Stepping into Palio at Resorts World genuinely feels like you have been transported to a Tuscan villa. The lighting is beautifully done to mimic sunlight, the tunes of a classical guitar waft across the open space and the orange walls and theme make the restaurant bright and inviting. The casual Italian restaurant serves comfort Italian pastas and dishes with a Tuscan leaning, the home of Chef Davide Bizzarri.

The Tuscan region is of course famed for its vineyards and wines, but few know that it represents a crossroads of cuisine in Italy. As Chef Davide explained to the Chope team, the region is flanked by both the sea and mountains, so you get a combination of fresh produce and seafood. Tuscany is also midway between the hearty flavors of the North, and the spicier herbs used in the South. So the dishes at Palio are made with less salt and a heavier flavor. You'll be amazed at how well Palio prepares simple dishes such as the pan-roasted cod (Merluzzo Palio) - it is crusted with breaded herbs and drizzled generously with balsamic vinegar reduction. It was our favorite dish!

Palio is a hearty, traditional eatery, and we would recommend it for a weekend lunch if you are at Resorts World Sentosa. If you come on weekday lunches you can also take advantage of the generously priced 3-course lunch set for only $25++. Finally, the service was excellent - the staff are happy to help order taxis when you leave so you have one waiting. It's the simple touches that count! (Jun 2012)

"Their must tries include Tuscan-style bread salad Panzanella, signature Pizza Michael topped with seafood and Pici Pasta from Siena (Pici con Aragostelle e Zucchine allo Zafferano)." -I-S Asia City

For starters, we recommend the simple Caprese - Italian Buffalo Mozzarella Cheese served with Fresh Vine Tomatoes & Basil. The flavor of the cheese was muted so we could taste the sweetness of the tomato, making it a refreshing starter for a warm day.

We also liked the Zuppa Di Porcini, Tuscan Porcini Mushroom and Fresh Thyme Cream Soup. The soup isn't too creamy and you will be pleasantly surprised by the abundance of mushrooms.

As already mentioned in the About section, our favorite main was the Herb-Crusted Cod, a delicious medley of fresh fish, herbs and vinegar. This is closely followed by the Linguine all ’ Aragosta, linguine pasta served with half Boston Lobster in “Arrabbiata” spicy tomato sauce. Always innovative with new flavours, Chef Davide sprinkles some paprika powder alongside that surprises the aroma, and delicately flavors the spicy Arrabbiata and juicy lobster meat. (Jun 2012)

"Showcasing authentic Tuscan cuisine with a scrumptious variety of traditional recipes and rare seasonal ingredients flown in from Italy, guests can partake in a hearty meal of rustic dishes. Must-tries include the Tuscan-style bread salad panzanella, signature Pizza Michael topped with the freshest seafood, traditional handmade pasta from Siena (pici all’aglione), braised veal shank (ossobuco) and classic desserts like Grandma’s cake with lemon cream (torta della nonna), a recipe passed down the generations. With an open-kitchen concept and dining along the bustling Festive Walk, guests can immerse themselves in the exuberant ambience, hospitable service and eclectic interior concept while enjoying selections from the wine list for pairing with Tuscan flavours." -Time Out Singapore

Citibank Gourmet Pleasures: Complimentary bottle of wine (worth $55) with a minimum spend of $300. 10% off on food bill with a minimum spend of $50. Offer valid till 30 Sept 2013.