Revelation at Gelenggang

There is a new establishment that I noticed at Jalan Gelenggang, which is close to Jalan Leban off Upper Thomson Road. This is a small nest of eateries that often gets missed but its quite familiar to the folks who live around the area. There are a few stars here like Springleaf Taiwan Porridge, Romano’s and a few other popular eateries which are normal chock full of people but personally I will not mention them because they suck or I have not tried them, mostly the former being the case.

Back to the new discovery, its call Al Divo and yesterday we had a first taste of this place. Verdict: We were blown away! At least I was. I did not have much promise for this place as there have been a few eateries opening at this block, which did not survive as this part is quite hidden compared to Jalan Leban. Its right next to Cherie Hearts which incidentally is on the short list for Mojo’s infant care.

The overall ambience of Al Divo is dimly lit, ideal for a romantic dinner, and is very Italian as the tasteful tricolor theme coupled with dark maroon heavy curtains; quite exclusive and expensive looking. Since, we were not expecting much, we did not bring a camera which I now regret.

The chefs are Italians, and that held promise for me because nothing like Italian food cooked by a Chinese or Indian for authenticity. We had some issues with ordering as the waiting staff was not familiar and the Italian chef who spoke little English did not help either. Forgivable for a new place but, the wife was on the clock as she needed to finish a report so speed was essential for us to get in and out.

She ordered her usual marinara, which was not on the menu, but it was an adaptation from Frutti di Mare which was on the menu and we requested for no cream just tomato sauce. I went for Linguine with prawns and pesto. I was hoping that they got the order correct due to the adaptation as personally, I wanted this place to shine, because so far it was so good, although they did not serve any bread but I found out later than they have a cover charge of $5 a diner for dinner, which gives you an amuse bouche, water, soft drinks and aqua della casa (their own flavoured sparkling water).

Food came after a short wait, and presentation wise, it was delectable. We quickly dug in and a were amazed by the authenticity of the cuisine and the richness of the sauces. We walloped what we had fairly quickly as the food was really good. The wife, said it was better than Valentino’s and I agree as to me it was the best Italian food I have tried ever! Rich flavor, bits of chunky garlic, think sauce reductions, pump seafood and al dente pasta! I finished first so I glanced at the dessert menu.

Now I did tell the wife I will not have any desserts after Maldives as I was having desserts for every lunch and dinner there. But there was a signature specialty from the desserts chef, that I had to taste to believe. Its called Melanzine alla Valentina, Valentina being the chef’s name. It’s Eggplant with Chocolate; yup you heard me right, brinjal and chocolate! Normally veges and chocolate do not mix so I had to try it. And folks to be honest it was amazing. Even the wife, who normally shuns desserts had 3 mouthfuls and as a measure that is pretty awesome. Must try, if the trip is made.

Overall, I guess the low expectation levels were super exceeded so even if you have high expectation I think Al Divo can live up to it. They are new so teething issues will be there but, do make the trip down to this corner of Singapore to try this place. I do not normally write food reviews but I think the outstanding food here bears this longish post. Oh price wise, it is a little on the high side, but this place borders on fine dining. We spent $65 in total but it was worth it and I am sure we will be back for more.

M pleasantly surprised.