Best Prata in Singapore

What is roti prata?

Roti prata is one of the most popular breakfasts on the island. It has roots in South Indian cooking and is close to the flaky parotta of South India. This guide explains how to order prata in Singapore, which types to try and where to go.

The cook takes a ball of oily dough and spreads it thin on a flat surface. Many cooks then swing and flip it in the air until it is almost see-through. The dough is folded into a square and fried on a hot griddle with oil or ghee, which is clarified butter. The outside turns crisp while the inside stays soft and layered.

Types of prata to try

• Kosong. Plain prata. Kosong means 'empty' or 'zero' in Malay.
• Telur. Prata with egg folded inside. Telur means 'egg' in Malay.
• Plaster. An egg is cooked on top of the prata, often with a soft yolk.
• Bawang. Prata with chopped onion inside. Bawang means 'onion'.
• Cheese or mushroom. Popular fillings at many shops.
• Tissue prata. A very thin, crisp prata shaped into a tall cone. It is often served with sugar.
• Sweet prata. Some shops add banana, chocolate or condensed milk.

Curry and drinks

Prata usually comes with a small bowl of curry. Fish curry is a common choice. Many shops also offer chicken or mutton curry, or dhal, which is a lentil curry. Tear the prata with your fingers and dip it in. If you eat with your hands, use your right hand. A fork and spoon are fine too.

Pair your prata with teh tarik. This is a sweet, milky tea poured between two cups to make it frothy.

Where to eat prata in Singapore

Good prata is found all over the island. Some of the best-rated places are outside the city centre, in residential areas. Our list includes:

• Mr and Mrs Mohgan's Super Crispy Roti Prata, an Indian prata shop in the Katong and Joo Chiat area.
• Springleaf Prata Place, in the Upper Thomson area.
• Casuarina Curry, in the Ang Mo Kio and Bishan area.
• Thohirah Restaurant, in the Seletar and Jalan Kayu area in the north-east.

Jalan Kayu and Upper Thomson

Jalan Kayu is a road in the north-east that locals know well for its prata shops. Upper Thomson is another popular area for a prata breakfast. It is close to green spaces such as the MacRitchie TreeTop Walk. You can pair a morning walk with a plate of prata. Browse more places in Upper Thomson.

In the city centre

If you are staying in the centre, look for prata stalls at hawker centres. You can also try Indian restaurants in Little India and Kampong Glam. Read Dishes to Try in Little India: A First-Timer's List, or browse our Indian restaurant list.

Tips for ordering prata

• Order by count. Locals order by number and type, such as 'two kosong, one telur'.
• Start with two pieces. Two prata make a light meal for most people. Add more if you are hungry.
• Eat it fresh. Prata goes soft as it cools, so eat it straight away.
• Know the rough cost. A plain prata usually costs around S$1 to S$2. Prata with fillings costs more. Prices change, so check the menu board.
• Go early or late. Prata is a classic breakfast and a popular late-night meal. Some shops stay open late.
• Check for halal certification. Many prata shops serve halal food, but not all are certified. If this matters to you, look for the MUIS halal certificate.

FAQs about prata

What is the difference between prata and murtabak?

Both use the same kind of dough. Prata is a light flatbread, often plain or with egg. Murtabak is larger and stuffed with minced meat, egg and onion.

What does prata kosong mean?

Kosong means 'empty' in Malay. A prata kosong is a plain prata with no filling.

Is prata the same as Indian paratha?

They are related. The Singapore version is closer to the flaky parotta of South India than to most North Indian parathas.

Is prata vegetarian?

Plain prata has no meat, but the dough may contain egg or milk. Ask for dhal instead of meat or fish curry if you want a vegetarian meal.