Quickly approaching its seventh year since establishment in 2000, Senso remains astonishingly successful, surviving the fickle taste-buds of local and expatriate diners with its fine elegance and warm hospitality. Located at Club Street, between Chinatown and the CBD, the restaurant is popular with people from all walks of life, so much so that reservations are highly recommended, even for the weekday lunch.

• The Vibe
  The charm of Senso's interior lies in the rich history of the building in which it resides. A former convent, the colonial architecture provides a stunning contrast to the contemporary décor, resulting in a timeless chic. Waltz through the entrance and be greeted by the opulence of the restaurant lobby, flanked by their private dining room and a luxurious bar, perfect for pre-dinner drinks. Torn between the stylish modernity of the main dining room and the lovely rustic feel of Tuscany in courtyard, the choice of seating is often a tough decision, even for the most decisive of guests.
• The Food
  The menu features items originating from all over Italy and undergoes a slight revamp every six weeks, while retaining perennial favourites, of course. Senso prides itself on being true to Italian recipes and the quality of their ingredients, both of which earn them a loyal clientele of Europeans, including Italians.

  Bring your glossal senses to life with starters such as the Caprese Di Bufala ($22) and the Mozzarella Senso ($22). Dressed to kill in the colours of the Italian flag, the former consists of perfectly ripe tomatoes and buffalo milk mozzarella, garnished with fresh basil. Refreshingly light, the tomatoes contrasted well against the milky soft texture of the mozzarella which, even by itself, was absolutely divine. A signature dish, the Mozzarella Senso lived up to high expectations with smoky chunks of mozzarella wrapped within crisp layers of parma ham. Do let your server know if you are sharing the starters as they will portion them for you and plate them together, a very thoughtful gesture.

  Adventurous diners yearning for something different can try the Linguine Senso ($34) with home-made black pasta and a whole lobster, live from their very own tank. The crustacean is sweet and succulent, proving that freshness is the key, especially when it comes to seafood. Served al dente, the lightly flavoured pasta is further accentuated by a very appetizing bisque sauce.

  The Merluzzo Senso ($34), boasting a golden-brown cod fillet roasted to perfection, is a definite hit with the ladies. Served with a balsamico sauce, the acidity brings out the best flavours of the creamy cod that is both moist and springy, a texture not easy to achieve. However, the side of potatoes paled in comparison to the excellent cod.

  While the desserts are well-crafted indeed, they are a notch away from being perfect. The Cioccolatta E Oro ($16) seemed a little overdone and could do with a little more chocolate lava, a little less cake. However, its pairing with a subtly sweet pistachio ice-cream is well-thought and, with its side of berries, provides a palette of flavours for diners to get creative with. Lighter on the alcohol, the Tiramisu Senso ($12) would probably appeal more to diners who prefer it that way. The Frangipane ($14), however, is rather unremarkable and diners might be better off trying something else.

  For a soft initiation to the culinary offerings of Senso, the executive set lunch comes highly recommended. Priced at $34++, it includes a limited choice of starter, a main course and a dessert to give you an all-rounded Italian experience.

• The Service
  With the staff dressed immaculately in black, the service is truly impeccable. Attention is paid to every detail, right down to the napkin. Wine connoisseurs can expect to be pampered by their friendly sommelier, with his vast knowledge of his wine and their origins, making sure diners enjoy their meal with the right spirit.

The SD Food Advisor's take on Senso
If you have been dreaming about a vacation in Italy, but cannot make the trip anytime soon; the Senso experience comes pretty close, even if it is only for a meal. It is uncommon for restaurants to be able to take on the masculinity of power lunches and the femininity of marriage proposals, but it does both with relative ease. With good food and a classy ambience, the restaurant can be depended upon to host the most important occasions in one's lifetime. Sexy, bold and stunning; Senso is definitely the place to see and be seen.