Central Mall, a place forgotten by many in Singapore. Although situated along the busy Clarke Quay river side, but the crowds seem to prefer the other side of the river. So what's nice to eat here? Well, we are here to try out this Italian restaurant which we have read about it in the media and on other blogs.
According to reports, the Italian chef here has previously worked at a local hotel. Bread was served and we were glad that they warmed it prior serving to us. We don't like cold breads.
Rather empty on a Saturday afternoon. But it's good to know that there are some places where you don't have to make reservations.
Free iced tap water from the restaurant.
According to previous recommendations, we had the Frittura di calamari (S$18) - Deep-fried squid with Tartar sauce and lemon. Good choice. Squid was tender and not those chewey type. Batter was crispy and we polished off the plate in no time.
Ordered Astoria Prosecco (S$14 per glass) & Peter Lehmann Chardonnay (S$10 per glass) to go with our Italian seafood lunch.
A rather large and hearty portion of the Minestrone del contadino (S$14) - Traditional vegetables soup. The soup was good, but a bit on the watery side. Would have been better if it was a bit more dense.
Carpaccio di manzo (S$18) - Thinly sliced raw beef with shaved Parmesan cheese, arugula salad and lemon. Cheese was good, so was the beef carpaccio.
Filetto di maiale arrosto (S$28) - Roasted pork tenderloin with Italian gravy, dry prune and mashed potatoes. Mixed review here. One find the pork a bit dry, while another find it juicy and tender. But overall, was quite well executed.
Another dish with mixed opinion. Foiade del Gallo D'Oro (S$20) - Homemade pappardelle pasta, with sausage and spinach. It may be too creamy for some, and that is why portions were kept small.
Ended our Saturday brunch with a Torta della Nonna con gelato (S$10) - Grandmother's custard cake with vanilla gelato. The Grandmother here is the chef's grandma. =)
Look out for this red wall entrance when you exit the lift from the car park.
Trattoria Gallo D'oro
7 Magazine Road,
#01-03
Central Mall