ANTO Pizza E Aperitivi @ Jiak Chuan Road - Awarded No.13 in Asia Pacific and No.95 in The World in The Prestigious 50 Top Pizza Awards

ANTO Pizza E Aperitivi at Jiak Chuan is one pizzeria to watch, standing proud in Singapore’s vibrant pizza scene. Opened only late last year in 2024, ANTO has already made waves internationally, claiming the top spot in Singapore, clinching No. 13 in Asia Pacific and No. 95 in the world in the prestigious 50 Top Pizza Awards. An incredible feat for such a young establishment.

Burrata 4.5/5

While ANTO is first and foremost a pizzeria, the menu offers a handful of sharing plates that complement its pizzas well. We started with the Burrata ($28), served with three types of tomatoes and paired with pesto parlage. The burrata was fresh and creamy, while the natural sweetness of the tomatoes brought a refreshing vibrancy to the dish.

Vitello Tonnato 4.5/5

The Vitello Tonnato ($30) proved to be a welcome starter before diving into the dough-heavy mains. Thinly sliced poached veal was served with Bruno sauce, tender and melt-in-the-mouth. The veal carried a delicate sweetness that paired beautifully with the creamy, savoury sauce.

Marinara Arrostita 4.8/5

Our first pizza was the Marinara Arrostita ($26), topped with cherry tomatoes, oregano and garlic oil. The dough was light and airy with a delightful chew, while the tomatoes imparted natural sweetness. Finished with the fragrance of oregano and garlic oil, this pizza was simple yet deeply satisfying.

Rocco 4.2/5

The Rocco ($24) is a Southern Italian-style pizza baked in a small pan at over 250°C for 10–12 minutes. The result is a puffed crust with a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Topped with fiordilatte cheese, thinly sliced potatoes, and fresh rosemary, each bite was rustic, hearty and full of texture.

Tonno & Cipolla 4.2/5

The Tonno & Cipolla ($42) was an unexpected surprise. On my first visit, Chef Antonio Brancato leaned safe and traditional with his pizzas, but this creation shows his playful, experimental side. Inspired by Japanese flavours, it featured onion purée, slow-cooked tuna prepared Asian-style and seaweed. Each bite carried the brininess of the sea, the umami of tuna, and the crunch of seaweed. It is a bold yet elegant fusion.

Wagyu Pizza 4.5/5

We also tried the limited-time Wagyu Pizza ($38), topped with cherry tomato confit, fiordilatte cheese, sundried tomatoes, wagyu beef (medium-rare), chimichurri and truffle oil. Rich yet balanced, the toppings complemented one another harmoniously, with the chimichurri and truffle oil elevating the indulgence.

Sgroppino 4.5/5

The Sgroppino ($18) is a must-order here. A Venetian cocktail of lemon sorbet, Prosecco and vodka, it is theatrically prepared tableside by the staff. Light, zesty and refreshing with just the right hint of sweetness, it works beautifully as both a palate cleanser between pizzas and a lively way to end the meal.

Tiramisu 4.2/5

To finish, we had the classic Tiramisu ($15). Soft, pillowy and well-balanced, it ticked the boxes of what makes a good tiramisu without being overly heavy.

With its world-class dough, thoughtful toppings and playful balance between tradition and innovation, ANTO Pizza E Aperitivi has firmly established itself as one of Singapore’s best pizzerias. Whether you’re here for a classic like the Marinara or something daring like the Tonno & Cipolla, ANTO promises a memorable experience worth revisiting.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


ANTO Pizzeria E Aperitivi
2 Jiak Chuan Road
Singapore 089260
Tel: +65 9689 6869
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line), Outram Park (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk down Neil Road to Teck Lim Road. Turn right onto Teck Lim Road. Walk down Teck Lim Road and turn left onto Jiak Chuan Road. Walk down Jiak Chuan Road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

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 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]

La Table d'Emma @ Mercure ICON Singapore - Classic French Flavours with Alsatian Soul

Tucked within Mercure ICON Singapore, La Table d’Emma is the brainchild of acclaimed Chef Michael Muller, whose stellar culinary journey spans from the Michelin-starred Le Jules Verne at the Eiffel Tower to his former role as Executive Chef at JAAN. With decades of experience and having coached Singapore’s team for the prestigious Bocuse d’Or, Chef Michael now brings his refined vision and deep-rooted Alsatian heritage to life in his very own restaurant.

As the restaurant marks its first anniversary, Chef Michael celebrates with a refreshed and elevated menu, a tribute to classic French recipes reimagined with a modern twist, each dish subtly echoing the traditions and flavours of his hometown in Alsace.

Mushroom Consomme "Cappuccino" 4.8/5

A standout opener, the Mushroom Consommé "Cappuccino" ($22) instantly captivated with its intense, earthy aroma. The robust shiitake broth, crowned with button mushroom foam and grilled portobello julienne, made for one of the most memorable mushroom soups I’ve had in a long while. What elevated the experience even further was the accompanying warm cepe mushroom and parmesan brioche, a savoury delight that could easily shine on its own.

French Onion Soup en Coute 4.2/5

Next came the comforting French Onion Soup en Croute ($26), topped with a golden puff pastry lid that not only sealed in the flavours but added a satisfying crunch. The addition of emmental cheese enriched the sweet onion and beef stock, giving the classic soup an indulgent lift. The crispy pastry also served as the perfect vessel to soak up that hearty broth.

Traditional Pot-Au-Feu of My Childhood 4.2/5

The Traditional Pot-Au-Feu of My Childhood ($42) is a nostalgic dish that pays homage to Chef Michael's upbringing. The poached beef was wonderfully tender, having soaked up the essence of the aromatic vegetable stock. Paired with a generous slab of roasted bone marrow and a bright horseradish cream, this dish evoked warmth and rustic charm. The bone marrow with sourdough toast feels like a whole separate indulgence, like getting a bonus dish.

Les Bouchees A La Reine D'Emma 2.0 4.2/5

Originally created by a royal chef for the queen, the Les Bouchees A La Reine D'Emma 2.0 ($34) holds personal significance for Chef Michael, as it was the first dish he cooked for his wife, Emma. The updated version 2.0 features veal, chicken, and mushroom velouté encased in a buttery puff pastry, laced with a well-balanced white wine reduction. Rich, comforting, and elegantly presented, this was classic French fare with a loving twist.

Lobster and St Jacques French Raviole 4.5/5

This was hands down the dish of the night. The Lobster and St Jacques French Raviole ($42) impressed with its oversized, housemade ravioli generously filled with scallop mousse. The luscious tarragon-infused lobster sauce added a luxurious depth, tying the whole dish together. And just when we thought it couldn't get better, the dish came with an entire lobster tail, which is a true showstopper.

Ending on a sweet (and very Singaporean) note was the Kaya Mon Amour ($16). This creative dessert features a warm Kougelhopf, filled with housemade gula melaka kaya and chilled pandan mousseline cream, alongside a kaya parfait glacé. This fusion dessert was both nostalgic and innovative. Honestly, we wouldn't be surprised if Chef Michael opened a bakery just for this.

Kaya Mon Armour 5/5

La Table d'Emma is not just a celebration of French cuisine, but also a heartfelt reflection of Chef Michael's culinary journey, deeply infused with memories, love, and Alsatian spirit. Whether you're here for the refined Lobster Raviole, the soul-warming Pot-Au-Feu, or the unforgettable Kaya Mon Amour, there's a palpable passion in every dish. Chef Michael's cooking isn't just about flavours; it tells a story. And it's one well worth tasting.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


La Table d'Emma
8 Club Street
#01-04
Singapore 069742
Tel: +65 81018691
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm

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]

Coucou @ Craig Road - New Look and Menu Elevated With Additional Swiss Classics

Coucou, the Swiss Restaurant located at Craig Road, has recently unveiled a refreshed new look and menu. The revamped cosy interior brings to our sunny island the ambience of a snug alpine cabin in the Swiss mountains, making it a cosy spot to gather over bubbling hot cheese fondue.

Malakoff 4.5/5

Part of the mainstays, Malakoff features a golden, deep-fried dome of Gruyère cheese with a crispy exterior and gooey, molten centre. It is a Swiss speciality, unique to only three villages in the "La Côte" region. Served with vinegary Dijon Mustard to cut its richness, Swiss mercenaries once enjoyed this treat with local white wine. Over here at Coucou, a curated list of wines is offered.

Fondue Moitié Moitié 4/5

A staple for almost every table at Coucou, Fondue Moitié Moitié is a decadent pot of melted Vacherin Fribourgeois and Gruyére, served with crusty bread. Sides such as potatoes and pickles for add-ons are available.

La Fameuse Salade Coucou 4/5

It is recommended to have some La Fameuse Salade Coucou alongside to complement its richness - a curly chopped salad tossed with housemade 'Grand Père' dressing, a recipe passed down from the co-owner Yves' grandfather.

Le Tartare De Boeuf 4/5

Coucou offers a Le Tartare De Boeuf prepared tableside. The beef tartare is mixed with Sbrinz Cheese, Rucola salad, chopped onions, chilli and mustard. A sampling is given to ensure that the spice and tang levels are suited to your preference. I had mine with more mustard for an extra kick of tang.

L'iconique Emince De Veau Zurichoise 4.5/5

The Traditional Zurich Style Veal Ragout with Rosti is a crowd-pleaser for mains. The mushroom sauce was comforting and flavoursome, and the rosti was fluffy with crispy sides. While some of the sliced veal were slightly dry, the delightful creamy mushroom sauce compensated for it.

Pave De Bar Au Safran 4.5/5

The Sea Bass Fillet is a lighter option. The moist and flaky fish paired aptly with a subtle floral saffron sauce. The sauce had an excellent consistency, adding a gentle yet flavorful note to the delicate sweetness of the fish.

Tartrelette Au Citron De Mrs Chin 4/5

Dessert was a Lemon Tart with raspberry and its top brûlée. The tart shell was buttery and delicious, and I appreciate how the bitter caramelised notes and the tart raspberry balanced the sweetness of the curd.

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.


Coucou
9 Craig Road
#01-01
Singapore 089669
Tel: +65 9642 1624/+65 6226 0060
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun - Thurs:12pm - 230 pm, 6pm - 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]

Pete's Place @ Grand Hyatt Singapore - Beloved Italian Restaurant Since 1973 Reopens with a Refreshed and Modern Aesthetic

With the much-anticipated reopening of Grand Hyatt Singapore at Scotts Road, the iconic Pete’s Place has also made its comeback. Since 1973, this beloved Italian restaurant has been serving hearty, authentic Italian fare, and its 50-year legacy continues with a refreshed yet cosy atmosphere. While the restaurant has adopted a modern aesthetic, it retains the nostalgic charm of its original design, most notably the signature red brick from its past.

We started our meal with the quintessential Italian welcome: freshly baked warm bread served with olives, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar — a simple yet delightful way to start any Italian feast.

Suppli Romani 4/5

Our first antipasti was the Suppli Romani, an Italian street food classic. These deep-fried potato croquettes arrived golden brown, stuffed with pecorino cheese, and seasoned with black pepper. Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, this appetiser was comforting and indulgent, setting an excellent tone for the rest of the meal.

Piadina Pugliese 4.2/5

Next up was the Piadina Pugliese, a flatbread pizza topped with ricotta cheese, coppa ham, and sundried tomatoes. The thin, crispy crust provided a delightful contrast to the creamy ricotta, while the coppa ham and sundried tomatoes added layers of savoury and tangy flavours. A well-executed dish that ticks all the right boxes for texture and taste.

Vitello Tonnato 4/5

The Vitello Tonnato, another antipasti, showcased tender slices of veal complemented by a creamy tuna sauce. The dish was topped with capers, which provided a welcome burst of acidity that enhanced the richness of the veal and tuna combination. It was a unique dish that brought a lovely balance of flavours, from the earthy meatiness of the veal to the light, oceanic notes of the sauce.

Risotto Gamberi e Melone 4.2/5

One of the more surprising dishes was the Risotto Gamberi e Melone. I was initially taken aback by the use of fruit — specifically rock melon — in a risotto. But any scepticism quickly faded as the dish revealed itself. The sweet, juicy rock melon paired harmoniously with the red prawn tartare, while the crispy capers added a delightful crunch. This unexpected combination of flavours worked beautifully, delivering a risotto that was not only refreshing but also memorable.

Bistecca alla Griglia 4/5

We indulged in the Bistecca alla Griglia for mains — a 1kg Australian bone-in ribeye steak grilled to a perfect pink doneness. The Tuscany rub of herbs gave the steak an aromatic and savoury crust, which complemented the rich, juicy meat. Grilled to perfection, the ribeye was flavourful and tender, making it a carnivore's dream. It's definitely a highlight for any meat lover.

Pete's Signature Tiramisu 4.8/5

A visit to Pete's Place would only be complete with trying Pete's Signature Tiramisu. What makes this dessert extra special is the tableside presentation. The chef brings out a whole tray of tiramisu, made with layers of mascarpone, savoiardi biscuits soaked in espresso, and a touch of white amaretto. He serves a generous scoop right at your table, ensuring you get the freshest experience possible. The tiramisu was beautifully balanced — rich and creamy without being overly sweet. It was easily one of the best tiramisus I've had in a long time, a dessert that left a lasting impression.

Pete's Place may have undergone a facelift, but it has kept the essence of what has made it a favourite for so many years. The combination of hearty, authentic Italian dishes with a touch of modern flair continues to draw both old and new patrons alike. The menu offers something for everyone, from the comforting Suppli Romani to the surprising Risotto Gamberi e Melone. And of course, don't leave without trying the Signature Tiramisu — it's a true classic.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Pete's Place
Grand Hyatt Singapore
10 Scotts Road
Singapore 228211
Tel: +65 6738 1234
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12 - 230pm, 6 - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk down Scotts Road to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]