Thursday, October 16, 2025

Casa Vostra @ JEM - Bringing Its Heartfelt Italian Fare to the West

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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]

Wednesday, October 15, 2025

Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu @ One Holland Village - Bringing Its Signature Japanese Beef Cutlet to the West

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Fans of Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu can now rejoice, as the famed Japanese beef cutlet specialist opens its second outlet at One Holland Village. Regulars no longer have to brave the perpetual queue at its first Singapore outpost in Raffles City. At this new location, Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu – Japan’s largest gyukatsu speciality restaurant, continues to serve up the same authentic flavours and premium beef cuts that have made it so popular.

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Sirloin & Tenderloin Gyukatsu Zen 4/5

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Sirloin & Beef Tongue Gyukatsu Zen 4/5

During our visit, we sampled the Sirloin & Tenderloin Gyukatsu Zen ($29) and Sirloin & Beef Tongue Gyukatsu Zen ($32). Each steak is carefully selected from choice cuts of prime beef, coated in a koromo batter made from a secret golden ratio of breadcrumbs, flour and egg wash, then deep-fried to medium-rare perfection in fresh oil that’s changed daily. The result is a clean, crisp crust encasing juicy, tender beef within.

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Each set is thoughtfully presented with a selection of condiments to complement the flavours of the gyukatsu, alongside rice, miso soup and cabbage salad. The Sirloin offers a balanced cut with just the right amount of marbling, delivering a rich, beefy flavour and satisfying tenderness. The Tenderloin provides a leaner and more delicate bite, while the Beef Tongue impresses with its thick-cut buttery texture and pleasant chew, a treat for those who enjoy something more uncommon. Diners can also sear the beef further on a personal konro (traditional Japanese earthenware grill) to their preferred doneness.

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Miyazaki A5 Sirloin ½ portion 4/5

For those seeking an indulgent upgrade, the Miyazaki A5 Sirloin ½ portion ($25) is a must-try. This prized wagyu, hailing from Japan’s award-winning Miyazaki prefecture, boasts exceptional marbling and a melt-in-the-mouth tenderness that epitomises the pinnacle of gyukatsu dining. Lightly crisp on the outside and luxuriously buttery within, every bite reveals the natural richness and umami depth of top-grade wagyu beef.

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Whether you’re a returning fan or new to the brand, Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu at One Holland Village offers an authentic and satisfying gyukatsu experience that truly lives up to its name.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu
One Holland Village
7 Holland Village Way
#02-46
Singapore 275478
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Nearest MRT: Holland Village (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Holland Village MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk to Lorong Liput. Turn right onto Lorong Liput. Walk down Lorong Liput. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]