A bungalow perched atop Telok Blangah Hill, formerly owned by the Yemeni spice traders in the 1920s, is now a majestic dining venue well sought after by lovebirds for first dates, and also a popular wedding venue using the romantically picturesque garden in full bloom as a perfect backdrop.Celebrated as a destination of elegance, combined with seclusion and heritage, Alkaff Mansion offers facilities that fit wedding soirees memorably. And more.
Upon arrival at the top of the stairs, guests will first be rewarded with a whimsical and detailed décor, two elegant European-styled fountains, romantic lights across the grounds, accompanied by relaxing graceful background music. The impressive restaurant is suitable for functions of all sizes, such as intimate private dinners, business meetings, and a standing cocktail party of up to six hundred guests at the Grand Marquee.
As beautiful as the sprawling grounds surrounding, the interiors are immaculate and tiled with vintage motifs. The main dining areas features elegant chandeliers that provide a warm and glorious ambience across the first and second floor, seating sixty and a hundred guests respectively.
The mesmerising façade and ambience is not all there is to Alkaff Mansion Ristorante. Executive Chef Simone Depalmas, a native of Sardinia who has accumulated twenty years of culinary experience, highlights natural flavours and showcases creativity in his Italian creations.
Fresh Octopus Carpaccio with Oranges, Cherry Tomatoes & Balsamic Reduction ($24.00)
The first course of antipasti – Fresh Octopus Carpaccio – consists of delicate slivers of lightly-steamed Sardinian octopus that are specially imported from his home province, sitting atop frisee salad, San Marzano cherry tomatoes, orange wedges and drizzled of aged balsamic reduction.
Seafood Platter with Tuna Tartare, Tiger Prawns, Lobster, Sea Bass and Octopus (Serves two. $68.00)
For two to share and to awe at is the Seafood Platter arrayed with plump tiger prawns, tuna tartare, sea bass carpaccio, octopus salad and lobster chunks in a zesty citrus dressing. The impressive garnish makes it irresistible not to flatter it with snapshots and broadcasting on instagram.
Sardinian Fregola with Assorted Seafood ($28.00)
The Sardinian Pasta with Assorted Seafood features fregola, a type of pasta from Sardinia, commonly known as the pearl of pasta by its shape. When toasted, the pasta holds a distinctive nutty and wheaty flavour, and as it is steeped in clams, juicy prawns, squid and scallops, the flavours balance out to a well-rounded savoury dish.
Porcini Mushroom Risotto Superfino Acquerello with Thyme ($28.00)
The classic Porcini Mushroom Risotto Superfino Acquerello with Thyme is a crowd pleaser with its potent aroma and stimulating flavour. The Superfino Acquerelo grain is Chef’s preferred choice of grain for risotto as it absorbs liquids well yet remains fluffy.
Alkaff’s Potion; Barcardi, Half Lime, Brown Sugar, Curry Leaves and Chilli Padi ($18.00)
Enjoy a new selection of signature cocktails that embodies a spice theme acknowledging the Alkaff family of spice traders. The Alkaff’s Potion packs a spicy punch with chilli, curry leaves, rum and lime.
Over Baked Lamb Rack with Caramelised Onions and Homemade Prune Sauce ($45.00)
Moving on to mains. The Oven Baked Lamb Rack is served with velvety-smooth celeriac mash that matures with sweetness when mixed with caramelised pearl onions, as well as a piquant homemade prune sauce that promises an enjoyable spicy sensation.
White Colonial; Sambucca, Kahlua, Milk and Nutmeg ($18.00)
Sipping on cocktails between bites… the White Colonial is mild-bodied with a creamy concoction of Sambuca, Kahlua, milk and nutmeg.
Slow Cooked Sardinian Style Suckling Pig with Roasted Rotatoes ($46.00)
The prized Slow Cooked Sardinian Style Suckling Pig triumphs with delicate crispy skin and moist flesh. The flavour of pork is enhanced when slow roasted in its own juices for three hours at seventy degrees Celsius. The homemade mixed berry compote completes this dish.
Captain Wood; Barcardi, Elderflower Liqueur, Freshly Squeeze Lemon Juice, Gomme and Cinnamon ($18.00)
For an intoxicating cocktail with a floral accent, go for the Captain Wood made of rum, elderflower syrup, lemon and aromatic cinnamon titled.
Fresh Mint Vanilla Panna Cotta with Mixed Berries and Raspberry Sauce ($14.00)
Experienced diners will save space for desserts, especially for the Fresh Mint Vanilla Panna Cotta. It is said that a good Panna Cotta is one that wobbles on the plate, meaning it is lightly firm and does not crumble standing. Here comes the modern twist: the addition of crisp mint paired with mixed berry sauce juxtaposes the rich cream nicely, bringing a soothing relieve for the palate with its tartness.
Enchant yourself with Jilly’s Surprise Plate (prices start from $24) –a special dish created by Jilly and Chef each month for the adventurous diners.
For more indulgence to remember special occasions, visit www.alkaff.com.sg
For Reservations,
For Events,
Alkaff Mansion Ristorante
Ristorante opening hours:
Lunch: Monday-Friday, 11.30am – 2.30pm
Dinner: Monday-Friday, 6.00pm – 10.30pm
Afternoon Tea: Monday-Saturday, 11.30am – 3.30pm
Weekend Terrace Brunch: Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays, 10.00am – 3.30pm
Sunday Prosecco Brunch: Sundays and Public Holidays, 11.30am – 3.30pm
*Words and photos by Timothy Seow Theron.