Pre-Game, But Make It Italian: Big Wine Freaks Launches Cicchetti Hour

With its jewel-toned velvet upholstery, sculptural lighting, and eclectic mix of amphitheatre seating and communal tables, Big Wine Freaks is anything but your average wine bar. The Singapore outpost—tucked inside a colonial-style building just minutes from Outram Park MRT—channels the bold, hedonistic energy of its St. Petersburg and Moscow predecessors. The brand brings its signature edge to town, pairing standout bottles with equally gutsy bites in a space that’s as much about atmosphere as it is about appetite.

Adding to its bold identity is the launch of Cicchetti Hour, an aperitivo concept inspired by Riccardo, Big Wine Freak’s charismatic Italian General Manager, who believes no evening should begin without one. From 5.30pm to 7pm daily, guests can ease into the night with the Cicchetti Plate (S$58++), good for two. Designed for sharing, this rustic spread of Italian-inspired small bites is a carefully curated introduction to Big Wine Freaks’ culinary philosophy: bold flavours, executed with finesse. Expect: Freshly Shucked Oysters, Trout Gravlax on Whole Wheat Bread, Parma Ham, Arancini, and Grilled Padrón Peppers — a medley of briny, savoury, and smoky.

The Trout Gravlax was a highlight — delicately cured and layered over lightly toasted whole wheat bread. Laced with mustard and dill, the creamy, savoury richness of the trout is lifted by the herbaceous dressing, while the olive oil–soaked toast lends crunch and depth. It’s reminiscent of your classic lox, but with a more nuanced, elegant profile.

And then there’s the Arancini — golden orbs fried to a perfect crunch, their delicate shells giving way to a molten core of oozy mozzarella and savoury jamón. The cheese stretches luxuriously with each bite, mingling with flecks of cured ham to deliver a mouthful that’s equal parts creamy and umami-rich. Served along a side of house-made aioli, it’s the kind of indulgence that demands a second helping. Pillowy inside, crisp outside, and deeply flavourful throughout, these little parcels might just steal the show.

Each bite balances boldness with restraint, perfectly in line with the Big Wine Freaks ethos. Paired with a rotating glass of wine from $18++ during Cicchetti Hour (5.30pm to 7pm daily), it’s the ideal prelude to the rest of the evening.

Our sommelier recommended the Michel Littière Réserve Brut Champagne — crisp, dry, and incredibly refreshing. It pours with fine, persistent bubbles, offering notes of green apple and citrus zest. Light on the palate yet elegant, it cuts through richness beautifully and brings a celebratory sparkle to the spread.

Beyond aperitivo, the dinner menu holds its own with standout mains that showcase the kitchen’s confidence and craft. The Beef Short Ribs ($46) are a crowd favourite — smoky, fall-apart tender, and rich without being overwhelming. It’s paired with charred, slightly pickled endives that bring just the right touch of acidity, cutting through the richness and adding a textural contrast. A soft confit carrot rounds out the dish, mellow and sweet, though some may prefer a bit more bite.

Then there’s the Octopus with Romesco (S$58), which defies every rubbery stereotype. Grilled to juicy perfection, the octopus is meaty yet tender, its smokiness lifted by a rich, tomatoey romesco sauce that adds depth and a hint of warmth. Confit potatoes and beans are strewn across, more of a supporting act than a standout, but still welcome on the plate. 

We paired our mains with the Vin de Bourgogne 2021. While I’m no wine connoisseur and typically not a fan of reds, this one surprised me with its smooth, slightly earthy profile. The sommelier described it as having notes of cherry, cranberry, and a touch of raspberry, making it a lovely complement to the rich flavours of the beef and octopus.

We ended the meal on a high with the Muscovado tart (S$14): salted caramel-meets-butterscotch richness with a deep, smoky finish, anchored by flakes of sea salt and creamy vanilla ice cream. An unexpected hit — and one we’re still dreaming about.

Big Wine Freaks isn’t your average wine bar. It’s a space for spirited evenings and flavour-packed plates. While the price point leans towards celebratory, the newly launched Cicchetti Hour offers a way in without the commitment of a full dinner — perfect for pre-dinner dates, post-work wind-downs, or simply embracing your inner Italian.

Big Wine Freaks
44 Bukit Pasoh Road
Singapore 089857

Opening hours: Daily except Sunday, 5.30pm to 12 midnight