Monti Singapore at Fullerton Pavilion, took over the space formerly occupied by Catalunya. Previously a Spanish restaurant, now it is home to the Italian restaurant. At Monti, they have resident DJs like Adam Sky and Stephen Day.
Structurally, nonthing changes. Interiorly, it belongs to the sleek and modern theme. I like the idea of having the turquoise and yellow cushy chair added to add some colours to the otherwise monotonous woody feel.
At Monti, they started serving lunch beside dinner. And something unusual about Monti is that they are serving late night supper till 4am.
The service crew informed us that pasta were n-house made.
I like the idea of Monti providing various Olive Oils with a number selection of bread. Strangely, they only served a slice of bread to each guest. They don’t return to ask if we needed more.
First appetiser we tried was the tomato-based La Signora Luciana ($16). Not a dish inclined to my taste. Luckily, tomato flavour was light and the consolation, olive was added. The baby squid was tender to the chew.
Next was our fave, Burrata E Culatello ($35). The burrata was unusually creamy. It was heavier than the usual but certainly a perfect fit for our palate.
I am a fan of ravioli, as such we ordered the Invertiti ($34) filled with braised veal. We felt this was slight dissatisfying. We love the veal, however the under-cooked pasta disappoints. From the appearance no indication but only obvious to the bite.
Followed by the Venere ($38). This was an unique risotto. First it uses the black venus rice instead of the usual aborio rice. As such the texture is lightly crunchy which may be easily mistaken as un-cooked. In addition the lightly spicy flavour and non-creamy based created a complete twist from the usual risotto experience. We love it.
Being all beef lovers at the table, naturally we turned to the Prime Beef, 500g, a special of the day, sat on a bed of smooth creamy mash and diced vegetable. We love the char, the perfect doneness and the overall complimenting marinate. The beef was tender with an acceptable amount of fat.
Rounding the meal with 2 desserts. First is the Ho Dimenticato Il Sigaro ($16); Lapsang Souchong Tea Infused Chocolate Cigar which has a smoky, incense-like flavour. We aren’t used to flavour. By the side was Olive Oil ash and ice cream.
For something on the safe side, choose Rosmarino E Caffee ($18). A pannacotta with crunchy almond chocolate tuile and vanilla sauce.
NAHMJ Verdict
Generally, food served at Monti was impressive. We were hopeful that the pasta will be improved.
Certainly, we will order the beef and burrata when we return.
Monti
82 Collyer Quay, The Fullerton Pavilion, 049327 Singapore
Tel: +65 6535 0724
Website: http://www.monti.sg/
FB: http://www.facebook.com/MontiSingapore
Opening Hours
Lunch: Wednesday – Friday 1200 to 1500
Dinner: Monday – Thursday 1800 to 0100; Friday – Saturday 1800 to 0400
Getting There
By MRT:
- East-West or North-South line – Raffles Place station
By Bus:
- OUE Bayfront along Fullerton Road 10, 10e, 57, 70, 75, 100, 107, 128, 130, 131, 162, 167, 196, 196e, 700, 850E, 951E, 971E
- Fullerton Square along Collyer Quay 10, 10e, 57, 70, 75, 100, 107, 128, 130, 131, 162, 167, 196, 196e, 700, 850E, 951E, 971E
- The Sail along Marina Boulevard 97, 97e, 106, 133, 00, 402, 982E
Rating: 8/10