If you are looking for some homely Italian eats in Singapore, Jamie’s Italian would be a good place to get your fix.
Jamie’s Italian opened July 2013 in Vivocity, Singapore with much anticipation from the local foodies, and notoriously long queues. While there has been a recent avalanche of celebrity chefs setting up chi chi restaurants in Singapore where one meal can easily cost a week’s salary, Jamie Oliver’s restaurant – in line with the chef’s affable personality – is positioned as a casual Italian restaurant catering to the masses with affordable prices and fuss-free cuisine. I like the place enough to have visited it a few times. I usually visit really early or as late as 9pm to avoid the horrendous queues.
The decor of the restaurant is kept casual and rustic with lots of wood elements, making the diner feel right at home.
Started in 2008 on George Street, Oxford with his friend and mentor Gennaro Contaldo whom Jamie met in the kitchen of London’s Neal Street, the successful chain has since grown to 30 outlets in UK alone, with a growing international market in Dubai, Sydney, Russia and – the newest kid on the block – Singapore. For me, I am just happy to get a taste of the cute chef in my country.
Something to do while you wait for your table – shop :)
While the restaurant has a limited number of tables for reservation, 80% of their tables are for walk-ins. Which is good for spontaneous people like me who can’t plan a meal in advance. After you put your name down for a table, you can go walk around the mall until they call you when your table is ready, or just hang around the retail area (which I usually do; and just in case there is a missed reservation to capitalize on haha). Jamie’s recipes are a great gourmet inspiration, and make great presents too.
Located on the ground level of Vivocity, the 250 seater restaurant offers both indoors (210 seats) and alfresco dining (40 seats).
Why not have a drink at the bar while you wait? The bar tenders are pretty friendly too, as you can tell from the photo, lol.
Pasta is freshly-made daily at the restaurant, and it’s quite interesting to watch. I like the springy texture of the pasta too.
We ordered a meat plank for appetizers. I was a bit amused when the service staff put two cans of tomato sauce on the table. “We didn’t order this.” I said. “Oh no madam, these are the stands for the plank.” she said. Embarrassed. That aside, I enjoyed the pickles and cured meat.
Crab and Avocado Bruschetta
Nothing to really shout about. The must-try appetizers are the crispy squid and baked mushrooms. And definitely World’s Best Olives on Ice.
The restaurant has recently introduced 15 new items to the menu such as Baked Sustainable Halibut (which I heard was good), Crispy Tomato and Mozzarella Arancini and Tutti Frutti Lemon Meringue Pie.
Wild Truffle Risotto
I enjoyed the slightly hard texture of the rice and the taste was not over-powering. The best thing about Jamie’s is that they offer a choice of half or full portions, which is great for people dieting (which I should be), or people who want to try more dishes (which is the greedy me, haha).
Lamb chop lollipops
One thing good about sitting near the kitchen – you get to see all the food coming out. I drooled non-stop. I need four stomachs like a cow.
Prawn Linguine
I usually go for the tomato-based pasta so I get to taste more of the pasta (and it’s less fattening). Jamie’s version of this dish was wholesome and fresh. It tasted home-cooked in a good way.
Special of the Day – Fritto Misto seafood served with yuzu mayo
I try to abstain from fried food, but these were delish. Do look out for the specials on the chalkboard.
Pasta Alla Norma
Jamie’s Italian Burger
Made with wagyu steak, smoked mozzarella, pancetta, balsamic onions, tomato, pickles and chillies, these are one of the most popular dishes on the menu.
Meat galore
The highlight of the restaurant must be the 30 Day Matured Prime Rib (right), a 350g Angus breed bone-in strip loin served with wild mushrooms and peppery endives.
Let the feast begin!
I always save space for dessert!
Sour Cherry Bakewell
While it came with high recommendation from the wait staff, it tasted pretty normal to me.
Creamy Panna Cotta
This was a winner. The creamy texture was just right, and the sourness of the mixed berries compote was paired well so you do not get sick of the panna cotta . Plus it was real fun to watch it wobble, heh. Will order again.
I have always enjoyed my visit to Jamie’s and will return again. I like the relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff who make you feel at home, the taste of fresh ingredients, and most of all – simple, unpretentious food.
Jamie’s Italian Singapore
Address: 1 Harbourfront Walk, Vivocity #01 165-167, Singapore 098585
Tel: 6733 5500
Email: [email protected]
Website/Online booking: http://www.jamieoliver.com/italian/singapore/vivo-city
Online reservations are for tables of up to 7 pax. Call the restaurant for large group bookings.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamiesitaliansingapore
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 12:00PM – 10:00PM; Fri – Sat: 12:00PM – 11:00PM; Sun: 12:00PM – 10:00PM
