Imagine yourself indulging in pasta and the homely flavours of an Italian meal while overlooking the sea or amidst picturesque greenery. This may sound like Tuscany or Capri except that it’s actually here in Singapore. They say that food is the way to the heart and home is where the heart is, so here are 5 culinary establishments that offer fantastic Italian cuisine.

Ristorante Da Valentino

Run entirely by Chef Valentino and his family, along with the aid of their dedicated service staff, Ristorante De Valentino is a must visit for authentic Italian dining.

The venue at Turf Club Road is spacious with an al fresco dining area, but still retains a homely atmosphere as hearty as the wonderful meals prepared, with specials such as grilled octopus tentacles, seafood linguine wrapped in aluminium foil and Moscato wine marinated pork chop with potato. Their thin crusted pizzas are simply mouth-watering and the claypot served Mama’s chicken with herbs and pancetta are heavenly. This is a place ideal for family gatherings as well as romantic dates.

Garibaldi

Located along charming old Purvis Street, Garibaldi’s contemporary decor makes for a perfect pairing to the traditional Italian fare they serve. Executive Chef Roberto Galetti, who was trained at the prestigious Culinary Institute Caterina De Medici, helms the restaurant accompanied by Chef De Cuisine, Chef Chong.

Together, the duo present creations like pan-seared Hokkaido Scallops with braised spring onions and truffled sauce, fresh seasonal seafood risotto cooked in lobster consommé and Kurobuta Pork Scaloppine with porcini mushroom in Marsala wine sauce amongst others. There’s also a fine selection of cheeses and desserts to cap off the meal.

Gattopardo Ristorante di Mare

Enjoy Mediterranean style Italian cuisine in a modern cosy setting at Gattopardo. Tucked into a corner of a conservation shophouse on Tras Street, this culinary sanctuary started by celebrity chef Lino Sauro boasts gastronomy with the original flavours from his Sicilian heritage.

Signatures like Risone with red wine braised octopus and bone marrow as well as the salt baked fish of the day will leave your palate and your belly clamouring for more. Indulge in their choices of caviar or fresh seasonal oysters if you’re feeling lavish, otherwise, try the spicy broccoli salad with orange, olives and toasted almonds for something light and zesty. If you’re in the mood for sea, Gattopardo doesn’t disappoint too.

il Lido at the Cliff

This stylish establishment is situated in Sentosa and features outdoor seating with stunning panoramic views of the sea. One of several in the group’s chain of restaurants, the menu is carefully curated with finesse.

Whet your appetite with their Angus beef carpaccio with spinach, lemon and truffle pecorino or white asparagus with smoked apple and sea urchin sabayon. For pasta lovers, you have to order Guinea Fowl with Foie Gras and Black Truffle or spaghetti ala Chitarra with lobster, cherry tomatoes and tarrago. Both are superb dishes with complex flavour profiles.

Alba 1836

Amongst the row of nostalgic shophouses along Duxton Hill sits Alba 1836, an enchanting spot with an exterior deck by a little garden reminiscent of those in the Italian countryside.

Their 24 months aged Parma Ham with Burratina from Andria is a great starter and meat lovers will appreciate the roasted lamb loin in a Sardinian Pecorino cheese crust. They also have a fine array of wines to enhance your dining experience.

Image Credits: Ristorante Da Valentino, Garibaldi, Gattopardo  Ristorante di Mare & Alba 1836