14 Great Restaurants in Little India
Where to Eat in Little India and What to Try?
The great restaurants in Little India often specialize in authentic cuisine from the northern and southern regions of India. With Serangoon Road and the adjacent Racecourse Road lined with vibrant curry houses, choosing where to eat in Little India can be a daunting task.
This small enclave of Singapore is a must-see if you want to experience all sides of this cosmopolitan city state and there’s no better way to do it than by sampling delicious food throughout your visit. Aside from traditional Indian eateries, we’ve also included a couple of international venues in case you want a break from all the delicious curries.
1. Banana Leaf Apolo
A flavorful favorite
Good for: Couples, Families, Food
Banana Leaf Apolo is a well-loved spot in Little India, known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious South Indian cuisine. Signature dishes like fish head curry and masala chicken draw both locals and visitors, making it a great place to enjoy bold flavours in a lively setting.
True to its name, many meals are served on banana leaves, a traditional and eco-friendly practice that adds to the experience. The restaurant’s spacious interior and attentive service make it a welcoming choice whether you’re dining solo or with a group. It’s a tasty way to dive into the rich culinary culture of the neighborhood.
Location: 54 Race Course Rd, Singapore 218564
Open: Daily from 10.30 am to 10.30 pm
Phone: +65 6293 8682
Banana Leaf Apolo
2. Tekka Food Center
A culinary crossroads
Good for: Food, Shoppers
Tekka Centre is a lively food and shopping destination in Little India, offering a wide mix of Indian, Chinese, and Malay dishes. Popular stalls include Allauddin’s Briyani, known for its fragrant rice and tender meat, and 545 Whampoa Prawn Noodles, a favorite for its rich, traditional broth. With so many options, it’s a great place to sample authentic local flavors.
Beyond the food court, Tekka also houses a bustling wet market and shopping area. Locals shop here for fresh produce, spices, and colorful fabrics, including traditional Indian attire. It’s a vibrant spot where food and culture come together, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the heart of Little India. Read more
Location: Bukit Timah Rd, Singapore
Open: Daily from 6.30 am to 9 pm
Tekka Food Center
3. Ananda Bhavan Restaurant
A heritage spot for South Indian vegetarian dishes
Good for: Couples, Food
Founded in 1924, Ananda Bhavan is one of Singapore’s oldest vegetarian restaurants, with several outlets across the city, including one at Changi Airport. It’s a go-to for flavorful South Indian dishes, served in a clean and welcoming setting.
Standout options include the biryani set, tangy rasam soup, and crispy onion masala dosa. Whether you’re after a quick bite or a full meal, the menu offers a satisfying range of traditional favorites. With its long-standing reputation and consistent quality, Ananda Bhavan is a reliable choice for vegetarian dining in Little India.
Location: 58 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218138
Open: Daily from 7.30 am to 10 pm
Phone: +65 6396 5464
Ananda Bhavan Restaurant
4. Khansama Tandoori Restaurant
A taste of North India
Good for: Couples, Food
Khansama Tandoori Restaurant is a popular spot for North Indian cuisine, especially dishes cooked in the traditional clay Tandoor oven. The menu offers a wide variety of vegetarian and meat-based options, making it a great choice for groups with different tastes.
Highlights include smoky tandoori chicken, tender mutton kebabs, and rich fish or prawn curries, all served with warm roti or fragrant rice. The restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere and generous portions make it a satisfying stop for anyone craving bold spices and hearty flavors in the heart of Little India.
Location: 166 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218050
Open: Daily from 10 am to 1 am
Phone: +65 6299 0300
Khansama Tandoori Restaurant
5. Allauddin’s Briyani
A beloved classic at the Tekka Centre
Good for: Budget, Food
Allauddin’s Briyani is a long-time favorite at Tekka Centre, known for its fragrant basmati rice infused with herbs and spices, served with rich curry, tender mutton, chicken or fish, and a boiled egg. Though it’s a humble food stall, it draws a loyal crowd of locals and visitors alike.
For an authentic experience, enjoy your biryani the traditional way; using your right hand or tearing into it with warm roti. The flavors are bold, the portions generous, and the setting lively, making it a must-try for anyone exploring Little India’s vibrant food scene.
Location: 6665 Buffalo Rd, #01-232 & #01-229, Singapore 210665
Open: Daily from 8 am to 8 pm
Allauddin's Briyani
6. Taste of India
Traditional recipes served with a modern touch
Good for: Families, Food
Taste of India delivers authentic dishes from the northern and southern regions of India. This rather elegant restaurant features marble pillars, grand chandeliers, bold artwork, and statues, which might make you feel like you’re dining in an art gallery rather than a restaurant.
Taste of India’s signature dishes include tandoori chicken, Amritsari fried fish, and fish head curry. You can also find a good selection of vegetarian options such as ghee rice, paneer tikka, curd rice, and aloo palak (potatoes in a smooth spinach sauce).
Location: 77 Rangoon Road, Singapore 218365
Open: Daily from 11.30 am to 10.30 pm
Phone: +65 6341 5158
Taste of India
7. Komala Vilas
A vegetarian favorite with generations of tradition
Good for: Families, Food
Established in 1947, Komala Vilas is one of Singapore’s most iconic vegetarian restaurants, offering authentic South Indian meals in a casual, welcoming setting. With 3 outlets across the city, the Serangoon Road branch is especially popular for early risers.
The menu features hearty breakfast options like dosa and uthappam, served with flavorful chutney and sambar. The dishes are light yet satisfying, so whether you’re familiar with Indian cuisine or trying it for the first time, Komala Vilas offers a warm, authentic experience that’s easy to enjoy.
Location: 76–78 Serangoon Road, Singapore 217981
Open: Daily from 7 am to 10.30 pm
Phone: +65 6293 6980
Komala Vilas
8. Chomp Chomp Food Centre
A culinary hotspot for authentic street eats
Good for: Budget, Food
Chomp Chomp Hawker Centre, also known as Serangoon Gardens Food Centre, comes alive in the evenings with the irresistible aroma of sizzling street food. A favorite among locals, it offers a vibrant, open-air dining experience where you can watch skilled hawkers grill, fry, and plate up dishes right before your eyes.
From smoky barbecued chicken wings and tender satay to spicy noodles and grilled seafood like stingray, the variety is as exciting as the atmosphere. Whether you’re craving bold flavors or just soaking in the buzz of Singapore’s hawker culture, this spot is a must-visit for an authentic and satisfying meal under the stars.
Location: 20 Kensington Park Road, Singapore 557269
Open: Daily from 4 pm to 12.30 am
Chomp Chomp Food Centre
9. Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant
Late-night dim sum gem
Good for: Food, Nightlife
Swee Choon is a beloved dim sum institution in Singapore, known for staying open into the early hours, making it a go-to spot for supper seekers and post-party crowds. Nestled in the Jalan Besar area, it offers a lively, casual setting where diners can enjoy freshly made dim sum well past midnight.
The menu features a wide variety of steamed, baked, and fried bites, including favorites like BBQ pork buns, salted egg custard buns, lotus paste buns, and shrimp dumplings. For those craving something heartier, there are also noodle and rice dishes. With its extensive selection and late-night charm, Swee Choon is perfect for satisfying cravings at any hour.
Location: 183/185/187/189, Jalan Besar, 191/193, Singapore 208882
Open: Wednesday–Monday from 7 am to 4 am (Closed on Tuesday)
Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant
10. Muthu’s Curry
A heritage curry house
Good for: Couples, Food
Muthu’s Curry has been a staple in Singapore’s food scene since 1969, drawing both locals and visitors with its iconic fish head curry and rich South Indian flavors. With multiple outlets, including convenient spots near the National Museum and Botanic Gardens, it’s a great stop for a hearty, spice-laden meal.
On weekends, the menu expands to include fragrant biryanis like Hyderabadi Dum and Nattu Kozhi, featuring slow-cooked lamb or chicken layered with aromatic basmati rice and freshly ground spices. Whether you’re exploring the city or craving a comforting feast, Muthu’s Curry offers a memorable taste of tradition and warmth.
Location: 138 Race Course Road, Singapore 218583
Open: Daily from 10.30 am to 10.30 pm
Phone: +65 6392 1722
Muthu's Curry
11. Putien
Elegant Fujian flavors across Singapore
Good for: Food, Luxury
Putien offers a refined take on Fujian cuisine, serving authentic Chinese dishes in a stylish, contemporary setting. With outlets spread across Singapore, it’s a convenient and reliable choice for those seeking clean, comforting flavors in a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere.
Signature dishes include crab soup, drunken cockles, stir-fried yam, and crispy pork ribs, all crafted with fresh ingredients and attention to detail. Set menus are available throughout the day, making it ideal for both intimate meals and group dining. Whether you’re near Little India or elsewhere in the city, Putien delivers a consistent and memorable culinary experience.
Location: 127 Kitchener Road, Singapore 208514
Open: Daily from 11.30 am to 3 pm and from 5.30 pm to 10 pm
Phone: +65 6295 6358
Putien
12. Gayatri
Stylish Indian dining with a view into the kitchen
Good for: Food, Luxury
Gayatri blends traditional Northern and Southern Indian cuisine with a modern, air-conditioned setting featuring rattan chairs and vibrant wall art. Its open kitchen adds a lively touch, letting diners watch chefs expertly toss paratha or bake naan in a tandoor oven.
Unlike many restaurants in Little India, Gayatri also serves alcoholic beverages, making it a versatile choice for both casual meals and celebratory gatherings. With a menu that spans rich curries, grilled meats, and vegetarian favorites, it’s a great spot for those seeking flavor, comfort, and a touch of flair.
Location: 122 Race Course Rd, #01-01, Singapore 218583
Open: Daily from 11 am to 10.30 pm
Phone: +65 6291 1011
Gayatri
13. Samy’s Curry
South Indian comfort food in a green oasis
Good for: Food, Photo
Samy’s Curry, tucked away on Dempsey Road, offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of central Singapore. Surrounded by lush greenery and charming colonial architecture, it’s a welcoming spot to enjoy flavorful curries, hearty vegetarian dishes, and unique sides in a laid-back atmosphere.
Known for its consistently delicious food and friendly service, Samy’s stands out from the more hectic curry joints with its slower pace and scenic surroundings. Whether you’re dining with family or exploring the area, it’s a great place to savor South Indian cuisine in a tranquil, character-filled setting.
Location: 25 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249670
Open: Wednesday–Monday from 11 am to 3 pm and from 6 pm to 10 pm (closed on Tuesdays)
Phone: +65 6472 2080
Samy’s Curry
14. Countryside Cafe
Quirky backpacker hangout
Good for: Couples, Food, Nightlife
Countryside Café is a laid-back bar on Dunlop Street, just steps from Abdul Gafoor Mosque, known for its eclectic charm and backpacker-friendly vibe. Inside, you’ll find mismatched décor: foreign currency, vinyl records, and travel memorabilia, creating a fun, unpretentious atmosphere.
Drinks are served in jam jars, and the menu includes cocktails, mocktails, and hearty comfort food like burgers, pizzas, and pasta. Whether you’re winding down after a day of exploring or meeting fellow travelers, this spot offers a relaxed setting with character and plenty of options to refuel.
Location: 71 Dunlop Street, Singapore 209399
Open: Sunday–Thursday from 4 pm to 1 am, Friday and Saturday from 4 pm to 3 am
Phone: +65 6292 0071
Countryside Cafe
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