One of the top spots for Italian dining in town lies within Shangri-La Singapore. Waterfall Ristorante Italiano, a restaurant awarded the Ospitalità Italiana certification by the Italian government as a mark of hospitality and authenticity, has always been a go-to spot for those hankering for Italian cuisine done right.
Recently, the lauded venue has refreshed their menu, what with Puglia native chef Simone Loisi – formerly from hotspot iO Italian Osteria – now taking over Waterfall’s kitchen as its new Chef de Cuisine.
He brings to the table that vibrant and rustic southern Italian charm, creating a menu that is at once comforting and packed with finesse. Most importantly for us, they pair mighty well with the range of Italian wines that the restaurant carries.
Kick off your meal with the Caprese di Mare (S$28), an appetite-inducing salad of citrus marinated salmon, buffalo mozzarella cheese, and crunchy fennel. This can be enjoyed paired with the Tenute di Altavilla Greco di Tufo. This bottle of white from Villa Matilde, with its fresh apple and lemony notes plus a hint of moreish minerality, makes for a mouthwatering start to the meal.
The pastas are a must. Chef Simone’s Gnocchi Mare e Monti (S$32), comprising handmade potato gnocchi with prawns, porcini mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and parmesan cheese, is one of his signature dishes for good reason. Have it together with the Cantina Rosa del Golfo, a Puglian rosé boasting of fragrant strawberries and baked bread, and you’re golden.
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Don’t stop there. The Ravioli Burro e Salvia (S$28) – a creamy and decadent homemade ricotta and spinach ravioli in butter sage sauce and parmesan fondue – will have you asking for seconds. It is especially satisfying when had with the Carlo Pellegrino Finimondo. This rich and juicy red made from Nero d’Avola grapes is easily one of our favourite vinos here, and matches the heaviness of this pasta dish well.
For mains, you can’t go wrong with the Tagliata di Manzo (S$48). Here, premium cuts of beef are sliced and served with balsamic and shallot sauce, rocket salad, and parmesan cheese.
This hearty dish is best had with the Cantina Rosa del Golfo Quarantale. Another wine hailing from Puglia (which matches the cuisine), this red made using Negroamaro grapes results in a full-bodied wine full of ripe dark berries, a hint of pepper spice, and enriched by Slovenian and French oak aromas.
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In line with these classically luscious savoury items, for dessert, look no further than the Tiramisu (S$16). Requiring no introduction, this opulent treat not only makes for a fitting finalé, but is highly enjoyable when chased with a traditional Italian digestif as well.
Grappa or Mirto are your top choices here. The former tastes of treacle and plum and is similar to an unaged brandy, while the latter is made from the berries of myrtle bushes resulting in fragrant pine and juniper notes.
Whatever you choose, you’re bound to have a good time at Waterfall Ristorante Italiano. Its cuisine is true-to-heart, gratifying, and warm. Chef Simone Loisi proudly shows off his roots in every dish, and the way the food complements the wines is what wine pairing dreams are made of.
Waterfall Ristorante Italiano is located within Shangri-La Singapore, Garden Wing, Level One, 22 Orange Grove Road, Singapore 258350.
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