When we heard that the Jigger & Pony Group were opening a new Italian-inspired spot overlooking Marina Bay, we knew we had to check it out. After all, we’re huge fans of the group’s other drinking and dining venues likeHumpback,SugarhallandGibson. Besides, who doesn’t like sipping sundowners in Singapore next to the water and digging into comfortingItalian cuisine? Located in a beautiful glass-fronted space in Customs House (next to Super Loco), Caffe Fernet offers great vibes and views along with a mix of classic and contemporary Italian food.
Our experience:
We visited Caffe Fernet on a Saturday night and the place was pretty busy; a welcome change given Custom House tends to be quiet at best on weekends, and all the better for us because we love abuzzy vibe. Seating options include cosy wooden tables or tawny-hued booths inside and colourful red seats on the breezy patio. It also has a long bar spanning one side of the space; great for couples or solo tipplers.
From the snacks menu we tried the mozzarella arancini, calamari with black garlic aioli, some of the cured meats, and a housemade ricotta served on crispy sourdough toast and drizzled with chestnut honey. From the main menu the chicken piccata with saffron, lemon and capers was some of the better chickens we’ve tried recently. Our favourites were the plump, juicy veal meatballs with a tangy tomato sauce, sweet basil, and Parmigiano-Reggiano and the silky burrata with heirloom tomatoes, smoked oil, and toasted sourdough, both of which will reorder on our next visit
UJ Tidbit:
This is a primo spot for after-work sunset drinks, especially during the daily happy hour from 5pm to 7:30pm when there are great deals on select drinks like watermelon froses ($12++), negronis ($15++), and glasses of prosecco ($13++).
Why we’ll be back:
There were a few hits and misses with the dishes we tried, but overall we like the concept and thought the food was decent. We reckon it’s more of a light bites spot rather than a full-on dining destination, so we’ll keep this in mind the next time we’re looking for a scenic spot to chill out with a bottle of wine and have a few snacks. We can also see it being a great place to catch up with a group and get the evening started with a few drinks.
Damage:
Small plates and snacks start at $10++ and mains run between $25++ to $46++
Caffe Fernet, 70 Collyer Quay, The Customs House #01-05, Singapore 049323. p. +65 9178 1105
