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Vivo could pass for Tivo’s identical twin. Conceptualised by David Yeo of the Aqua Group, the two restaurants are almost mirror images of each other, both in ambiance and in decor, down to the lighting and the bathroom sinks.

Wondering about this intriguing combo, we decided to find out what is going on. And we learnt that Yeo still holds a stake with the Aqua Group, but Vivo is the first of the many dining outlets Ankh-Concepts, Yeo’s own brainchild, is planning to launch. While Vivo has a facade that opens onto Elgin Street, it doesn’t share the party spillover the drink-crowd-focused Tivo has on Wyndham Street due to its lack of pavement space. So it concentrates on food instead.

The upscale menu is continental with Mediterranean influences, with snacks such as pizza and calzones featured prominently. We ordered the scallop carpaccio, a seared morsel with sliced truffle and sea urchin emulsion (actually it’s froth, $128), and a four-cheese calzone, with taleggio, parmesan, gorgonzola and smoked mozzarella ($148) to start.

The pizza ovens next to the bar produced wonderful aromas of cheese on freshly baked breads, which made the calzone taste somehow better as our senses were heightened.

The medium-rare beef tenderloin with sweet potato mash and veal jus ($198) was beautifully presented, but not exceptional. We must note they served a decent sized portion for under $200. Finally, a dessert of banana soufflé ($78) was just right for our meal as it wasn’t too filling nor heavy, just a bit of sweetness to cleanse the mouth. Average meal for two without drinks or service: around $800.

Vivo

Vivo details

Address: G/F, 41-43 Elgin St

Area: Central

Telephone: 3106 2526

Open Daily 12-3, 5.30-12am


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