Modern Indian Restaurants in Singapore

A guide to modern Indian restaurants in Singapore

Modern Indian restaurants in Singapore take the spices, breads and slow-cooked dishes of India and present them in a new way. Plates are smaller and more carefully arranged. Flavours stay bold, but each course is planned as part of a longer meal. The list here is short, so this guide also points you to related Indian restaurants across the city.

What is modern Indian food?

India has many regional cuisines. The north is known for wheat breads, tandoor ovens and rich gravies. A tandoor is a hot clay oven. The south uses more rice, lentils, coconut and curry leaves. Modern Indian chefs draw on these traditions and then change the form of a dish. A familiar curry might become a small sauce under grilled seafood. A street snack might arrive as a neat first course.

What to expect

• Tasting menus: many modern Indian restaurants serve a set menu of several small courses. It can take two to three hours.
• Regional ideas: one menu may move from northern breads to southern coconut curries and back.
• Local produce: chefs may use seafood and vegetables from the region alongside Indian spices.
• Balanced heat: the food is usually well spiced but not always very hot. Ask if you are sensitive to chilli.
• Mixed methods: grilling over fire, smoking and slow cooking sit next to classic Indian techniques.

Modern Indian restaurants on this list

Thevar

Thevar serves modern Indian food in the Orchard and River Valley area. It is also on our Fine Dining list. Plan it as a special meal and book well ahead. See more places to eat nearby in Orchard & River Valley.

Other Indian restaurants with a fresh approach

These Indian restaurants on EatStays are worth a look if you enjoy this style:

• Revolver cooks Indian food on the grill in the Chinatown and Tanjong Pagar area.
• Firangi Superstar serves Indian food in the same area.
• Punjab Grill serves Indian food in the Marina Bay and CBD area.
• Kotuwa serves Sri Lankan food in Orchard and River Valley. Sri Lankan cooking shares many spices with South Indian food. See Sri Lankan for more.

Try the classics too

Modern Indian food is easier to enjoy when you know the dishes it is based on. Spend a morning in Little India. Try a banana leaf meal, where rice and curries are served on a fresh banana leaf. Then try prata, a flaky fried flatbread, or dosa, a crisp rice and lentil pancake. Dishes to Try in Little India: A First-Timer's List is a good place to start.

The Indian Heritage Centre tells the story of Indian communities in Singapore and the region. It adds useful background before a modern Indian dinner.

Booking and dining tips

• Book early. Tasting menus have limited seats. Weekend dinners fill up first.
• Share diet needs. Indian cooking has strong vegetarian traditions, so many kitchens can adapt a menu. Mention allergies, vegetarian needs or foods you avoid, such as beef or pork, when you book.
• Know rough costs. A tasting menu costs far more than a meal in Little India. At the top end, expect well over S$100 per person before drinks. Prices change, so check the latest menu.
• Read the bill. Prices marked '++' mean a 10% service charge and GST, the goods and services tax, will be added. Tipping is not expected.
• Halal food. Do not assume a restaurant is halal. Look for the MUIS halal certificate on display. MUIS is the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore.
• Dress smart casual. Avoid beachwear and flip-flops.

FAQs about modern Indian restaurants in Singapore

What is the difference between modern and traditional Indian food?

Traditional Indian food is often served family style, with shared curries, rice and bread. Modern Indian food uses the same flavours but serves them as plated courses, often in a tasting menu.

Is modern Indian food very spicy?

Not usually. Dishes are well spiced, but chefs tend to balance the heat. If you dislike chilli, tell the staff when you book or order.

Can vegetarians eat at modern Indian restaurants?

Yes, in most cases. Indian cooking has a long vegetarian tradition, and many tasting menus have a vegetarian version. Ask when you book.

Where can I find traditional Indian food in Singapore?

Head to Little India & Jalan Besar. It has the widest choice, from vegetarian dosa to biryani and fish head curry.