Thinky was walking to Lavender Food Court, tripped over a plant and came face to face with a large psychedelic chilli. "What is this, did someone slip some chemical joy into my porridge?".

Unfortunately not but there's still fun to be had. You've found Stiff Chilli. Not only an arresting name but the decor and general unlikeliness of the place is also memorable. Bright colours, beautiful bare cement, stylish lighting and a rainbow of gelato all go into making up this rather cool little joint.

The provenience of this restaurant comes to you through the family photos of Balinese aristocracy and the chilled out feel. With an already established brand back on the Indonesian isle of fun, Stiff Chilli Singapore is already getting custom from those who've experienced it as a holiday discovery.

The food is simple and tasty with salads; pre, middle and post pasta delights and wood fired pizza is on its way. Owner and conceptualizer Mr Rodney Holt is enjoying being in one of Singapore's less salubrious areas.

The history, nightlife and not so sanitary aspects of the area give it character. He's also enjoying cooking for Singaporean customers, indulging their love of seafood and good Mediterranean food. Stiff Chilli has been involved in promoting sports and has a holistic theme going on.

The ethics of living with kindness and health comes across. You can get your hands on some genuine free trade coffee here, as well as organic peppercorns and chemical free spaghetti. Mr Rodney has a Sydneyite sensibility for coffee, so you know it's going to be good stuff. Being born and bred in Italy Mr Rodney also has a Roman sensibility for food. It's all about simple flavourful dishes and great ingredients.

We tried some antipasti dishes, excellent value - good for sharing with your lovely friends. The cheese was outstanding. The fusion like pumpkin and coconut soup was a great idea and even better in reality, with juicy little pieces of tomato and a drizzle of the sort of olive oil you want to drink in liters. Dry and refreshing Italian beers and a very satisfied bunch we all were. Those who hadn't gorged on cheese enjoyed some of the signature Italian frozen dessert, Stiff Chilli's very own homemade gelato. Wonderfully soft and smooth, with the actual flavours' origins obvious, not like the usual chemical concoction.

Stiff Chilli is open till 1am so you can stop off for Ferrero Rocher gelato after the flicks, or get some late night pasta with blackened squid - tasty. Prices are very reasonable; get some brunch or perhaps a salad for $6.50+. The drinks list is varied, including European and Asian beers as well as loads of wine. Beers start at $6.50 and wines by the glass from $10.00. Enjoy food like it's supposed to be done, long meal times, friends and joy jumping across your tongue from taste bud to taste bud.