1. What are some popular restaurants in Little India that serve authentic Indian cuisine?
Some popular restaurants in Little India that serve authentic Indian cuisine are:– Komala Vilas
– Muthu’s Curry
– The Banana Leaf Apolo
– Murugan Idli Shop
– Mustard Restaurant
– Gurkha Palace Restaurant & Bar
– Gayatri Restaurant
– Ananda Bhavan Vegetarian Restaurant
– Samy’s Curry Restaurant
– Jaggi’s Northern Indian Cuisine
2. What dishes should I try at an Indian restaurant in Little India?
Some must-try dishes at an Indian restaurant in Little India include:
– Biriyani and other rice dishes such as pulao or tandoori rice
– Chicken tikka masala or butter chicken (murg makhani)
– Dosas and other South Indian specialties like idli and sambar vada
– Chaat items like samosas, panipuri, and bhel puri
– Tandoori dishes like naan, kebabs, and tandoori chicken
2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available in the restaurants in Little India?
Yes, there are many vegetarian and vegan options available in the restaurants in Little India. Some restaurants specialize in South Indian cuisine, which often have a wide variety of vegetarian dishes such as dosas, idlis, and curries made with lentils and vegetables. North Indian restaurants also typically offer vegetarian options like vegetable biryani and dal. There are also several restaurants that serve Jain cuisine, which is completely vegetarian and does not include any onion or garlic. Additionally, there are some Chinese and Malay restaurants that offer vegetarian and vegan dishes using tofu, tempeh, and vegetables.
3. How is the street food scene in Little India? Any must-try dishes?
The street food scene in Little India is vibrant and diverse, with a mix of Indian, Malay, and Chinese influences. There are many must-try dishes to indulge in, but some of the most popular ones include:
1. Roti Prata – This is a traditional Indian flatbread that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It is often served with a variety of curries or as a dessert with sweet fillings.
2. Nasi Lemak – A Malay dish made with fragrant coconut rice, served with spicy sambal chili sauce, ikan bilis (anchovies), sliced cucumbers, roasted peanuts and a choice of protein such as fried chicken or fish.
3. Chicken Briyani – An aromatic rice dish cooked in spices and served with tender chicken pieces, commonly found at Indian Muslim stalls.
4. Murtabak – A savory pancake stuffed with minced meat and onions, often served with curry gravy for dipping.
5. Thosai/Dosa – Similar to crepes but made from fermented batter of lentils and rice flour. They can be filled with different ingredients such as potato or paneer cheese.
6. Rojak – A fruit salad that combines fresh fruits like guava and mango along with vegetables like cucumber and turnip tossed in tangy prawn paste dressing.
7. Teh Tarik – The ‘pulled tea’ is an iconic Malaysian drink that involves twisting together hot milk tea until it creates a thick foam on top before serving it hot.
8. Ice Kacang/Cendol – These are popular shaved ice desserts topped with toppings like red beans, corn, grass jelly or cendol (green rice flour jelly) coated in sweet syrups like gula melaka (palm sugar).
Overall, there is no shortage of delicious dishes to try in Little India’s street food scene!
4. Is it possible to find halal food options in Little India?
Yes, it is possible to find halal food options in Little India. Many of the restaurants and food stalls in Little India serve halal-certified or vegetarian food, making it easier for those looking for halal options. Some popular halal restaurants in Little India include Komala Vilas and Muthu’s Curry. Additionally, most Indian cuisine is inherently vegetarian, with many dishes being naturally suitable for those following a halal diet.
5. Are there any fusion restaurants that combine Indian and other cuisines in Little India?
Yes, there are several fusion restaurants in Little India that combine Indian and other cuisines. Some examples include:– Masala Wok: This restaurant offers a fusion of Indian and Chinese cuisine with dishes such as Chicken Manchurian with Naan and Szechuan Chaat.
– Bollywood Veggies: This farm-to-table restaurant incorporates Indian flavors into their Singaporean dishes, such as their Bollywaffle curry dish.
– Murugan Idli Shop: Known for its South Indian dosas and idlis, this restaurant also serves fusion dishes like the Mee Hoon Thosai, which is a combination of traditional dosa filled with stir-fried noodles.
6. Which restaurants offer the best value for money in terms of quality and portion size?
This may vary depending on individual preferences and locations. However, some restaurants that are known for offering good value for money in terms of quality and portion size include:
1. Olive Garden – known for their unlimited salad and breadsticks, as well as generous portions of pasta dishes
2. Cheesecake Factory – large portions of American-style dishes at reasonable prices
3. Chipotle – customizable burritos and bowls with generous portions of ingredients
4. Panda Express – budget-friendly Chinese food with ample servings
5. Cracker Barrel – homestyle meals with hearty portions
6. Denny’s – all-day breakfast menu and large entrees
7. Ruby Tuesdays – fresh ingredients and big portion sizes
8. TGI Fridays – generous serving sizes of burgers, appetizers, and entrees
9. Applebee’s – varied menu with affordable prices and decent portion sizes
10 Texas Roadhouse – known for their large cuts of steak and unlimited rolls.
Again, these are just some examples, and the best value for money will ultimately depend on personal taste and location.
7. Can you recommend a good place to try traditional Indian desserts like gulab jamun and jalebi?
If you are looking for a sweet treat, here are some popular places to try traditional Indian desserts:
1. Aggarwal Sweets in Delhi – known for its delicious homemade gulab jamuns and jalebis.
2. Gajalee in Mumbai – famous for their melt-in-your-mouth gulab jamuns.
3. Bengali Sweet House in Kolkata – offers a wide variety of traditional Indian sweets including gulab jamun and jalebi.
4. Mithaiwala in Ahmedabad – a go-to place for authentic and mouth-watering jalebis.
5. Indore ka mithas in Indore – famous for its crispy and juicy jalebis.
6. Jalani Sweets in Jaipur – visit this place for the perfect fusion of traditional and modern Indian sweets, including gulab jamuns and jalebis.
7. K.C Das Grandson’s in Bengaluru – serves up the iconic Kolkata style rasgullas along with other delicious Indian desserts like ras malai and kaju katli.
Remember to always check the hygiene standards before trying any street food or desserts and enjoy your sweet journey through India!
8. Is it easy to find international cuisine, such as Chinese or Western, near Little India?
Yes, it is relatively easy to find international cuisine near Little India. The area has a diverse mix of restaurants and street food stalls offering a variety of cuisines, including Chinese, Western, Malay, and Indian. Some popular options for international cuisine in or around Little India include Din Tai Fung for Chinese food, Jai Thai for Thai cuisine, and Chomp Chomp Food Centre for hawker-style dishes from different cultures.
9. Are there any rooftop bars or restaurants with views of the city skyline in Little India?
Unfortunately, there are no rooftop bars or restaurants with views of the city skyline in Little India. The highest point in Little India is Mustafa Centre, a shopping mall with no rooftop options. However, there are several rooftop bars and restaurants nearby in areas such as Clarke Quay and Boat Quay, which offer stunning views of the city skyline.
10. What are some lesser-known dining spots that tourists may not know about in Little India?
1. Azmi Restaurant: Known for its delicious Roti Prata and Dum Biryani, this small restaurant offers authentic Indian flavors at affordable prices.
2. Jaggi’s Northern Indian Cuisine: This hidden gem serves up flavorful and aromatic Punjabi dishes, including Tandoori Chicken and Butter Chicken.
3. The Banana Leaf Apolo: A popular spot for locals, this restaurant serves mouth-watering South Indian dishes on a banana leaf, giving a unique dining experience.
4. Muthus Curry: This family-run restaurant is known for its signature fish head curry and other homestyle South Indian dishes.
5. Kebabs & Curries Company: Specializing in North Indian cuisine, this cozy restaurant has an extensive menu of kebabs, curries, and tandoori specialties.
6. Thasevi Food Famous Jalan Kayu Prata: Tucked away in a quiet alley, this place is renowned for its crispy Roti Prata with various fillings such as cheese and mushroom.
7. Ananda Bhavan Vegetarian: As the name suggests, this vegetarian restaurant serves tasty South Indian fare in a relaxed and casual setting.
8. Ghim Moh Market & Food Centre: Located within walking distance from Little India, this hawker center offers a wide variety of affordable local Malay and Indian food options.
9. Sin Ming Roti Prata: Another famous spot for their crispy Roti Prata served with various curries and sides like fish or chicken curry.
10. Naomi Kitchen: A hidden treasure serving authentic Sri Lankan cuisine including fragrant biryani rice, tender meat curries and freshly made rotis.
11. Can you suggest a good place to try different types of spices and condiments used in Indian cooking?
A great place to try different types of spices and condiments used in Indian cooking is an Indian grocery store or specialty market. These stores typically carry a wide variety of spices and condiments, including both common and more exotic ones. The staff at these stores are often knowledgeable about the different products and can offer recommendations based on your preferences. Some larger supermarkets may also have a section dedicated to international foods, which may include Indian spices and condiments for you to explore. Additionally, attending food festivals or events that showcase Indian cuisine can also be a fun way to try out different spices and condiments in various dishes.
12. Is it possible to find budget-friendly options for meals in Little India?
Yes, it is possible to find budget-friendly options for meals in Little India. There are many affordable Indian restaurants and street food vendors that offer delicious and authentic dishes at reasonable prices. Additionally, some grocery stores and markets in Little India also sell affordable Indian ingredients if you prefer to cook your own meals. As a tip, try to avoid the more touristy areas and explore smaller side streets for more budget-friendly options.
13. Are there any famous local markets or food centers where I can find a variety of street food options near Little India?
Yes, there are several well-known markets and food centers in Little India such as Tekka Market, Mustafa Centre food court, Little India Arcade, and Serangoon Road Food Centre. These places offer a wide range of local street food options including Indian dishes such as prata, thosai, and biryani, as well as other Singaporean favorites like satay, laksa, and char kway teow.
14. How accessible is the public transportation around the dining areas in Little India?
The public transportation in Little India is very accessible. There are several bus stops located throughout the area which serve various routes, making it easy to reach the dining areas. Additionally, there is a MRT station (Little India Station) located within the neighborhood, providing convenient access via train. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available in Little India, providing another option for transportation to and from the dining areas.
15. Do any restaurants offer cooking classes for visitors interested in learning how to make traditional Indian dishes?
Yes, there are several restaurants in India that offer cooking classes for visitors interested in learning how to make traditional Indian dishes. Some options include:
1. Saffron Palate (Jaipur)
2. Spice Kitchen (Delhi)
3. Cooking Masala (Mumbai)
4. Indian Accent (Delhi and Mumbai)
5. Cooking Classes at Yogi-sthaan (Agra)
6. FoodArtCookingClass (Jaipur)
7. Chef’s Table Studio (Bangalore)
8. The Tasting Lab (Mumbai)
It is recommended to check each restaurant’s website or contact them directly for more information on class schedules, fees, and availability.
16.Is it safe for solo travelers to go out at night for dinner around Little India?
Yes, it is generally safe for solo travelers to go out at night for dinner in Little India. However, it is always wise to take some precautions such as avoiding empty or poorly lit areas and staying aware of your surroundings. It is also recommended to stick to well-lit and busy areas and to use public transportation or a reputable taxi service when traveling at night.
17.What are some must-try drinks or beverages from the local street vendors around Little India?
1. Teh Tarik – a hot milk tea that is pulled between two cups to create a frothy, creamy texture.
2. Milo Dinosaur – a cold drink made with Milo powder and topped with a generous amount of milo powder on top.
3. Bandung – a refreshing, pink drink made from a combination of rose syrup, evaporated milk, and water.
4. Sugar cane juice – freshly squeezed sugar cane juice with a touch of lime for added flavor.
5. Teh Halia – ginger tea served with condensed milk for a spicy and sweet flavor profile.
6. Fresh coconut water – cool down with this naturally sweet and hydrating drink.
7. Soya bean milk – popular local soy milk that can be served hot or cold.
8. Cendol – a sweet dessert-like drink made from shaved ice, green rice flour jelly, red beans, and coconut milk.
9. Fruit juices – choose from an assortment of seasonal fruits like mangoes, watermelons, or oranges for a refreshing drink.
10. Lassi – an Indian-style yogurt-based smoothie available in various flavors like mango or strawberry lassi.
11. Grass jelly drink – also known as chin chow in Singapore, this black herbal jelly is mixed with syrup and served as a cold drink.
12. Gula Melaka coffee – local coffee brewed with Malaysia’s famous palm sugar for a unique twist on the classic coffee beverage.
13. Iced butterfly pea flower tea – made from steeping dried butterfly pea flowers for its naturally blue color and health benefits.
14. Chrysanthemum tea – cooling herbal tea often consumed after spicy meals for its soothing properties.
15.Calpis soda – Japanese soft drink that combines sweetened yogurt and soda water for a refreshing beverage option.
16.Lemon barley – zesty lemon drink combined with soaked barley seeds for added texture and health benefits.
17.Kopi C – a strong and aromatic local coffee that is served with a layer of frothy evaporated milk on top.
18.Are there any unique dining experiences, such as themed restaurants or rooftop dining, available in Little India?
Yes, there are several unique dining experiences available in Little India. Some options include:
1. Themed restaurants such as Khansama Tandoori Restaurant which offers a Bollywood-inspired dining experience with live performances and traditional Indian decor.
2. Rooftop dining at restaurants like The Banana Leaf Apolo, where you can enjoy authentic South Indian food while taking in panoramic views of the bustling neighborhood.
3. Cultural immersion experiences at Mustard, a Bengali restaurant that offers traditional Bengali theatre performances alongside their delicious food.
4. Outdoor garden dining at Komala Vilas Singapore, an iconic vegetarian restaurant that has a beautiful rooftop garden where you can dine while admiring the city skyline.
5. Street side dining at Tekka Centre’s hawker stalls, where you can try a variety of local dishes and mingle with the locals under the open sky.
19.Can you recommend a good brunch spot with a variety of options including western and local cuisine near little india?
Little India is known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious Indian cuisine, but if you’re looking for a brunch spot with a mix of western and local options, I would recommend visiting The Lokal. Located at the edge of Little India, this cozy cafe offers all-day brunch with dishes influenced by both Australian and Singaporean flavors. Their menu includes dishes such as shakshuka, smashed avocado toast, nasi lemak, and chicken curry shepherd’s pie. The Lokal also has vegan and gluten-free options available.
Another option would be Wild Honey, located in the heart of Little India. This popular breakfast spot offers a diverse menu with dishes from different regions including Europe, Asia, Middle East, and America. Some must-tries include their French toast with caramelized bananas and their Indian breakfast wrap. They also have an extensive drinks menu featuring freshly brewed coffee and unique cocktails to pair with your meal.
20.How crowded are the dining areas around little india during peak hours and how long is the waiting time for most restaurants?
During peak hours, dining areas around Little India can get quite crowded as it is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The waiting time for restaurants may vary depending on the popularity of the specific restaurant and the time of day. Some restaurants may have a wait time of 15-20 minutes, while others may have a longer wait time of up to an hour or more. It is recommended to make reservations beforehand if possible to avoid long waiting times.