Torno Subito: This Italian Restaurant at Dempsey Hill unveils a refreshed Menu

If you are looking for an Instagrammable dining restaurant for photos, Torno Subito could be next on your list. This whimsical Italian restaurant spells summer and fun. Torno Subito is a vibrant, contemporary Italian restaurant located in the lush enclave of Dempsey Hill, Singapore. The moment you step into the space, you will feel like you are entering another world. Their world is filled with vibrant colors, nostalgic retro vibes, and an effortlessly cool Italian beach club atmosphere.

Chef Massimo Bottura, the visionary behind the three-Michelin-starred Osteria Francescana in Modena, brought his inventive take on Italian cuisine to Singapore with Torno Subito.

Atmosphere & Vibes

Stepping into Torno Subito feels like walking into a technicolor dream! The space bursts with colour: patterned chairs, terrazzo tabletops, and bright red pendant lights casting a warm, flattering glow over the circular bar at the centre. A mannequin in a retro lifeguard outfit with a red umbrella hovers above the bar, setting a whimsical, holiday by-the-beach vibe that “wows” you before the first bite even arrives.

Designed by Paola Navone of OTTO Studio, the space bursts with colour and coastal charm, evoking the carefree spirit of an Italian seaside getaway.

Despite its bold aesthetic, the restaurant doesn’t feel overdone — the checkered floors and exposed ceiling beams add a chic, modern contrast to the playful decor. It’s energetic yet cosy, classy.

Food Highlights 🍴

The menu showcases the innovative use of ingredients that celebrate the specialties of the Emilia-Romagna region – from balsamic vinegar of Modena, and cured meats to fresh pasta – where Bottura comes from.

Complimentary Sourdough with Anchovy Butter ⭐

Our meal here starts strong with a complimentary sourdough and anchovy butter. The sourdough is chewy with a crisp crust, while the butter, sculpted into a ridged disc, melts into the sourdough on contact. The anchovy adds that subtle salty umami edge that makes it so addictive.

Mortadella ($14)

This dish was all about comfort and texture. The focaccia was airy and pillowy, which was a nice contrast with the complimentary sourdough. It had a delicate crust that soaked up just the right amount of olive oil. The mortadella added a light saltiness and buttery aroma that paired beautifully with the warm bread. It’s simple, authentic, and incredibly satisfying.

Emilia Burger ($22)

Served in a cute, branded box that made for a fun first impression, the Emilia Burger looked promising but didn’t quite hit the mark for us. The bite-sized burger featured a smoky beef patty layered with creamy melted cheese and a tangy house sauce, but the patty leaned a little dry and the bun was denser than expected. While playful in concept and presentation, it lacked the juiciness and balance we were hoping for.

Tortellino ($48)

The tortellini was the definition of indulgent comfort. Each pasta pocket was generously filled with a savoury meat mixture and coated in a thick, velvety cheese sauce that clung to every bite. The aged cheese gave it a sharp, nutty edge, making it a rich and decadent bite. It might not be a must-order dish for everyone as the cheese is really strong and thick, but for cheese lovers, you have to try this!

*Do note the photo shown above is the tasting portion size of the dish.

Prosciutto Crudo ($38)

The pizza came topped with Parma ham, salami, Fior di Latte cheese, arugula, and generous shavings of Parmigiano Reggiano. Each slice offered a nice balance of salty and cheesy flavours. The rich cured meats paired beautifully with the cheese. The crust was soft yet chewy, giving that satisfying bite, though the overall flavour leaned a little on the salty side. Still, it’s a comforting, classic combination that hits the spot if you love bold, savoury notes.

*Do note that we were served tasting portion sizes of the pizza.

Coppa — Charcoal-Grilled Smoked Pork Collar ($42) ⭐

The charcoal-grilled pork collar was the standout dish for us. Thick, juicy pork with a gentle smoky char on the edges, perfectly tender without being greasy. The sweet persimmon compote added a bright, fruity contrast to the savoury pork, while the radicchio salad cut through the richness with its subtle bitterness. A great balance of flavour and texture, and easily one of the most memorable dishes of the night.

Tiramisubito ($14) ⭐

The Tiramisubito, Torno Subito’s spin on tiramisu, featured a chocolate shell that you crack open to reveal luscious mascarpone cream and crisp biscuit layers beneath. The coffee flavour was pronounced but smooth, balanced by a touch of cocoa and just the right sweetness. Finished with a gold-dusted logo on top, this dessert was both delicious and Instagram-worthy.

Drinks

Torno Subito’s drink menu is as playful as its interior — expect cheeky cocktail names, Italian wines, and a solid selection of aperitifs. We tried the Fichissimo and Pesca di Riviera, both from the Cocktails by the Coast collection.

The Fichissimo (right), inspired by Gallipoli, was a refreshing blend of Bombay Sapphire Premier Cru, fig, lemon, and grapes. It was sweet, citrusy, and beautifully floral with just enough depth to stay balanced.

The Pesca di Riviera (left), a nod to Riviera Romagnola where Chef Massimo Bottura hails from, combined rum, cherry liqueur, peach, and pear for a smooth, elegant finish. Both leaned on the sweeter side, pairing perfectly with our meal without feeling too heavy. I would recommend the Fichissimo if you prefer sweeter or a lighter drink!

The restaurant brings Italy’s beloved pre-dinner ritual to Singapore with AperiTorno — happening Wednesday to Friday, 5:30–7:30 pm. You can enjoy handcrafted cocktails at a special $15++, paired with complimentary bar snacks.

Our Verdict

Torno Subito offers a vibrant celebration of Italian flavours, reimagined with creativity and flair. Each dish feels new and elevated and a standout feature is their option of half-portion servings for pastas and pizzas, allowing you to explore more of the menu. With that side, prices are still on the steeper side with some dishes feeling abit underwhelming.

The service is warm and attentive, with a team that clearly takes pride in the experience they deliver, from the plating to the playful presentation. If you are planning a trip there, you can try the Sourdough with Anchovy Butter, Tortellini, Coppa Pork Collar, and Tiramisubito.