Samy's Curry Restaurant
1 / 10

Samy's Curry Restaurant

4.6
·491k reviews·,

A beloved family-run institution serving authentic South Indian cuisine, famous for its fish head curry and traditional banana leaf dining.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
Samy's Curry Restaurant

Samy's Curry Restaurant

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beloved family-run institution serving authentic South Indian cuisine, famous for its fish head curry and traditional banana leaf dining.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Samy's Curry is a true Singaporean icon – and it never disappoints."

TIP

Make a Reservation

High demand means reservations are recommended to secure your table, especially during peak times.

Embrace Outdoor Seating

Opt for outdoor seating for a unique dining experience amidst lush greenery.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Closed·Opens 6PM

Cuisine

South Indian

Price

Mid-range

Phone

+65 6472 2080

Address

25 Dempsey Rd, Singapore 249670

Insta-Factor

Medium

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Fish Head Curry

Iconic Fish Head Curry

A bold, tangy, and flavorful fish head curry that's a must-try, served traditionally on a banana leaf.

What to eat and drink in Singapore30 best restaurants in Singapore you need to cross off your listThe Best Indian Restaurants in Singapore, According to Local Chefs+3
Authentic Banana Leaf Dining

Authentic Banana Leaf Dining

Experience traditional South Indian cuisine served on banana leaves for an authentic and appetizing meal.

Singapore Indian Restaurants: 10Best Restaurant ReviewsGoogle Review+1
Flavorful Indian Specialties

Flavorful Indian Specialties

From masala chicken and mutton mysore to chicken ghee roast, savor a range of dishes bursting with spice.

The 11 Best Indian Restaurants In Singapore For Hearty Indian MealsBEST INDIAN RESTAURANTS IN SINGAPORE 2025Google Review+1
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Make a Reservation

High demand means reservations are recommended to secure your table, especially during peak times.

Embrace Outdoor Seating

Opt for outdoor seating for a unique dining experience amidst lush greenery.

Try Signature Dishes

Don't miss the fish head curry, masala chicken, and mutton mysore – all bursting with authentic flavor.

Free-Flow Rice & Sides

Enjoy free-flow rice, potatoes, and papadum with your meal for added value.

Tips

from all over the internet

Make a Reservation

High demand means reservations are recommended to secure your table, especially during peak times.

Embrace Outdoor Seating

Opt for outdoor seating for a unique dining experience amidst lush greenery.

Try Signature Dishes

Don't miss the fish head curry, masala chicken, and mutton mysore – all bursting with authentic flavor.

Free-Flow Rice & Sides

Enjoy free-flow rice, potatoes, and papadum with your meal for added value.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Samy's Curry is celebrated as a Singaporean icon for its authentic South Indian flavors, especially the renowned fish head curry and the unique banana leaf dining experience. While many praise the delicious food, generous portions, and friendly service, some reviews note a slight decline in standards and occasional issues with food freshness or service attentiveness. Nevertheless, its long-standing tradition and vibrant atmosphere continue to draw crowds seeking hearty, traditional Indian meals.

"Samy’s Curry is a true Singaporean icon — and it never disappoints. Nestled in the lush Dempsey enclave, this no-frills spot serves up some of the best South Indian food in town. The fish head curry is the undisputed star — bold, tangy, and brimming with flavour. The masala chicken and mutton mysore are also must-tries, each dish bursting with spice and character. Beyond the incredible food, the staff are warm, attentive, and genuinely hospitable — always ready with a smile and quick to make you feel at home. The banana leaf setup, the generous portions, and the relaxed, canteen-style vibe make it a one-of-a-kind experience. Samy’s isn’t just a meal — it’s a tradition. Highly recommended!"

Joydeep Choudhury

"Very satisfying meal! Rice is served in the banana leaves which makes it even more appetising n taste nicer! The tandoori chicken is a must order fish! So tender! The fish head curry. The fish is very fresh n there is a lot of meat even for the small portion! The beverage is on the higher price other than that it’s super value for money!"

Yvonne Lim

"Best South Indian food in Singapore. I frequent here almost every month and it never disappoints. The staff are friendly, the food is worth the travel to Dempsey, and they are very generous with their portions. A must visit."

A'bidah Shirbeeni

What People Like

Iconic fish head curry
Authentic banana leaf dining
Generous portions and value

What People Dislike

Occasional decline in standards
Inconsistent service attentiveness

Frequently Asked Questions

Samy's Curry is most famous for its authentic South Indian cuisine, particularly its signature Fish Head Curry, served traditionally on banana leaves.

30 best restaurants in Singapore you need to cross off your listGoogle Review

Yes, it is highly recommended to make a reservation, especially during peak hours or public holidays, due to the restaurant's popularity.

The 11 Best Indian Restaurants In Singapore For Hearty Indian Meals

The dining experience is casual and traditional, with meals served on banana leaves. It's a lively, no-frills atmosphere.

30 Best Restaurants in Singapore, According to a LocalGoogle Review

Yes, the restaurant offers vegetarian and vegan options, and is recognized for accommodating these dietary needs.

The Best Indian Restaurants In Singapore

Other popular dishes include Masala Chicken, Mutton Mysore, Chicken Ghee Roast, and crispy fried cauliflower.

The 11 Best Indian Restaurants In Singapore For Hearty Indian MealsBEST INDIAN RESTAURANTS IN SINGAPORE 2025Google Review+1

Many diners enjoy eating with their hands, as is traditional for South Indian cuisine served on banana leaves.

30 Best Restaurants in Singapore, According to a LocalSingapore Indian Restaurants: 10Best Restaurant Reviews

Yes, there is plenty of free parking available, making it a convenient spot for a meal.

Google Review

Mentioned in

Featured in these publications

Condé Nast Traveler

30 Best Restaurants in Singapore, According to a Local

Samy's is set in a charming old open-air hall with fans whirring madly overhead. There's also an alfresco area overlooking lush Dempsey Hill. This is a boisterous, sweaty, eat-with-your-hands kind of place, and people from all walks of life stream in throughout the day—working types in their corporate shirts and ties, locals and expats dressed comfortably, and curious, food-loving tourists.

Visit Source →
Lonely Planet

What to eat and drink in Singapore

Where to try it: Samy’s Curry on Dempsey Hill is a long-standing establishment where you can eat South Indian food on banana leaves; their fish head curry is thicker and typical of South Indian food. Na Na Curry, run by a Peranakan family, has several outlets and curry options, and their sourish Asam-style fish head curry is their bestseller.

Visit Source →
The Culture Trip

The Best Indian Restaurants In Singapore

Restaurant, Indian, Asian, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free, Fast Food. Samy’s Curry Restaurant began as a cure for Indians’ homesickness after settling down in Singapore. Founded in the 1950s, this restaurant is a family run business that has been passed from generation to generation.

Visit Source →
MoneyHero Group

The 11 Best Indian Restaurants In Singapore For Hearty Indian Meals

This family-run restaurant was founded in the 1960s and enjoys a loyal fanbase that vehemently attests to its menu. A long-time stalwart of the Dempsey area, customers keep going back for popular dishes such as masala chicken, fish head curry and Mysore mutton – all still cooked using recipes painstakingly created by its founder. Hearty fare that’s stood the test of time, you can’t go wrong with Samy’s Curry if you’re seeking comfort food and a place to share one or several dishes with family and friends!

Visit Source →
USA TODAY 10Best

Singapore Indian Restaurants: 10Best Restaurant Reviews

Samy's is something of an institution in Singapore, having been dishing up cheap Indian cuisine in informal surroundings since the 1950s, making it one of Singapore's oldest Indian restaurants. The large mess-like brightly-lit hall sees groups of friends tucking into Signature dishes such as Masala Chicken, Mysore Mutton, Fish Cutlet and Masala Prawns. Whichever dish you choose, it will be unceremoniously sploshed onto your banana leaf along with as much rice, dahl and vegetable curry as you can manage.

Visit Source →
The Asia Collective

BEST INDIAN RESTAURANTS IN SINGAPORE 2025

Instagram: @samyscurrysgAddress: 25 Dempsey Rd, Singapore 249670. From its humble beginnings, Samy’s Curry has grown to become a beloved and award winning Singaporean landmark, famed for delicious food and friendly service. Customers come from across the island to enjoy the lush Dempsey Road setting and sumptuous dishes, especially the legendary Masala Chicken, Fish Head Curry, Fish Cutlet and Mysore Mutton made from secret recipes consisting of different blend of spices.

Visit Source →
Vanilla Luxury

Best Indian Restaurants in Singapore

Stepping into Samy's Curry Restaurant is like stepping into a time machine, taking you back to the heart of traditional Singaporean cuisine. Founded by the excellent chef Mr. M. Veerasamy in the 1960s, Samy's Curry Restaurant remains a cherished family-run institution to this day. This beloved and award-winning Singaporean landmark beckons diners from across the island with its charming Dempsey Road location and a reputation for mouthwatering dishes and warm hospitality.

Visit Source →

Enjoy Singapore in 7 days

From chilli crab at JUMBO Seafood, prettily-plated Modern European delights at The White Rabbit, or fiery Indian fare at Samy’s Curry—the options are endless at this charming lifestyle destination. Once you’re done with dinner, don’t leave just yet. Dempsey’s also known for its cluster of drinking spots—RedDot BrewHouse is perfect for craft beer lovers, and The Rabbit Hole at The White Rabbit offers a curated selection of refreshing gins mixed with their very own tonic.

Visit Source →
SETHLUI.com

30 best restaurants in Singapore you need to cross off your list

Situated at Dempsey Road, Samy’s Curry is the oldest and most authentic South Indian restaurant specialising in its signature Fish Head Curry and other Indian dishes that are undiluted and original to its taste for the past 50 years. No visit to Samy’s Curry is complete without ordering Samy’s Fish Head Curry (S$25 for small, S$30 for medium, S$35 for large). Just note that the small option is good enough for two persons, and is perfect for sharing!

Visit Source →
Tatler Asia

The Best Indian Restaurants in Singapore, According to Local Chefs

Chef Vijay Shanmugam was working at Waldorf Astoria Maldives for three years before returning to Singapore to helm the kitchens of the new Hilton Singapore Orchard. On his days off, Shanmugam likes to go to Samy’s Curry at Dempsey, an iconic spot for fish head curry and vegetarian accompaniments served on banana leaves. Shanmugam says, “I usually order masala chicken, Mysore mutton and cabbage with yellow dhal.

Visit Source →
Urban Journey

An Ultimate Sunday Night Dining And Restaurants Guide Singapore

Fish head curry is a Singapore fave, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a better version than at Samy’s Curry. Just the fact that the restaurant has been around since the 60s should tell you something right there. Order up some basmati rice on a banana leaf and then opt for a small, medium or large pot of fish head curry served with a fresh snapper head swimming in a beautiful sauce laden with big bold spices.

Visit Source →
Pelago

The 25 Best Indian Restaurants in Singapore for a Flavourful Fiesta

Samy’s Curry accommodates 300 people and has a spacious and inviting atmosphere with plenty of natural light. The restaurant has played a significant role in popularising the iconic dish known as fish head curry. While they may not have invented the dish, their culinary expertise and unique preparation methods have supercharged its popularity among locals and visitors alike.

Visit Source →
ANZA

Where to find the best Indian restaurants in Singapore

If you are new to Singapore then you may not be familiar with Samy’s. This eaterie in Dempsey Hill is a true Singapore stalwart, having been serving up spectacular home-cooked Indian fare since the 1950s. Be prepared for an authentic experience where your food is placed not on a plate, but a banana leaf, and you have the option of scooping the fare up with your hand.

Visit Source →
Urban Lens - Singapore Premier Business Directory

Best Lunch Places Singapore: Top Picks for 2023

Samy’s Curry Restaurant has been a beloved institution since the 1950s, offering a true taste of South India. Located at 25 Dempsey Rd, this restaurant is housed in a heritage military barracks, adding a unique charm to the dining experience. Known for its family-style meals and bold flavors, it’s a must-visit for anyone craving authentic South Indian cuisine.

Visit Source →
Akasa

Top 12 Indian Vegetarian Restaurants in Singapore: A Culinary Guide

Samy’s Curry offers a mix of traditional and vegetarian curries served with fluffy rice, making it a popular destination in the Dempsey Hill area. Comfort South Indian curries: Flavorful vegetarian options like sambar, dal, and mixed vegetable curry. With its cozy ambiance and delicious food, Samy’s Curry is perfect for relaxed, family-friendly dining.

Visit Source →
World of Mouth

The 18 Best Seafood Restaurants in Singapore

Samy’s Curry Restaurant is a family-run spot that started in the 1960s and is recognized as one of the best Indian restaurants in Singapore. Located in the Dempsey Hills area, it offers a relaxed setting that appeals to both locals and visitors. Its long history and convenient location make it a comfortable place to enjoy a casual meal.

Visit Source →
thesqua.re

11 Best Indian Vegetarian Restaurants in Singapore

Samy’s Curry Restaurant in Singapore (image courtesy: Mustsharenews.com). Samy’s Curry Restaurant is a family-operated restaurant that started back in the 1960s and has a loyal following throughout Singapore in the Dempsey locality. Customers keep coming back for both sumptuous non-vegetarian and vegetarian dishes alike.

Visit Source →
Dimaak

15 Best Indian Restaurants In Singapore - Savor the Flavors

Taking a step inside this Indian restaurant in Singapore, you will feel as if you entered a restaurant in India. The ambience of Samy’s Curry restaurant reminds you of India with its Canteen-style atmosphere. It has been a family-run restaurant for many decades, focusing on serving the best Indian cuisine.

Visit Source →
Eatbook.sg - Local Singapore Food Guide And Review Site

15 Best Indian Restaurants In Singapore

Next on the list is Samy’s Curry, a longstanding and famous Indian restaurant in Singapore. They’ve been around for more than 60 years, and were one of the first few restaurants in Dempsey Hill. They specialise in South Indian cuisine, which is characterised by the use of tamarind, coconut milk, and rice.

Visit Source →
Adtocart

10 Best Indian Restaurants in Singapore for Every Foodie

Samy’s Curry is a South Indian restaurant that has been family-run for seven decades and defines itself by its longevity. Located in the lush, green surroundings of Dempsey Hill, the restaurant offers a unique dining experience that combines traditional flavors with a serene outdoor setting.

Visit Source →
FunEmpire

78 Best Indian Restaurants In Singapore [2022]

Samy's Curry was founded by the excellent chef Mr. M. Veerasamy in the 1960s, and it is still run by his family to this day. Mr. M. Veerasamy was born in Tamil Nadu, India. He arrived in Singapore to work as a cook for a group of Indian merchants who came to do business in Singapore.

Visit Source →
bestinsingapore

The Best Casual Restaurants in Singapore

Located in the serene neighborhood of Dempsey Hill, Samy’s Curry Restaurant is a must-visit for curry lovers. This dining spot specializes in South Indian cuisine, but there are also North Indian dishes available here. You can’t go wrong with the butter chicken paired with naan.

Visit Source →
SquareMeal

Six brilliant cheap eats in Singapore

Why go: This old-school Indian canteen in lush Dempsey Hill is a dining institution. It’s been doling out curries and dahls to locals since the 1950s and still sticks to tradition. Rice and curries are served tableside by friendly staff who spoon them out on banana leaves.

Visit Source →
Honeycombers

31 Best Indian Restaurants In Singapore For Fiery Feasts

Head to this family-run restaurant for a no-frills yet satisfying meal. Since the 1950s, customers have been flocking here for its legendary fish head curry served with a basket of pappadums. Spicy with a hint of sweetness, it’s a bubbling pot best enjoyed with some rice.

Visit Source →
Glitz Singapore

21 Best Indian Restaurants That Are Highly Rated By Singaporeans

Established by Mr. M. Veerasamy, Samy’s Curry is one of the go-to Indian restaurants in Singapore. They are known for their authentic cuisine and high-quality service. They were also awarded several awards and accolades including from Tripadvisor.

Visit Source →
Le Petit Chef | Blog

14 of the best restaurants in Singapore

The restaurant has existed since the 1960s and serves authentic Northern and Southern Indian cuisine. It needs to be enjoyed the traditional way!. Masala Chicken, Fish Head Curry and Mysore Mutton is what Sam’s is famous for.

Visit Source →
The Finder

10 Spots For The BEST Biryani In Singapore

Located in the lush, tranquil surroundings of Depmsey Hill, Samy’s Curry is an extremely popular Indian restaurant but ordering a biryani here is a little different from some of the other Biryani joints.

Visit Source →
chope.co

This family-run fixture has been serving mouth-watering Indian dishes since the 60s, and now holds a permanent position as Singapore's go-to Masala Chicken and Mysore Mutton spot.

Visit Source →
Explore Singapore

10 Awesome Indian Restaurants in Singapore

Signature dishes: Chicken Tikka, Curry Mutton, Fish Cutlet, Butter Chicken, Masala Chicken, Fish Head Curry, Mysore Mutton. Price for Two: 40 SD. Phone no.: +65 6472 2080

Visit Source →
Tropika Club Magazine

Top 25 Best Indian Restaurants in Singapore

Samy’s Curry was founded by the excellent chef Mr. M. Veerasamy back in the 1960’s and the restaurant remains a family run establishment to this day.Mr.

Visit Source →
futr singapore

5 makan places for vegetarians AND carnivores.

Visit Source →