Little India is a buzzing historic area, showing off the best of Singapore’s Indian community. With iconic landmarks, incredible ethnic shopping, and a splendid mix of traditional South Asian cuisine — this district retains a vibrant culture attracting a host of eager visitors.
For satisfying tummy-filler options, Expat choice presents a dining guide of popular restaurants in Little India’s energetic locality. Here’s 6 trusty eateries where you can explore traditional meals — boasting unforgettable tastes from the spectacular array of appealing and appetising dishes in store for its diners. Image Credit: Kotuwa Facebook Page
The Banana Leaf Apolo
If you’re in the neighbourhood of Little India, you’ll discover Banana Leaf Apolo to be one of the most popular eateries in the area. This is where you get to feast on flavour-packed South Indian cuisine straight off freshly cut banana leaves (the Indian, eco-friendly way!), and the menu’s line-up holds incredibly affordable prices to boot! Established back in 1974, the founder of this restaurant took inspiration from Apollo 11’s moon expedition with high hopes for his humble venture to mirror the same successful take-off — today the brand has earned a reputed place amongst its patrons, thanks to the team’s hard work, dedication and unwavering commitment to serve quality food and impeccable service standards. Image Credit: The Banana Leaf Apolo Facebook Page
a. 48 Serangoon Rd, Singapore 217959
e. enquiry@thebananaleafapolo.com
Bismillah Biriyani
A heritage restaurant serving up authentic dum biriyani, Bismillah Biriyani is a four-time award winner for the Michelin Bib Gourmand (2016-2019). This place is often touted as having the best biriyani in Singapore, and with something new always being added to the menu — it deservedly makes the cut for a Little India must-visit! The mutton biriyani is definitely the speciality, but the melt-in-your-mouth mutton kebabs are to die for! We’d recommend getting there early, as the best dishes are often gone long before closing time. Image Credit: Bismillah Biryani Restaurant Facebook Page
Kotuwa
Situated within the eclectic Wanderlust Hotel, and right along the fringe of Little India lies Kotuwa — Singapore’s first full-service Sri Lankan restaurant. Helmed by Chef Rishi Naleendra, this modern and casual restaurant pays homage to his Sri Lankan heritage, and additionally spotlights culinary influences of Portuguese, Dutch and British settlers in Sri Lanka’s history. Get excited for famous Sri Lankan short eats (usually stuffed and fried, reminiscent of curry puffs or samosas), a myriad of delicious curries paired with aromatic rice or rotis — and sample their customary accompaniments of tasty in-house sambols (traditional dish made from freshly grated coconuts) and preserves. Image Credit: Kotuwa Facebook Page
a. 2 Dickson Rd, First floor within Wanderlust Hotel, Singapore 209494
Meatsmith Little India
Think of Meatsmith Little India outlet as everything you love about the original — charred, smokey hunks of meat and more — but with a ‘spicier spin’ and brimming with fresh ideas and flavour! The open-air corner restaurant lays adjacent to bustling streets, letting the heavenly smells from its modern Indian barbeque float gently upwards. Differentiating from its Telok Ayer branch — at this locale, you’ll find dishes elevated with Indian spices such as; Kerala Beef Ribs, Spiced Madras Pork Cheeks, Crab Biriyani and Smoked Cauliflower. With its colourful facade and street artwork, this outlet fits perfectly at its home — tucked away on Campbell Lane, in the heart of Little India. Image Credit: Meatsmith Facebook Page
Lagnaa Barefoot Dining
A one-of-a-kind bistro, Lagnaa Barefoot Dining gives diners the final say on the spiciness levels of any dish ordered at this three-storey restaurant in Little India. The owner-chef Kaesevan, invites you to explore the six Ayurvedic flavours of Indian cuisine (sweet, sour, salty, spicy, bitter and astringent), and curates monthly specials featuring seasonal ingredients. On the restaurant’s ground floor, guests can opt for Western dining with chairs — or choose the preferred authentic experience of barefoot seating upstairs with floor cushions on wooden floors. Popular plates we’d recommend here include the creamy palak paneer and the delectable threadfin fish curry. Prepare to binge on some finger-licking homestyle cooking from both ends of Mother India. Image Credit: Lagnaa Barefoot Dining Facebook Page
Komala Vilas Restaurant
Withstanding the test of time since its launch in 1947, Komala Vilas is Singapore’s oldest vegetarian restaurant. For over 70 years this family-run diner has been best known for its homely, hearty food — showcasing a sensational blend of flavours, colours, aroma and taste. Hugely popular for its reputed South Indian and North Indian meals served with the time-honoured tradition of banana leaves — Komala Vilas is sought after by Singaporeans, Indians, tourists and vegetarians around the world. Image Credit: Komalavilas.com.sg
