Embark on a new culinary adventure with il Giardino, where cicchetti-style Italian dishes are infused with fragrant local herbs and delicate Asian accents
Singapore’s Botanic Gardens, a lush tropical oasis on the city’s outskirts, presents a beautifully preserved landscape perfect for a leisurely stroll any day of the week. After your walk, indulge in a delightful meal at Il Giardino, where hearty Italian dishes are served that would make any Nonna proud.
Aptly named Il Giardino, Italian for “the garden,” the restaurant opened just in time to commemorate the nation’s 60th birthday and the 10th anniversary of the Singapore Botanic Gardens’ status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled within a conservation house, Il Giardino boasts a charming al fresco terrace that presents shareable Italian dishes, elegantly enhanced with fragrant local herbs and subtle Asian influences.
As with any Italian meal, we began with small plates, relishing the Panzanella—a vibrant salad of green mango, cashews, olives, fennel, citrus, heirloom tomatoes, croutons, pecorino cheese, and a smoked tamarind vinaigrette for a local twist.
For a touch of theatrical flair, the slow-cooked Venetian octopus is expertly cut tableside and accompanied by toasted bread to mop up the delightful flavours. These flavours include a house-made gremolata, and ginger flower salsa Verde.
The Spaghetti alle Vongole, tossed in garlic, white wine, and parsley, kept us returning for more. Equally captivating were the porcini and ricotta cheese ravioli parcels, tossed with a five-cheese sauce, sage, and crunchy hazelnuts, creating an explosion of flavours in every bite.
For the mains, the roasted corn-fed chicken, delicately enhanced with an Amalfi lemon caper sauce, truly hits the spot. The slow-braised Osso Bucco, complemented by a kaffir lime gremolata, showcases tender beef enhanced by soft whipped potatoes and the richness of Barolo wine jus, elevated the dining experience.
For dessert, indulge in the classic Affogato—a refreshing treat featuring hazelnut gelato, coffee, and almond crumb, perfect for warm days. Traditionalists will find comfort in a selection of gelatos designed to suit every preference.
The entire menu is carefully curated by 1-Group Culinary Associate Director Felix Chong, whose extensive experience includes stints at some of Singapore’s most celebrated Italian restaurants, such as Monti. Each dish is thoughtfully paired with Italian wines or cocktails infused with herbs and botanicals—ranging from basil and kaffir lime to elderflower and rosemary.
