Noci – New Korean Pasta Bar

Noci is a new dining concept blending Italian pasta-making traditions with Korean culinary expertise. It describes itself as Singapore’s first Korean pasta bar.

Noci at Suntec City

The new restaurant occupies a corner unit on the road level of Suntec City. It is at the Convention Centre end of the complex, near H&M and Uniqlo and facing Marina Square.

The interior has the modern industrial aesthetic paired with pale wood furniture that looked right out of Ikea catalogue. Floor-to-ceiling glass panels allow abundant natural light to flood the space. Small plants are scattered around the dining area, and fresh cut flowers appear on every table. The design feels uncomplicated and stylish. It creates a comfortable environment.

A Korean Chef’s Take on Italian Classics

The new eatery in Suntec City is part of Goldmoon Group, the South Korean company that also operates Seoul Noodle Shop, Tonshou and Wonderful Bapsang in Singapore.

Behind Noci is 30 year old Busan-born chef Lee Jae-seok, who oversees the kitchen and contributed to the restaurant’s design.

Chef Lee’s approach centres on fresh pasta made daily using high-quality Italian flour. He employs a specific egg dough recipe with a yolk to flour ratio of 1:2. The dough then undergoes 24-hour fermentation, which produces springy, velvety strands with a deep golden hue. Two distinct types of Italian flour feature in the kitchen. One is selected specifically for pasta, whilst the other serves pizza dough needs. Each flour variety was chosen for its structural properties and flavour profile. During certain hours, diners can observe the pasta making process from their tables.

The menu structure is straightforward: antipasti, pasta selections, pizza, a handful of mains, limited desserts, plus hot and cold beverages. Pasta clearly takes centre stage.

Below is a picture of the physical menu of Noci and screen shots of the digital menu.

The Dining Experience

Currently, Noci does not take reservation. Queues form at the entrance during peak periods. Once seated, you scan a QR code on the table to access the digital menu and place orders.

A welcome surprise is complimentary water service, which has become increasingly rare in Singapore. Each diner also receives a small piece of bread accompanied by a generous portion of luxurios butter. A thoughtful gesture that sets a hospitable tone.

What We Tried

We ordered three items: Caesar Salad ($14), Bolognese Ragu ($24) and Cacio e Pepe ($19). A service charge was added to the bill, but no GST was added.

Caesar Salad

The presentation caught our attention straight away. Instead of the usual jumble, the salad arrived almost like a floral arrangement. Crisp, fresh lettuce leaves formed the base, while savoury olives added a briny contrast. Shavings of Parmesan added depth and complexity. It was a familiar starter that tasted as good as it looked.

Bolognese Ragu

Bolognese Ragu featured rigatoni tubes coated in a rich meat sauce. The classic Italian meat based sauce had a harmonious blend of ground meat with tomatoes and aromatics. The pasta itself achieved proper al dente texture – firm yet tender, with just enough resistance when bitten. Each pasta piece was well coated with the sauce, ensuring flavour in every bite. The portion was satisfying, though the dish leaned a little too salty for our liking. That said, that might come down to individual taste preferences.

Cacio e Pepe

This Roman classic emerged as the standout dish. Despite containing only a few core ingredients, cheese, black pepper and pistachio garnish, the flavours were interesting and delightful. A creamy cheese sauce clung to the golden strands of pasta.The notes from fresh black pepper would linger on the palate. Crushed pistachios added textural contrast and a subtle nuttiness.

The balance impressed. The cheese’s richness met the pepper’s bite without either element overpowering the other. Again, the pasta texture lived up to expectations. Each strand was springy and silky, justifying the restaurant’s emphasis on its house made product.

Quality Comes with a Premium Price Tag

Overall, Noci delivers on its promise of quality pasta prepared with care and sound technique. Those seeking well made pasta in comfortable surroundings will find much to appreciate. The space is pleasant and suited to a leisurely meal, while the staff are welcoming and attentive. Thoughtful touches such as complimentary water and bread add value beyond the food, a detail not always seen in casual dining spots.

Pricing places Noci above the average casual eatery, with pasta dishes ranging from $19 to $27. The queuing situation is also worth noting, as long waits during peak lunch and dinner hours could deter some potential patrons. Those prioritising low prices or convenience might hesitate. However, for diners who value well made pasta and do not mind waiting in line at the door, Noci represents a worthwhile addition to Singapore’s dining scene.

Ratings:
Food: 4
Service: 4
Value: 3
Atmosphere: 3
Overall Rating: 4 TOPs 

Noci
Suntec City Mall, #01-618
1 Raffles Boulevard,
Singapore 039593

Opening Hours: 11 am – 3 pm | 5 pm to 11 pm

Nearby MRT Station: Esplanade (CC3)

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