Waterfront bistro showcases mod-Italian cuisine, craft cocktails & cosmopolitan decor
April 20th, 2018
Recently opened on Singapore’s Marina Bay waterfront, Caffe Fernet is the latest creation from leading hospitality group Jigger & Pony – with a portfolio including the multi-awarded Gibson and Sugarhall. The 130-seat restaurant-bar occupies a newly-constructed pavilion adjacent to the historic Customs House. Full height glass doors fold back to open the interior to the waterfront promenade and panoramic views. Drawing inspiration from its historic location the design melds classic square fluted columns and vaulted ceilings with a modern Italian trattoria vibe – while a decor of camel-coloured banquettes, Thonet chairs and the rich chocolate tones of timber panels and tables, together with green marble-topped outdoor table settings, exude a relaxed sophistication.
Group Executive Chef Polo Seah delivers an interpretation of a modern Italian cuisine, with a focus on textures and a menagerie of lighter, brighter flavours. A selection of Toast dishes includes the velvety Housemade Ricotta Toast smothered with chestnut-honey. Among the small plate offerings, the Crispy Golden Beetroot served with almonds and feta cheese is among the popular must-eats. Reinvented Italian classics feature as Large plates exemplified by the Chicken Piccata and Veal Parmigiana. Italian desserts highlights include the Olive Oil Cake, a comforting treat of flavourful cake and mascarpone.
Every seat in Caffe Fernet has its own bar view, highlighting the Jigger & Pony DNA of creative craft cocktails and convivial service. The drinks program, headed by the highly credentialled Aki Eguchi, balances the dining synergy with light-hearted Spritzes and fiercely loved Negronis. A marriage of rose wine and slushy – Frose – becomes a fun drinking alternative, perfect for Singapore’s tropical climate. In-house interpretations of popular cocktails include the Fernet & Coke; San Marino; King Cole Old Fashioned and Garibaldi.
Caffe Fernet currently opens weekdays for dinner and drinks between 5 pm –and midnight (2 am on Fridays), with weekends serving Brunch from 11 am and dinner and late drinks on Saturday night.
Caffe Fernet Drinks & Dining
Featured contributor Caris Cruz
(Images credit Jigger & Pony)
