Dolcetto by Basilico; this gleaming store on the first level of Regent Singapore is embellished with stitched Italian leather detailing, and boasts polished and richly-veined Carrera marble. Dangling above the counters are European blown-glass pendants; surrounding you is an endless array of all-things-Italian –it is possible to feel transported to Italy, from the moment you enter, to the minute you fill the orange leather shopping baskets with your favourite Italian goodies.
This could potentially be Singapore’s own ‘Little Italy’.
Dolcetto is Basilico’s casual counterpart – a gourmet pasticceria – offering Italian coffee, sweet treats, freshly baked goods and specially imported merchandises.
The idea of Dolcetto was conceived to cater to the great demand from fans of Basilico’s breads and desserts, and frequent requests for takeaways.
An extensive selection of Italian-imported merchandise – including confectionery, pan forte, chocolates, cookies, olive oils, balsamic vinegars and wines – are painstakingly sourced from various regions of Italy, neatly compiled and proudly displayed ‘under one roof’ for mere convenience.
It is almost impossible to find such a diverse range of products in one store, in Italy itself.
Sweets and chocolates from century-old Pastiglie Leone, one of Italy’s oldest confectioneries, make great gifts for all occasions.
Barista-brewed illy Caffè (Coffee) ($5.50 – $6.50 per cup)
Bevande Italiane (Italian beverages) such as the barista-brewed illy Caffè will give you more reasons for longer coffee breaks.
Amedei Cioccolata Calda (Amedei Hot Chocolate)
The hot chocolate doesn’t hit you with an intensely rich chocolaty flavour. Instead, the smooth and milky concoction goes down easily, satisfying your chocolate cravings without excessive cloyingness.
T.V.B. Fruit Smoothie ($6)
The all-natural fruit smoothie series from T.V.B. Italia makes its virgin debut outside of Italy, at Dolcetto. The labels are still in Italian.
Very. Thick. Smoothie.
Macario Sodas ($4)
The vibrantly packaged retro sodas from Macario swank a rich history, dating back to the 1950s. Collect them all!
Aranciata Rossa Soda (sparkling blood orange soda)
There are 16 varieties of Pane (Breads), 9 unique flavours of Venetian Macarons, a tempting row of Cioccolatini (artisanal chocolates), and a vast array of desserts. Where do I even begin?
The Cremino Storico ($2 per piece) is highly addictive.
Angelo’s Squid Ink Bread
Breads are home-baked daily, and are priced at $6 to $9 per loaf. The Angelo’s Squid Ink Bread is exceedingly popular with male expatriates. If you like dense and chewy breads, this one is for you.
Sicilian Tomato Foccacia ($8)
The Sicilian Tomato Foccacia is a personal favourite. It is fragrant and crusty on the outside, fluffy and moist on the inside. There are hidden surprises within too; the fillings lend extra moisture in every bite.
Pesto and Pine Nuts Bread
The Pesto and Pine Nuts Bread makes a wholesome and substantial loaf. It turns out a little dry for my liking (I usually shy away from wholegrain breads), but when I re-heated it at home with an extra drizzle of olive oil, it turns out perfect. Love the crunchy textures from the pine nuts and the aroma from the pesto.
Strawberry Balsamic ($2.25), Pistachio ($2.25)
I LOVEEEEEEEEEEEEE MACARONS!
The classic Pistachio macaron highlights the adept macaron-making skills of the chef.
The Strawberry Balsamic is slightly tart and isn’t too sweet; the combination of strawberry and aged balsamic works like a charm.
Squid Ink & Salmon ($2.25)
The Squid Ink & Salmon macaron is a personal favourite; I highly recommend it, especially to those with an adventurous palate.
Macaron is given an inventive sweet-savoury twist with the infusion of squid ink, and the addition of smoked salmon sandwiched between layers of mascarpone cheese. Genius. Absolute genius.
Crostata with Amalfi Lemon ($9 for single, $60 for 1kg tart)
I am apprehensive when it comes to anything that consists of lemon; my sweet tooth usually disapproves of anything too sour. The Crostata with Amalfi Lemon totally changed my perspective of lemon. It has a zesty fragrance without the undesirable sourness. The use of Amalfi lemons is brilliant; these lemons from Italy are generally large in size (the size of your palm?) with a sweet aroma and taste.
Hazelnut Fragostina ($2.25)
You’ve seen this in the buffet spread at Basilico. If you have tried enquiring on where you can purchase them but to no avail, Dolcetto brings good news. With this takeaway concept, you can bag them home and enjoy them in the comforts of your home, or pack them as sweet treats to surprise your loved ones.
Espresso and Marsala Tiramisu ($8 for single)
Espresso and Marsala Tiramisu ($60 for whole)
Fig Cake ($8 per slice)
The Fig Cake is the most unassuming item on display; but it is also one that impressed me the most.
The butter cake is simplicity at its best –moist, crumbly and everything you’d wish for in a butter cake.
Highly recommended.
Prawn and Asparagus Salad ($18)
Savoury items – encompassing gourmet breakfasts and light lunches – complete the menu.
Pistachio Tuna ($13)
Healthy salads include the Prawn and Asparagus Salad and the Pistachio Tuna Salad.
Tasting portion of Prawn and Pistachio Tuna Salad
Mushroom Artichokes and Chicken ($10)
Torta Rustica is the Italian equivalent of quiche. There are several flavours to choose from, but the Mushroom Artichokes and Chicken is my top pick. This is pure comfort food.
Squid Ink Panini with King Crab and Prawns ($13)
The Squid Ink Panini comes with a generous amount of crabmeat and succulent prawns.
Roasted Wagyu Beef Panini ($13)
The Roasted Wagyu Beef Panini is a highlight. It not only fuels your body, but also puts you in an extremely good mood. The truffle mayo spread will bring delight in every bite.
Dolcetto by Basilico
Lobby Level, Cuscaden Road entrance
Reservations:
Email:
Website: www.regenthotels.com/singapore
Opening hours:
Daily: 8am – 9pm