Deliciously authentic

In the mood for a home-cooked Italian meal we headed over to the newly opened Carluccio’s in the Eastern Mangroves Promenade. Named after the prolific Italian chef, we were eager to see if the restaurant’s offerings would live up to their namesake’s swoon-worthy cuisine.

Dining al fresco in the late evening, we weren’t able to appreciate the waterfront views surrounding us, but did enjoy the light breeze rolling in from the water. After nibbling on some crisped tomato bread generously smeared with tangy pesto while perusing the menu, we opted for the calamari to start.

Served with a grilled and softened lemon practically exploding with juice, the thick cut rounds of calamari were crunchy and light. Not at all greasy, we were delighted by the lightness and fresh taste.

Eager for more, we then ordered one of the house favourites – the penne giardiniera.

The homemade Pugliese pasta came topped with fried balls of spinach and was brightened up with slivers of zucchini. Doused in a buttery sauce and topped with parmesan, the richness of the pasta was perfectly complemented by the crunchy spinach. We loved the variety of textures and delicate flavours. Altogether simple and clean, the meal was easily our favourite dish of the night.

Stuffed dangerously close to capacity, we took a breather before settling on dessert. A quick look through the menu found us choosing the toffee sundae. An icy cold glass filled to the brim with vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce and toffee chunks; the dessert was the perfect way to end a delicious meal out.

Carluccio’s is all that you’d expect from a homey Italian eatery. Traditional flavours and simplicity ruled the menu, perfect for fans of authentic no-frills cuisine. A usefully stocked specialty store within the premises certainly doesn’t hurt either; with guests taking away imported goods to recreate delicious meals at home.

Sawaiba Khan

 

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