Amidst the tranquil streets of Rowell Road, Locanda by 1-Michelin-starred Buona Terra has captivated the hearts of many since opening its doors in the colourful heritage district of Little India on 26 July 2024.
Locanda, whose name is taken from the Italian word for “inn”, exudes a charming, home-like warmth. Redolent of the traditional inns of Italy, this quaint Italian trattoria is imbued with the cosiness of a restful stopover and the vibrancy of the cultural and historic Little India precinct in which it resides.
Discovering the Charm of Locandas
An Italian locanda refers to an inn, or in former times, is the name for a house that provides food and lodging for travellers. Locandas are typically situated in or around locations steeped in rich history and breathtaking landscapes, making them perfect havens of respite for the weary traveller.
For those in search of an authentic rustic Italian experience, locandas in the countryside invite guests to savour the simple pleasures of Italy. Guests can also enjoy personalised services, from wine tastings and cooking classes to horse riding. Many also boast restaurants serving authentic Italian cuisine crafted from enduring recipes.
Those seeking urban adventures can discover locandas in the city that offer a blend of history and modern comfort. Here, escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, all while enjoying convenient access to cultural landmarks and vibrant city centres.
The Historical and Cultural Riches of Locandas
Often located near UNESCO-designated sites or historical landmarks, these inns have evolved from former mills, wine cellars, farmhouses, or even post houses, into iconic symbols of Italian hospitality.
Locanda Cipriani, having transformed from a modest wine and olive oil resale into a renowned inn, has even played host to famed figures like Queen Elizabeth II, Elton John, Charlie Chaplin, Tom Cruise, and Julia Roberts.
The allure of locandas, however, extends beyond their storied walls. Locanda San Lorenzo, for instance, enjoys proximity to two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the breathtaking Dolomites and the picturesque Prosecco hills. Meanwhile, Locanda del Arteis is a stone's throw away from prestigious theatres like the Bellini, San Carlo, and San Ferdinando in Naples. Its prime location also offers convenience to cultural landmarks like the Monastery of Santa Chiara, the Chapel of San Severo, and the Underground Naples.
The Italian Hospitality
Italian hospitality is renowned for its warmth and generosity, and locandas are no exception. These charming inns create a homely and inviting ambience with their attentive staff, cosy interiors, and cultural accents. The interior spaces are thoughtfully designed to evoke a sense of calm and comfort, with wooden accents, cosy fireplaces, and comfortable furnishings. Expansive windows invite guests to bask in the natural beauty of the surroundings, while fireplaces add a warm charm in colder climates. These intimate spaces are also adorned with cultural elements that echo local traditions and history.
Whether it's the attentive service at Locanda San Lorenzo, managed by the Frefel family with over four decades of dedication to hospitality, or the family-run charm of Antica Locanda Leonardo, all locandas are committed to creating a welcoming experience. Locanda Del Molino even goes the extra mile to ensure a memorable stay. Besides its tranquil pool, the inn offers a myriad of activities, including trekking, cycling, horse-riding, golfing, windsurfing, and even cooking classes led by the restaurant's chef.
The Taste of Italy
Of course, at the heart of Italian hospitality is serving great food and wines of the best quality delivered with full generosity. Spanning Italy’s diverse landscapes, from the sun-kissed hills of Tuscany to the idyllic coastline of Sicily, locandas celebrate culinary traditions with the finest locally sourced and seasonal ingredients.
At Michelin-starred Locanda San Lorenzo, the chefs artfully craft authentic dishes with the freshest flavours of the season. The wine list also features more than 800 bins, ranging from renowned Italian and international producers to emerging vintners. For the modern epicurean seeking to rediscover an authentic taste of Italy, the historic Osteria at Locanda Ponte Dante presents lovingly prepared century-old recipes while Locanda Mistral elevates traditional recipes with finesse and boasts some of the finest labels from the wine cellars of Langhe, Roero, and South Tyrol.
In celebration of these humble institutions, Locanda by Buona Terra brings their timeless allure to Rowell Road, setting out to deliver the personable service reminiscent of traditional, family-run Italian inns. Lined with exposed red brick walls and decked with rustic wooden furnishings, the casual space captivates with the charm of a traditional trattoria. At Locanda, guests can embrace a sense of home away from home. Like the space, the menu centres around pasta specialities, embodying the rich traditions and heritage definitive of Italian cuisine and hospitality. Whether a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner; a solo meal or a big celebration among loved ones, Locanda offers a retreat of relaxation where one can unwind, socialise, and relish the flavours of Italy.
Address: 109 Rowell Rd, Singapore 208033
Reservations: Online
