asian twist cuts through the richness. Of the three mains, this was easily my favourite.

il Giardino Affogato 3.8/5

A decadent finale, the il Giardino Affogato ($14) featured gelato on a crunchy buttered base of almond and upcycled ground coffee. A hot espresso pour melted the Valrhona chocolate shell, revealing berries and mint — aromatic, dramatic, and delicious.

Crispy, Fried Italian Pastries 'Chiacchiere' 3/5

Choose from vanilla, hazelnut, honey ginger, or blood orange sorbet/gelato with these airy, crispy Fried Italian Pastries 'Chiacchiere' ($16). Dusted generously with powdered sugar, they were light and sweet, though more memorable for texture than flavour.

With its cicchetti-style Italian menu infused with local and Asian touches, il Giardino makes for a charming dining experience in one of Singapore’s most scenic settings. While some dishes could use a little more punch, most plates hit a satisfying balance between creativity and comfort, making it a welcome addition to the Botanic Gardens dining scene.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


IL Giardino
The Garage (Singapore Botanic Gardens)
Level 2
50 Cluny Park Road
Singapore 257488
Tel: +65 9831 1106
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Botanic Gardens (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Fri: 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Botanic Gardens MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Cluny Park Road. Turn left onto Cluny Park Road and continue walking down the road. At Cluny Park Gate, walk in and walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

1-Alfaro by Monti @ Labrador Tower - The Newest Rooftop Lifestyle Destination with Stunning Views

1-Group has unveiled yet another stunning dining destination with the launch of 1-Alfaro by MONTI, perched on the 34th floor of Labrador Tower. Opened on 2 June 2025, this chic lifestyle enclave brings together two complementary concepts: the refined Italian restaurant La Torre and the high-energy rooftop bar La Luna. With breathtaking panoramic views of the southern coastline and city skyline, 1-Alfaro captures the spirit of Italian hospitality and elegance, inspired by the lighthouses of Emilia-Romagna.

Our meal began with complimentary Toasted Bread served with Friggione, a traditional slow-cooked onion and tomato dish, reduced until deeply caramelised and jammy. It set a comforting and flavourful tone for the meal.

Stecco Petroniano 4.2/5

A hit at the table is the Stecco Petroniano ($14 for 2pc). These deep-fried rolls of mortadella and provolone, wrapped in béchamel and double-crumbed, delivered on flavour and texture. The caramelised shallot compote dip added a gentle sweetness that elevated every bite.

La Torre's Fried Lasagna 4.2/5

A playful and indulgent twist on the classic lasagna is the La Torre's Fried Lasagna ($18 for 5pc). These crispy golden parcels layered with wagyu ragu and cheese are coated in breadcrumbs and fried to perfection. A unique bar snack or starter that delights with every crunch.

Stracciatella Cheese 4/5

Creamy Stracciatella Cheese ($18) is paired with Parma ham, rosemary honey, and marinated cherry tomatoes, then topped with strips of crispy polenta for textural contrast. It is a well-balanced dish of savoury, sweet, and creamy elements.

Tortellini 4.2/5

Though petite, these Tortellini ($16) are packed with a flavourful filling of pork, veal, mortadella, and Parmigiano Reggiano. Floating in a robust chicken consommé, they showcase the finesse of traditional Emilia-Romagna pasta craftsmanship.

Tagliatelle 4.5/5

An absolute standout is the Tagliatelle ($14 Half/ $28 Full). The beef bolognese, slow-cooked in milk and aromatics, is rich and comforting. Topped with béchamel espuma, Grana Padano, and basil oil, every bite is harmoniously creamy, meaty, and herbaceous.

Fettuccine Flat Egg Pasta 4.2/5

Don’t be fooled by the minimalist presentation. Tossed with tomatoes and squacquerone cheese and finished with shallots, the Fettuccine Flat Egg Pasta ($13 Half/ $26 Full) is deceptively flavourful with a delightfully chewy bite.

La Torre's Pan-Roasted Lasagna 4.5/5

The La Torre's Pan-Roasted Lasagna ($13 Half/ $26 Full) is a layered beauty of bolognese, béchamel, and mozzarella, baked till bubbling and then pan-fried for a crisp crust. Served with tomato sauce and parmesan cream, this is lasagna with flair and finesse.

"Curzoli Romagnoli" Thick Egg Pasta 4/5

The "Curzoli Romagnoli" Thick Egg Pasta ($14 Half/ $28 Full) is a denser, thicker egg pasta tossed with Manila clams, lemon-parsley butter, and finished with bottarga and breadcrumbs. A punchy, umami-forward dish that might surprise with its chew but rewards with flavour.

Queensland Baby Barramundi (300-500gram) 4.2/5

Grilled skin-side down over charcoal, the Queensland Baby Barramundi ($38) from Rockypoint Farm offers a clean, sweet, and buttery flavour with firm flakes. Finished with grilled lemon and parsley, it’s simplicity done right.

USDA Prime Heritage Linz Ribeye on the bone 'Costata' 4/5

The USDA Prime Heritage Linz Ribeye on the bone 'Costata' ($148) is charcoal-grilled to perfection. This ribeye is wonderfully marbled and full of natural flavour. The accompaniments – roasted garlic, salsa verde, and sea salt flakes – enhance without overpowering.

Fried Wagyu Fat Potatoes 3.5/5

Leafy Green from our Garden 3/5

Wood-Fried US Asparagus 3/5

To complement the mains, we had a trio of sides: Fried Wagyu Fat Potatoes ($16), Leafy Greens from Our Garden ($12), and Wood-Fired US Asparagus ($16). Each was designed to round out the meal, though some stood out more than others.

La Torre's House-Made Burrata Gelato with Rosemary Tuile 4/5

The La Torre's House-Made Burrata Gelato with Rosemary Tuile ($17) is an intriguing dessert combining the creaminess of burrata with the subtle savoury edge of extra virgin olive oil. The rosemary tuile, Parmigiano shavings, and fig vincotto tie it all together with an elegant complexity.

Italian Trifle 'Zuppa Inglese' 3.8/5

The Italian Trifle 'Zuppa Inglese' ($15) is a classic Italian dessert that features Savoiardi (ladyfinger) biscuits soaked in Herring Cherry Liqueur, layered with vanilla-lemon pastry cream, chocolate mousse, and raspberry gel. Finished with a topping of fresh raspberries and an extra drizzle of raspberry gel, the trifle offers a delightful balance of richness, fruitiness, and a boozy kick.

Lambrusco Poached Pear 4/5

The Lambrusco Poached Pear ($17) is poached in Lambrusco wine and warm spices. This dessert is comforting and aromatic. The combination of pecan crumbs, pistachio gelato, and aged balsamic adds sophistication and balance.

1-Alfaro by MONTI is a stunning addition to Singapore’s Italian dining scene, impressing with its refined execution of regional favourites, creative presentation, and sweeping skyline views. Whether you’re there for a date night, special celebration, or to indulge in soulful Italian fare, La Torre delivers on both quality and experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


1-Alfaro by Monti
Labrador Tower
1 Pasir Panjang Road
#34-00
Singapore 118479
Tel: +65 8093 5683
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Labrador Park (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 11am - 1am
Sun: 11am - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Labrador Park MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic light junction. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]