Basilico at Conrad Singapore Orchard presents La Cucina Storica — an evolving buffet experience that pays tribute to the rich culinary roots of Italy’s former kingdoms. Each edition of La Cucina Storica explores a different chapter of Italy’s history, featuring traditional recipes and regional specialities. Available until 31 May 2025, the latest edition spotlights the Kingdom of Sardegna, showcasing the unique flavours of Sardegna, Liguria, Piemonte, and Val d’Aosta — regions once ruled by the House of Savoy. The buffet brings together a mouthwatering mix of classic dishes highlighting the kingdom’s coastal bounty, countryside traditions, and diverse influences. Expect live stations, artisanal cheeses, and a curated selection of Italian wines and cocktails.
Cheese Room
One of the key highlights is access to Basilico’s iconic Cheese Room, home to one of the most extensive cheese collections I’ve come across. Here, you’ll find a seasonal selection of over 40 artisanal Italian cheeses, complemented by truffle honey, nuts, assorted dried fruits, Mostarda Cremona (syrup-poached fruit), Pecorino Sardo, Robiola di Roccaverano, and a Mirto di Sardegna reduction.
Uova alla Piemontese
Tucked away inside the Cheese Room is an easily missed gem — the Egg Station, offering Uova alla Piemontese. Think of it as a luxurious Italian-style shakshuka: eggs gently cooked in a bold, flavourful sauce made with roasted bell peppers, pancetta, and San Marzano tomatoes.
Antipasti Station
Fresh Cheese Selection
The Antipasti Station serves up an assortment of cold cuts including 24-month Parma ham, salame, pistachio mortadella, and Bresaola della Valle d’Aosta. A standout for me was the Fresh Cheese Selection, which featured an incredible range of burrata — from the classic to infused (truffle, pesto alla Genovese, Italian heirloom tomato) and smoked versions. There’s also cow and buffalo mozzarella such as Ciambella and Bocconcini.
Carving Station
The Carving Station is another crowd-pleaser, with a slow-roasted Porceddu (Sardinian-style suckling pig). Other roasts include grass-fed ribeye, grilled seabass, Australian lamb leg, and roasted chicken thighs.
Pasta & Risotto Station
Over at the Pasta & Risotto Station, homestyle comfort dishes take the spotlight. I particularly enjoyed the hand-rolled Trofie Pasta with cod ragù, the rich and decadent Wagyu Beef Lasagna, and the Wild Mushroom Risotto, which was simple yet satisfying.
Pizza section
The Pizza Section impressed as well, with dough that was exceptionally well done. The Black Truffle Focaccia was rich and indulgent with mascarpone, Robiola Tre Latti, and provolone cheese, while the Arbanella anchovies pizza delivered a rustic punch with anchovies, capers, chives, and Fior di Latte cheese.
Cold Seafood Station
Seafood lovers will appreciate the Cold Seafood Station, which is well-stocked with live oysters, poached Boston lobster, tiger prawns, queen scallops, Taranto’s black mussels, and clams.
Vermouth and Prosecco zabaione
To round off the meal, desserts include a delightful spread of cakes, tarts, gelato, and sorbetto. The mini rum baba was delicious. Don’t miss the live Zabaione Station, where Vermouth and Prosecco zabaione are freshly whipped and served with fresh berries.
The La Cucina Storica Weekend Brunch is available every Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 3pm. It costs $128++ per adult and $64++ per child (6–12 years old). Free-flow beverage packages featuring Ferrari sparkling wine, Italian wines, and beers are available from $80++ per person.
Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.
Basilico
Conrad Singapore Orchard
Level 2
1 Cuscaden Road
Singapore 249715
Tel: +65 67253232
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Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard (TE Line)
Opening Hours:
Lunch:
Mon-Fri: 12 – 230pm
Brunch:
Sat-Sun: 12pm – 300pm
Dinner:
Daily: 630pm – 10pm
Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard Boulevard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Turn right and walk down Cuscaden Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 mintues. [Map]