Tempo Tempo is a cosy, quaint terrace that’s part of Pirata Group’s The Sixteenth dining destination at Taikoo Place. It feels like a hidden gem with its transportive atmosphere that’s bright and breezy during the daytime. When dusk falls with its indigo skies, the mood becomes more intimate. Lush foliage, lemon trees and umbrellas circle the space, taking inspiration from Italian gardens.
The cocktails
The cocktails here are low alcohol focused, so the majority of drinks are on the lighter side, but they do not disappoint. Our first order was Red Feathers ($130) and Italian 75 ($160).
For Red Feathers, a charming flamingo cocktail glass contains a bright blush-coloured tipple filled with a ton of flavours – nutty, fruity and refreshing from the Carpano Classico red vermouth, with a touch of sweetness from the wine and honey reduction. This is a zero-waste cocktail, using a whole pineapple.
Italian 75 is fragrant and delicate, showcasing clean flavours throughout each sip. Containing lemon-flavoured Malfy gin and cold-brewed chamomile tea as the base, this sophisticated cocktail smells citrusy from the use of Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto liqueur and lemon. There isn’t a lot of champagne in the mix though, so it isn’t as fizzy as I was expecting it to be.
For another creative concoction, the Instagram-worthy Unicorn Tamer ($120) might look innocent, but it’s not as light as you think! On the fruitier end of the spectrum, Beefeater gin, limoncello, Pimm’s, pineapple, strawberry and lemon cordial capture the essence of summertime.
Crystal Oat Milk ($110) has some history behind it. It contains hazelnut and oat, resulting in a creamy, silky, rich drink. Butter-washed Absolut vodka is shaken with Frangelico, giving out a lush, toasty, caramel-like aroma.
Terrace bites
While The Sixteenth’s Italian trattoria La Favorita is the silver spoon of dining choices for guests, Tempo Tempo’s menu has a casual Italian vibe, offering small bites from its sister restaurants including TMK Funk & Rolls and Honjokko. Whether you choose to have drinks before or after dinner or brunch, I personally recommend checking out La Favorita to complete your experience.
At Tempo Tempo, I recommend ordering the charcuteria Italiana ($248), where you get a good selection of Italian cold cuts and cheeses, while the negitoro maki ($178) features fresh chopped tuna belly, spring onion, cucumber and chives. The latter is a lighter choice, refreshing in the humid weather.
For something more comforting, the I.F.C. ($128), or Italian fried chicken, is a guest favourite. Crunchy with each bite, the chicken is seasoned with rosemary, thyme and sage and comes with mayo on the side for dipping.
Verdict
Tempo Tempo truly feels like a little getaway. The cocktails are lighter than most but are quirky, fun and authentically Italian. One cautionary note – the low-alcohol drinks might taste a bit watery owing to either the ice content or being overshaken, so some of the more delicate flavours do fade away over time.
Bubbles, wine and cocktails priced from $68 are part of Tempo Tempo’s tempting happy-hour deal (weekdays, 3–7:30pm).
📍2/F, Oxford House, Taikoo Place, 979 King’s Road, Quarry Bay, 2788 3037
This write-up is based on a complimentary media tasting provided in exchange for an honest review and no monetary compensation. The opinions expressed here represent the author’s.
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