When a man meets your eye with a big pizza pie, that’s amore – especially if that man is chef Beppe De Vito and the pizza’s from his new restaurant, Amò. Part of the ilLido Group, the eatery is sophisticated yet casual, with dim lights that draw all attention to the open kitchen where De Vito and his pizza chef Federico Schiraldi toss dough through the air before it’s baked in a wood-fired oven that’s made in Italy, of course.
Schiraldi’s pizzas are light and doughy, with a crisp and slightly charred base. But if you’re looking for variety, you’re not going to find it here – there are only eight pizzas on the menu. I opt for one with creamy stracciatella buffalo cheese, prosciutto, rocket, and fig vincotto ($29), which is an Italian vinegar similar to balsamic but a touch stickier and sweeter. The combination doesn’t disappoint, with each ingredient working in harmony to elevate the dish beyond what you’d get from the delivery guy. There’s also a pie with mushrooms, truffle, mascarpone and a generous shaving of pecorino from Tuscany ($32). Leave your diet at the door if you plan on ordering this – one slice won’t be enough.
The spaghettoni with Boston lobster and tarragon ($78) is another showstopper. The dish serves two to three, making Amò just as ideal for lovers on a date as big groups looking for an authentic Italian family-style dining experience. The spaghettoni is tossed in a rich seafood bisque-esque sauce that, unfortunately, doesn’t quite stick to the pasta – the sauce works better as a dressing for the massive shellfish that crowns the plate.
The restaurant also offers mains such as a whole grilled sea bass with vegetables and a mint casserole ($58), and butter roasted chicken with grilled corn custard ($58), both of which also serve two. So gather the tribe and head on down to Amò – you’ll be well fed and properly drunk on the Italian wines that start from $14 a glass. What’s not to love?
Time Out Singapore reviews anonymously and pays for all meals. Read our restaurant review policy here.
What the stars mean:
★ Poor ★ ★ Promising ★★★ Good ★★★★ Very good ★★★★★ Exceptional
