The news of Santi closing at Marina Bay Sands came as a shock to quite a number of foodies in Singapore. This was because that the late chef himself has passed away while here in this very restaurant, and many would have thought that the family would like to preserve this place as a memory for this great chef.
Upon hearing the news, we made a reservation weeks in advance for a table on the final few days before it closed. As expected, the restaurant was full house and many were here to enjoy their last dinner here before the shutters came down.
First, we had our favourite Emilio Lustau East India Sherry – Jerez – Xérès – Sherry, Spain (S$25 per glass)
As always, we were served these vegetable crisps which were freshly fried. It came with a nutty dipping sauce.
Before serving us the breads, the staff brought out the entire selection for us to see.
We like the breads served here. Lot's of different varieties to choose from. Our favourites were the ones with sweet pumpkin, and also the olive bread.
After flipping through the menu, we decided to go for the big one: The Surprise Menu (S$385 per person). Gazpacho with mussels and 7 years aged Joselito ham toast
Bamboo tartar with truffles and puntarelle
Reveulto of crab with caviar and heart of palm - We like this for the taste and creaminess.
Fried smelt fish with tomato and chorizo
Traditional rice "amb fesols i naps", which is Spanish for rice with white beans and turnips. Served with a delicious roasted kurobuta pork.
Catalan cannelloni with seasonal mushrooms
Market fish (John Dory) with peaches and smoked eel
4-month Aged Wagyu beef with oyster, artichokes, fava beans, topinambour (Jerusalem artichoke) and truffle sauce - The combination of oyster and beef actually works. Oyster was fresh without the "fishy" taste.
Assortment of cheese, served with toasts and lot's of honey.
Basil infusion with green apple and yogurt - Our pre-dessert.
Peanut praline with yogurt and cinnamon cream
Ended our surprise menu with Petit fours. We miss the Santi's marshmallows which we were given last time when we had dinner here.
One last look around the restaurant before it closed for good.
Although Santi was in Singapore for only slightly less than 2 years, but it has contributed a lot to the local dining scene. I think many will miss this wonderful restaurant. And of course, the late chef.
Santi
10 Bayfront Avenue,
#L2-03,
Casino Level 2,
Marina Bay Sands