Sitting in the trendy belt of Purvis Street since the first day of its operation, this semi-fine dining restaurant offers an enticing menu of Italian favourites with the freshest ingredients, paired off with some of the best Italian chefs in Singapore . Being around for not more than 4 years, this is one restaurant that is not short of accolades and acclaim. Having received notable awards from Singapore Tatler, Wine and Dine, Expat Magazine and Tables Magazine, you can be sure to expect great culinary moments dining in the accomplished Garibaldi Italian Restaurant & Bar.
The Vibe From the simple white façade of its exterior, it is difficult to get a hint of what goes on within. However, step inside to discover a dimly lit dining space that is kept intimate and elegant. With shiny cutlery and spotless wine glasses set over crisp white tablecloths, every individual table is illuminated with vanilla coloured light boxes that feature outlines of plants and flowers, creating an ambience that soothes and cajoles guests into winding down and partaking in an Italian feast guaranteed to satisfy. Far across the room, a fully stocked wine cellar that spans across its breadth will also prepare the guests for the wide range of over 500 different wines that the restaurant serves, to accompany their fine cuisine.
The Food This restaurant is partly owned and headed by a well-known personality in Singapore 's fine dining circle, the award-winning Chef de Cuisine Roberto Galetti who carefully handpicks his team of young Italian, European and local talents. Under his leadership, the kitchen of Garibaldi has consistently maintained its standards of offering pure Italian cuisine, and also quality seasonal picks to constantly keep things exciting and refreshing for its diners.
For an excellent start to the meal, do make a note to have a try of the Prosciutto di Parma ($24), a platter of finely sliced salted parma ham that is harmonized with sweet melon, buffalo mozzarella and asparagus. Light on the palate and exquisite in its blend of tastes, this certainly was a commendable dish to initiate us into our lunch. To further ease us into the meal proper, the specialty Capesante Al Tallegio ($26) is a must-try. Take time to slowly appreciate the nicely textured grilled king scallops resting over a bed of sautéed porcini mushrooms that are divinely infused with creamy truffled Taleggio Cheese.
Continue in your stride by having a go at the exquisite Tajarin ($58) pasta that is only served during the months of October to December this year. Seasoned with butter and the exquisite white truffle, the handmade egg Tagliolini pasta is simply outstanding, with the fragrant aromas of white truffle subtly lingering in the mouth moments after savouring it, leaving a pleasant aftertaste. Another dish that deserves special mention will be the Beef Tenderloin with Truffle Potatoes and Porcini Mushrooms ($48). The chefs had skillfully cooked the meat till it was perfectly tender and succulent, leaving the insides rosy pink and juicy, ideal for anyone's taste senses.
Before concluding your meal at Garibaldi, it is recommended to order their creatively crafted desserts that are freshly made daily. Noteworthy selections include the unique Earl Grey Parfait with Apricot & Lemon Supreme Jam ($18) as well as everyone's favourite Molten Lava Chocolate Cake with Nutmeg Gelato and Raspberry Coulis ($15).
The SD Food Advisor's take on Garibaldi Italian Restaurant & Bar Admittedly, the prices for this restaurant are a bit steeper than most Italian establishments in Singapore . However, having sampled a meal here, I have come to realize that the quality that one can get in this restaurant does justify its high prices. The culinary experience that you can enjoy here may leave you with a hole in your pocket, but a smile on your face when you leave its premises. Chef Galetti certainly deserves every bit of his recognition, and should be applauded on the fine dining standards he has initiated, and maintained in this meritorious Italian restaurant that has won for itself not only awards, but loyal patrons alongside.