REVIEW: Good Italian Restaurant in Singapore: Fico in East Coast Park Singapore

 I finally made my way to Fico, a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant in East Coast Park. Opened in mid-May, the concept draws inspiration from Chef Mirko Febbrile's hometown of Puglia. The restaurant offers both alfresco and indoor seating, but since the indoor space was fully booked, we opted for alfresco—and it was a great choice with the stunning sea view! The Pugliese chef aims to bring authentic flavors from his homeland to Singapore, with focaccia and handmade pasta being the highlights.

Address: 1300 East Coast Parkway, East Coast Park Area F, 468964

Opening Hours: Thurs - Fri 11:30 am–3 pm, 5:30–10:30 pm

Sat - Sun 11:30 am–10:30 pm

Mon - Wed 5:30–10:30 pm

We kicked off our meal with the BRITTANY OYSTERS (half-dozen) and the BURRATA DI PUGLIA (V), which was paired with pineapple tomatoes, Amarillo peppers, and basil.

 The oysters which were from Brittany, in France were fresh with a briny, oceanic flavor that was clean and crisp on the palate. However, we found the oysters not as plump as those we used to have. 

This Buratta features a rich, creamy burrata that has a luscious, velvety texture, almost like a soft, milky cloud. The mild, milky flavor of the burrata pairs beautifully with the juicy pineapple tomatoes, which add a burst of sweet acidity. The Amarillo peppers bring a gentle hint of heat and a fruity undertone. 

We also ordered the MAFALDINE which comprises ossobuco, almonds, primitivo di Puglia, the 8" Focaccia-pizza - RED ONIONS OF ACQUAVIVA (V) and SAN MARZANO TOMATOES (V) to as our mains to share. 

The mafaldine pasta is ribbon-like with wavy edges, providing a satisfying bite and chewy texture that holds the sauce well. Rich and hearty, the dish has deep, meaty flavors from the slow-cooked ossobuco, enhanced by the robust and slightly fruity notes of the Primitivo di Puglia wine reduction. I thought this dish was similar to a bolognese.

We enjoyed their Focaccia pizza so much! The focaccia pizza base is light and airy with a crispy, golden crust. 

8" Focaccia-Pizza - RED ONIONS OF ACQUAVIVA:

The sweet, caramelized red onions of Acquaviva are the star, adding a delicate sweetness that pairs beautifully with the sharp, tangy notes of goat milk blue cheese. The fior di latte (fresh mozzarella) brings a creamy, mild flavor, while the fried sage adds an earthy, aromatic touch. The sulla honey drizzled on top adds a sweet, floral note that enhances the overall richness.

This dish offers a delightful mix of sweet and savory, with the blue cheese providing a bold, tangy kick, balanced by the mild cheese, sweet onions, and subtle honey drizzle. The interplay of flavors makes it both comforting and sophisticated.

8" Focaccia-Pizza - SAN MARZANO TOMATOES (V):

This pizza focuses on the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. The San Marzano tomatoes are bright and slightly sweet, offering a burst of fresh tomato flavor. The bufala mozzarella is rich, creamy, and mildly tangy, complementing the sweetness of the tomatoes. Fresh basil adds a peppery, aromatic note, while the extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) enhances the dish with its smooth, fruity, and slightly peppery finish.

I would prefer the SAN MARZANO TOMATOES more because of its clean, straightforward flavors that allow each ingredient to stand out. The combination of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil creates a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy, making it feel light, refreshing, and irresistibly delicious. The focus on quality ingredients speaks to the beauty of simplicity, making it my top choice.