SONS at China Square Central is a modern Italian trattoria-style bar and restaurant that provides a range of mains, nibbles and drinks at affordable pricing. When it first opened its door in 2014, it impressed me by being one of the first restaurants that made their own speciality-cured meat and salami. It has recently launched a new menu, introducing new dishes that will bring a new joy to your experience at SONS.
Homemade Salami Platter 4/5
The salami at SONS is all made inhouse using artisanal Italian curing method in its very own curing room. To try a few varieties, order a Homemade Salami Platter ($22) which comprises 4 types of Salumi - Smoked Kurobuta Pork Lonza, Capocollo, Guanciale and Pancetta. If you would like to bring some home, they are also available for retail at both SONS and on Redmart.
Baccalá Cakes 4/5
What I remembered SONS for is this visually stunning charcoal black Baccala Cakes ($18), served with sea urchin sabayon. One of its signature dishes, these fritters are made from premium salted cod and mashed potato, and what gives them the black coat is squid ink breadcrumbs. Juxtaposed with the rich, yellow creamy sea urchin sabayon that has been caramelised on the surface which exudes a hint of sweetness. It is an elevated croquette dish that excites all senses.
Mushroom & Truffle Bruschetta 3.8/5
If you love your truffles, this mouth-filling Mushroom & Truffle Bruschetta with Smoked Scamorza ($15) will not disappoint. 2 very thin slices of house-made rustic bread grilled and slathered with truffle paste, then layered with melted Smoked Scamorza. This is followed by piling on sauteed shimeji mushrooms, finished with shavings of fresh truffles and micro herbs. It is very rich in taste, hence sharing is recommended.
Cured Salmon Tartare, Avocado & Wholewheat Crostini 3/5
On the other spectrum, Cured Salmon Tartare, Avocado & Wholewheat Crostini ($15) serves as a good alternative for a light and refreshing starter.
3-Meat Sausage 3.5/5
SONS makes its own sausages as well. 3-Meat Sausage, Broccoletti & Mustard Sauce ($29) is a new main that features its housemade sausage packed with pork, beef and lamb, seasoned with herbs and pepper. Served sizzling hot, what first hit us was the mouthwatering, intense aroma of freshly grated parmesan cheese wafting from the hot pan. I like the way this dish is being executed, which stands out from a regular sausage recipe.
Duck Leg Confit 3/5
The portion of the Duck Leg Confit with Cannellini & Cherry Tomatoes ($26) is generous, but the meat was a tad too dry. The cannellini stew was more pleasing, comforting with sweet, roasted tomatoes and rosemary.
Kale & Nduja Ravioli 4.2/5
I remember SONS has delicious housemade pasta and it didn't disappoint in my re-visit. Kale & Nduja Ravioli with Capers & Garlic Butter ($22) may sound very simple, but every bite was packed with flavours. The ratio of the pasta to filling was also just right.
Squid-ink Tagliolini 4.5/5
The Squid-ink Tagliolini, Wild Cuttlefish & Orange Salmoriglio ($24) was tastier than it looked. Salmoriglio is traditionally made with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and herbs, and this Orange Salmoriglio brightened the flavours of the dish in its own way. Lightly tossed with seafood sauce, the housemade squid ink pasta was delicious on its own. Even after sitting in the cold for a while, the pasta remained al dente. The lightness of the pasta was just amazing.
Dolce Tiramisu with Chocolate Chips 3.8/5
We tried 3 desserts - Dolce Tiramisu with Chocolate Chips ($12), Mango & Calamansi Cheesecake ($12) and Hot Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Gelato ($13). The Tiramisu was definitely the highlight for me since it has been a while since I last had a good one. It was light and not too cloying, best summed up my experience at SONS.
Hot Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Gelato
Mango & Calamansi Cheesecake
Written 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.
SONS
China Square Central
20 Cross Street
#01-19
Singapore 048422
Website
Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT Line, NE Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)
Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 1pm
Sat: 6pm - 2am
(Closed on Sun)
Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk down Telok Ayer Street towards the direction of China Square Food Centre. Turn left onto Pekin Street. Continue until the end of Pekin Street. Cross the road to Nakin Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]
2) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk to the junction of South Bridge Road and Upper Cross Street. Cross the road and walk to China Square Central. Walk towards Nakin Street and turn right on Nakin Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]
