Best Murtabak in Singapore

What is murtabak?

Murtabak is a filling meal sold at Indian-Muslim restaurants and Malay food stalls. If you want to try murtabak in Singapore, this guide explains what it is, how to order it and where to go. The name comes from the Arabic word mutabbaq, which means 'folded'.

The cook stretches a ball of dough until it is very thin. Minced meat, beaten egg and chopped onion go in the middle. The dough is then folded over the filling to make a flat, square parcel. It is fried on a hot, flat griddle until crisp and golden. Finally, it is cut into pieces and served with a bowl of curry.

How murtabak differs from prata

Murtabak uses the same kind of dough as roti prata, the flaky flatbread many locals eat for breakfast. Prata is light and usually plain or filled with egg. Murtabak is thicker, stuffed with meat and big enough to be a full meal. For something smaller, see our Prata page.

What to order

Choose your filling

• Mutton. This is the classic choice. The meat is well spiced and rich.
• Chicken. A milder option, and a good first try.
• Beef. Some places offer beef as well.
• Other fillings. Some shops also make sardine or vegetable versions. Ask what is available that day.

Choose a size

Most places sell murtabak in small, medium and large sizes. A small one is enough for one hungry person. A large one can feed two or three people as part of a shared meal. The price depends on the size and the filling. As a rough guide, expect around S$8 to S$20. Prices change, so check the menu board.

What comes with it

Murtabak usually comes with a bowl of curry for dipping. Many places also add a small side of sliced onion. Pair it with teh tarik, a sweet, milky tea that is poured between two cups to make it frothy.

Where to eat murtabak in Singapore

The Bugis and Kampong Glam area is the best-known place to try murtabak. Both places on our list are here.

• Zam Zam Restaurant is an Indian restaurant on North Bridge Road.
• Victory Restaurant is another Indian restaurant in the same area.

Murtabak is also sold at many hawker centres, often at stalls that sell prata. Browse our Indian restaurant list or our Hawker Favourites for more ideas.

Things to do nearby

Kampong Glam is one of the city's historic Malay and Muslim districts. After your meal, walk to the Sultan Mosque. Visitors are welcome outside prayer times. Dress modestly, with your shoulders and knees covered, and follow any signs at the entrance. Then explore the small shops and wall murals of Haji Lane.

Want to stay close by? See our list of Bugis & Kampong Glam hotels. The area is central and well linked to the rest of the city.

Tips for eating murtabak

• Share it. A medium or large murtabak is heavy. Order one to share and add a few other dishes.
• Dip each piece. Dip the pieces into the curry instead of pouring the curry over. This keeps the crust crisp.
• Eat it hot. The crust turns soft as it cools.
• Check for halal certification. Many Indian-Muslim restaurants serve halal food. If this matters to you, look for the MUIS halal certificate on display.
• Plan around Ramadan. During the Muslim fasting month, murtabak is a popular dish for the evening meal that breaks the fast. Some places get very busy around sunset.

FAQs about murtabak

What is murtabak made of?

It is a thin dough wrapped around minced meat, egg and onion, then fried on a griddle. It is usually served with curry.

Is murtabak spicy?

The filling is spiced but not usually very hot. The curry on the side can be spicy, so taste it first.

How many people does one murtabak feed?

A small one suits one person. A large one can feed two or three people, especially with other dishes.

Is murtabak halal?

Murtabak is often sold at Indian-Muslim and Malay eateries. Still, do not assume every place is certified. Look for the MUIS halal certificate at the shop.

Where is the best area for murtabak in Singapore?

Kampong Glam is the best-known area. Both places on our list are there, and you can visit the Sultan Mosque and Haji Lane on the same trip.