Rubato Angel Hair Pasta and Seafood Medley

Rubato, nestled in the serene Greenwood Avenue since 2009, is an Italian eatery that has garnered attention from fellow chefs and food enthusiasts, even amid the closure of other favourite haunts like Tartufo in 2019. Known for its commitment to small-batch Italian fare, Rubato prides itself on roasting and baking dishes only upon order.

We started our culinary journey with 'A Gift from the Angels,' a whimsical name for angel hair pasta priced at $68. This dish featured chilled angel hair pasta tossed in premium white truffle oil, adorned with Hokkaido scallop sashimi, kombu, and 5g of Hokkaido Bafun Uni hidden under a generous shaving of truffles. It's a go-to starter for avant-garde Italians in Singapore, including patrons of Daluca and the iconic Garibaldi. The scallops were fresh, and the truffle oil was abundant. While I would have preferred a higher grade of Bafun uni, it was still acceptable.

Moving on to the seafood medley, a sophisticated term for bouillabaisse, it exceeded expectations. Although we often prepare similar tomato-based Italian soups at home, Rubato's rendition stood out for its burnt milky cheesiness that lingered with every spoonful. The frutti di mare was unquestionably fresh, meeting the standard expectations of a seafood-centric dish.

Overall, I would rank Rubato just below Daluca, particularly for those seeking Italian comfort food in the suburban enclave of Greenwood. For those venturing to Novena, Daluca offers a slightly homier experience, with Chef Daluca still helming the kitchen and a more quintessentially Sardinian wine selection.

Rubato stands as a commendable Italian staple in the Bukit Timah neighbourhood. Our total bill amounted to $350 for five diners, with additional dishes including the Burrata pizza and seafood pasta enhancing our culinary adventure. If you're in search of a cozy neighbourhood spot serving quality Italian cuisine, Rubato is a delightful choice.