I apologize that it took me some time for me to introduce you to this Heaven-on-Earth Italian place. Thanks to Pickat SG (an app that helps you to decide on what to eat), my friends and I found this hidden gem on the west side of the little red dot.

The Chef’s an authentic Italian, extremely amiable – and I appreciate it a lot. He started with introducing us to a few of signature appetizers and Caprese di Bufala is one of them; the richness of mozzarella cheese in one bite, drizzled with truffle oil. The astounding freshness of ingredients, the brightly contrasted colours. It is simplicity at its best.

Caprese di BufalaFresh sliced tomato with Whole buffalo Mozzarella Cheese Dressed with Extra Virgin Olive Oil — **Caprese di Bufala**
*Fresh sliced tomato with Whole buffalo Mozzarella Cheese Dressed with Extra Virgin Olive Oil*

His wife hand makes the pasta freshly everyday, and they supply ingredients to some well-know Italian restaurants in Singapore too. The chef’s got it all at the back of his mind: he introduced us to a few of his signature dishes according to what we were craving for, which he politely asked when we were spoilt for choice looking at the menu. I could see pride in the way he presents his dishes and that’s what I think every chef should have.

And, of course, my craving for truffles was truly satisfied. Geez how did such good stuff even exist, life is good with truffle ;) So yes, all my weakness in a plate – mushroom, truffle, cream, cheese and freshly made pasta. Funghi Porcini e Tartufo.

Funghi Porcini e TartufoPorcini mushroom, truffles in creamy sauce — **Funghi Porcini e Tartufo**
*Porcini mushroom, truffles in creamy sauce*

Quattro Formaggi PastaA blended combination of four classic cheeses — **Quattro Formaggi Pasta**
*A blended combination of four classic cheeses*

Think ravioli, filled with only cheese, and 4 classic ones. A heavy if not executed well but this dish was perfectly balanced.. A must-try for cheese lovers.

Cartoccio con Frutti di MareMixed Seafood sprinkled with White Wine, Chilli, Garlic, Fresh Parsley and Cherry Tomatoes — **Cartoccio con Frutti di Mare**
*Mixed Seafood sprinkled with White Wine, Chilli, Garlic, Fresh Parsley and Cherry Tomatoes*

I’m not a big fan of tomato-based pasta, but this pretty much sold me. What made it an interesting dish is the flow of flavors that go through your taste buds. It’s surprise after surprise even in only one bite and yes you will naturally help yourself to never ending amount of servings – just like what I did.

You know it can be pretty damn hard to find such exceptional delectable Italian food in a cozy corner of the country – the atmosphere of the restaurant complemented the meal perfectly, decidedly gussied up to allow you to be transported back to Italy, at least for the afternoon. I love this place.

Donna Carmela
2 Greenwood Ave, Singapore 289189
+65 6463 4206
http://donnacarmela.com.sg