About
Welcome to The Banana Leaf Apolo, a beloved culinary gem in the heart of Little India, Singapore. Renowned for its vibrant ambiance and eclectic menu, this establishment has become a go-to destination for both locals and tourists seeking authentic South Indian cuisine.
Located at 54 Race Course Rd, Singapore 218564, The Banana Leaf Apolo stands out with its casual, yet lively atmosphere, making it perfect for groups and families. Here, you can indulge in delightful dishes while enjoying the hustle and bustle of the dining experience.
Many patrons rave about the generous portions and incredible taste, making it ideal for those looking to enjoy a rich tapestry of flavors with friends or family. As noted by one satisfied customer, the Tandoori Prawns were a highlight, complemented perfectly by mint sauce, while others praised the Chicken Masala for its comforting spices.
With a wide-ranging menu that combines both Indian and Singaporean flavors, The Banana Leaf Apolo is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary adventure. The service is prompt, the setting lively, and the food simply irresistible, drawing back visitors time and again. Whether you're savoring the Bhindi Masala or exploring the delights of the Malabar Chicken, you're sure to leave with a craving for more.
Come and experience the magic of The Banana Leaf Apolo—where tradition meets taste in every delightful bite!
For reservations or inquiries, feel free to contact them at +65 6293 8682.
“ good food and was able to hold a big party. a little loud but atmosphere was good. i've been here a few times already and i would recommend ”
“ Lots of food to choose from. Quite frankly, I had decided on a different restaurant for lunch, but they had a hand-written note up on the door that they were closed until 5 pm....so the Banana Leaf it was. We had the chicken tikka masala and the tandoori prawns. Paid extra for unlimited rice and veg (the veg was cabbage and some sort of zucchini or squash thing). All the food was quite good. Although I'd pass on the cabbage next time, since we were taking a flight later. Prawns were my favorite. They came with a small bowl of mint sauce (which of course goes with everything!) Tikka masala was spicy but not overly killing the tastebuds with heat. You get seated at a table inside (plenty of room), and already at the table is a basket of papadum. Mom was starving so those went quickly. With the food, rice, a glass of wine for her, and a Tiger beer for me, the total bill for lunch was $SGD90. Pricy compared to street food, but not at all pricy for sitting in air-con in a nice restaurant. This was definitely NOT the Banana Leaf restaurant, which was a tiny hole in the wall on a corner, I went to nearly 40 years ago. I'll just have to go back to Little India and explore the streets ”
“ This Banana leaf restaurant is an institution in Singapore. I used to eat there very often when I was a little girl with my family and I was so happy to go back again with my Mom after so long. I love the simple ambiance and fast service.The food is just delicious and of course their Fish Head Curry is a must order! It really is the best in town with a unique spicy taste and a perfect hint of subtile sourness. Another favorite is the Prawn Masala and the Bhindi Masala. And of course the Naan to be dipped in all these delicious sauces. There are many dishes to choose from so best to go in a group to be able to order a wide selection of dishes. ”
“ Great place in little India. The ambience and food was awesome. Had tandoori prawns, mutton sukka and mutton biryani. Great taste on all. Highly recommended ”
“ The specialty of Banana Leaf Apolo is fish head curry, a uniquely Singaporean dish made with South Indian spices, pineapple, tomato, and okra, but the star ingredient was the whole head of a red snapper! There was a surprising amount of meat in the boney head, which went perfectly with the spicy curry and vegetables. Each diner ate off a banana leaf (yes, this makes a difference for the flavor experience!), and on the side came a basket of papad crackers for crunch. We also ordered the freshly-baked Tandoori Roti and Ajwain Lachcha Paratha to eat with the curries, as well as the vegetables of the day (cabbage mixed with dal, spiced eggplant), both of which were flavorful and delicious. Overall, this was a great restaurant to experience the best of Singaporean and South Indian flavors! ”
“ Summary based on many dinners, most pre Covid and one "post" Covid. -Food good, but choose carefully. Best value can be something like fish curry or sambal fish instead of fish head curry, which is a pain to eat. Market price Sri Lankan crab is ok once with at least two people. Consider briyani rice with veg and naan + whatever protein. -service good -prices good. Credit cards accepted. -washrooms good -location good if you're staying nearby. Beware of at least one nearby place that has a similar name. ”
“ Team had outing farewell dinner for a coworker here, group of seven, and we were seated right after walked in. And one of teammates is super good at picking authentic dishes here, also those tastes approved by my Indian coworkers. The most interesting dish is the curry fish head. And spicy level is acceptable, mild to medium. The meat tasted juicy and flavorful, the nan very fresh and hot. The mango lassi is rich and good . Not too loud during our dinner there, even not too much smiles from the waiters, they were really responsive on requests. ”
“ Impressive. Yes, Anthony Bourdain's segment brought me here. Yes I half expected a tourist trap selling fish head curry but instead found an authentic Indian restaurant packed with locals. Bowls filled with spice laden curries and stews and the air, thick with aromatic spices. A frenetic energy throughout. Since 1974 Banana Leaf has been dishing out Indian favorites. The banana leaf is the "plate" and it is not uncommon for guest to dine entirely with their fingers (use your right hand ONLY) though a spoon and fork are provided for those uncomfortable or unable to finger their foods. Chicken Tikka, deeply marinated in kefir lime leaves, mint, cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, cardamom, ginger, and other spices is cooked in the tandoor until fall apart tender yet remaining wildly juicy (try that with a normal chicken breast). A side of herbaceous mint chutney only increases the flavor. Spicy, moist chunks of fish are cooked in blend of spices, so generous, the spices alone thicken the "sauce". The garam masala spice blends flavor is incrredible. A splash of fermented fish sauce adds complexity and depth. Need carbs? The Apolo Mutton Dum Biryani is outstanding. A signature dish, it features deeply flavored, turmeric supercharged basmati rice cooked with cubes of tender, not gamey mutton. Yogurt and a fiery fruit based chutney become it's perfect accompaniment. Finally the mops, tandoor roti (layered, denser, whole wheat bread) and naan (fluffy, leavened, toothsome refined flour bread), both cooked in the tandoor near perfect. An incredible mango lassi (more like pure mango puree with yogurt) extinguishes any heat and makes for a satisfying conclusion to the meal. Proud of one's fingering technique and properly full, a meal that leaves you satisfied and oddly ready to return to the sweltering Singaporean heat. ”
“ Situated in a place called Little , Indeed, this place is legit. Fish head curry is their specialty and they have the accolade to back it up. If you are intimidated , ask for fillet fish curry, they have it too. Of course they have the traditional chicken tandoori, masala, peppered chicken and other Indian cuisine.All are pleasing to the palate. The condiments and rice will be serve on a banana . A must try restaurant when in Singapore. ”