With a focus on serving guests authentic handcrafted pizzas, pastas and cocktails, Publico Ristorante & Garden is undoubtedly one of the best places in Singapore to enjoy a well-thought modern Italian menu influenced by classic recipes.
The Italian restaurant at InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay has just undergone a refresh, introducing “garden” in its name.
They maintain the alfresco, pet-friendly, dining ambience that has been well-loved by diners, highlighting the day-to-night dining experiences they offer.
The Terrazzo offers a serene alfresco dining experience with scenic views of the Singapore River, suitable for those seeking a romantic dinner or a leisurely brunch with family, friends and even fur babies.
If you prefer to sit inside, there is quite a huge space with chic interiors.
The sophisticated design manages to balance modern elegance with the cosy and familiar atmosphere of an Italian trattoria.
I liked the cheery vibes, enhanced from its bright décor, welcoming staff, and foot-tapping beats.
Now, to the heart of the matter: the food.
True to its Italian roots, the restaurant serves up a range of well-crafted dishes that emphasise the fresh, robust flavours of Italy.
Moreover, the restaurant has developed several new signatures highlighting the spirit of Italian summer, allowing diners to have an epicurean adventure packed with distinct flavours. Here’s more:
Publico Woodfired Mediterranean Octopus ($34)
Rustic in appearance, with splashes of colours embellishing the plate, the Publico Woodfired Mediterranean Octopus is a beautiful mix of diverse tastes and textures.
Roasted baby potatoes, confit garlic cream, crispy Prosciutto, and charred kale form the base for the juicy charcoal-grilled octopus with an alluring smokey taste.
A generous trickle of lemon adds zestiness to the dish.
At the same time, the Sicilian pistachios and Fried Chickpeas contrast the octopus’s chewiness with a bite.
Spaghetti Chitarra Carbonara ($28)
Offering a pasta dish for everyone, Publico serves an extensive selection of house-made pasta that covers a good length and breadth.
These include the Linguine Vongole ($28), Penne Pomodoro ($28), Truffle Spaghetti Cacio E Pepe ($36), Handcut Pappardelle Beef Ragu ($32), Crab Ravioli “Mama Rosa” ($34), to the more indulgent Publico Spicy Lobster Spaghetti ($48).
As I wanted to try out a new dish, I had the Spaghetti Chitarra Carbonara.
Chitarra translates to “guitar” and this pasta is traditionally made by rolling pasta dough over a wooden board lined with guitar strings, lending its unique angular shape.
Made in the traditional Roman way, using only four ingredients – Guanciale, Pecorino, Egg Yolk, and Black Pepper – ‘simplicity’ still amazed the palate with a deliciously-creamy sauce.
Thick in its composition, the sauce intertwines with the Spaghetti Chitarra’s chewy texture, and was a flavour-rich experience.
Mafaldine Slow Cooked Lamb Ragu ($34)
If you prefer something wonderfully rich without being overwhelming, try the Mafaldine Slow Cooked Lamb Ragu.
Mafaldine is a type of ripple-edged pasta, wherein its wide shape with wavy edges is ideal for holding on to the full-bodied meaty sauce.
At the same time, inspired by the Napolean way of cooking, the sauce comprises slow-cooked lamb, simmered for an extended period along with juicy, red San Marzano tomatoes, red wine, and fresh herbs to extract maximum taste.
My favourite part, though, is the hum of spiciness you get, thanks to the roasted chillies.
Truffle & Porcini Risotto ($42)
Grounded in its idea and construction, the Truffle & Porcini Risotto is as earthy as a dish can get.
The recipe uses medium-grained Carnaroli rice, prized for its creamy and consistent texture.
Slow-cooked in truffle jus and vegetable stock, the rice gives the dish its distinctly homely taste.
The addition of woodfired porcini mushrooms, Parmigiano, and fresh black truffle shavings accentuate the preparation’s character with their smoky and earthy, creamy indulgence.
Ortolana Pizza ($28)
Publico introduces woodfired pizza lovers to Ortolana in their new menu, which also consists of old-time favourites like the Quattro Formaggi, Sicila, Burrata, and Diavola.
Translated to “Farmer’s Garden Pizza,” it serves as an excellent choice for vegetarians wanting to relish the many palates of Southern Italy, especially during harvest time.
The dough was crispy and yet slightly chewy in the centre.
Toppings on Ortolana include eggplant, red peppers, zucchinis, and other roasted seasonal Italian vegetables.
Cheezy goodness comes from the delicately sweet and melted Fior Di Latte. Simultaneously, the house-made pesto alla Genovese uplifts the dish with herby nuttiness.
1.2kg Bistecca alla Fiorentina ($155)
Publico gives Tuscan cuisine a nod with its tantalisingly good Bistecca alla Fiorentina.
A staple during festivals and feast days, the origin of the thick-cut T-bone steak dates back to the 16th century. It is an integral part of Florence and its history.
The meat is premium quality free-range Australian Wanderer, barley-fed Angus Beef, sizzled in the Josper Charcoal Gril until medium-rare with charcoal-like crispy brown edges.
An essential order for celebratory dinners, Publico’s 1.2kg Bistecca alla Fiorentina entices with succulent charcoal-grilled Angus beef served with mashed potatoes, peppercorn gravy, and red wine jus.
The gravy enhances the taste of the meat with its robustness, acquired from ingredients like mixed peppercorns, garlic, and onions.
Publico Tiramisu ($16)
Easily mistaken as a table plant, Publico’s Tiramisu is as visually stunning as it is tasteful.
A deep dig into the flower pot reveals layer after layer of Italian delights like Savoiardi biscuits soaked in coffee liqueur and espresso.
A handful of pure cocoa on top duplicates the soil and gives each spoonful an earthy, dark-chocolate taste to juxtapose the sweet mascarpone cream.
The restaurant’s beverage menu is equally notable. The selection of Italian wines was diverse and well-curated, and the cocktail list includes both classic and innovative options.
The Aperol Spritz, a classic Italian cocktail, with its blend of Aperol, Prosecco and Soda, is particularly well-liked. Cheers!
Sweeter Endings with Citibank
From now till 31 December 2023, round off your meal with a complimentary Publico Tiramisu when you spend a minimum of $140++ in a single receipt, exclusively for Citibank debit and credit card members. Terms and conditions apply.
Publico Ristorante & Garden
1 Nanson Road, Singapore 238909
Opening Hours: 12pm – 11pm (Mon – Sat), 12pm – 10pm (Sun)
Reservations: bit.ly/Publico-Reservations
* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Publico Ristorante.
