It might be a little overhyped (since when was anything here not?), given that back in the UK it’s a reliably affordable chain with more than 30 outlets, but Jamie’s Italian—the celeb chef’s first Singapore project—is finally open at VivoCity.
The large casual space—which seats 210 diners—is outfitted with mismatched furnishings some of it custom made and other pieces sourced from vintage stores. The aesthetic is pretty urban but accessible, with red booth seats and blue metal chairs.
There’s even a corner of the space dedicated to Jamie Oliver’s merchandise including an extensive range of cookbooks.
Food-wise, there’s a range of affordable everyday eats, which are very similar to the chain’s offerings worldwide. The restaurant makes all their pastas in-house daily and the noodles make their way into dishes like Jool’s Favourite Sicilian Tuna Fusilli (from $14), a briny bowlful including slow-cooked albacore and cinnamon breadcrumb topping. There are also items like crab risotto (from $19) and grilled chicken with pizziola tomato sauce ($28).
Desserts are served up in generous portions including their take on tiramisu ($11.50), a five layered dessert topped with orange mascarpone. And the drinks list includes plenty of refreshing tipples such as the sour cherry fizz ($15)—sour cherries, orange liqueur, cherry brandy and prosecco—as well as easy-on-the-pocket Italian wines (from $49.50).
The restaurant has also partnered with local bespoke farming consultancy Edible Gardens to grow some chillies and herbs (like rosemary and basil) outdoors at the alfresco eating area. The dining spot should be packed in the coming weeks.
