Italian restaurant Luce by Davide Giacomelli opens at InterContinental Singapore

What happens when you have been chosen in a global hunt for the next gastronomic superstar? You set up your namesake restaurant, fuelled by your passion for Italian cuisine and thirst for adventure. 

Davide Giacomelli helms InterContinental Singapore’s flagship restaurant as its next top chef in which he brings his “bistronomic” vision to life. For him, Luce by Davide Giacomelli is his shot at showcasing his dishes that are a culmination of 13 years of experience, 

Giacomelli already has an impressive resume, including stints in Michelin-starred restaurants across Europe. He now brings his personal stamp on an authentic Italian dining experience in the heart of Singapore. He says, “I am grateful to the team for believing in my passion and vision, and giving me the opportunity to create something special for our guests while continuing the brand’s unwavering dedication to perfection.”

Meaning light in Italian, Luce occupies the same space previously home to Ash & Elm. It will shine a spotlight on fresh, local ingredients, with a seasonal a la carte menu that will be refreshed on a quarterly basis. From the bright flavours on the plate to the warm, inviting atmosphere, light is at the heart of everything behind Luce. Giacomelli also pays homage to the sights, scents and flavours of classic Italian cooking from his father’s restaurant in the quaint town of Sirmione, the “pearl” of Lake Garda, Italy.

Diners can look forward to traditional Italian cuisine at its purest. For instance, Giacomelli’s lobster risotto, Acquerello Lobster ($46), is much lighter and less rich compared to most other renditions of the same dish around the island, given that he cooks using two ingredients only. The carnaroli rice is cooked in lobster stock and served with half Boston lobster and chervil, free of butter and cheese.

Likewise, the classic starter of Bruschetta ($19) is minimalistic, simply featuring toasted bread with grated garlic, topped with Parma ham, fresh buffalo mozzarella, cherry tomato concassé, rocket leaves and basil, to highlight the flavours and freshness of each component.

Equally, the Merluzzo alla Puttanesca ($46) features lightly pan-fried Atlantic cod with fresh, homemade tomato sauce, taggiasca olives, anchovies, pantelleria capers and fresh herbs, showcasing hearty flavours of traditional Puttanesca sauce.

Also interesting is executive pastry chef Desmond Lee’s refreshing take on classic tiramisu, presenting Luce-misu ($18), where the traditional dessert is deconstructed with mascarpone cream espuma, espresso syrup, lady finger sponge and crunchy feuilletine.

The restaurant offers a set lunch menu with a choice of either two or three courses (from $34). It will soon be launching its weekend brunch as well. 

Luce by Davide Giacomelli is at InterContinental Singapore, 80 Middle Road, Singapore 188966. Tel: 6825 1008