Guide Features of Ah Bong's Italian (Tan Quee Lan)

Guide Features of Good Food at Ah Bong's Italian (Tan Quee Lan)

The first place that would probably pop into any Burpple Tastemaker's mind when you mention Bugis would be Ah Bong's Italian, purely because the food is hearty and the prices affordable. It looks small from the outside, and it's almost always packed, but there are additional outdoor tables to accommodate bigger groups. Come with your carb-loving friends and plan to eat chef-owner Chris's amazing pastas like the Fresh Pesto ($12) and the signature Birthday Pasta ($9). The latter, described in Burpple Tastemaker Russell Leong's words, features "roasted broccoli pesto that is earthy, hearty and bursting with fantastic flavor". If you're a regular patron here, or "superfans", as Chef Chris calls the Burpple Tastemakers, you'll find yourself sampling his experimental dishes pretty often, like the Almost There Pork Belly ($12) that comes with melt-in-the-mouth fat and perfectly crackling skin — a dish that has been in the works since last July. Pro tip: Swing by at lunch to enjoy any pasta, a drink and a small dessert at only $12!
Avg Price: $15 per person
Photo by Burpple Tastemaker Russell Leong

Just a few doors down from Joo Bar, Ah Bong's Italian dishes out plates of delicious, freshly made pasta. Unlike its original digs in Tiong Bahru which only serves lunch, this location opens for both lunch and dinner, and its central location makes it the perfect compromise between those working in the CBD and those who are not. Moreover, all chef-owner Chris' pastas are made with heart and will please the fussiest eater in the group. Go for the crowd-pleasing Angus Beef Ragu ($16), or if you're in luck, get the signature Birthday Pasta ($9) — a winning combination of cream, bacon and broccoli that is sure to satisfy. The made-from-scratch dishes change everyday and the day’s offerings are uploaded on their Instagram every morning, great for those who need a little inspiration! Chris is experimenting more at this outlet, so show your support by trying new items and giving him your feedback!
Avg Price: $15 per person
Photo by Burpple Tastemaker Julius Lim

Located a few doors down from Joo Bar along Tan Quee Lan Street is Ah Bong's Italian second outlet. Unlike its original digs in Tiong Bahru which only serves lunch, this location opens for both lunch and dinner! Chef-owner Chris is experimenting more in here, so show your support by trying new items and giving him your feedback. Note that the menu changes daily (the day's offerings are uploaded on their Instagram every morning). If you're in luck, order the Caramel Corn ($10), a surprisingly delicious salty-sweet concoction of black pig bacon, sweet caramelised corn and chili flakes. The signature Birthday Pasta ($9), a winning combination of cream, bacon and broccoli, always satisfies. If you're coming in a group, try the Comfort Eggs ($8) to start— two wobbly eggs served with truffle oil and sausages. Should it be available, have the Thai Tea Creme Brulee ($5). Don't be deceived by its petite serving — it packs a punch of flavour!
Avg price: $15 per person
Photo by Burppler Raine Liu

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