Handmade pasta and Italian nibbles for under $30 in the middle of the CBD? In this economy? 

I’ll admit, I was skeptical when I first heard about Scarpetta and its shockingly wallet-friendly offerings. After all, we’re in a time of shrinkflation, where low prices normally mean proportionately tiny portions. (I was so happy to be proven wrong.) 

Scarpetta takes its name from la scarpetta, the Italian tradition of mopping up your leftover pasta sauce with bread. Situated on Amoy Street, this cozy, yet classy shophouse restaurant sits 30, where you can watch the chefs whip up dish after dish in the open kitchen or cozy up to your date while still keeping an eye on the action. The interior is modern and simple, although expect to brush into more than a few shoulders with the limited walking space. 

It goes without saying that pasta is the star is the show at Scarpetta, and, per its name, the secret is in the sauce. Among the six choices available, you can find classics like cacio e pepe and ravioli, as well as more uncommon choices like the baked rigatoni, one of Scarpetta’s showstoppers which will make a fragrant impression right before it hits your table. 

At $26++, the Al Granchino e Limone is Scarpetta’s priciest pasta. Taglioni cooked to al dente perfection, mouthwatering confit garlic and lemon sauce, and plump blue swimmer crab meat – all in all, substantial and decadent. There wasn’t an excessive amount of sauce left over for said la scarpetta, but I suppose most of that was slurped up over the course of the meal. 

Al Granchio e Limone – Taglioni, blue swimmer crab, confit garlic, lemon ($26++)

The rest of Scarpetta’s menu is focused on light bites and appetisers that complement its signature pastas. The Tuscan Schiacciata Toasts ($14++  or seasonal pricing for two pieces) are worth a try with various decadent toppings ranging from auction-grade uni to stracciatella with truffle honey. Good for popping in a bite or two of crisp toast in between your pasta. 

Stracciatella Tuscan Schiacciata Toasts – Truffle honey, chopped hazelnuts, aged balsamic ($14++ for two pieces)

What’s a good Italian meal without a sweet ending? Indulge in one of four classic desserts, including the ever-popular tiramisu and affogato, which were sold out by my seating. The Getla con Olio ($6++) is a deceptively simple treat of sweet, refreshing milk gelato complimented by smooth Umbrian extra virgin olive oil and cruncy salt flakes. 

Gelato con Olio – Milk gelato, Umbrian extra virgin olive oil, crunchy salt flakes ($6++)

Whether for date night or a solo meal out, Scarpetta is the place to be if you’re in the mood for good, honest Italian food that doesn’t break the bank. It’s strictly walk-in, so come early for that one pasta you’re aiming for. 

Address: 47 Amoy Street, Singapore 069873
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar EW15/ Telok Ayer DT18
Opening Hours: 
Tuesday to Saturday: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 11.30pm
Closed on Sunday and Monday

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