Finding Italian on the Island: Spageddies
Aside from our own local cuisine, a typical Filipino has only a handful of favorites: Chinese, Japanese, American, and yes, Italian. Strange that the aforementioned are historically our colonizers, except for the latter. Truth be told, the common pinoy finds comfort over a slice of soggy, reheated Hawaiian flavored pizza, or the "Filipinized" sweetened spaghetti bolognese from our most lovable big red bee. Not authentically Italian, but still conceptually so.
As if imprinted in my genes, I found myself craving for pizza or pasta in this sunny island-nation. I wanted a little more than the hawker Western stall cheap imitation, but my finances shied away from hotel-grade Italian restaurants. Then I stumbled upon Spageddies, marketing itself as "unmistakably" Italian.
Stereotypically Italian?
A casual dining spot that originated from the US, Spageddies appeared authentic, albeit stereotypical. The choice of red and green motifs decorating the interiors almost painted the Italian national flag. Were they trying too hard? Or was this the real thing?
Nevertheless, despite their nearly inconspicuous location in Orchard Central, the restaurant had quite a cozy corner. Tall glass panels illuminated the interiors with natural light while providing a stunning view of the boulevard below. A good spot for a late lunch, definitely.
The menu was straightforward. None of the fancy fusion inventions nor any local adaptations. Definitely a plus point for a shop striving to be authentic. All the appetizers looked appealing, so we got the ball rolling by ordering their triple sampler, the Primo Combo.
Primo Combo, SGD 14.50 (approx. PHP 500, +7% GST and 10% service charge)
Composed of a trio of deep fried goodies, the Primo Combo was an ample way to whet the appetite. The mozzarella sticks were crisp on the outside. The cheese itself was tad too firm, as I would have preferred it to be gooey and stringy. Still, it tasted real and true, and not your refrigerated ready-to-cook sticks you can easily buy from the local grocer.
The other components were a little hit-and-miss. The calamari was correctly fried, retaining the sweetness and tenderness of the squid rings. However, the batter seemed a little salty and over-seasoned. The soft-shell crab was a welcome member to the trio, but was similarly over-seasoned and a tad too briny. Still, the tangy tartar sauce and neapolitan dip saved the day, blanching the saltiness in their own distinct flavors.
Pirate Andy Pasta, SGD 18.90 (approx. PHP 650, +7% GST and 10% service charge)
I was truly hoping the pasta dishes would not disappoint. At first glance, the Pirate Andy Pasta seemed up to the task. With a catchy name and boasting of the bounty of the sea, this relatively new item on the menu boasted the triple threat of squid, prawns, and clams.
Bountiful harvest of the sea.
Drizzled in the healthy goodness of olive oil, the noodles were perfectly executed, al dente, as they usually quip. The seafood was in abundance, nearly smothering the noodles itself. The squid was firm but not chewy, while the shrimps were small yet sweet and juicy. I had hoped there were more clams, offering a briny taste in contrast to the herbal mix of flavors of the olive oil and cherry tomatoes. We requested for a more red peppers to spice up the dish, but we still needed to season it with dried chili flakes to take it up another notch.
Like a tenacious buccaneer, the Pirate Andy Pasta captured our hearts and did not disappoint. I was eagerly anticipating my next pasta dish, the more traditional Lasagna.
Lasagna, SGD 14.50 (approx. PHP 500, +7 GST and 10% service charge)
Draped in messy melted cheese, the lasagna brought memories of childhood when Mom used to bake her own. I hoped it had the same homey goodness, although the size was far smaller than what mother prepared long time ago.
Nonetheless, this layered pasta dish burst with flavor with each bite. The lasagna was pregnant with ricotta cheese within, while the meat sauce was cloying with the light zest of fresh tomatoes. Still, I would have preferred more ground meat inside to add more body and toughness to this dish. Also, the sauce seemed to run out when I was down to my last few morsels.
Unmistakably good enough.
Despite coming off as stereotypical at first impression, Spageddies does not fail to deliver. Even if it does not impress in a mind-blowing manner, neither does it disappoint. For a casual diner, Spageddies manages to step up a notch. Serving pasta in immaculate white plates, prompt and quick attentive service, all the little things to make their restaurant feel like a fine dining experience.
Prices are also quite reasonable, although the appetizer seemed too few for the price tag. Overall, Spageddies Italian Kitchen is a reasonable mid-level option for those who don't want to shell out too much for good, true-tasting Italian pasta. A charming Italian find on the island.
Jones
Spageddies Italian Kitchen
181 Orchard Road
#04-01, Orchard Central
Singapore
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