The iconic ground-floor dining space at The St. Regis Singapore, a venue known for its grand scale and architectural splendor, has embarked on its latest evolution, transitioning from an American steakhouse to Sophia, a contemporary Italian concept. While the structure—defined by soaring, light-filled windows and a majestic atmosphere—remains unchanged, the interior aesthetic has been refreshed, trading the deep, regal reds of its former iteration for lighter, modern blue tones, establishing a sophisticated setting for romantic dinners and special events.
A Culinary Journey Across Italy
Retaining a crucial link to the venue’s history, Chef de Cuisine Angelo Sergio oversees the menu at Sophia. Chef Sergio, who was previously involved with Brasserie Les Saveurs before the space became The Astor Grill, draws on his deep knowledge of regional Italian cooking. Despite hailing from Puglia, his menu ambitiously spans influences from 11 distinct regions across the country, promising a diverse and comprehensive Italian gastronomic experience.
Diners are immediately immersed in Italian tradition with the complimentary arrival of high-quality bread, accompanied by extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The menu features a compelling mix of rustic and refined dishes. A popular starter, the hearty grilled cauliflower soup ($22), sets a comforting tone. More striking is the grilled octopus ($32), presented elegantly and expertly cooked with a tender succulence complemented by the inclusion of fava beans, red onion, and semi-dried tomatoes, showcasing balanced flavors and textures.
Hits and Misses: Navigating the Menu
The transition to the main courses reveals a varied dining experience. Sophia uniquely features Atavi pasta, a brand established by three-Michelin-starred chef Albert Adrià, making the restaurant the only Singapore location to serve it. However, the exclusivity of the smoked tagliatelle with porcini mushrooms and veal jus ($28) does not fully translate into palate perfection. While the pasta, made from 100 percent Italian durum wheat, achieves an earthy profile, a lack of discernible smokiness and depth left the dish underwhelming.
In contrast, the ravioli burrata ($32) proved a superior choice. Served swimming in a bright sauce of oven-baked tomatoes and fragrant basil pesto, the dish offered a winning combination of creamy filling and sharply flavored accompaniment. Dessert maintained the upward trajectory; the cannoncini alla crema ($7), featuring vanilla custard piped tableside into delicate puff pastry shells finished with pistachio nibs, offers an element of tableside theatre and textural delight. The panna cotta ($16) with red wine-poached pear, though rich, pairs well with a crisp almond tuille.
The dining experience ultimately offers an even split of successes and shortcomings, suggesting diners may need to exercise caution when ordering. Highlighting a potential splurge for celebratory occasions is the Spaghetti All’astice ($118), featuring a whole Boston lobster, which is positioned as the star of the pasta selection.
Recommendations for a Successful Visit
Despite minor inconsistencies in execution, Sophia successfully capitalizes on its magnificent setting, offering a decidedly romantic and luxurious atmosphere ideal for date nights or special milestones. The service staff can offer helpful guidance; recommended dishes include the beef bresaola focaccia with goat cheese and honey ($18), burrata with baked tomatoes and pesto oil ($26), and a popular pizza featuring fior di latte cheese, porcini mushrooms, black truffle, and Parmigiano Reggiano ($26).
Sophia, located at 29 Tanglin Rd inside The St. Regis Singapore, reaffirms the venue’s status as a must-visit destination. Diners are encouraged to heed expert recommendations to ensure a memorable meal that maximizes the restaurant’s luxurious setting and high points of its Italian culinary repertoire.