What and Where to Eat in Little India, Singapore: A Local's Guide

Visiting Little India in Singapore is like being transported to Mumbai. Unlike the rest of the island, the streets of Little India are filled with people, the storefronts are lined with saris and garlands, and the temples are adorned with colourful statues of Hindu deities. 
 

There's a lot to love about Little India – and that's especially true when it comes to the food. You'll find humble hawker stalls churning out plates of biryani and roti prata in the famous Tekka Market, while the area's longstanding Indian restaurants have been serving up dosas and thalis to loyal customers for over 70 years. 
 

Tradition aside, this is a place where old meets new. And you can expect the chefs at Little India's hottest new restaurants to put a contemporary spin on Indian classics that is impossible to resist.
 

When it comes to things to eat, see, and do in Little India, you're going to be spoilt for choice. To make your trip hassle-free, this insider's guide will lead you to the best food stalls and restaurants in the area, as well as give you recommendations about the best things to see and do.   

Tekka Market is the number one hawker centre in Little India. This is where you want to be for cheap, no-frills eats. You'll have an overwhelming number of options, but a few local favourites are the Mutton Dum Biryani at Yakader Muslim Food (#01-259), the Butter Chicken Naan Set at Delhi Lahori (#01-266), and the Prata, Teh Tarik, and Cendol at Ar-Rahman Cafe (#01-247/248).

Komala Vilas has been serving pure-vegetarian South Indian classics to locals since 1947. You can't go wrong with their massive Masala Dosa, but the Tomato Uthappam and Chappathi Plate won't disappoint either. Don't forget to order a sweet and creamy Masala Tea to wash it all down.

Podi & Poriyal is yet another pure-vegetarian joint that offers a contemporary South Indian dining experience. The menu has small plates, like the Coconut Samosa and Banana Blossom Tikki, and large plates, like the Double Decker Parotta and Dindigul Palakkai (Jackfruit) Biriyani. But if you can't decide, the four-course set meal is highly recommended. The bar also serves elevated cocktails if you'd like to imbibe.

Bib Gourmand restaurant Lagnaa is one of the most unique eateries in Little India, Singapore. This family-friendly establishment invites you to kick off your shoes and take a seat on the floor. From the Butter Chicken and Threadfin Fish Curry to the Chana Masala and Palak Paneer, the chef is meticulous about the preparation of each and every dish. As part of their (in)famous "Chilli Challenge," you're even invited to choose your own spice level – 0 to 10, if you dare.

AMRITH By The Song Of India is another popular Little India restaurant known for its North Indian delights, including the Kashmiri Lamb Rack, Lamb Shank Biryani, Malai Chicken Tikka, and Tandoor Tiger Prawns. Vegetarians will have a long list of paneer and veggie dishes to choose from, too.

Located in the 1920s Little India Arcade, Moghul Sweet Shop is a must-stop if you want to sample some of the best North Indian mithai (desserts) in town. From a variety of ladoos and burfis to the addictive gulab jamun and kaju katli, you'll want to try it all. They also have awesome freshly-made samosas and kachoris.

Located on Serangoon Road, Srinivasa Perumal Temple is one of the top Little India attractions. Take some time to admire the intricate statues and colours of this famous Hindu temple from the outside before going inside.

Also located on Serangoon Road, just 800 metres down the street from Srinivasa Perumal Temple, Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is yet another must-see Hindu temple.

For an entirely different style of architecture, pay a visit to the magnificent green and yellow Masjid Abdul Gaffoor, which dates back to 1859.

Also known as the Temple of a Thousand Lights, this place is home to a 15-metre-tall Buddha statue. Visit at night, and you'll have the chance to see it illuminated by countless lights. 

This is one of the most iconic Singapore Little India attractions. This wonderfully quirky and colourful building was built in 1900 and is now the only Chinese villa still standing in Little India.

This museum is a must-visit if you're interested in learning more about Little India and the culture and history of Indian Singaporeans. 

This is an iconic attraction in Little India and it's well worth exploring this sprawling department store even if you're not in the market for anything. This place is open 24/7 and has everything from affordable electronics to beauty products, jewellery, and more. There's also a great grocery store here where you can pick up everything you need.

For more essential Little India shopping, make your way to the Little India Arcade. Here you can shop for all sorts of Indian souvenirs, handmade jewellery, bangles, saris, spices, and more. 

Both men and women are expected to dress modestly when entering Little India's Hindu temples and mosque. This means that tank tops and shorts aren't permitted, and shoulders and knees should be covered. If you see shoes outside the entrance, be sure to remove your shoes.  

Little India is always a bit chaotic, but things are at their most crowded on Sundays and during festivals. If you want a true cultural experience, visit during annual festivals like Deepavali (the Festival of Lights) in October or November and Pongal (a harvest festival) in January. There will be plenty of traditional festival foods during this time.

Little India is well-connected to the rest of Singapore. If you want to use the MRT, you can get off at the Little India MRT Station or the Farrer Park MRT Station. There are also taxi stands along Race Course Road if you're travelling by taxi.

If you want to stay in a hotel near Little India Singapore, Novotel Singapore on Kitchener has everything you need for a relaxing stay. 
 

This family-friendly hotel is just a 5-minute walk from the Farrer Park MRT Station and a short stroll to all of Little India's top attractions and restaurants. You'll have a lovely outdoor pool, a fitness centre, and two on-site restaurants. 

Plus, the rooms are well-equipped with plush beds, ergonomic workstations, large flat-screen TVs, and rainfall showers. If you're travelling as a family, the family rooms are spacious with multiple beds and an open living space.

That's it – everything you need to know about eating and sightseeing your way around Little India. Follow these foodie recommendations, and you're bound to have a fun and delicious time exploring this unique Singaporean neighbourhood.