For the adventurous Valentine

After helming two Spanish restaurants, chef-owner Jean-Philippe Patruno won’t be serving tapas at his new solo venture. Local diners who haven’t really taken to nose-to-tail dining can safely put themselves in Patruno’s skilful hands, for bestsellers like artfully pan-seared duck hearts ($10) on sourdough toast with membrillo (quince); clams ($14) with roasted caramelised garlic, chillies and Tio Pepe sherry; and the signature platter of cold meats such as pig’s head, scratchings and homemade saussicon ($25). It’s adventurous but not alienating, when you have options such as perfectly grilled octopus ($28) wrapped in an aromatic sheet of lardo with potatoes. Look out for barrel-aged cocktails and smoked meats to come.

12 North Canal Road. Tel: 6221 7790