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2011-06-30
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If anything, come for the views! This place has an AMAZING atmosphere. Everything, starting from the sleek black glass-walled entrance, to the glitzy crystal chandeliers, modern black leather chairs, and open avant-garde kitchen, is so upscale. All the décor here just screams chic and classy. The views, obviously, are to die for. We were lucky to have had such incredible views of the harbour on a sunny, cloudless day. I bet the ambiance and views would be even more glamorous during the nig
The food, however, was on another level. I expected to be completely wowed by the offerings, but was greeted by a quite standard Italian menu. There was definitely quality in the ingredients and in the cooking, but it was lacking creativity.
- Breadbasket had a nice selection of flatbreads, crisps and regular rolls. They tasted fresh. Was served with olive oil and balsamic vinegar which were together in a single small dipping dish. I don't think this makes much sense. The water-based vinegar is naturally heavier than oil, so it sinks to the bottom. When you dip your piece of bread, it is first coated with the oil; and when that oil-coated piece penetrates the oil layer and reach the vinegar layer it obviously can't soak up the vinegar because, as we know, oil and vinegar can't mix. Yes, it's small and kind of stupid detail, but I would have liked to see the vinegar and oil on separate dishes.
- Started off with a white asparagus purée soup. Was creamy, with a clean and crisp finish. Not too heavy, which I liked.
- Main course of grilled tuna was quite nice. It was cooked perfectly, still a bit raw and soft in the centre. The vegetables which accompanied it had plenty of nice roasted flavour. I loved the tomatoes.
- Dessert of tiramisu was nothing new, but quite delicious. IT was served in a pretty round glass bowl, so thumbs up for presentation. The mascarpone cream was airy and light, and the coffee and chocolate flavours were strong. I finished the whole thing and did not feel like a rock was in my stomach.
- Petit fours were yummy. Loved the very rich one with chocolate ganache filling, but my favourite was the one with lemon creme.
I wouldn't say that the food was bad; but it was just a very standard (almost boring) Italian meal, not something I'd expect in the fancy schmancy, spanking new Ritz Carlton hotel.
The service was excellent. The waiter answered all our questions about the food. Champagne and wine were refilled quickly. Most important thing was that he always SMILED and seemed enthusiastic about his job.
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