We won’t lie, we weren’t particularly sorry to see The Jackson Plan go; particularly since that’s led to its replacement in the form of Latteria (also from the il Lido group). If you’ve been to this spot when it was still the former, you’ll notice some elements have remained, namely the handsome patio out front (built for after-work drinks), mosaic tiling and wooden flooring but gone are the white and green walls (thankfully) although wood furniture still populates the space, the somewhat eclectic nature of the décor affords it an endearing quality and a cozy vibe. You can also count on friendly and well-meaning staff, who displayed a good grasp on Latteria’s menu items. Our starter of stracciatella, sprinkled with bottarga ($20), was a triumph. The mozzarella cheese was light, fresh and creamy, playing beautifully off the flavors of the roasted zucchini and rocket. We weren’t quite as impressed with our slightly dry porcini and burrata pasta bake ($25); perhaps we would have been better off with the signature mac & cheese (also $25), which paraded past us served in a whole pumpkin. Fortunately, the tagliata-style sirloin ($35) proved another sensible choice. Done perfectly to our medium specifications, the thinly-sliced Parmigiano-topped meat was incredibly tender and proved most satisfying indeed. It’s almost too easy to pass on this establishment, what with the numerous other options in the area, but that would be a mistake.

Don't miss: Stracciatella with bottarga. It's one of I-S Magazine's 50 things to eat in Singapore before you die (2012).