Classic Italian Restaurant Pete’s Place Reopens It’s Doors At Grand Hyatt
CONTENT: Michelle Ng
There is no shortage of Italian restaurants in Singapore, but there’s something about Pete’s Place that feels like we’re stepping back in time to our grandmother’s kitchen – or if we had an Italian grandmother. The newly refurbished restaurant gives off rustic vibes, with dim lighting and wooden tables.
Pete’s Place has been serving up Italian comfort food since 1973, and it continues to do so even under the guidance of the newly-appointed Chef Salvatore Giorgio Catania, who hails from Puglia which also known as the breadbasket of Italy. Expect authentic Italian food that brings out the best flavours of only the freshest ingredients when you head down to the basement trattoria.
Highlights from the Antipasti section includes the Bruschetta Rustica, a lovely umami explosion of flavours with a single anchovy on a tomatoey confit that opens your appetite and the Crudo, slices of raw snapper marinated in citrus and olive oil. The olive oil, which is also used as the dipping oil for the bread and other dishes, come from Chef Salvatore’s hometown in South Puglia and is the perfect complement for the natural flavours of the Italian dishes. Another little thrill we can only enjoy at Pete’s Place is the chunks of parmesan cheese that is served to every table, where we can indulge in nibbles of cheese while waiting for our meals to arrive.
Other classic crowd favourites include the Proscuitto di Parma Pizza, that comes topped with 24-month aged addobbo parma ham, and the Pappardelle all’Anatra, thick pasta with a rich, meaty braised duck sauce. The Acqua Pazza is also great for sharing, with a poached sea bream cooked in a light briny white sauce with fresh tomatoes and capers.
We love dropping by Pete’s Place for lunch as the Insalata and Dolce bar are always a hit with friends or colleagues. The Semi-buffet spread comes with a selection of fresh salads and cheese, as well as some of the day’s desserts. Make sure you grab some of Pete’s Signature Tiramisu if you see it, as its one of the most popular desserts. The tiramisu is light and fluffy, a slopping delicious mess of whipped mascarpone and a lovely balance of espresso and white amaretto that is not too overpowering.
We’re also not one to turn down a tipple, and the bar at Pete’s Place has drummed up a lovely selection of cocktails to pair with their menu. The Negroni Flight is a series of trio of fun negronis including Pete’s Negroni that also has olive oil and a white negroni, or go for Pete’s Sgroppino, a true Italian cocktail with limoncello, lemon sorbet, prosecco and vodka.
For a more elevated dining experience, opt for the open chef’s table where you and your guests will enjoy a kitchen-to-tableside service. The restaurant also has a private dining room available for smaller, intimate gatherings or even special occasions with loved ones.
Pete’s Place is located at 10 Scotts Rd, Grand Hyatt, Singapore 228211