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Welcome to Da Bao Diaries, a daily column dedicated to what Time Out Singapore's editors are eating and drinking while Singapore's 'circuit breaker' measures are in place till June 1. Da bao is a Singaporean colloquialism derived from Mandarin that refers to having a meal to go instead of dining in at an establishment.
While we should probably steer clear of Robertson Quay for a while (gatherings are still prohibited even after the ‘circuit break’ period), there’s little reason why you can’t enjoy a meal from your favourite lifestyle enclave. The tranquil neighbourhood is home to some great dining spots, one of which being Publico Ristorante.
Italian dishes of wood-fired pizzas and house-made pastas are the star of the menu. While you can find gourmet pies topped with fresh burrata ($28) and mozzarella with spicy salami ($24), switch things up with the only white-based pizza on the menu instead. The Tartufata ($26) comes served with aromatic black truffles, juicy chunks of porcini mushrooms, mozzarella, and smoked scamorza, then finished with a drizzle of truffle oil for good measure. If you like your crust with a chewy bite, the ones from Publico, blistered in the oven, will not disappoint. And since you’re already indulging, throw in an order of the truffle fries ($15), perfumed with a double dosage of grated black truffle and truffle oil.
If you’ll rather slurp up your carbs, sample the popular conchiglie bolognese ($29) tossed in a ragu sauce made with slow-cooked beef and red wine, or have a go at whipping up a hearty Italian dinner for yourself and your loved ones with one of four convenient DIY Pasta Kits (from $17). Planning a special occasion? Publico has you covered too – from a romantic Date Night ($88) deal which comes with a bottle of prosecco, to a hearty La Famiglia Feast ($128) that’s good for four with three pizzas, arugula salad, meatballs, garlic bread, truffle fries, and two cans of Italian beer.
HOW TO ORDER Those living around the area can choose to self-collect to enjoy a 25 percent discount. Publico Ristorante is also available on local delivery platforms Deliveroo and Foodpanda, while islandwide delivery is available on GrabFood.
Need more takeaway inspiration?
Check out our previous Da Bao Diaries entry
Read on for more restaurants offering takeaway and delivery
Wash it all down with bottled cocktails from these local bars