Singapore is a vibrant food paradise, and whether you're visiting for a few days or staying long-term, you're bound to be tempted by its delicious and diverse cuisine. However, if you're Indian and follow specific dietary preferences be it vegetarian, Jain, or Halal .it’s important to navigate the food scene mindfully. GENERAL DOS
1. Explore Indian Food Hubs
Little India (especially Tekka Centre & Mustafa Centre) is your go-to zone for authentic Indian food.
Must-visit restaurants include:
Komala Vilas (pure veg)
Zam Zam Restaurant (Halal Indian Muslim) Gokul Vegetarian (vegetarian + Jain-friendly)
2. Use Food Apps Wisely
Use Grab Food, Food panda, or Deliveroo to filter by cuisine type (Vegetarian, Indian, Halal). 3. Try Indian-Inspired Local Dishes
Try Roti Prata, Mee Goreng, Fish Head Curry, and Teh Tarik—but always double-check ingredients. 4. Request “No Pork, No Lard”
Particularly useful at Chinese or mixed stalls; just say: “No pork, no lard, please.” 5. Shop Smart for Groceries
Mustafa Centre (open 24/7) is a heaven for Indian ingredients.
FairPrice, Sheng Siong, and Cold Storage also stock Indian essentials like masalas, lentils, atta, and ghee.
GENERAL DON’Ts
1. Don’t Assume “Vegetarian” Means No Onion/Egg
Always ask if you're following Jain or strict vegetarian diets.
2. Avoid Dishes Without Checking Ingredients
Watch for fish sauce, oyster sauce, or shrimp paste in seemingly veg dishes.
3. Don’t Expect Indian-Level Spice
Request extra chili or sambal if you like your food hot.
4. Be Careful with Hidden Alcohol
Some Chinese dishes may contain cooking wine—ask to confirm.
For Pure Vegetarians / Jains
Recommended Restaurants
Komala Vilas, Murugan Idli Shop, Gokul Vegetarian, Annalakshmi, and Buddhist “Zhai” eateries.
Avoid
Chinese vegetarian stalls using mock meat with hidden animal-based sauces.
Pro Tip:
Use the HappyCow app to find Jain/pure veg food nearby.
For Indian Muslims / Halal Food Seekers
Halal-Friendly Spots
Check out Zam Zam, Islamic Restaurant, Bismillah Biryani, and Hajah Maimunah.Many fast food chains are Halal-certified.
Don’t Assume Indian = Halal
Always look for the green Halal certification logo from MUIS.
Hawker Centres: Local + Budget-Friendly
Go-To Centres
Tekka Centre – Indian, veg, Halal options.
Maxwell Food Centre, Lau Pa Sat, and Adam Road Food Centre also have Indian and vegetarian stalls.
Etiquette
Return trays, clean your table, and note that some stalls only take cash or local e-payments.
Singapore’s food culture is incredibly rich and diverse there’s truly something for everyone. As an Indian visitor or resident, you'll find plenty of options that suit your dietary needs, whether you're vegetarian, Jain, or Halal. All it takes is a little awareness, a willingness to ask questions, and an appetite for delicious experiences.
