Griglia unveils a second location the centre of Katong bringing some of the most treasured classics from Craig Road and adding some new flavourful offerings to this vibrant neighbourhood. I had the chance to try its new menu with memories of its Craig Road as a tasty point of reference, and it did not disappoint. Our table was eager to try some new items along with some of the ‘classics’. The Katong menu is divided in Finger Food, From the Garden, From the Land, From the Sea, and of course from the Open Grill.
Our journey began with a round of Finger Foods, perfect for sharing and setting the tone for the evening. The Brisket Slider ($8) was a bite-sized explosion of flavour, with tender brisket accompanied by a tangy sauce that left us craving for more. Equally impressive was the Mortadella Mousse ($6), a creamy delight that melted in our mouths, leaving behind the classic flavour of pistachios and spices.
Next up, we delved into the offerings From the Garden, where fresh and vibrant ingredients took centre stage. The House-made Focaccia with Garlic, Rosemary, and Apulian Extra Virgin Olive Oil ($8) was a rustic delight, perfectly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, with just the right amount of fragrant garlic and rosemary to awaken our senses. The Heirloom Tomatoes Carpaccio with Sicilian Oregano and Tarallo Bread Crumble ($19) was a tasty masterpiece of ripe thinly sliced tomatoes complemented by the crunch of Tarallo breadcrumbs and the aromatic touch of Sicilian oregano. And the Baked Eggplant with Buffalo Mozzarella and Ligurian Basil ($24) was a symphony of flavours, with creamy mozzarella melding harmoniously with the smoky eggplant and fragrant basil.
We then moved to the From the Land section. The Pappardelle with Pork Cheek, Chianti, and Guanciale ($28) was made with succulent tender pork cheek melting effortlessly into the rich Chianti sauce, while the guanciale added a delightful hint of smokiness. Each bite was the ultimate Tuscan comforting embrace.
From the Sea, we savoured the delicately prepared Tuna Crudo with Pine Nuts, Radish, and Smoked Oil ($24). The freshness of the tuna was enhanced by the crunch of pine nuts and the peppery bite of radish, while the smoked oil added a subtle layer that lingered. And the Fusilli “Monograno Felicetti” with Jumbo Crab and ‘Nduja ($28) was one of table favourites. Al dente pasta enveloped in a creamy sauce teeming with expertly shredded sweet crab meat and a comfortable spicy kick of ‘Nduja.
No visit to Griglia would be complete without indulging in their grill selection, and we eagerly dug into the 30 Days Dry Aged Porterhouse ‘Fiorentina’ ($158) and the Whole Spanish Turbot ($148). The porterhouse, cooked to perfection over an open flame, was a carnivore’s dream, with each tender slice revealing layers of rich, beefy flavour. And the Spanish Turbot, with succulent flesh that practically melted in our mouths, left us speechless with each forkfull.
Of course, no Italian feast would be complete without a selection of tantalising side dishes to accompany the main event. The Charcoal Grilled Baby Corn served with a Brown Butter Sabayon ($10) was a delightful surprise, with the sweetness of the corn elevated by the nutty richness of the sabayon. The Sautéed Kale with White Balsamic ($12) provided a refreshing contrast to the richness of the other dishes. And the Romaine Lettuce topped with Anchovies Dressing and Garlic Crumbs ($12) was a refreshing palate cleanser, with each crisp leaf coated in a briny dressing that left us craving for more.
As our meal drew to a close, we couldn’t resist indulging in Griglia’s decadent dessert options. The Sicilian Cannoli filled with Ricotta and Chocolate ($3 each) were a sweet crunchy bite revealing a creamy centre bursting with chocolatey goodness. The Nocciolamisu made with Mascarpone, Frangelico, and Espresso ($12) was a luxurious twist on the classic tiramisu, with layers of velvety mascarpone infused with the nutty warmth of Frangelico and the bold kick of espresso. And the Upside-down Apple Cake served with Salted Caramel Ice Cream ($16) was a comforting finale to our meal, with the warm, caramelized apples complemented perfectly by the cool creaminess of the ice cream.
VERDICT: Overall, our dining experience at Griglia Katong was outstanding. From the warm hospitality to the exquisite flavours of each dish, every aspect of our meal lived to Griglia’s hard earned reputation. The commitment to quality ingredients is palpable in each dish making it a neighbourhood destination for anyone craving a taste of Italy in the heart of Singapore.
Griglia
139 East Coast Road, 428829
