Antipasti, pizzas, pastas, main courses and desserts get the beautiful Tuscan treatment at this posh but kid-friendly restaurant in Katong, Singapore
Somewhere in between the hive of artists and arts groups residing at Goodman Arts Centre lies an Italian dining gem – an white table-clothed space that’s versatile enough for formal business lunches, weddings, and private events – even kids’ parties in Singapore.
Like most uptown restaurants in the city, the look is that of understated elegance, with clean lines, soft lighting (light bulbs are sourced from Sweden), and dark wood furnishings designed by legendary Viennese furniture maker Michael Thonet. Sophisticated as it may be, La Barca isn’t stuffy or uppity; thanks to its floor-to-ceiling windows that allow plenty of natural light in the day, and quaint touches like brightly-coloured flowers and oil lamps. The family-friendly spot also has a kids’ playroom and an inviting outdoor deck that’s perfect for your entire crew (including four-legged friends) to dine alfresco.
But the pretty restaurant is not all looks and no substance. Michelin-starred chef Michele Sorrentino is the chef at La Barca, and his competence and ambition are evident in the hefty menu that consists of antipasti, salads, soups, pastas, meat and fish mains, pizzas, desserts, and even a list of delectable plates for vegetarians/vegans and children.
Chef Sorrentino hails from Tuscany, so simplicity and strong flavours are central to the food at La Barca. These distinctively Tuscan characters are exemplified in the amazing spread we had on our table, which included a delicious veal tartare with truffle shavings, a fried lemon battered lobster on pappa al pomodoro, a freshly-made Tuscan pici pasta with chef’s pork rib ragu, as well as the practically faultless traditional fiorentina steak served with roasted potatoes and cannellini beans with sage and chilli.
The desserts (we basically inhaled the traditional tiramisu and zuppa inglese with chocolate chips) were real pleasers, too, and definitely worth the calories. La Barca also offers Italian beer, prosecco, Champagne, and a fine selection of Italian wines for you to indulge within its swish, quiet setting.
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La Barca Ristorante & Wine Bar, Blk C Goodman Arts Centre, 90 Goodman Road, Singapore 439053, p. 6346-5813, e. [email protected]. Open Tue-Fri 11am-2.30pm; 6.30pm-10pm, Sat-Sun 11am-2.30pm; 6.30pm-9.30pm.