The buzz: Bistecca Tuscan Steakhouse, a five-week-old Italian restaurant in a shophouse along Mohamed Sultan, is the latest and hottest arrival in the River Valley area.

The vibe: Dim lighting and loads of earth tones in the form of wood furnishings and croc print-inspired chocolate chairs give this spot a distinctly sexy feel, perfect for a romantic evening if you ask us; we’re just waiting for the stylish photographic artworks to be installed to keep the white walls from looking too bare.

The food: Without a doubt, the emphasis is on the meat; they are a steakhouse after all. If you’re game and positively ravenous, we suggest their signature Fiorentina ($178)—hard to go wrong with a hefty 1-1.2kg T-bone steak of (marble score six) Aussie Wagyu. There’s also a range of sauces that come with it, including salsa verde (our top pick) and porcini mushroom. But it’s extra for sides like Tuscan fries with rosemary and crushed garlic ($13) and charcoal grilled asparagus ($15). Of course, you’ll also find a selection of pastas (from $22) and desserts such as tiramisu ($12).

The drinks: Italian wines rule the day here, with house whites and reds going from $16/glass or $70/bottle.

Why you’ll be back: It’s a great date venue, and for a piece of deliciously smoky char-grilled meat, what else?

The lunch deal: Priced at $38 for three courses and $45 for four courses, this Italian steak specialist offers a generously-sized lunch set, featuring not just steak, but also fish and vegetarian options.  

Why it’s worth it: Even big eaters won’t go hungry here. You might start the meal with filling pastas such as orecchiette with turnip sprouts and housemade sausage, then move on to mains like well-marbled hanging tender (200g) with lots of of potatoes and sautéed broccoli. Sweets are equally indulgent—take your pick from the full dessert menu—including chocolate-y profiteroles.

Don't miss: Bistecca Fiorentina. It's one of I-S Magazine's 50 things to eat in Singapore before you die (2012).