Best places in Singapore for Indian food
Singapore is a melting pot of cultures, and its culinary scene is a testament to this diversity. Indian food, in particular, has a strong presence in the city-state, offering everything from traditional South Indian dosas to rich North Indian curries. Here’s a guide to some of the best places in Singapore to savor authentic Indian cuisine:
1. Little India: The Heart of Indian Cuisine
Little India is the go-to destination for authentic Indian food. This vibrant neighborhood is packed with restaurants, street food stalls, and sweet shops that cater to every craving.
- Komala Vilas: A legendary vegetarian restaurant serving South Indian classics like dosas, idlis, and thosais. Their masala dosa is a must-try.
- Muthu’s Curry: Famous for its fish head curry, this restaurant offers a mix of North and South Indian dishes in a lively setting.
- Ananda Bhavan: One of Singapore’s oldest vegetarian restaurants, known for its affordable and delicious thali meals.
2. Must-Try North Indian Restaurants
For rich, creamy curries and tandoori delights, these North Indian restaurants are a must-visit.
- Rang Mahal: Located at the Pan Pacific Hotel, this fine-dining restaurant offers a modern twist on classic North Indian dishes. Their butter chicken and dal makhani are exceptional.
- Tandoor: Situated in the Holiday Inn, this restaurant is known for its tandoori specialties and flavorful biryanis.
- Punjab Grill: A high-end restaurant at Marina Bay Sands, offering exquisite dishes like kebabs, biryanis, and rich curries.
3. South Indian Delights
South Indian cuisine is all about light, flavorful dishes like dosas, uttapams, and coconut-based curries.
- The Banana Leaf Apolo: Famous for its fish head curry and meals served on banana leaves, this restaurant is a staple in Little India.
- Sagar Ratna: A popular chain offering authentic South Indian vegetarian dishes, including crispy dosas and fluffy idlis.
- Saravana Bhavan: A global chain known for its authentic Tamil Nadu-style vegetarian cuisine.
4. Street Food and Casual Eats
For a quick and affordable Indian meal, check out these casual spots.
- Tekka Centre: Located in Little India, this hawker center is a treasure trove of Indian street food. Try the prata, biryani, and teh tarik (pulled tea).
- Springleaf Prata Place: Known for its creative pratas (parathas), like the Plaster Blaster Prata with egg and cheese.
- Zam Zam: A historic restaurant near Sultan Mosque, famous for its murtabak (stuffed pancake) and biryani.
5. Sweet Treats and Snacks
No Indian meal is complete without desserts and snacks.
- Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple Canteen: Located near the temple, this canteen serves delicious South Indian snacks like vadai and pongal.
- Madras New Woodlands: A vegetarian restaurant offering a wide range of South Indian sweets like mysore pak and jalebi.
- Kailash Parbat: A popular spot for chaat (savory snacks) and Indian desserts like kulfi and falooda.
6. Fine Dining with an Indian Twist
For a luxurious Indian dining experience, these restaurants combine tradition with innovation.
- The Song of India: The first Indian restaurant in Asia to receive a Michelin star, offering a modern take on Indian classics.
- Yantra: Located in Tanglin, this restaurant offers a fusion of Indian and European flavors in an elegant setting.
- Violet Oon Satay Bar & Grill: While not exclusively Indian, this restaurant offers a Peranakan-Indian fusion menu with dishes like Indian-style satay.
7. Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Singapore has plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans craving Indian food.
- Gokul Vegetarian Restaurant: A cozy spot in Little India offering a wide range of vegetarian dishes, including vegan options.
- Khana: A modern Indian restaurant with a focus on healthy, plant-based dishes.
- Sindhu: Located at the Grand Hyatt, this restaurant offers a refined vegetarian thali with a variety of flavors.
8. Hidden Gems
For those willing to explore beyond the usual spots, these hidden gems are worth a visit.
- Nalan: A South Indian restaurant in Funan Mall, known for its flavorful curries and biryanis.
- Curry Culture: A small eatery in Joo Chiat offering homestyle North Indian dishes.
- Spice Junction: A lesser-known spot in Clarke Quay serving authentic Kerala cuisine.
Tips for Enjoying Indian Food in Singapore
- Spice Levels: Indian food can be spicy, so don’t hesitate to ask for milder versions if you’re not used to heat.
- Timing: Many Indian restaurants serve lunch and dinner, but some South Indian spots are great for breakfast (e.g., dosas and idlis).
- Etiquette: Eating with your hands is common, especially for dishes like biryani and thosai, but cutlery is always available.
Whether you’re craving street food, fine dining, or something in between, Singapore’s Indian food scene has something for everyone. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
