Italian bistronomic concept LUCE by Davide Giacomelli opened its doors at InterContinental Singapore just a couple of months ago – read on to find out why you need to visit 😉
LUCE is helmed by Italian native Davide Giacomelli, who was chosen by InterContinental to open his own culinary concept, beating almost 120 chefs from all over the globe. He brings with him 13 years of experience in the kitchen, including several stints at Michelin-star restaurants all over Europe.
You may be wondering what ‘bistronomic’ means; it combines bistro dining and gastronomy – a concept Chef Davide aims to introduce to our local food scene. He’s kept the menu straightforward and simple, culminating in hearty, natural flavours and Italian classics he perfected.
Apéritifs, Digestifs & Everything in Between
LUCE’s offerings for the imbibers are generally very apt for Aperitivo hour – opt for the light and refreshing Aperopolitan ($22), made with Skyy Neptune Vodka, Aperol, Campari and lemon, or the White Sensation ($26), a citrus-forward tipple with Sui Japanese Gin, Cointreau, Crème De Menthe and lemon.
However, if you’re looking for stronger classics, go for the InterContinental Negroni ($28), made with barrel-aged gin, coffee and Jasmine tea-infused Vermouth, Campari and bitters. This was a coffee-forward interpretation whilst maintaining the classic Negroni’s distinct bitters; a must-try for espresso lovers!
You’ll also find an extensive list of Italian wines by the glass and bottle, as well as spirits and more.
Hearty Italian Fare at LUCE by Davide Giacomelli
Start with the Octopus Peperonata ($36), a Sicilian-style cooked octopus that was so tender! While it’s pan-fried to a crisp, the moisture is retained in the flesh and was well-seasoned. The ratatouille had a nice spice and acidity to balance the flavours too.
Suppose you could have only one risotto or pasta. In that case, we say go with the Acquerello Lobster ($46) – Chef Davide uses Carnaroli rice, which is chewier and al dente. If you’ve had lobster bisque before, you’d know it’s hard to get the seafood flavours to be distinct, but Chef really outdid himself on the taste profile of this dish. The lobster stock was flavourful and had intense umami notes permeating each grain; there were also generous servings of lobster chunks in the risotto and atop it. Definitely #worthit.
P.s. Give their pastas a try too; they’re all made in-house!
Don’t skip out on the Merluzzo alla Puttanesca ($46), a pan-fried Atlantic cod that’s super tender and flavourful. The cod was also moist and cooked just right, with the tomato sauce, olives, anchovies and more offering a nice balance to the dish as a whole.
Save Space for Desserts
Even if you’re stuffed, can you really go to an Italian restaurant and not try their Tiramisu? LUCE does a LUCE-misu ($18) that is a lighter, airy rendition of the classic Italian dessert. While it was not as boozy, the flavours and textures were an excellent combination; the mascarpone cream espuma was soft and creamy on the sponge cake, which contrasted with the crunchy feuilletine.
The Fragola ($18) was a nice, slightly sweet and sour citrus dessert with delicious yuzu cream, strawberry jelly, and sponge cake.
Curious to try Chef Davide’s authentic Italian fare? Head on over to LUCE at InterContinental Singapore! Buon appetito!
*Do note the restaurant is closed for lunch service from 29 Sept to 1 Oct.
- Address: InterContinental Singapore | 80 Middle Rd, Singapore 188966
- Opening Hours: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm Wednesday to Sunday, 12pm to 3pm for Sunday Brunch (9 Oct onwards)
- Nearest MRT Station: Bugis MRT
Disclaimer: We were guests of LUCE by Davide, but all opinions remain our own.
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