Scarpetta - Fresh Handmade Pasta Under $30 with 2-Hour Queues

Singapore’s vibrant dining scene on Amoy Street has a new crown jewel, and it’s making waves across every social media feed for all the right reasons. Scarpetta - named after the Italian tradition of using a small piece of bread to mop up every last drop of delicious sauce - is more than just a restaurant; it is a high-energy, artisanal pasta bar that brings authentic soul to the heart of the CBD.

If you’ve been looking for that perfect spot that balances "luxe date night" vibes with "wallet-friendly" prices, this is it. From the moment you step into the chic, 30-seater shophouse space, you’re greeted by the irresistible aroma of fresh dough and the theatrical flare of an open kitchen. Led by Chef Danny Ng (formerly of Bar Cicheti), Scarpetta focuses on the art of simplicity, where every strand of pasta is handmade from scratch starting at 6:00 AM daily.

The menu at Scarpetta is a curated list of masterpieces. Each dish is designed with a unique twist that sets it apart from your run-of-the-mill Italian fare.

This is the ultimate luxury starter. Featuring auction-grade sea urchin flown in twice weekly, it is served on toasted Tuscan Schiacciata (a lighter, crispier cousin of focaccia) with seaweed butter. It’s a melt-in-your-mouth experience that tastes like the ocean in the best way possible. Price: Market Price (approx. $16++)

A true showstopper and a rarity in Singapore. This "assassin-style" pasta involves searing spaghetti in a hot pan with spicy tomato sauce until it develops a charred, smoky crust. It offers a complex "wok hei" flavor and a satisfying crunch that you won't find anywhere else. Price: $18

Scarpetta’s take on this Roman classic swaps standard noodles for Pici—a thick, hand-rolled pasta that provides a delightful, chewy texture. Coated in a rich Pecorino Romano and black pepper sauce, it is topped with crispy guanciale for a salty, addictive finish. Price: $20

This dish is a crowd favorite for a reason. The baked rigatoni comes out with perfectly charred edges, swimming in a vibrant, velvety tomato and vodka sauce. It is creamy, slightly spicy, and incredibly comforting—essentially a hug in a bowl. Price: $21

For those who prefer something bright and refreshing, this Blue Swimmer Crab taglioni is a winner. It features delicate pasta tossed with confit garlic and a generous hit of Amalfi lemon, creating a zesty profile that highlights the sweetness of the fresh crab. Price: $26

Do not leave without trying this dessert. It is a velvety milk gelato drizzled with premium Umbrian extra virgin olive oil and finished with a sprinkle of crunchy sea salt. It’s a sophisticated, creamy, and salty-sweet ending that will have you dreaming of your next visit. Price: $6

What truly makes Scarpetta special is its commitment to "passion over profit." In an area like Telok Ayer where prices can skyrocket, Scarpetta keeps its handmade pasta options under $30. You are getting Michelin-level technique and premium ingredients - like bone marrow, truffle honey, and blue swimmer crab - at a fraction of the price of traditional fine dining.

The experience is elevated by the "Scarpetta" ritual: at the end of your pasta course, you’re served complimentary slices of freshly baked bread specifically to mop up the remaining sauce. It’s a warm, communal touch that makes you feel right at home.

Ready to secure your seat at the bar? Here is everything you need to know: