Buko Nero @ Tanjong Pagar

The story behind this visit started off months before the official lunch date. Buko Nero only does lunch on Fridays and Saturdays and getting company on these two hot days of the week was as hard as getting a table. Word has it that an exact month is needed for booking a table, yet some have suggested a shorter wait these days.

I've never tried booking a table so far ahead but there's always a first for anything.

We were the only two occupied tables for the afternoon and I thought it would be cosy for the rest of the meal. Within minutes of being served the appetizer, the restaurant started filling up with walk-ins. As much as I'd love to have pictures in this entry, I have to give due respect to the restaurant who firmly stands by their no-photography policy. It was nice, truly nice...not having to take photos before eating...tucking into a meal pipping hot and best of all, the company was actually surprised they did not have to wait.

If my words don't bore you, just read on...if all else fails..just pay attention to the bold.

Quirky taglines like these are scattered through the restaurant and the quote that caught my attention was "Chocolate, men, coffee, Some things are better rich." Ah hah! I'm seconding that, completely.

Complimentary tomato bread, soft...fluffy and toasty! I'm glad I had refills of this!

Appetizer from the chef of zucchini with tuna salad and preserved fruit. A refreshing start to a meal.

Parma Ham and Melon is always a must order for me, the same way beef is. Thinly seared salty Parma Ham with fresh rockets and juicy cubes of Melon...as common as the combination sounds, Buko Nero's version was one of the better ones attempted.

The friend's Ginger Carrot soup with Sea Scallops was hearty too. Made from scratch without diary, we were surprised by the milky texture.

Gnocchi or Panfried Threadfin in Sweet Bell Pepper Coulis was up for the mains. Not quite the fish fan under most circumstances but I'm glad I chose this. Crispy skin I could eat entirely on its own with succulent fresh fish. Loved the appetizing mash potato and tomato gravy.

Tiramisu Cheesecake

This barely had the much needed coffee dosage but the mascarpone cheese was the closest to tiramisu. Adored the crunchy biscuit base.

Milk Chocolate Cake Gula Melaka and Fior Di Sale

Like huat kueh, this milk chocolate cake was reminiscent of a pudding. Yummy enough for spoons to be scrapping the base of the plate.

Back to basics of Italian food with Buko Nero, service was warm. Unpretentious italian fare which warrants a return to venture beyond set lunch. I hear Tau kwa tower and cod fish beckoning.

$28+

Buko Nero
97 Tanjong Pagar Road