Cover Amuse bouche (Image: Art)

The chef-restaurateur returns to helm the kitchen of Art, which has taken over Aura’s space

If you're a fan of chef Beppe De Vito's contemporary Italian restaurant Art, you'd be glad to know that it's back in the dining scene after shuttering its original outlet last year due to leasing issues. Find out what has changed since it relocated to a new space closer to the city. 

(Related: What's The Secret Ingredient To Chef-Restaurateur Beppe De Vito And PR Maven Lynn Yeow's Success?)

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Above Spaghetti 'monograno felicetti', scampi and ginger

1. The reputation

After a six-month hiatus, contemporary Italian restaurant Art, which was formerly located on Market Street, has taken over the space of its sister establishment Aura at the National Gallery Singapore. “We reinstated Art as many customers and industry friends have been enquiring about it,” shares chef‑restaurateur Beppe De Vito. But he was quick to point out that the concept remains the same, which is an “exploration and evolution of Italian culinary traditions”.

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Above Chef restaurateur Beppe De Vito

2. Talented chef

De Vito has donned his chef’s hat once again to personally helm the kitchen of Art. Quality ingredients, mostly sourced from Italy, take centre stage in his cooking. These include pistachios from Bronte in Sicily, and Monograno Felicetti spaghetti, made with water from the Dolomites mountains and organic wheat from his hometown in Puglia. With personal memories guiding him, De Vito has created innovative dishes that take diners on a gastronomic journey through seasons and flavours.

(Related: Where Do The Top 20 Chefs In Singapore Go For Their Hawker Fix?)

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Above Gianduja chocolate, hazelnut gelato, espresso and Marsala

3. Authentic Italian fare

Dishes on the a la carte and tasting menus are anchored in Italian culinary traditions, but they are given a fresh spin to cater to the discerning palates of customers. For example, the classic beef carpaccio has been reimagined as thin slivers of tuna belly, drenched in an aromatic truffle vinaigrette with a generous sprinkle of hazelnuts.

Also, De Vito combines his favourite flavours to come up with an elevated version of tiramisu, crafted with gianduja chocolate, hazelnut gelato, espresso and marsala wine.

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Above Italian wines

4. Impressive wine list

De Vito’s passion for tipples is reflected in the extensive wine list carrying over 500 old- and new-world bottles. If you prefer to match the food with Italian pours, options include the elegant Paolo Scavino Barolo 2015 and the opulent 2011 Tenuta dell’Ornellaia Masseto Toscana. Maitre d’ and sommelier Marco Rota is always on hand to give recommendations to elevate your meal.

(Related: 10 Of The Best Piemontese Wines To Try)

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Above Interiors

5. Chic interiors

Minus the stylish typography of Art that greets you at the front of the restaurant, nothing much has changed in the sophisticated space that Aura used to occupy. Melding old-world design sensibility with modern sleekness, the restaurant is outfitted in the same rich tones of polished brass and bronze and enlivened with emerald and amber accents.

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