Curiosity about Mediterranean cuisine led me to a brand new restaurant Thirty9. This curiosity pays off–it's another moment of of "Yes, my senses for good food hits the jackpot again!"–as the food here is awesome and I get a brand new gastronomic experience from trying the unique and delicious pasta here.
Gigli & Gamberi, meaning gigli pasta and prawns, is the star of the meal. I love this. This is the first time I tried a pasta dish that is so light yet so flavourful. Instead of the usual heavy sauce used for pasta, this one features light clear sauce full of umami and refreshing zest from the lemon, mint and zucchini. The red prawns is firm, bouncy and packed with briny sweetness.
I enjoy eating the handmade gigli pasta, which is in cone shape with ruffled edges. This shape produces a different texture and bite that I relish. Yes, different pasta shape does make a difference. And due to its shape, it can hold the sauce in, thus being the perfect pasta to work well with the clear sauce.
This is the first time I can finish such generous portion of pasta all by myself.
This restaurant is hidden at the side of Duxton Hill where the entire stretch is paved with cobblestone. With lots of lush green potted plants forming the perimeter, this place is like a private courtyard that feels cozy and yet at the same time instagram worthy. The interior is cozy, posh and classy, with hints of rustic notes. The service is awesome: friendly, welcoming, responsive and take note of little details. A nice noteworthy gesture is the service staff giving me an additional plate to put the shells of the clams straightaway upon noticing that I had the habit of putting the shells away from the rest of the seafood. And good recommendation of the Pinot Noir that goes so well with the dishes.
I really enjoyed my meal here and will be back for more, especially for the gigli pasta.
Thoughts: Hearty, wholesome food with some unique touches.
39 Duxton Hill
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar