Banana Leaf Apolo: Savour Authentic Indian Curry on a Banana Leaf
One of the must-try dishes in Singapore is the authentic curry served in Little India.
Previously, Muthu’s Curry, a popular expat favourite, was featured.
This time, the spotlight is on another iconic establishment: Banana Leaf Apolo, a long-standing restaurant frequently highlighted in travel guides. It remains a top destination for Indian cuisine.
Local Buzz at Banana Leaf Apolo
Top Curry Spot on Race Course Road
The restaurant sits along Race Course Road, about a 3–4 minute walk from Exit E of Little India MRT station — a stretch known for many curry spots, including Muthu’s Curry.
A signboard depicting a banana leaf — traditionally used as a plate in India — marks the entrance to the restaurant.
As the name and logo suggest, the true highlight of Banana Leaf Apollo is the authentic curry experience served on a banana leaf.
This dining experience, rooted in traditional Indian customs, attracts a steady stream of tourists daily.
Shared Dining at a Local Eatery
The spacious interior features a few tables for two or four, but most of the seating consists of long communal tables that can accommodate 20 or more diners.
As table reservations or specific seating requests are not available, even small groups will be seated at these expansive tables, where sharing with other diners is part of the local experience.
During peak lunch and dinner hours, the dining room buzzes with a lively mix of tourists and Indian locals.
This energetic atmosphere adds to the charm, making it a quintessential part of dining at a local eatery.
Served on a Banana Leaf
Taste of South Indian Tradition
Once seated, a tray lined with a fresh banana leaf is brought to the table.
There is something extraordinary about having a meal served on vibrant, exotic leaves — a unique presentation that instantly heightens the anticipation, making the curry taste even more exceptional than usual.
Must-Try Dishes
Here are the must-try dishes that stood out as particularly delicious at Banana Leaf Apolo.
Delicious Beginnings
First up is a classic drink found at any Indian restaurant — mango lassi. The one here is rich and creamy, always a safe bet.
As an appetiser before the curry arrives, the boneless chicken tikka makes an excellent choice — easy to eat and bursting with flavour.
Fish Head Curry
Fish head curry is one of Singapore’s signature dishes, and it’s available here at Banana Leaf Apolo.
This dish features a whole fish head immersed in a vibrant, spice-rich curry with a light, soupy texture.
Even a small portion arrives on a large platter — around 30cm across — offering a hearty serving.
With its bold spices and substantial volume, it may be overwhelming for pairs or those with a milder palate. Rather than ordering it just because it’s famous, it may be wiser to try one of the other curries instead.
Best Curry Picks
Among the many curries on the menu, the Butter Chicken is the crowd-favourite. This mild, comforting classic, with its tomato base enriched with butter and cream, never fails to please.
Another must-try is the Prawn Mango. This curry shares the same mellow, creamy gravy as the butter chicken, enriched with succulent prawns and the fruity sweetness of mango.
While prawn curry is a familiar sight on many menus, the unique blend of prawns and mango is a hidden gem found only at Banana Leaf Apolo.
For those who always end up ordering the same Butter Chicken, this might just be the dish that wins you over.
Rice & Naan
No curry meal feels complete without rice and naan.
Ordering biryani or steamed rice comes with two complimentary curries on the side, ideal for mixing into the main curry to adjust the texture or heat as preferred.
The naan at Banana Leaf Apolo is soft, chewy, and perfectly fluffy — truly satisfying.
Once all the dishes arrive, simply serve everything on the banana leaf and enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Banana Leaf Apolo rivals Muthu’s Curry as one of the area’s most popular Indian restaurants.
Since both offer comparable prices and equally satisfying flavours, it can be hard to choose between them. Consider the following to help make the choice a little easier.
Banana Leaf Apolo
- Local, laid-back vibe
- Casual gatherings
- Shared tables
Muthu’s Curry
- More polished and refined setting
- Special occasions or business meals
- No shared tables
Banana Leaf Apolo
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