Located deep in a residential estate, Giovanni's certainly shows no hint of apprehension that food lovers will not know of its existence. Firstly, all diners must make reservations at least a day in advance. Secondly, the cook does not strictly go by what is on the menu and it depends on whether the diner has any special requests. Thirdly, Giovanni guarantees consistent food quality each time on every visit, and proudly proclaims itself to be one of the best Mediterranean restaurants in Singapore. While it may sound like the height of arrogance on the restaurant's part, nonetheless, it is also a good marketing strategy that plays on the fact that the harder it is to get something, the more desirable it becomes.

• The Vibe
  The restaurant adopts a European appeal in its décor. The gold-rimmed paintings that adorn the walls are imported from Turkey and Morocco, some inlaid with precious stones such as ivory. The subdued lightings in the restaurant emanate a cozy touch to the slender space while the adorable fireplace accentuates the inviting feel. The floral-design grilled windows and checkered blue and white flooring gives the space a homely feel.

• The Food
  The food served at Giovanni's originates from countries such as Turkey, Spain and other coastal regions of Europe. Your dining experience at Giovanni's will be enhanced when complemented with some wine. Hence, Giovanni's stocks up to 300 labels of wine in the restaurant.

  Tapas refer to delicacies served in small portions. Start off your gastronomical pleasure with the Champignon al Ajillo, a dish of mushrooms cooked together with mint leaves, garlic and parsley in delectable white wine sauce. The crunchy mushrooms, infused with the sauce, were a pleasant delight to the taste buds.

  The Dolme, is probably the one of the most unique dishes, which exemplifies the exotic taste of Mediterranean food. Minced egg-plant wrapped in mint leaves, this dish is recommended to the more daring diners as the taste may require a bit of getting used to.

  A highly recommended dish is the Mejillones ala Catalan ($15). The mussels are so fresh that the flesh can be removed effortlessly from the shell and the mild, sweet taste of the mussels blends well with the pesto cream sauce. The Pollo Rehozado eon Miely Mostaza ($14) will also not disappoint you. The tender chicken is strongly flavored as it is baked with unrefined rock salt, honey and mustard and then glazed with garlic and mint.

• The Service
  Expect to receive personalized service, as the owners of the restaurant will be the ones serving you. They will gladly recommend dishes that cater to your taste and make the effort to ensure that you enjoy your meal, so that you will visit again.

The SD Food Advisor's take on Giovanni's Mediterranean Restaurant

Diners are encouraged to drive, as the location is rather inaccessible. Due to the reservation policy, the number of diners in the restaurant varies from time to time. Hence, one may feel slightly intimidated if he happens to be the only guest in the restaurant during his visit. Nonetheless, even though the restaurant seems exclusive due to the need to reserve a place before a visit, it is worthy of a visit if one is looking for a spread of savory Mediterranean food.