Gusto Italiano – Sunkissed Sicily at Dolce Vita

As part of the Gusto Italiano festival, I was invited to Dolce Vita in Mandarin Oriental to enjoy a Sunkissed Sicily Night with the wines of Donnafugata.

Long considered to be a gastronomic treasure, this dinner focuses on the produce from the South of Italy, Sicily. The culinary team from Dolce Vita expound on the ‘Sunkissed’ flavours through a six course dinner specially created by Chef Johnny Meitei. Born in Manipur, India, Chef Johnny has honed his culinary skills in the kitchens of India, the Middle East, London and now Singapore.

Dolce Vita’s menu appeals by being simple, wholesome, and down-to-earth. It uses only the freshest ingredients of the best quality; and luxurious produce are flown in from various parts of Italy.

We started our dinner with Sicilian Aubergine Relish, whcih is a gutsy relish packed with flavour, a common dish in Sicilian cooking. A cooked aubergine body is quite ugly and brown, but its smokiness is so addictive and sweet peppers complemented it.

Light and fluffy to the touch, couscous the popular fine round granules made from moistened semolina wheat is lip smacking eaten with seafood, Sicilian vegetables, olive oil and saffron.

The Ricotta and Marjoram Ravioli was served with a tangy meat sauce and mint like Marjoram. Freshly made, the pasta itself was firm to the bite. I could have easily eaten another plate.

The pan fried duck breast pleased those who fancy intense flavour. The meat was sweet, moist and succulent, with sauteed spinach and roasted new potatoes to give the saltiness. It is interesting to pair with pomegranate, which adds texture to the entire dish.

Last by not least, the rich Amedei Chocolate Hazelnut Gianduja mousse chocolate sache sponge gave a sweet closure to the dinner.

After tucking into the decadent spread, all I really want to do is lean back on my chair, enjoying the caress of the night breeze on your face while taking a tantalising glimpse of the Singapore skyline in the distance.

Dolce Vita
Address: 5F, Mandarin Oriental, 5 Raffles Ave
Tel: 6885 3500