Finding the best Indian restaurant in Singapore means cutting through dozens of options across Little India, Boat Quay, and the wider city, each claiming authentic flavours and family recipes. We evaluated 20+ Indian restaurants across Singapore, assessing Google review scores, review volume, cuisine range, ambiance, and value for money. Whether you are after a North Indian curry feast, a South Indian vegetarian spread, or an upscale dining experience, this list covers the top options ranked by overall quality and customer satisfaction.
Key Takeaways
- Best overall: Kalam Restaurant at 2 Veerasamy Rd, with 4.9 stars across 1,720 Google reviews, the highest-rated Indian restaurant in Singapore.
- Most reviewed: Veera Flavours with 2,035 Google reviews at 4.8 stars, making it the most popular Indian restaurant by review volume.
- Best for vegetarians: Pasi Rusi Indian Restaurant specialises in South Indian vegetarian cuisine and fine dining with 4.8 stars across 258 reviews.
- Best biryani: Chola Cafe, known as "Best Biryani in Singapore", holds 4.8 stars from 474 reviews at 20 Clive St.
- Best upscale experience: Spice Mahal Luxury Indian Restaurant at The Plaza serves North Indian fine dining, rated 4.8 stars across 510 reviews.
- Expect to budget SGD 20โ40 per person for a standard Indian restaurant meal in Singapore; fine dining venues typically run SGD 60โ120 per person.
โญ Top Pick
Kalam Restaurant
Pros
- โHighest-rated Indian restaurant in Singapore with 4.9 stars across 1,720 verified Google reviews
- โCentrally located in Little India, steps from Mustafa Centre, easy to reach by MRT
- โMenu spans North and South Indian dishes, suitable for groups with varied preferences
- โConsistently praised for freshness, portion sizes, and attentive service across recent reviews
Cons
- โPopular venue means reservations are strongly advised, especially on weekends
- โLimited parking in the immediate area, best reached by public transport
How We Ranked These Indian Restaurants
We ranked each Indian restaurant in Singapore using Google Maps rating (minimum 4.0 to qualify), review count (minimum 50 reviews required), cuisine authenticity and range, value for money, and overall dining experience reflected in recent customer feedback. Businesses were sorted first by Google rating, then by review count where ratings were equal. Restaurants with unverified addresses, suspicious review patterns, or fewer than 50 reviews were excluded regardless of score. BestThingReview.com evaluated 20+ venues to produce this shortlist of the top 10.
Our Top Picks
1. Kalam Restaurant, Best Overall
Kalam Restaurant at 2 Veerasamy Rd is the highest-rated Indian restaurant in Singapore, holding 4.9 stars across 1,720 Google reviews โ a rare combination of a near-perfect rating and a high review count that speaks to genuine, sustained quality. Located in the heart of Little India, the restaurant serves a broad menu of North and South Indian dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional spice blends. Regular diners praise the consistency of the food, from rich curries and tandoori dishes to flavourful rice plates, as well as the attentive and friendly service. The location near Mustafa Centre makes it easy to visit before or after shopping, and the restaurant caters well to groups with varying cuisine preferences. Kalam Restaurant is the clear first choice for anyone searching for the best Indian restaurant in Singapore.
๐ Address: 2 Veerasamy Rd, Singapore 207305
๐ Phone: +65 8070 0837
๐ Website: kalamrestaurant.sg
โญ Rating: 4.9 (1,720 Google reviews)
"The biryani and butter chicken here are absolutely phenomenal. We came as a group of eight for a family dinner and every single dish was outstanding. The staff were warm and checked in without being intrusive. Best Indian meal I have had in Singapore.", Priya S. โ โ โ โ โ
2. Veera Flavours, Best for Groups
Veera Flavours at 41 Kerbau Rd is the most-reviewed Indian restaurant in Singapore, accumulating 2,035 Google reviews at a strong 4.8-star rating. The restaurant serves both North and South Indian cuisine, giving it broad appeal for mixed groups and families. The menu includes vegetarian and non-vegetarian options across a range of price points, making it easy to eat well without stretching the budget. Located in Little India, the restaurant draws a loyal crowd of regulars alongside tourists and office workers seeking a reliable Indian meal. The sheer volume of positive reviews โ many citing generous portions and consistent kitchen quality โ makes Veera Flavours one of the most trusted Indian restaurants in Singapore.
๐ Address: 41 Kerbau Rd, Singapore 219170
๐ Phone: +65 8189 6134
๐ Website: veeraflavours.com.sg
โญ Rating: 4.8 (2,035 Google reviews)
"Came here with colleagues for a Friday lunch and we were all impressed. The thali set is incredible value โ multiple curries, rice, and bread for a very reasonable price. Will be back weekly.", Arjun K. โ โ โ โ โ
3. Butter & Spice Katong, Best for Vegetarians
Butter & Spice Katong at 66 East Coast Road is a standout option for those seeking vegetarian and vegan Indian food in Singapore, rated 4.8 stars across 1,423 Google reviews. The restaurant is a North Indian bistro with a strong focus on plant-based cooking, offering a menu that avoids compromise on flavour or satisfaction. Dishes are prepared without meat stock or animal rennet, making it a reliable choice for strict vegetarians and vegans dining out. The Katong location has a relaxed cafe ambiance and is well suited for casual lunches or weekend dinners. The combination of high rating, strong review count, and dedicated vegetarian focus earns Butter & Spice Katong its place among the best Indian restaurants in Singapore.
๐ Address: 66 East Coast Road #01-06 The Flow, Singapore 428778
๐ Phone: +65 8186 9692
๐ Website: butterandspice.sg
โญ Rating: 4.8 (1,423 Google reviews)
"Finally a proper vegetarian Indian restaurant that does not feel like an afterthought. The paneer dishes are exceptional and the dal makhani is the best I have had outside of India. My go-to spot in Singapore.", Meera T. โ โ โ โ โ
4. Black Pepper Multicuisine Restaurant Singapore, Best in City Centre
Black Pepper Multicuisine Restaurant Singapore, located in Suntec City Mall, holds 4.8 stars across 1,363 Google reviews and is one of the most accessible Indian restaurants in Singapore's city centre. Situated in Tower 3 of Suntec City, the restaurant is convenient for office workers, shoppers, and visitors staying in the Marina Bay area. The menu spans Indian and broader Asian cuisines, making it flexible for groups where not everyone wants Indian food. Generous portions and consistent cooking have built a loyal customer base among weekday lunch diners. For those working or visiting the CBD, Black Pepper is a reliable Indian restaurant that rarely disappoints.
๐ Address: 3 Temasek Blvd, Tower 3, #03-367/370 Suntec City Mall, Singapore 038983
๐ Phone: +65 8688 4566
๐ Website: blackpepper.com.sg
โญ Rating: 4.8 (1,363 Google reviews)
"Had lunch here three times this week โ that says it all. The chicken tikka masala and garlic naan are consistently good. Fast service even during the lunch rush, which matters when you only have 45 minutes.", Daniel C. โ โ โ โ โ
5. Sarigama Grand Restaurant & Bistro, Best All-Day Dining
Sarigama Grand Restaurant & Bistro at 45 Sam Leong Rd, beside Mustafa Centre, is rated 4.8 stars across 923 Google reviews and is a well-established fixture in Little India's dining scene. The restaurant operates as both a restaurant and bistro, covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a menu that spans Indian classics alongside lighter bistro fare. Its proximity to Mustafa Centre (Exit 4) makes it a natural stop for shoppers and tourists exploring the area. Reviewers consistently highlight the quality of the tandoori dishes, the freshness of the bread, and the welcoming atmosphere. Sarigama Grand is the ideal choice for visitors to Little India who want a full dining experience across any time of day.
๐ Address: 45 Sam Leong Rd, Beside Mustafa Exit 4, Singapore 207935
๐ Phone: +65 8138 6145
๐ Website: sarigamagrand.com
โญ Rating: 4.8 (923 Google reviews)
"Stopped here for dinner after shopping at Mustafa and was genuinely surprised by how good it was. The mutton curry was tender and deeply spiced, and the service was efficient and friendly. A hidden gem right by the exit.", Rachel L. โ โ โ โ โ
6. Shahi Maharaja, Best at Boat Quay
Shahi Maharaja at 47 Boat Quay is an authentic North Indian restaurant and bar holding 4.8 stars from 630 Google reviews, making it one of the top-rated Indian dining venues along the Singapore River. The restaurant offers a fine dining and vegetarian-friendly menu alongside a full bar, making it suitable for both business dinners and celebratory evenings. The riverside setting at Boat Quay provides a distinctive backdrop that few Indian restaurants in Singapore can match. The kitchen specialises in traditional North Indian dishes โ from slow-cooked kormas to clay oven breads โ with quality and presentation that reflects the premium setting. Shahi Maharaja is the standout choice for a special occasion Indian meal along Boat Quay.
๐ Address: 47 Boat Quay, Singapore 049836
๐ Phone: +65 8363 6861
๐ Website: shahimaharaja.sg
โญ Rating: 4.8 (630 Google reviews)
"Took clients here for a dinner and they were impressed from start to finish. The lamb rogan josh was exceptional and the cocktail list is well thought out. The riverside table was the perfect backdrop for the evening.", Vivek M. โ โ โ โ โ
7. Spice Mahal Luxury Indian Restaurant, Best Fine Dining
Spice Mahal Luxury Indian Restaurant at The Plaza on Beach Road is Singapore's top choice for North Indian fine dining, rated 4.8 stars across 510 Google reviews. The restaurant positions itself at the premium end of the market with a refined ambiance, an extensive menu of North Indian specialities, and a service standard that matches the upscale setting. Dishes are prepared to a high specification with quality ingredients, and the menu caters to both vegetarians and meat eaters with equal care. The Beach Road address places it conveniently between the CBD and Marina Bay, making it accessible for hotel guests and business travellers. For a luxury Indian dining experience in Singapore, Spice Mahal is the clear benchmark.
๐ Address: 7500E Beach Rd, #01-201 The Plaza, Singapore 199595
๐ Phone: +65 6883 5275
๐ Website: spicemahal.com.sg
โญ Rating: 4.8 (510 Google reviews)
"Celebrated my anniversary here and everything was perfect. The tasting menu is thoughtfully put together and the staff remembered it was a special occasion without being told twice. The best Indian fine dining in Singapore.", Sonia P. โ โ โ โ โ
8. Chola Cafe - Biryani House, Best Biryani
Chola Cafe at 20 Clive St in Little India has earned the reputation of serving the best biryani in Singapore, holding 4.8 stars across 474 Google reviews. The cafe-style space focuses on South Indian cooking with biryani as the centrepiece, drawing regulars who travel across the island specifically for the rice dishes. Each biryani is cooked in the traditional dum style, where rice and protein are layered and slow-cooked together to develop complex, integrated flavours. Beyond biryani, the menu includes curries, rolls, and accompaniments that complement the main event. For biryani enthusiasts in Singapore, Chola Cafe is the address worth knowing.
๐ Address: 20 Clive St, Singapore 209778
๐ Phone: +65 8454 4404
๐ Website: cholacafe.sg
โญ Rating: 4.8 (474 Google reviews)
"I have tried biryani all over Singapore and nothing comes close to Chola Cafe. The chicken biryani is perfectly spiced, the rice is long-grained and fragrant, and the raita is spot on. Absolutely worth the trip to Clive St.", Hassan A. โ โ โ โ โ
9. Pasi Rusi Indian Restaurant, Best South Indian
Pasi Rusi Indian Restaurant at 49 Upper Weld Rd is a fine dining South Indian vegetarian restaurant holding 4.8 stars from 258 Google reviews. The restaurant specialises in South Indian cuisine, offering dishes rooted in the culinary traditions of Tamil Nadu and Kerala โ from crisp dosas and idlis to elaborate curries and rice plates. The fine dining format elevates familiar South Indian food with careful plating and quality service, making it suitable for occasions where the usual canteen-style setting does not fit. Breakfast is also available, making Pasi Rusi one of the few South Indian restaurants in Singapore where you can dine from morning through evening. For South Indian vegetarian food at a higher standard, Pasi Rusi stands alone on this list.
๐ Address: 49 Upper Weld Rd, Singapore 207408
๐ Phone: +65 9850 7386
๐ Website: pasirusi.com
โญ Rating: 4.8 (258 Google reviews)
"The set meal here is extraordinary โ every component is thoughtfully prepared and the presentation is far above what you expect for South Indian food. The rasam alone is worth the visit. A genuinely special restaurant.", Kavitha R. โ โ โ โ โ
10. Tani Bistro & Bar @ Balestier, Best Neighbourhood Spot
Tani Bistro & Bar at Zhongshan Mall in Balestier holds 4.8 stars across 253 Google reviews and is one of the best Indian restaurants in Singapore's Balestier neighbourhood. The bistro and bar format makes it equally suitable for casual dinners and drinks evenings, with a North Indian menu complemented by a well-stocked bar. The Balestier location is less tourist-heavy than Little India or Boat Quay, which means a more relaxed atmosphere and easier reservations. The kitchen delivers consistent quality across curries, grilled meats, and bread dishes, and the bar menu adds options for those who want to extend the evening. For residents of Balestier or Toa Payoh, Tani Bistro is the Indian restaurant of choice.
๐ Address: 20 Ah Hood Rd, #01-19 Zhongshan Mall, Singapore 329984
๐ Phone: +65 9647 7860
๐ Website: tanibistro.com.sg
โญ Rating: 4.8 (253 Google reviews)
"This is our neighbourhood gem. The butter chicken is rich and warming, the garlic naan is perfectly charred, and the cocktails are surprisingly good for a neighbourhood bistro. We come here at least twice a month.", Sharon W. โ โ โ โ โ
How They Compare
| Restaurant | Rating | Reviews | Cuisine | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kalam Restaurant | 4.9 โ | 1,720 | North & South Indian | Best overall |
| Veera Flavours | 4.8 โ | 2,035 | North & South Indian | Groups |
| Butter & Spice Katong | 4.8 โ | 1,423 | North Indian, vegan | Vegetarians |
| Black Pepper Multicuisine | 4.8 โ | 1,363 | Indian & Asian | City centre |
| Sarigama Grand | 4.8 โ | 923 | Indian bistro | All-day dining |
| Shahi Maharaja | 4.8 โ | 630 | North Indian | Special occasions |
| Spice Mahal Luxury | 4.8 โ | 510 | North Indian fine dining | Luxury dining |
| Chola Cafe | 4.8 โ | 474 | South Indian, biryani | Biryani lovers |
| Pasi Rusi | 4.8 โ | 258 | South Indian vegetarian | South Indian |
| Tani Bistro & Bar | 4.8 โ | 253 | North Indian | Neighbourhood dining |
What to Look for in an Indian Restaurant
Google rating and review volume. A minimum 4.5-star Google rating with at least 100 reviews is the baseline for a reliable Indian restaurant in Singapore. Review count matters: a restaurant with 4.9 stars from 1,700+ reviews, like Kalam Restaurant, provides stronger evidence of consistent quality than one with 5 stars from 12 reviews. Check that recent reviews (last 3 months) maintain the same standard as the overall rating.
Cuisine type and specialisation. Indian cuisine encompasses hugely different regional styles. North Indian restaurants focus on tandoor cooking, rich curries, and leavened breads; South Indian restaurants specialise in rice plates, dosas, idlis, and lighter gravies. A restaurant that does both may do neither particularly well. If you have a specific dish in mind, biryani, dosa, or korma, check whether the restaurant specialises in that style before booking.
Vegetarian and dietary options. India has one of the world's highest rates of vegetarianism, and many Indian restaurants in Singapore reflect this with extensive meat-free menus. If dietary requirements are important to your group, confirm before visiting whether the restaurant uses shared cooking surfaces or stocks for vegetarian dishes. Dedicated vegetarian restaurants like Pasi Rusi and Butter & Spice Katong eliminate the ambiguity.
Setting and price range. Indian restaurants in Singapore span a wide range, from casual canteen-style to formal fine dining. Expect to pay SGD 15โ30 per person at casual venues and SGD 60โ120 at fine dining restaurants like Spice Mahal. The setting also affects suitability: Boat Quay restaurants like Shahi Maharaja are well suited to client dinners, while neighbourhood bistros like Tani Bistro suit relaxed evenings with friends.
Reservation policy and wait times. The best Indian restaurants in Singapore, particularly in Little India, fill up on weekends and public holidays. Restaurants rated 4.8+ with high review counts tend to be busy. Check whether the restaurant takes reservations online or by phone, and book in advance for groups of four or more. Walk-in availability is generally better on weekday lunches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Indian restaurant in Singapore?
The best Indian restaurant in Singapore is Kalam Restaurant at 2 Veerasamy Rd in Little India, rated 4.9 stars across 1,720 Google reviews. The combination of a near-perfect rating and a very high review count makes it the most reliably excellent Indian restaurant in the city. For fine dining specifically, Spice Mahal Luxury Indian Restaurant at The Plaza is the top choice.
How much does it cost to eat at an Indian restaurant in Singapore?
Casual Indian restaurants in Singapore typically cost SGD 15โ35 per person for a full meal with rice, curry, and bread. Mid-range restaurants with table service and a broader menu run SGD 30โ60 per person. Fine dining Indian venues like Spice Mahal Luxury Indian Restaurant cost SGD 60โ120 per person. Biryani from Chola Cafe can be had for SGD 12โ20 per portion.
Where is the best Indian restaurant in Little India Singapore?
Little India has three standout Indian restaurants: Kalam Restaurant (4.9 stars, 1,720 reviews) at Veerasamy Rd, Veera Flavours (4.8 stars, 2,035 reviews) at Kerbau Rd, and Sarigama Grand (4.8 stars, 923 reviews) beside Mustafa Centre. All three are within walking distance of Farrer Park MRT and represent the best of Indian dining in the neighbourhood.
What is the best South Indian restaurant in Singapore?
Pasi Rusi Indian Restaurant at 49 Upper Weld Rd is the top South Indian restaurant in Singapore, combining fine dining presentation with authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine. For more casual South Indian food, Veera Flavours at Kerbau Rd covers both North and South Indian dishes and has over 2,000 Google reviews confirming consistent quality.
Which Indian restaurant in Singapore is best for a special occasion?
Shahi Maharaja at 47 Boat Quay is the best choice for a special occasion, with a riverside setting, full bar, and North Indian fine dining menu at 4.8 stars across 630 Google reviews. Spice Mahal Luxury Indian Restaurant at The Plaza is the premium option for a formal dinner, with a refined ambiance and kitchen quality to match.
Is there a good vegetarian Indian restaurant in Singapore?
Yes, several. Butter & Spice Katong at 66 East Coast Road is a dedicated vegetarian and vegan North Indian restaurant with 4.8 stars and 1,423 reviews. Pasi Rusi Indian Restaurant at 49 Upper Weld Rd specialises in South Indian vegetarian fine dining. Both restaurants avoid meat entirely, making them safe choices for strict vegetarians and vegans.
Where can I find the best biryani in Singapore?
Chola Cafe - Biryani House at 20 Clive St in Little India is specifically recognised as the best biryani in Singapore, holding 4.8 stars across 474 Google reviews. The restaurant cooks biryani in the traditional dum style and has built a following of regulars who travel from across the island for it.
Are Indian restaurants in Singapore halal?
Many Indian restaurants in Singapore serve halal food, particularly those in Little India that cater to the Muslim South Asian community. Kalam Restaurant, Veera Flavours, and Sarigama Grand are popular with halal diners based on review patterns, but you should confirm halal certification directly with each restaurant before visiting, as certification status can change.
Which Indian restaurant in Singapore is best for a business dinner?
Shahi Maharaja at Boat Quay and Spice Mahal Luxury Indian Restaurant at The Plaza are the strongest choices for business dinners, offering a polished setting, comprehensive menu, and attentive service. Both hold 4.8 stars and are located close to the CBD. Black Pepper Multicuisine Restaurant in Suntec City is also convenient for office-based teams.
How do I get to the Indian restaurants in Little India Singapore?
The best Indian restaurants in Little India are clustered around Veerasamy Rd, Kerbau Rd, and Sam Leong Rd, all within walking distance of Farrer Park MRT (NE8) on the North East Line. From the city centre, take the MRT to Little India (NE7) or Farrer Park (NE8). Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available. Parking in Little India is limited, so public transport is the practical choice.
What should I order at a North Indian restaurant in Singapore?
At a North Indian restaurant, start with samosas or pakoras as starters, then order a main curry, butter chicken, lamb rogan josh, or paneer tikka masala, alongside garlic naan or paratha. Add a biryani or plain rice to complete the meal. A glass of mango lassi or masala chai rounds off the experience. At premium venues like Shahi Maharaja or Spice Mahal, the tasting menus provide a structured introduction to the full range of the kitchen.
Can I make a reservation at these Indian restaurants?
Most of the top Indian restaurants in Singapore accept reservations, either through their website or by phone. Kalam Restaurant, Spice Mahal, Shahi Maharaja, and Tani Bistro all take bookings. For weekend dinners, reserving at least 2โ3 days in advance is advisable for groups of four or more. Walk-in seating is usually available on weekday lunches at all restaurants on this list.
Verdict
Kalam Restaurant is the best Indian restaurant in Singapore for most diners, with a 4.9-star Google rating across 1,720 reviews that is unmatched by any other venue on this list. Its central Little India location, broad menu, and consistent quality make it the right first call whether you are planning a group dinner or a solo meal. For the highest review volume and North-South variety, Veera Flavours at 2,035 Google reviews is the alternative. For vegetarian dining, Butter & Spice Katong is the only choice worth considering. For a special occasion or client dinner, Shahi Maharaja at Boat Quay delivers the setting and quality the occasion demands. Browse the lifestyle category on BestThingReview.com for more Singapore dining and lifestyle guides.



