Fire up your tastebuds at these curry houses, North Indian spots and South Indian restaurants in Singapore.
Singapore is a melting pot of cultures and with that comes a smorgasbord of multicultural cuisines like Mexican and French. In this food guide, we take a look at the top Indian restaurants in Singapore. Whether you’re hankering for a wicked fish head curry or in the mood for a wholesome thali meal, look no further. Scroll down to take your pick and if you can’t take the heat, you know what they say – get out of the kitchen!
Best Indian restaurants in Singapore
1. Tiffin Room
When we’re talking about Indian restaurants in Singapore, we can’t miss the iconic Tiffin Room. With India native Kuldeep Negi at the helm, this famed restaurant serves up authentic North Indian cuisine in a sophisticated setting with table-side service. New creations are now on the menu alongside firm favourites that you can’t miss.
These delicious additions include Tamatar Kaju Chaat, a refreshing blend of fresh tomatoes and cashew nut that’s elevated with spices like tamarind and coriander; Thandai Murgh kebab, tender boneless chicken leg marinated with rose petals, fennel seed and other spices; as well as octopus kebab served with kachumber salad, quinoa khichdi and spicy mint chutney. For popular favourites, order the Jingha Kebab, which features succulent grilled jumbo prawns marinated in yoghurt and rose powder; Tiffin Dal Makhani, a delectable organic black lentil curry; and Mera Dabba, the Instagram-worthy set meal with your choice of appetisers and main course presented in custom-made copper tiffin boxes.
Guests can also opt for the customisable Mera Dabba (meaning ‘my box’ in Hindhi) Experience, an authentic and elevated set meal where guests can choose from a refreshed selection of appetisers and main courses presented in an iconic four-tiered custom-made copper tiffin box. Think aloo gobhi, a classic cauliflower and potato delight with a perfect blend of yogurt, garlic, and masala onion gravy; succulent kadhai prawns with bell pepper, coriander seeds and onion-tomato masala and more. Round off the meal with desserts like rasmalai and pista gulab jamun.
Wash it all down with a selection of signature beverages like chai masala and lassi. Craving a tipple? There are Indian wines, cocktails and spirits on the menu too!
Tiffin Room, Raffles Hotel Singapore, 1 Beach Road, Singapore 189673
2. SanSara
Swing by this best-kept Awadhi restaurant for a gastronomic journey through North India without leaving the country. SanSara’s latest menu is a work of art by master chef Pannalal Nath, who has a 25-year culinary career spanning eateries in North and South India. Plant lovers will be pleased to know that sustainability is at the heart of this menu, featuring handpicked ingredients, plant-based proteins and vegetarian options.
Whet your appetite with delectable starters like gosht yakhni shorba (lamb broth with chef’s signature spice blend); tandoori pomfret angara; and vegetarian-friendly tandoori paneer pasanda tikka. Next, turn your attention to hearty mains such as gosht adraki saalan (slow-roasted lamb marinated in tantalising spices) and soya chaap handi masala, a plant-based delicacy. Pair these with flavourful rice dishes like shahi gosht biryani for the ultimate indulgence. For a sweet finale, treat yourself to the keshar badam kheer (milk pudding with ground rice and saffron) and shahad e-jaam (soaked milk solids in honey).
Perk alert: My Millennium members enjoy 25% off the total bill till 31 December 2024. T&Cs apply.
SanSara, Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel, 392 Havelock Road, Singapore 169663
3. Royal Taj
Combining the traditions of India with global ingredients and techniques, you’re sure to have a unique experience here. Tucked away in a restored colonial building, Royal Taj boasts a sleek and classy interior with impeccable food to match. Get upscaled street food faves like aloo tikki chaat (fried potato patties) and cocktail samosas. Move on to mains like lamb rogan josh and fish curry with a side of fragrant rice. Not forgetting sweets like pistachio gulab jamun or almond ras malai – cottage cheese balls soaked in a creamy milk sauce.
Royal Taj, #02-06, Mess Hall, Village Hotel Sentosa, 16 Gunner Lane, Singapore 099567
4. Tandoor
In the mood for authentic North Indian cuisine? Take it from us; Tandoor is the place for the ultimate craving fix. Nestled in the heart of Orchard Road, this restaurant blends contemporary interiors and traditional flavours, paying homage to India’s rich culinary heritage. Every dish is thoughtfully crafted by culinary experts using time-honoured recipes and cooking techniques. Plus, the restaurant boasts an extended menu with delectable creations that are healthy, too – like the bharwan tandoor khumb (stuffed mushrooms) and paneer matar ka tikka (marinated cottage cheese slices).
Pad your stomach with irresistible buttery naan and tandoori roti, freshly baked in the restaurant’s three artisanal tandoors. Next, savour an array of meat and vegetable kebabs, like lahsooni murg tikka (grilled garlic chicken) and aloo ki nazzakat (chargrilled potato barrels). Don’t forget the show-stopping specialties, too. Try the rich and tangy aam ki sabzi (ripe mango curry); tender nalli gosht (lamb shanks); and creamy paneer makhani (cottage cheese simmered in a tomato-based gravy). Cap off the feast with a sweet finale, featuring desserts like saffron and pistachio kulfi, and gulkand rasmalai – sweet dumplings soaked in a cardamom and rose-infused syrup.
Tandoor, Basement 1, Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City Centre, 11 Cavenagh Road, Singapore 229616
5. Shahi Maharani North Indian Restaurant
For a feast fit for royalty, make your way to this luxurious North Indian restaurant. Decked out in regal decor, every inch of the restaurant exudes the grandeur of Uttar Pradesh’s royal palaces. Think rich golds and deep burgundies, traditional glass lamps and carved wooden furniture. Adding to the royal charm, live Indian classical music performances take place every evening from October to April. If you prefer a more intimate experience, opt for the private room that sits up to 18 pax, with personalised service and bespoke set menus to boot.
Traditional Indian flavours take centre stage here, featuring standout dishes like chicken makhanwala (butter chicken), creamy palak paneer and succulent tandoor lamb chops. Popular street foods like paani puri and papdi chaat, as well as vegetarian options, are also available. In the mood to indulge? Come by during weekday lunches for a special one-for-one buffet promotion ($68++ for two pax), or for the weekend lunch buffet ($48++ per pax). It’ll be a sumptuous spread of Indian street food, tandoor specialities, biryanis, curries and desserts.
Shahi Maharani North Indian Restaurant, #03-21B, Raffles City Shopping Centre, 252 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179103
6. GupShup
Nestled within the heritage-rich district of Little India, GupShup offers delicious Indian street food with cultural delicacies from Delhi, Bombay, Punjab and central India. Don’t miss the experience of bhel papdi tossed at your table for ultimate freshness – this appetising dish is prepared with puffed rice, sev, green apple, mango, papdi, chutneys and spices for a flavourful bite.
Behind the menu is chef Surjan Singh (or chef Jolly), a celebrated kitchen whiz with over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry. He’s been a chef judge for MasterChef India and was nominated to join the prestigious International Taste Institute of Brussels as a chef juror. With all that under his belt, you can be sure that the menu is filled with amazing creations. We’re talking about addictive curries, tandoori bites, aromatic kebabs and more. End with classic desserts like jamun and kulfi for a hearty meal.
Gupshup, Basement 1, 301 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218224
7. Revolver
Indian cuisine meets international ingredients and upscale flair at this swanky fusion restaurant. With a storied career in some of India’s most distinguished kitchens, chef partner Saurabh Udinia brings an ever-evolving menu with the likes of wagyu scotch eggs and pulled Mysore lamb shoulder. Don’t forget to check out the lunch menu, too. Available from $38 per pax, tuck into dishes like charred barramundi and half baby chicken with Afghani yogurt. Here, seasonal ingredients are cooked over custom-built wood-fire grills for charred and bold flavours. And you’ll be getting in on all the action, thanks to the open kitchen concept.
Revolver, 56 Tras Street, Singapore 078995
8. Jaggi’s Northern Indian Cuisine
Any butter chicken fanatics in the house? Satisfy your cravings at Jaggi’s Northern Indian Cuisine located in the heart of Little India. This restaurant known for authentic Punjabi cuisine dishes out one of Singapore’s most raved about butter chicken. Pair this decadent and creamy delicacy with freshly baked naan and you’ll slip into a glorious food coma in no time.
Jaggi’s Northern Indian Cuisine, 36 Race Course Road, Singapore 218554
9. Firangi Superstar
Modern Indian plates take centre stage at Firangi Superstar. But first, take a moment to admire the gorgeous architecture. It takes inspiration from cities like Kashmir, Chennai, Bombay and Rajasthan. The restaurant is brought to life with well-thought-out interiors that evoke a certain cinematic quality. There are four distinct rooms: Officer’s Club, Old Railway Room, Elephant Palace and Jungle Lodge. We also love how the menu offers vegetarian versions of its meat superstars, so everyone can have a seat around the table. Oh, and don’t miss out on the cocktail programme for stellar tipples.
Firangi Superstar, #01-03, 20 Craig Road, Singapore 089692
10. Gabbar
Brace yourself for a Bollywood fiesta at Gabbar. This Indian bistro and bar’s got the food, music and ambience covered for a dose of fun. Indulge in the vibrant flavours of India as you step into Gabbar’s lively Clarke Quay location. From classic dishes like pani puri and aloo kulcha to exciting new flavours and even an extensive list for tandoori lovers, you’re in for a feast.
Immerse yourself in a modern interior adorned with hand-painted murals of Bollywood icons, or choose a riverside dining experience for breathtaking views of the Singapore River. From Wednesdays to Sundays, crank up the fun with live music performances (from 8pm) and head-bobbing Bollywood beats from DJs at the indoor bar area (from 11pm).
And for the ultimate weekend treat, don’t miss the Gabbar Bottomless Brunch from 11.30am to 3.30pm. Indulge in a feast of delectable Indian street food from across the Indian subcontinent, served endlessly to satisfy your cravings.
Gabbar, #01-05/06, Block E @ Clarke Quay, The Circuit, 3E River Valley Road, Singapore 179024
11. Ananda Bhavan
Ananda Bhavan is a no-frills vegetarian Indian restaurant in Singapore that’s been around since 1924. If you’re looking to fuel up on a pocket-friendly, calorie-heavy brekkie, treat yourself to the appam set. This fermented rice batter pancake is a popular Kerala dish loved for its soft fluffy centre and crispy edges. Dip it in coconut milk and dab it off in the orange sugar for the ultimate morning pick-me-up. We also love its rendition of cheese prata – one of the better ones around, we’d say! While Ananda Bhavan has several outlets, we recommend you visit the original one at the entrance of Little India.
Ananda Bhavan, multiple locations including Syed Alwi Road and Serangoon Road
12. Komala Vilas
This Little India stalwart hardly needs any introduction. Devoted diners love Komala Vilas for one simple reason. Its simple yet authentic vegetarian fare remains unchanged throughout its history. Offering over 20 different types of dosai (lentil and rice flour pancakes), vadai (savoury doughnuts) and naan, the menu is vast. An example of hearty Indian cuisine at its finest!
Komala Vilas, 76-78 Serangoon Road, Singapore 217981
13. Rang Mahal
With its swanky interior, extensive wine menu and impeccable service, Rang Mahal is a dream. Expect classic Indian cuisine served with flawless attention to detail and contemporary flair. Get entrees in the form of a sea bass fillet with coconut curry, tandoori chicken, or grilled lamb chops. Vegetarian options come in the form of pani puri, corn palak and mushroom hara pyaz. Spoilt for choice? Come by on Sunday afternoons, and eat your fill of over 20 timeless dishes at the indulgent lunch buffet.
Rang Mahal, Level 3, Pan Pacific Singapore, 7 Raffles Boulevard, Singapore 039595
14. Thevar
Adding a sprinkle of spice to Keong Saik, this two Michelin-starred Indian restaurant is a gem. It’s helmed by chef Mano Thevar, who displays his finesse in the kitchen. With a creative array of traditional Indian flavours made contemporary, the food is exquisite. Expect to see vibrant sharing plates on the experimental menu, which changes every so often whenever inspiration hits.
Thevar, 9 Keong Saik Road, Singapore 089117
15. Muthu’s Curry
We don’t need to tell you that the ‘curry’ in its moniker refers to the establishment’s star offering. Yes, the deliciously eye-watering and deceptively dangerous fish head curry. Few may argue, but many will agree it’s one of the best in Singapore. If you’re looking for less spicy options that won’t have you sweating bullets, Muthu’s Curry also serves a range of dishes, from North to South Indian, and even vegetarian options.
Muthu’s Curry, #01-01, 138 Race Course Road, Singapore 218591
16. Chat Masala
One of the many restaurants East siders get to boast about is this cosy East Coast establishment. It’s been serving North Indian, South Indian and fusion dishes for over a decade. We recommend the steaming pots of Mysore mutton. Or the crowd-pleasing butter chicken that pairs perfectly well with the fluffy garlic naan.
Chat Masala, 158 Upper East Coast Road, Singapore 455254
17. Madras New Woodlands
You’ll get a lot of foodies swearing by this joint or Komala Vilas for lip-smacking Indian food in Singapore. We think they’re both pretty darn good. But if you find yourself at Madras New Woodlands, make sure you try the VIP thali set. It’s a massive platter of various dhals, curries and a hearty portion of rice. To stave off the food coma, make sure you order a cup of its signature masala tea or coffee.
Madras New Woodlands, 14 Upper Dickson Road, Singapore 207474
18. Singapore Zam Zam
The name is synonymous with one thing, and one thing only: murtabak. If you haven’t had it, it’s Indian flatbread stuffed with egg, minced meat and onion. This Kampong Glam institution has been around for almost a century. Devotees coming from all corners of the island just for a taste of its signature dish – that’s how good it is. Be it mutton, chicken, or even deer murtabak (yes, really), Singapore Zam Zam does it best. But it’s no one-trick pony. Also on the menu: a mind-boggling array of classic supper fare like mee goreng (fried noodles), biryani and prata.
Singapore Zam Zam, 697-699 North Bridge Road, Singapore 198675
19. Springleaf Prata Place
When it comes to comfort food in Singapore, prata will never go out of style. Especially not at Springleaf Prata Place, where the crispy Indian flatbread gets a tasty upgrade. From the incredibly meaty and cheesy Murtaburger to the savoury prata alfredo special. It’s best you come to this joint with an empty stomach.
Springleaf Prata Place, multiple locations including Yishun Safra and The Rail Mall
20. Mustard
This resto’s forte lies in Punjabi and Bengali cuisine (the latter is a rather uncommon sight in Singapore). It serves a selection of authentic dishes like a special Kolkata chicken biryani with spiced potato. Not to mention a selection of grilled vegetarian options. You’ll also find unique sweets to end your meal. Think sugary gulab jamun and gokul pithe.
Mustard, 32 Race Course Road, Singapore 218552
21. Yantra
Another worthy contender in the Indian fine dining scene is Yantra. This classy joint isn’t afraid to push the envelope and experiment with its offerings. The result? An inventive menu that’s nothing short of delicious. We’re spotlighting the Maithili maach (red snapper simmered in an aromatic gravy) and sutta gosht (slow-cooked mutton).
Yantra, #01-129/130/131, Tanglin Mall, 163 Tanglin Road, Singapore 247933
22. Punjab Grill
This swanky Indian restaurant in Marina Bay Sands is a treat for meat lovers. Look forward to a medley of tandoori-style meats and seafood. Start with prawns with citrusy lemon juice to lamb chops glazed with a sweet and sour sauce. Vegetarians are also welcome as it offers a wide array of BBQ veggies and meat-free curries. Want a bit of everything? The best way to experience the restaurant’s varied delicacies is to opt for the three, five, or 10-course degustation menu.
Punjab Grill, #B1-01A, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018972
23. The Banana Leaf Apolo
A hotspot for Indian cuisine lovers, this long-standing institution has been doling out its food on banana leaves for over 40 years. It offers a mix of North and South Indian fare like tandoori chicken, fried fish and mutton masala. But we’re positive most patrons come for the signature fish head curry that packs a punch. We certainly do!
The Banana Leaf Apolo, multiple locations including Race Course Road and Sixth Avenue
24. The Curry Club Signature
If you’re looking for innovative spins on Indian cuisine, drop by The Curry Club Signature. Kick off your meal with some nibbles – like sea bream potato patties with truffle hollandaise sauce and pan-fried fluffy dumplings stuffed with pulled duck masala – followed by curries that are perfect for sharing. Try the classic butter chicken curry served with garlic sage naan, or vegetarian-friendly Nine Treasures curry that comes brimming with fresh veggies, chickpeas, dried fruits and roasted nuts.
The Curry Club Signature, #01-01, 11 Mohamed Sultan Road, Singapore 239010
25. Adda
This elevated Indian restaurant in Singapore features a menu curated by Michelin-starred chef, Manjunath Mural. Each dish served is a flavour bomb that showcases the best of what India has to offer. Kick things off with the desi tacos that are filled with pulled kadhai lamb, sweet chilli and sour cream, before moving on to signatures like the inventive butter chicken pot pie. This creamy goodness paired with flaky, buttery pastry comes in a plant-based version for vegetarians, too.
Adda, #01-201, Diners Building, 7500E Beach Road, Singapore 199595
26. Zaffron Kitchen
You’d be forgiven for mistaking Zaffron Kitchen for a high-end gastropub. After all, with its sleek fixtures and cool downtown vibe, it definitely doesn’t look like your typical Indian restaurant in Singapore. But rest assured, the menu serves the real deal with classic Indian fare that looks good but tastes even better. An absolute must-try? The dum chicken biryani, a seriously moreish dish with fluffy basmati rice and succulent pieces of chicken.
Zaffron Kitchen, multiple locations including East Coast Road and The Star Vista
27. Samy’s Curry
Established in the 1950s, Samy’s Curry is a no-nonsense eatery. Be prepared for things to get a little messy as you scoop food off banana leaves with your hands. The main draw is the fish head curry, of course. But we’d also recommend the fish cutlet, chicken masala and fried cauliflower.
Samy’s Curry, 25 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249670
28. Annalakshmi
This establishment comes from humble beginnings. It celebrates the mothers and grandmothers who came together as volunteers to curate recipes that were passed down to multiple generations. The dishes you’re served vary according to who’s manning the kitchens, but dishes like dhal, chutney and sambar are staples. While it’s pay-as-you-wish, that’s no excuse to short-change ’em! The restaurant has helped those going through financial difficulties receive a wholesome meal during dire times. So if you can afford it, it’s worth putting in a little more for those who can’t.
Annalakshmi, #01-03, OUE Downtown 2, 6A Shenton Way, Singapore 068815
29. Sakunthala’s
If you’re craving scrumptious Indian fare, Sakunthala’s will charm you with every bite. The menu is packed with North and South Indian (and even Chinese!) dishes. Great for fussy eaters. Try the biryani meals, tandoori platters, chicken tikka, prawn masala and fish head curry. Cool down from all the spice with a refreshing glass of lime juice. Bring the whole family along because, trust us, you’ll want to try everything.
Sakunthala’s, multiple locations including Race Course Road and Dunlop Street
30. Shikar
Want to dine like royals? Shikar is the place to be. Inspired by the grand feasts of Indian royals in the past, the restaurant takes cues from their luxurious tastes and lifestyles, giving patrons a throwback to those regal days through a modern culinary lens.
The man behind the scenes is celebrated Indian chef Jolly. You might recognise him as a judge for MasterChef India. He’s a TV anchor and culinary consultant with over two decades in the hospitality industry. On the menu, expect to find traditional Indian dishes. But reinterpreted with global culinary techniques and influences. Highlights include the whole wheat paratha, whole fish roasted in lotus leaf, New Zealand lamb saddle and shoulder biryani and more.
Shikar, Maxwell Reserve, Autograph Collection, 2 Cook Street, Singapore 078857
31. Flying Monkey
Temporarily closed.
There aren’t many Indian restaurants in Singapore with focused bar programs. But that’s where Flying Monkey fits in. Here, you’ll find seriously good Indian food paired with Indian-inflected cocktails that aren’t merely an afterthought. Kick off your pan-Indian feast with Galouti kebab, a terrine-like dish made with very finely minced lamb. Then, move on to mains like beef boti and the incredibly tender rogan josh. End the meal with a selection of Indian-inspired nightcaps and that’s your night sorted.
Flying Monkey, 67 Bussorah Street, Singapore 199480
Now that you’re well acquainted with the top Indian restaurants in Singapore, you know what to do…
