While there are quite a number of restaurants that boast of panoramic view at extremely high floor, but take note that not all have a beautiful scenery outside, especially if there are ugly buildings in sight. As for Zafferano, the location is excellent because the restaurant faces the Marina Bay, thus one can expect to see the Flyer, MBS, the beautiful sea, ships and planes flying by at a distance. The interior is modern and chic, yet not intimidating at all, which makes it a nice chill out place.
When it comes to food, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the food is very flavourful with subtle hints of unique twists added in. The tangy taste of the sauce used in the cured salmon salad works absolutely well to complement the crispy vegetables and cured salmon. In fact, this is one of the few times that I totally enjoyed tucking into a salad dish since most salads are very bland that makes me felt like I'm a rabbit eating grass, despite adding copious amount of sauce.
I knew that the sea bass with truffle infused mashed potato would be good the moment it arrived on the table when I caught the whiff of the aromatic truffle. I was proven right when I took my first bite; the pliable flesh of the fish was extremely fresh with zero hint of fishy smell, and the mashed potato imparted an extra dimension to the overall taste without overpowering the original taste and texture of the fish. After been to numerous restaurants, my impression is that European's style of preparation of fish is generally not up to par with that of Chinese, Japanese and North Indian. Exceptions are André, Robuchon and yes, Zafferano. The only thing that marred my savouring of the fish was that I found a fish bone in it, not exactly what I expected from a European restaurant.
The lemon crème with caramel is a very refreshing, creative and creamy dessert consisted of multiple, harmonious flavours: blissful sweetness (of just the right amount without overwhelming the palates), slight saltiness and cool tanginess. The crumbs add dimensions to the smooth texture of the beautiful ring of crème. Definitely thumbs up for this since I always appreciate bold creations of desserts that will still cater nicely to most palates.
The service is nice and friendly, especially one of the lady staff who was very prompt to refilling of water and responded to my requests. Though the low light of the service is that with exception of the mentioned lady, the other members of staff just kind of ignored me on my way out, including the one at the front counter, who did not bother to bid farewell when she is obviously not as busy as the others.
I am very impressed that even for a lunch menu (includes appetizer and main only), efforts are put into creation of the dishes, and for only $38, it is a real steal. Though take note that coffee and tea are not included in the set menu. There is a discount for early birds during happy hours. The food and ambience here won me over to go back, hopefully, the service will improve.
My Thoughts: Very Nice and Impressive!
Nearest car park: Ocean Financial Centre's car park
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place
Ocean Financial Centre Level 43
10 Collyer Quay
Singapore
Contact No: 65091488
