La Cantina in Venezia takes diners away from the hustle and bustle of city life and offers a retreat into the secluded Changi Village area with a magnificent view of the ocean. An intimate place for sunset dining as well as candle lit dinners, La Cantina in Venezia brings to their guests more than just another dining venue.

• The Vibe
  With the deep blue sea and lush greenery just below one's feet, alfresco dining in Singapore , is at its best on the rooftop of Changi Village Hotel. Pick between alfresco-style balcony dining, or to be housed within the comforts of indoor air-conditioning. The Roman-styled balcony on the second storey, coupled with simple furnishings and charm thrown in abundance, lends a romantic air about the restaurant.

• The Food
  Signature dishes like Linguine al Granchio ($21.90) feature a creamy concoction of crabmeat linguine. Rich, thick pale orange creamy sauce covered a generous portion of linguine and fresh crabmeat. Richly flavoured in cheese and hints of herbs, this dish is mouth-watering but may be a little too much for some.

  The Agnello Alla Griglia con Rosemario ($33), which translates to “grilled lamb in rosemary”, is another dish worth ordering. Request for it to be done in medium rare to enjoy a tender cut of lamb drizzled with fragrant rosemary and olive oil. Sides of grilled potatoes and peppers balance the strong meat flavour to satisfy both the palate as well as the empty stomach.

  It was a pity that such appetizing dishes and their palatable goodness were short-lived. A random pick from the antipasti brought Vongole al Vino Bianco ($15.90) to the table – a plateful of clams in white wine. There was not the slightest hint of white wine in the salty gravy whilst the clams differed in size, texture as well as taste. The apparent inconsistency within this dish itself was an unfortunate experience to the course of the meal.

• The Service
  Eager to please, waitresses at La Cantina in Venezia are friendly and efficient, although there were initially some difficulties in communication. Nevertheless, patrons are still ensured a relaxing and easygoing dining experience in the restaurant.

The SD Food Advisor's take on La Cantina in Venezia
The magnificent view accorded to patrons is definitely one of the restaurant's highlights, together with the hotel's beautiful aquarium-like swimming pool and alfresco dining. Food may not be as good compared to other restaurants, but decent food together with a casually romantic setting might just be the thing to consider in one's list of alfresco dining. Of course, do check with the weather forecast to avoid disappointment!