Bruno’s Pizzeria & Grill

TANJONG KATONG – We rarely head to the East Coast, which is silly because there are so many great spots to get our eat and drink on (and we have a borderline addiction issue with Smokey’s). Our latest foray took us to Tanjong Katong Road where we came across a little hole-in-the-wall eatery offering sublime Italian dishes. At first glance Bruno’s Pizzeria & Grill may seem pretty unremarkable in terms of decor and ambiance, but we’re telling you that these guys are doing some next-level dishes. Don’t expect flabby pizzas and ho-hum pastas. At Bruno’s it’s all about using fresh local and imported ingredients whipped up in imaginative ways.

Our experience:

The ambience is what you would expect of a cosy, neighbourhood Italian restaurant. The decor is not much to write home about; just tables decked out in checked tablecloths, warm yellow walls, and a bit of wood panelling. Yet despite its lack of fancy furniture or artworks (or maybe because of it) the vibes are warm and inviting and the space is comfortable. Isn’t that just what you want sometimes? We certainly do.

The menu had plenty to offer with additional offerings on the blackboards like burrata, mussels, and pasta. With so many great options and just two of us dining, it was hard to pick just a few dishes, but we managed to narrow it down. The tagliolini neri con gamberipasta came with perfectly cooked plump prawns and a beautiful squid ink sauce with chilli, garlic, and olive oil. The melanzane al forno was another great choice with layers of eggplant, tomato sauce, mozzarella and parmesan baked until bubbling.

Why we’ll be back:

This is our idea of a great Sunday night spot when we’re in the mood for a home-cooked Italian meal in an easy-going, comfortable setting. We’re not sure we would come here on a weeknight, but if you live in the hood this would be a great spot to pop into any day of the week for a solid Italian spread.

UJ tidbit:

Bring a group to Bruno’s because we guarantee you’re going to want to try like ALL of the dishes. Be sure to check out the specials board and ask the servers what’s good that night. They often have new products flown in from Europe like girolle mushrooms, Bouchot mussels, and great wines.

Damage:

Mains hover around the $25++ mark.

Bruno’s Pizzeria & Grill, 344 Tanjong Katong Road. p. +65 6440 4525. Open daily 12pm – 2:30pm, 6pm – 10:30pm