The buzz: The CBD’s really starting to heat up and one of its latest offerings is Italian restaurant Zaffiro (which means sapphire in Italiano) at Asia Square.The vibe: The décor is a little unconventional, especially considering its location and target clientele of PMEBs, but at least it’s different: crisp, white tablecloths and pale furniture stand in sharp contrast to jet-black walls and some real color pops with elements of yellow, vermillion and electric blue (a nod to its moniker no doubt).The food: This is chef and co-owner Giuliano Dacasto’s very first baby, and he’s wisely gone with not only handmade pastas (from $28) but also hearty, familiar dishes like ossobuco slow-cooked in Marsala ($48). For something less predictable, sample signatures such as roasted scallops in cocoa butter ($28) and the commendable, homemade veal shank ravioli garnished with truffle ($32).The drinks: Vinos galore, with a selection of over 260 labels most of which are from heavyweights Italy (but of course) and France; Zardetto Prosecco goes for just $10/glass or $53/bottle.Why we’ll be back: If you’re working in the area, it’s a decent option for some Italian cuisine. Plus, they also do three-course lunch sets for $45, including coffee or tea.
