LUCE @ Frasers House - Unveils a Richer, More Immersive Dining Experience

Curated under the direction of Chef de Cuisine Giuseppe Di Caetano, Luce at Fraser House introduces a more indulgent and dynamic dining experience, marked by an expanded lineup of live stations and a deeper repertoire of dishes.

Seafood on Ice

The experience began the moment I stepped in, greeted by an impressive seafood-on-ice display showcasing premium selections such as Japanese oysters, wild-caught Australian spanner crab, and an array of seasonal shellfish.

Cold Cuts and Charcuterie

The Cold Cuts and Charcuterie Room is an ideal way to start, a dedicated space housing an extensive selection of artisanal cheeses from Italy and France, including a noteworthy 36-month-aged cheddar, alongside premium cured meats like the 18-month dry-cured Prosciutto di Parma.

Chilled Antipasti and Salads

Burrata

The spread includes a variety of chilled antipasti and salads, with burrata as a highlight. A sushi and sashimi selection is also available alongside.

Housemade Squid Ink Tagliolini

Pasta station

At the heart of Luce lies its Italian culinary tradition. One of the standout live stations features the Housemade Squid Ink Tagliolini, prepared tableside on a gueridon. Tossed with fresh river prawn and a fragrant kaffir crustacean bisque, the dish is finished in a signature Parmesan wheel for added depth and richness. The pasta station also offers choices such as Trofie, Cheese Ravioli, and Rigatoni, complemented by sauces like Guanciale Carbonara and slow-cooked Beef Bolognese.

Bone Marrow

Brandy and Mustard Marinated Angus Beef Striploin

From the live stations, the Brandy and Mustard Marinated Angus Beef Striploin is a notable highlight, served alongside indulgent open flame bone marrow, green asparagus, vine tomatoes, and a brandy rosemary sauce.

Louisiana Style Barbecue Pork Ribs

Pollo Limone

Rotational roasts add variety, including Louisiana Style Barbecue Pork Ribs with Grilled Pineapple and Pollo Limone, featuring free-range chicken marinated with Cajun spices and finished with a lemon-and-mushroom cream sauce.

Oven Baked Sustainable Barramundi

Amongst the Italian specialities, channelling the essence of coastal Italian cuisine, the Sicilian-style Whole Branzino, presented as an oven-baked sustainable barramundi, was moist and tender, scrumptious with capers, tomatoes, olives, and perfectly cooked potatoes that brought everything together beautifully.

Seafood Stew

Vegetable Stew

Comforting classics such as Il Caciucco di Mare, a robust mixed seafood stew, and Frecanto di Verdure, a full-bodied vegetable medley brimming with the vibrant flavours of black olives, oregano, capers, tomato, garlic, onion, and white wine.

Homemade Meatballs

For homely fare, the Homemade Meatballs in fresh basil and tomato marinara deliver familiar comfort. At the same time, the Ragout alla Genovese, featuring slow-braised Wagyu with durum wheat pasta, was a pleasing staple.

Signature Pork Lup Cheong e Gorgonzola Dolce Pizza

The Pinsa station dishes out freshly made pizzas that take centre stage, including a cross-cultural creation: the Chef’s Signature Pork Lup Cheong e Gorgonzola Dolce Pizza, where the savoury, smoky lup cheong is balanced by a cream-softened Gorgonzola.

Fraser House Signature Laksa station

Satays

Local favourites remain a strong draw, with Fraser House Signature Laksa and Grilled Chicken and Beef Satay continuing to impress, the latter particularly notable for its spice-forward marinade and aromatic depth.

Braised Pork Belly

The Asian selection features staples such as Mee Goreng, Dim Sum, and curries. However, the standout was undoubtedly the Braised Iberico Pork Belly with dried chilli and five spice, meltingly tender and richly flavoured.

Dessert Station

LUCE-misu

To conclude, the dessert station is nothing short of abundant. Expect a Valrhona Chocolate Fountain, an assortment of Nyonya kueh, and an elegant spread of cakes. The signature LUCE-misu is given its own dedicated live station, offering a decadent finale.

Visit www.lucesingapore.com to explore monthly exclusive dining privileges at LUCE. In celebration of the relaunch, guests are invited to enjoy 30% dining privileges on weekdays with LUCE30 and 25% dining privileges on weekends with LUCE25. For reservations, please contact the Dining Reservations team at +65 6825 1008 or email tlc.sinlb.luce@luxurycollection.com.

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.


LUCE
Fraser House, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Level 1
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 6825 1008
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Locanda @ Rowell Road (Jalan Besar) - A Cosy Italian Trattoria Offering Hearty Classics

Locanda is a delightful new Italian trattoria nestled in the vibrant heritage district of Little India. Conceptualized by the Michelin-starred team behind Buona Terra, Locanda exudes the warmth and charm of a classic Italian "inn." In the past, locandas in Italy were places where weary travellers could find refuge and refuel with simple, hearty meals. Locanda brings this tradition to life in Singapore with a menu filled with comforting Italian classics.

Locanda Soft Roll with Eggplant, Tomato Dip 4.2/5

We began the evening with the Locanda Soft Roll with Eggplant, Tomato Dip ($8). The bread was warm, soft, and buttery, making it the perfect pairing with the tangy, flavourful eggplant and tomato dip. It was a simple yet satisfying start to our meal.

Gnocco Fritto E Affettati 3.5/5

Next, we moved on to the Gnocco Fritto E Affettati ($15/50g of selected cold cuts). The Gnocco Fritto — golden-brown fried dough puffs — was an absolute delight. The crispy exterior gave way to a soft, airy interior, which paired beautifully with the selection of classic Italian cold cuts.

Focaccia Bread, Casera Cheese, Lardo, Hazelnuts, Truffle, Honey 4/5

Focaccia, Scamorza, Black Pepper, Grilled Zucchini 4/5

We had the pleasure of trying two variations of focaccia, starting with the Focaccia Bread, Casera Cheese, Lardo, Hazelnuts, Truffle, Honey ($18). Topped with melted Casera cheese, lardo, and toasted Piedmont hazelnuts, it was finished with a drizzle of truffle honey and shaved black truffle. Every bite was a symphony of creamy, nutty, and earthy flavours.

The second version, Focaccia with Scamorza, Black Pepper, Grilled Zucchini ($18), was equally delightful. The smoky Scamorza cheese paired with the fresh crunch of grilled zucchini and a hint of black pepper. Both focaccia options were so good that I honestly couldn't choose a favourite.

Deep Fried Marinated Sardine, Onion and Raisin 4.2/5

One of the standouts for me was the Deep-Fried Marinated Sardine, Onion, and Raisin ($22). Deep-fried and marinated in vinegar, the sardines were served atop a crispy fried polenta base, accompanied by braised onions, raisins, pine nuts, and a hint of mint. It was a perfect blend of sweet, savoury, and tangy flavours.

Yellowtail, Lemon, Fennel Oil 3.8/5

We also tried the Yellowtail, Lemon, Fennel Oil ($28), a light and clean dish featuring fresh slices of yellowtail dressed with a bright lemon dressing and a sprinkle of sea salt. The charred orange segments added a hint of bitterness that balanced the dish beautifully, while the fennel oil provided an aromatic finish.

Veal Eye Round, Tuna Sauce and Capers Berry 4/5

The Veal Eye Round ($24) is a boneless cut from the rear leg of the calf that's first sous-vide, then seared to perfection in the pan. It's thinly sliced and served with a classic tonnato sauce, then garnished with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and caper berries. The dish is understated, focusing on the pure tenderness of the veal and its mild, delicate flavour. It's a straightforward preparation that highlights the quality of the meat without unnecessary embellishments, perfect for those who enjoy simple yet expertly executed dishes.

Tagliolini, Fresh Tomato, Crab, Lemon 4.2/5

When it comes to pasta, Locanda does not disappoint. The Tagliolini, Fresh Tomato, Crab, Lemon ($28) was one of my favourites, featuring perfectly cooked tagliolini in a sweet and tangy tomato sauce with generous chunks of crab and a zesty hint of lemon. It reminded me of a refined version of Singapore's chilli crab but with pasta — a real treat for seafood lovers.

Pappardelle Ragu Genovese, Mix Mushrooms 4.2/5

The Pappardelle Ragu Genovese, Mixed Mushrooms ($24) was another excellent option. The wide, ribbon-like pasta was coated in a rich, hearty beef ragu made from different cuts of Australian beef, slow-braised until tender. The addition of braised mushrooms added depth to the dish, creating a perfect balance of flavours and textures.

Malloreddus, Red Wine Octopus Ragu, Capers 3.8/5

We tried the Malloreddus, Red Wine Octopus Ragu, Capers ($28) for something a bit different. The shell-like pasta had a pleasant bite, and the octopus ragu was flavorful and rich, elevated by the capers' briny punch.

Spaghetti ai Frutti di Mare 4.5/5

I recommend the Spaghetti ai Frutti di Mare ($118++) for larger groups, which is good for up to 4 people. This seafood pasta was tossed in a luscious tomato sauce and topped with an assortment of sautéed seafood, including clams, lobster, scampi, and red prawns. A seafood lover's dream!

Secreto Iberico Pork, Braised Endive, Apple 4.2/5

The Secreto Iberico Pork, Braised Endive, Apple ($39) stood out among the mains. The Iberico pork was beautifully glazed with pork jus, honey, and spices, then grilled over binchotan for a smoky, caramelized exterior. The tender meat was perfectly complemented by the slightly bitter braised endives and sweet apple sauce.

Hanging Tender, Rucola & Parmesan 4.2/5

We also tried the Hanging Tender, Rucola & Parmesan ($42). The lesser-known cut of beef was simply seasoned with salt and grilled to perfection, served with beef jus, a peppery rucola salad, and shavings of Parmesan. It was a no-frills dish that allowed the beef's rich, natural flavour to shine.

Gelati & Sorbetti 4/5

To finish, we had a scoop of Gelati & Sorbetti ($9/scoop). While the pistachio and chocolate gelati were delicious, I found them a bit pricey for the portion size. However, the real star of the dessert menu was the Sicilian Cannolo ($15/2pc). Each cannolo was filled with a luscious mix of Artigiana ricotta, chopped Valrhona 55% chocolate, candied orange and lemon, and finished with Sicilian pistachio on each end. It's a perfect sweet ending to an indulgent meal.

Sicilian Cannolo 4/5

Locanda brings the warmth and hospitality of a traditional Italian inn to Singapore, with a menu full of comforting and well-executed Italian classics. Whether you're in the mood for delicious pasta, hearty meat dishes, or an authentic Italian dessert, Locanda delivers a memorable dining experience in the heart of Little India. It is an excellent spot for a cosy meal with friends or family, and I'll definitely be back to try more of their offerings.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Locanda
109 Rowell Road
Singapore 208033
Tel: +65 9619 2691
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Jalan Besar (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Fri: 6pm - 12midnight
Sat-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Jalan Besar MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk straight down Jalan Besar Road. Walk to Rowell Road. Turn left onto Rowell Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Duomo Ristorante @ CHIJMES - Italian Classics, Hearty Italian Flavours, Charming Ambience

Recently opened in January 2024, Duomo Ristorante is an aptly named culinary gem nestled within the beautiful grounds of CHIJMES. The menu offers Italian classics made with fresh ingredients from both the Northern and Southern regions, showcasing the hearty flavours of Italian cuisine.

There is a cosy indoor dining area, but the outdoor terrace is particularly delightful, especially on cool evenings. Here, guests can fully immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere while enjoying views of the picturesque CHIJMES hall. The outdoor terrace is thoughtfully accented with Italian decorative touches, creating a charming and inviting ambience that sets the backdrop for a relaxing dining experience.

Bruschetta 4.2/5

We started with a variety of antipasti, the first being a delightful Bruschetta ($21). This classic Italian starter showcased simplicity at its finest. Each slice of rustic bread was perfectly toasted and topped with heirloom Sicilian pizzutello tomatoes and Pecorino cheese shavings. The juicy sweetness of the tomatoes made each bite very enjoyable!

Wagy Carpaccio 4.2/5

The Wagyu Carpaccio ($28) is also delicious. Delicate slivers of wagyu are elevated with a house-made sauce of truffle cream, butter, and parmesan. To add a refreshing contrast, the dish is generously garnished with rocket leaves, which provide a crisp freshness to balance the richness of the wagyu and the creamy sauce.

Seafood Cioppino 4.5/5

For something hearty, opt for their Seafood Cioppino ($28). The base of the Seafood Cioppino is a rich tomato broth infused with aromatic herbs and spices and simmered to perfection. The broth provides a comforting warmth that sets the stage for the seafood medley of calamari, clams, and prawns — a harmonious ensemble that reflects the essence of coastal Italian cuisine.

Bella Duomo 4.2/5

Whilst they are not particularly a pizza speciality restaurant, the pizza we tried here was pretty good! We had the Bella Duomo ($36), where the star of the show is the rich and savoury mortadella cold cut, which comes straight from Bologna. Accompanying it are crunchy pistachios, adding a delightful texture and nutty flavour, as well as creamy stracciatella cheese generously spread across the pizza.

Tagliolini Gamberi & Lemon 4.5/5

Next up were two plates of pasta, both of which I thoroughly relished and savoured. The Tagliolini Gamberi & Lemon ($38) is a dish inspired by the chef's childhood and beautifully captures the essence of an Italian summer with its bright and zesty flavours. Some of my dining companions found it slightly too tangy, but I enjoyed the refreshing acidity imparted by the lemons and capers. Regarding flavour profile, this dish stands out as one of the more distinctive pastas I've had in Singapore. If you opt for this pasta, I recommend mixing it thoroughly with the sauce right away to prevent clumping and to ensure every bite is as delightful as the last.

Gnocchi Funghi & Salsiccia 4.5/5

The Gnocchi Funghi & Salsiccia ($28) is another comforting dish that satisfies my palate. The gnocchi, mushrooms, and Italian sausage are enveloped in a luxurious, savoury sauce. The sausage is slow-cooked with a medley of onions, celery, and white wine, infusing the dish with hearty flavours that linger on the taste buds.

Polipo Arrosto 3.8/5

Polipo Arrosto ($38) celebrates the ocean's bounty with grilled octopus, which offers a slightly crispy exterior with a smoky char while maintaining a firm but not rubbery texture. Accompanying the octopus is a citrusy sauce infused with diced tomatoes and olives, adding a vibrant and tangy contrast to the seafood. Silky smooth potato and rocket salad accompany the dish.

Nodino di Maiale 3.8/5

The Nodino di Maiale ($38) features a pork chop marinated for 24 hours in a fragrant blend of rosemary and thyme and grilled to perfection. It is complemented by a smooth house-made apple mustard that adds a hint of sweetness. The flavours are good, but our pork cut was pretty lean, and I would have preferred the meat to be juicier.

Duomo Tiramisu 4/5

For dessert, the Duomo Tiramisu ($16) is a crowd pleaser. Layers of delicate ladyfinger biscuits soaked in espresso impart a robust coffee flavour. Sandwiched between these espresso-soaked layers is a velvety mascarpone cream. The dessert is elegantly finished with a dusting of cocoa powder, balancing the sweetness with a hint of bittersweet cocoa notes. For inclusivity, the Tiramisu is served alcohol-free.

Panna Cotta Alla Vaniglia 3.5/5

Another option is the Panna Cotta Alla Vaniglia, a creamy and light dessert made from a traditional recipe without gelatin. It's infused with vanilla bean specks and served with some fruits and nuts.

Duomo Ristorante presents a delightful array of dishes to satisfy diverse tastes, complemented by refreshing drinks and a great ambience perfect for enjoying time with loved ones and friends. Immerse yourself in the essence of la dolce vita whilst savouring a slice of Italy in this cheerful communal dining setting!

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Duomo Ristorante
CHIJMES
30 Victoria Street
#01-32
Singapore 187996
Tel: +65 89114874
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line), Bras Basah (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sat: 12pm - 11pm
Sun: 12pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Cut across Raffles City Shopping Centre to Bras Basah Road. At the junction of Bras Basah Road and North Bridge Road, cross the road to Chijmes. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bras Basah MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk southwards towards Victoria Road. At the junction of Bras Basah Road and Victoria Road, cross the junction to Chijmes. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]