Barolo's Bubbly Sunday Brunch

I have a confession to make: I'm not a big buffet fan. While a buffet offers undeniable value in terms of quantity (and at many of the city's finest establishments, quality as well), ordering a la carte gives you a better taste of what the kitchen can really do, which to my mind is much more befitting a special occasion. 

Those who agree might want to try the new Sunday brunch menu from Barolo. Billed as a "Bubbly Sunday Brunch", the bubbles come in the form of a complimentary glass of Italian sparkling wine as you sit down. You'll also be treated to a selection of weekly changing antipasti, such as arancini and roasted peppers, which you can enjoy while perusing the menu.

The menu allows you to choose two, three or four courses (RMB 198, 278, and 338 respectively), covering starters, soups, mains and desserts. With the complimentary antipasti we found three to be more than enough.

The food itseld brings highs and lows. Principle among the highs was the Crispy Skinned Chicken Breast Confit from the "mains" section of the menu. While perhaps not as crisp skinned as the name would have you believe, the chicken was tender and expertly seasoned, paired with a faintly peppery jus. My dining companion also enjoyed his Saffron Tagliatelle with Wagyu Beef Bolognese, which had a pleasant – if unexpected – chili kick. On the other hand, a plate of Frittura Mista (tempura-fried seafood and vegetables) fell flat, the batter lacking the requisite crunch. Points as well for a very tasty tiramisu, although the spindly martini glass made it difficult to eat.

Vegetarian option:
An elevated take on a simple Caprese salad brought satiny mounds of mozzarella surrounded by a pool of intense tomato coulis. Very satisfying. 

More stories by this author here.

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Photos: Robynne Tindall