Thirty9, which you will find on the leafy street of Duxton Hill, stands out as the home-cooked traditions of Italy are presented with a touch of modern flair. The restaurant has an ambience that takes you back to the piazzas of Italy. The intimate indoor seating for 22 and the 24-seater veranda offers a delightful oasis for diners. Thirty9 is co-owned by Peter and Giusi Stilli, who own the adjacent Latteria Mozzarella Bar. Thirty9 is a testament to their enduring love affair over a decade between Singapore and the authentic, rustic charm of Italian cuisine.
Chef Erik Trozza, the maestro at the helm, brings over two decades of culinary leadership experience in Europe and Asia's most prestigious restaurants, including Osteria by Angie in Taipei, Taiwan; Mia Torino in Singapore; and Maison and Antichi Sapori in Turin, Italy. Chef Erik creates each dish with flavours that pay homage to Italy's rich culinary heritage but with his original twist to surprise and delight guests.
Special mention must be made of Syed, our server for the evening, whose attention to detail and intimate knowledge of the menu creates that extra layer of anticipation for the evening.
The dining began with homemade Rosemary Focaccia, crisp breadsticks, and the smooth, grassy notes of Tuscan olive oil. Such simple pleasures of Italian baking set the stage for the following feasting delights.
One of the highlights of the menu for me is the Pizza Genovese. The base is smothered in a vibrant basil pesto with succulent red prawns, creamy mascarpone, potato, and sun-dried tomatoes. The pesto replaces the traditional tomato sauce, lending a unique twist to this classic dish. A drizzle of chilli oil was enough to pick up the piquancy level. The verbal nods around the table indicated agreement. Don't miss this one.
A sculptured plate of home-cured Bresaola emerged next: home-cured air-dried beef Bresaola with Asiago cheese, Soncino salad, and wine-infused pear. The wine-soaked pears were a sweet complement to the thinly sliced beef. This is a melt-in-your-mouth delight that lets quality ingredients shine.
The Fritto Misto Di Paranza was a welcome celebration of the ocean's bounty - calamari, octopus, and prawns are all impeccably deep-fried. The novel addition of battered clams was a delightful surprise. The accompanying garlic mayonnaise was the perfect dip to the seafood's crispy batter.
Ravioli Del Pin was a revelation! The first main course was my highlight dish of the evening. Homemade rectangles of ravioli filled with spinach, ricotta with a lemon butter sauce and generous gratings of parmigiana cheese. Delicious. Cheesy. Comfort served up in a spoon. Each bite will transport you to the warmth of an Italian family kitchen. This is a dish that left me utterly satisfied.
The Grilled Beef T-Bone Steak "Fiorentina" was a carnivore's dream. The meat's succulence, complemented by charred garlic and onion, demanded attention, its flavours amplified by a bold black pepper sauce. This dish is best enjoyed amongst 2 or 3 friends, its size as generous as the spirit of Italy itself.
And then, the Dolce, the final act. Tiramisu Thirty9: A reimagined classic, the layers of Savoiardi ladyfingers soaked in espresso and the light, fluffy mascarpone cream with a hint of Amaretto Disaronno make this a sweet temptation impossible to resist. But it's the Cannoli Siciliani that put the smile on my face that put the smile on my face: crisp cannoli shells filled with a luscious, smooth, tangy ricotta mixture. The candied oranges and chocolate chips add a delightful textural contrast.
Thirty9's extensive wine list is a testament to the breadth and beauty of Italian winemaking. Featuring an impressive selection of whites, reds, and bubblies, Peter will expertly guide you towards pairings that perfectly complement your meal. Noteworthy was the presence of Gaia Barolos from Piedmont, a personal favourite, their complex notes a fitting libation for the evening's repast.
Thirty9 is not just another Italian restaurant; it's a curator of experiences, where every dish tells a story, and every flavour transports you. This is Italian dining redefined, where culinary excellence is captured and served on a plate. With various menus to suit any occasion, from the set lunch to the happy hour specials, Thirty9 is for all who seek the quintessential Italian feast: an invitation to savour life one impeccable dish at a time.
About The Writer
Doug Peris is a well-known writer and reporter for Expat Choice Asia, a passionate foodie and an avid traveller. Originally from Australia, he has been living in Singapore since 2000. With an appreciation and curiosity for good chefs, street food, unique travel destinations and diverse cultures, Doug enjoys indulging in culinary delights when travelling for work or leisure. When Doug is not seeking out the best local eats, you can find him in the kitchen trying new recipes, cycling on the roads of Singapore, watching rugby matches, or planning his next beach getaway.
His varied experiences allow Doug to provide unique perspectives on the vibrant local food scenes across this dynamic region, where his honest and reliable recommendations are well regarded. So, join Doug as he shares his food and travel adventures through thoughtful reports and articles published and distributed on www.expatchoice.asia.
If you would like Doug or any of our reviewers to visit your establishment as a guest to report on your unique experience and have this report published on Expat Choice, contact us via email with details of your offering at [email protected]
Reserve your table at Thirty9, where every meal is a masterpiece; every visit is a memory. Prepare to be swept away on a journey redefining your understanding of Italian cuisine.
a. 39 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089617
fb. www.facebook.com/Thirty9DuxtonHill
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