Komala Vilas Vegetarian Restaurant - Little India

When people talk of Indian food in Singapore, almost instantaneously the first words that pops into most peoples heads will be Komala Vilas. This hugely successful South Indian chain of restaurants was first conceptualized back in 1947, by Indian immigrant Mr. Rajoo. This outlet, on 76 Serangoon was his first Komala Vilas restaurant, and therefore it stands out as the most classic. However, over time Komala Vilas has opened up countless outlets throughout the island. Upon entering the eatery, it definitely does feel like stepping back in time somewhat, almost like visiting a living food museum, which is a unique experience.


Komala Vilas Vegetarian Restaurant
Location: 76 Serangoon Road
Contact: 62943294
Opening Hours: Mon–Sun: 7am – 10.30pm

If I was to describe my dream meal for Indian cuisine, then certainly a Masala Tea would be accompanying my food. The creaminess and wonderful flavours compliment Indian cuisine perfectly. Sticking with the classic Indian theme, I liked how this tea arrived in the tradition cup and saucer. The tea itself was creamy and not too sweet. The flavours of the spices used shimmered throughout the tea. A nice tea, but the best masala tea award still goes to Ananda Bhavan (Changi Aiport) for me. Other traditional Indian drinks, such as lassi are also available.

Price: $1.60. 7/10

A dish that is guaranteed to provide a shocked expression on an inexperienced Indian foodie is by ordering a Bhattura. This huge Indian bread best resembles an inflated puffer fish, with it being completely hollow on the inside. It is famed for having channa masala (chick pea curry) as its accompaniment. The downside of bhattura is that there will definitely be lots of oil on the bread. However, I found this particular dish very delicious, with the bhattura being light and not too weighed down with oil. This dish is best enjoyed using simply your hand and dipped into the curry. A welcome addition was the raw onion, which added another flavour and texture component to the dish.

Price: $4.20. 8/10

Perhaps the best value food in Komala Vilas can be found in the set meals. Here we have the Vegetable Briyani. I was pleasantly surprised upon arrival, when I saw a metal tray packed to the brim with various curries, breads, rice and yoghurt. In total there are eight main components - Yoghurt/curd, briyani rice, chapati, sambar, daal, vegetable kurma, poppadom, pickle and a dry vegetable dish. All of the aforementioned were cooked well, and to my delight, were not too salty or spicy. For those looking for an apt introduction to the cuisine at Komala Vilas, you can't go wrong with this set meal.

Price: $7.00. 8/10

For myself, the ideal way to summarize an Indian feast is with a extremely sweet and sinful Gulab Jamun. I always particularly appreciate consuming this high sugar dessert, mainly due to knowing how tricky it can be to perfect when making it. Although appearance wise it looks simple, a lot of skill is required to produce a successful gulab jamun. This particular dessert came with a delicious sweet rose syrup. The dough ball was perhaps a little too dense for my liking, but overall it satisfied my itch for something sinfully sweet.

Price: $1.20. 7/10

Conclusion - Often when restaurants become overwhelmingly popular, there is a tendency to see the standards ultimately drop. Thankfully, this outlet of Komala Vilas has stayed true to its roots, with the interior design and style of cooking remaining the same, even after 60 years. Those looking to experience Komala Vilas should definitely visit this outlet - Try to avoid the Komala fast food chains, which are dotted around Singapore, as these are a completely different owner and standards. The highlight of the meal was the bhattura, but everything ordered was delicious.

Overall Rating
Food - 7/10
Ambiance- 9/10
Service - 7/10
Value - 7/10