These days, consumers are spoilt for choice with the fleet of different restaurants opening island wide. While gourmet food lovers are fastidious on freshness, creativity and pricing, the rest of us will content with value for money meals which will not burn a hole in our pocket. One such restaurant dishing out generous serves will be Al Forno Trattoria which is located in Goldhill Shopping centre, a stone's throw away from Novena MRT Station.

• The Vibe
  Designed as a bistro for casual dining, this restaurant engages the use of rattan chairs and furnishings in natural hues, coupled with dim warm lightings, emanating warmth and a quaint charm. The blend of white and red table cloth works its trick in making the place a little cosier and less intimidating.

• The Food
  Serving an array of dishes from vegetarian to meat and seafood, there is almost a dish for every palate. Though some may claim that this restaurant is no different from the rest in town, the best is yet to be. The Zuppa Di Mare ($18) which is basically seafood in tomato-based soup, arrived in a serve apportioned for two or more. Juicy prawns, succulent clams and mussels made the day. The fact that the ingredients were overwhelmingly generous made this a hearty Zuppa Di Mare, sufficient to satify one's hunger pangs. On the contrary, the Saute di Vongole ($14) which is usually a main course cooked with spaghetti, was offered as an appetizer. It may taste a tad salty to those who prefer to take it light. The favourite dish of regular diners will be the Spaghetti Al Cartoccios ($65). This is certainly a dish to impress guests. Presented in a wrapped paper bag, it intrigues one's curiosity on what lies within. Once unwrapped, the aroma and fragrance which has been enveloped within, leaves one satiated.

  For the usual Italian fare, diners can choose to have the Quattro Formaggi pizza ($26 for 8 inches) or the Quattro Stagioni ($26) topped with tomato, mozzarella, mushroom, ham and artichoke. We noticed the sides of the pizzas were slightly charred when served. Health-conscious consumers may wish to highlight their preference to the service staff in order to avoid disappointment.

  All's well that ends well. The Mixed Fruit cheesecake ($8) was an ideal dessert neither too rich nor light. Sour but yet sweet, it was well complemented with the Rosolio Limone ($15) which aids digestion. The Chocolate Rum ($8) appeared mousse-like but was more substantial. Other than the desserts stated in the menu, diners can enjoy the dessert of the day specially created by the in-house pastry chef.

• The Service
  The staff strength was bare minimal. With only one main service staff, it takes a while to have your requests attended to. On the hindsight, the service staff was knowledgeable so it made our wait a little more bearable and worthwhile.

The SD Food Advisor's take on Al Forno Trattoria
This will be a convenient stop over for those working in the vicinity or living nearby. It provides a non-intimidating environment conducive for casual dining or business luncheons. Otherwise, the sweet-toothed can always drop by for desserts and drinks after meals.