VivoCity is always confusing to me and somehow, I always can't seem to find my way around this place. As such I decided to drop by Jamie's Italian (after hearing much negativity about it from my friends) on a weekday afternoon - no need for reservation whatsoever! The staff in the restaurant was prompt in showing me to my seat and taking my orders.

Crispy Squid (S$11.50++) - Fried squid, garlicky mayo & lemon

Jamie's Italian in Singapore offers cured meats, bruschetta and other nibbles in their antipasti and sides menu. I went for the Crispy Squid (S$11.50++) as pictured above and I thought it was really well executed. A generous serving size with a thin batter that still packs a punch. The garlicky mayo with sliced chili also complemented the dish really well.

Penne Pomodoro (S$19++) - Penne pasta tossed with sweet tomatoes, garlic & basil, topped with mozzarella & crunchy, herby breadcrumbs — Penne Pomodoro (S$19++) - Penne pasta tossed with sweet tomatoes, garlic & basil, topped with mozzarella & crunchy, herby breadcrumbs

The pastas at Jamie's Italian Singapore comes in two sizes - the starter or the main. I ordered the Penne Pomodoro (S$19++ | Main) which is a traditionally simple dish prepared with fresh tomatoes, basil, olive oil as well as fresh pasta. I really liked the mozzarella topping and wished there was actually more. The dish is well-balanced and while being a generally simple dish, it was well executed and the pasta was cooked al dente.

Grilled Pork Chop (S$35++) - Marinated & cooked under a brick with parsley bagna cauda, apple, kohlrabi, lemon & crispy crackling — Grilled Pork Chop (S$35++) - Marinated & cooked under a brick with parsley bagna cauda, apple, kohlrabi, lemon & crispy crackling

While I was tempted to go for the 30-Day Matured Prime Rib initially, I decided against it and went for the more exciting sounding dish - the Grilled Pork Chop (S$35++). Although it does not look like much, the flavours on this dish is truly impressive. What Jamie's Italian has excel in is to preserve the natural flavours of every dish without adding too much to drown it - simple but delicious! The meat was succulent and the bagna cauda together with the acidity of the green apple on the side went perfectly with the savoury flavours.

All in all the bill came up to slightly over S$80 and while it wasn't overly expensive or cheap, I thought that it was pretty decent (contrary to everything that I have heard). If you have been put off by the reviews from your peers, maybe it is about time you give this place another go.

Jamie's Italian
1 Harbourfront Walk, #1-165-167 VivoCity, Singapore 098585