Malaysia
Singapore
Thailand
Call it Diwali or Deepavali but the celebration known the world over as the Festival of Lights is a billion reasons to come together with friends and family. Mythologically and allegorically the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness, Diwali is enjoyed with colour, music and, last but certainly not least, glorious, glorious food!
Local Deepavali celebrations have become bigger and more creative over the years. I remember that a Diwali dinner out when I was a kid would be delicious but rather predictable. Today, Indian cuisine has matured and become more creative as younger chefs take bold steps while retaining precious essential traditions.
With Diwali just around the corner (18-23 Oct 2025), here are 10 Deepavali restaurants that exemplify the best of Indian cuisine to illuminate your life through your palate.
1. SanSara
One of the most highly-regarded local Indian restaurants, SanSara is located by the Singapore River at Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Singapore. Its authentic Northern Indian Awadhi fare is a culinary journey through Benares (Varanasi), Kashmir, Lucknow and Punjab.
Diwali is the time for new beginnings and SanSara graces the auspicious celebration with its all-new Diwali Thalis, available from 18 to 23 Oct 2025 and priced at S$88++ per person.
Traditionalists will love the flavour and finesse of the Vegetarian Thali. Creamy Malai Broccoli oven-roasted with nutmeg garam masala oozes a heavenly aroma and regales the tastebuds, too. The vibrant, silky Paneer Rogan Josh is just the perfect firmness to accompany rice. Less well-known but no less wonderful is their Aaloo bukhaara Hara Matar Guller green cakes with spiced prunes.
In the Non-Vegetarian Thali, the Punjabi Murgh Tikka takes centre stage, paired perfectly with raw mango coriander chutney. Pan-fried Hokkaido scallops are a surprisingly tasty addition in the Jal Tarang while the Rajasthani tomato-onion gravy breathes delicious life into the Laal Maas lamb shank.
Both thalis come to a golden end with the exquisite Kesari Rasmalai for dessert.
It doesn’t have to be the end of sweetness, though — take home SanSara’s Mithai Gift Box for an even more decadent celebration. Order by 10 Oct to enjoy a special price of S$78.40+ (U.P.: S$98). Now is the perfect time to become a MyMillennium member and snag this stunning box at just S$73.50+.
From 1 Oct, SanSara introduces their Tiffin Lunch Set (S$48++ for 1) with the Tiffin Dinner Set (S$88++ for 2) arriving on 2 Dec. Inspired by the ubiquitous tiffins of the Indian diaspora, they consist of a chaat appetiser, curry of the day with naan or rice, a side of seasonal vegetables or meat, and traditional Indian sweets for dessert.
392 Havelock Road, Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Singapore, Singapore 169663
+65 8168 1563 / +65 6233 1338
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 3pm & 6pm – 10pm
Closed on Mon
Facebook | Instagram | Website
2. Shahi Maharani
Shahi Maharani has crafted a tantalising weeklong celebration of food and drink in the leadup to Diwali 2025. Running from 13 – 20 Oct 2025, the Gastronomic Week Lunch Buffet brings together the best of fine Indian vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisine, from the humble but irresistible chaats to the rich, hearty curries and to the treasure that are Indian mithais.
The Weekday Lunch Buffet (Mon to Fri) rewards diners with specialities such as Hare Muttar ki Kebab, Gilafi Seekh Kebabs, Tandoori Paneer, Shahi’s Signature Butter Chicken and Jheenga (prawn) Curry.
Come by for the Weekend Lunch Buffet (Sat & Sun) for an even grander feast as the live chaat corner fires up to dole out delicious Paani Puri and Papadi Chaat. Indulge in your fill of smoky Tandoori Kebabs, Achari Paneer Tikka and Kasundi Fish Tikka.
The celebrations reach a crescendo on the evening of 20 Oct 2025 with the Shahi Maharani Diwali Day Celebration Dinner. This lavish buffet feast is the culmination of months of preparation and brings together the delectable flavours, aromas and culinary skills that have defined Indian cooking for centuries.
Live stations conjure up scenes from the streets of India with the Paani Puri and Sev Puri chaat stations. Your ears will be regaled by the sizzle of Achari Chicken Tikka and Galouti Kebab as the aromas serenade your sense of smell.
Evergreen vegetarian favourites such as Paneer Stuffed Spinach Kofta, Dum Aloo and Dhal Maharani are made to be enjoyed with the fragrant Dum Vegetable Biryani and fluffy freshly baked naan. The less traditional crowd can savour Rajasthani Laal Maas, Chicken Chettinad and Malabari Fish Curry.
It’s not an Indian celebration without sweets and Shahi Maharani does not disappoint with decadently crispy jalebis, creamy kulfi pops, succulent gulab jamun, assorted mithais and the iconic Mitha Paan.
- The Special Diwali Week Lunch Buffet is available from 13 – 17 Oct 2025 (Mon to Fri) at S$48++ per adult and S$32++ per child.
- The Weekend Celebration Lunch Buffet is available from 18 – 20 Oct 2025 (Sat to Mon) at S$58++ per adult and S$40++ per child.
- The ultimate Grand Diwali Celebration Dinner is available on Diwali Day, 20 Oct 2025 (Mon) at S$88++ per adult and S$58++ per child.
Kids below 7 dine free. Child rates apply to those between ages 7 and 12 inclusive, and kids above 12 will be charged at the adult rate.
You can purchase their Royal Diwali Mithai range here.
252 North Bridge Road, Raffles City Shopping Centre, #03–21B, Singapore 179103
+65 6235 8840
Daily: 12pm – 3pm & 6.30pm – 11pm
Facebook | Instagram | Website
3. Royal Taj
Royal Taj enjoys pride of place as the best Indian restaurant on Sentosa. Its location in the pure white colonial heritage Mess Hall of Village Hotel sets the perfect mood for celebrations. I have always enjoyed their celebration of authentic Indian cuisine tempered by the creativity to employ modern techniques and global ingredients.
For Diwali, Royal Taj has created both a Vegetarian Menu and a Non-Vegetarian menu, each priced at S$50.90++ for lunch, S$60.90++ for dinner and S$28.90++ for kids.
Both start with the evergreen Indian favourite of paani puri. Paani Puri Shots are crisp puffed spheres served with spicy mashed potato and tangy flavoured water. A popular street food classic reimagined (and our favourite), Chowpaity Ki Chaat Crispy Beetroot Chaat follows, balancing sweet and spicy flavours on fried beetroot slices.
The Vegetarian Menu offers a Tandoor Se choice between Peri Peri Paneer Tikka and Rajma Ki Galouti. You then segue into the main course with Paneer Khurchan and Corn Mushroom Hara Pyaaz accompanied by Royal Taj Dal Makhani. The Royal Taj Dal Makhni complements ther Mix Vegetable Pulao, Tandoori Butter and Garlic Naan and Raita/Kachumbar Salad. Dessert is Motichur Rabdi Parfait, a rich and creamy Indian fusion creation.
The Non-Vegetarian Menu mirrors this structure. For the Tandoor Se portion, Afghani Chicken Tikka replaces the paneer as the first option. It features tender chicken marinated in cream, yogurt and cashew paste, then chargrilled to perfection. Gosht Silbatte Kebab replaces the rajma with a dumpling of minced lamb and chickpea flour, serenely dressed in aromatic spices. The main course Rara Chicken combines chicken chunks and mince cooked with rich Indian spices, while Tawa Prawn Masala adds a tangy prawn curry. The Dal Makhani and Motichur Rabdi Parfait dessert remain the same.
Both menus are thoughtfully curated, delivering shared highlights while rewarding dietary preferences with delicious alternatives. We found the spread to be indulgently balanced and perhaps even worth returning for.
2 Gunner Lane, Sentosa Island, Mess Hall Block 16, 02-06, Singapore 099959
+65 9118 5896
Mon & Tue: 12pm – 3pm & 6pm – 10.30pm
Wed to Sun: 12pm – 3pm & 7pm – 10.30pm
Facebook | Instagram | Website
4. Ammakase
Freshly Michelin Selected in 2025, Ammakase has been turning heads and rewarding palates with recipes from India’s coastal towns since the start of last year. Their menu features vegetarian options and also does not include any beef.
They have not created a special Diwali menu… because menus are simply not in their ethos. Instead, Ammakase has sets and the chef uses his skill and flair to personalise each one every time you sit at the table.
An introduction is the 6-course Executive Odyssey (from S$79++) that consists of a Welcome Bite, Starter, Entree, Main Course, Dessert and Petit Fours. The 8-course Indulgence Odyssey (from S$139++) adds an Appetiser and Signature Dish.
The ultimate experience is the 10-course Experiential Odyssey (from S$199++) with 2 Starters and 2 Entrees.
One Raffles Place, #04-48, Singapore 048616
+65 8898 5275
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 3pm & 6pm – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 3pm & 6pm – 11pm
Sun: 11am – 3pm
Facebook | Instagram | Website
5. Amrith by The Song Of India
Amrith carries the Song of India torch bright with the unveiling of its Diwali menu. I’ve found that the clean, minimalist lines and monochrome-heavy colour palette of this restaurant’s decor give it an especially classy air, perfecting for hosting and special celebrations.
Their Diwali menu is a vibrant celebration of traditional Indian flavours elevated with contemporary finesse. The Jaipuri Tikki (S$12) sets the tone with spiced vegetable patties wrapped in crisp Rajasthani papad, fried to a golden crunch, offering an immediate burst of texture and taste.
The Murg Hariyali Chutney Kebab (S$14) elevates classic tandoori chicken with a fresh mint and coriander marinade. Sow-roasted over charcoal, it is succulent, smoky perfection.
For mains, vegetarian diners are spoiled with the Navaratan Subz Korma (S$14), a regal combination of garden-fresh vegetables and nuts simmered in a creamy cashew-saffron gravy that exudes both richness and depth. Meat lovers can indulge in the Shahi Mutton Korma (S$18), where tender mutton cubes luxuriate in a velvety blend of caramelised onions, cashews and cream.
Dessert is a classic showstopper: Malpua with Saffron Rabdi (S$8). The crisp, golden malpuas soaked in fragrant saffron-infused rabdi deliver a sweet, decadent finale, perfectly rounding off a menu designed to capture the spirit of Diwali.
Each dish balances authentic Indian flavour with festive indulgence, making Amrith’s Diwali menu a compelling option for your celebrations.
38A Race Course Road, Singapore 218555
+65 9730 9725
Sat to Thu: 11.30am – 11pm
Fri: 11.30am – 11.30pm
Facebook | Instagram
6. Rang Mahal
For over half a century, Rang Mahal has been serenading Singapore with the very best of Indian gastronomy. Its warm, welcoming ambience is one of the main reasons I enjoy dining here, but the service and food are where the restaurant truly shines.
This festive season, Rang Mahal has curated a 7-course Diwali Feast (S$138++) that perfectly balances tradition and indulgence. It is available in both Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian versions.
The meal begins with Sevpuri and Broccoli Soup, with the former an especially good rendition of the Indian street food classic. On the Vegetarian menu, Maa’s Chilli Cheese Pakora follows alongside the Lamb Seekh Kebab of the Non-Veg menu.
The main courses impress, too. An evergreen favourite of mine at Rang Mahal, the Old Delhi Paneer Makhani of creamy paneer cubes in a rich, spiced tomato gravy captures the essence of North Indian cuisine. Complementing this is Rajasthani Palak, where pureed baby spinach is brought to life with sauteed garlic.
Meanwhile, Konkan Fish Curry brings coastal India to the table, with sea bass fillet in a Maharashtrian kokum base with Konkani masala and coconut. Butter Chicken, marinated in traditional spices and tandoor-roasted to smoky perfection, delivers a satisfying depth of taste.
Artisanal Lachha Paratha and Naan, along with Hyderabadi Vegetarian Briyani follow.
Dessert is no less festive, with 3 separate delights. Traditionalists will appreciate the Saffron Rasmalai, while the Blueberry Chocolate Cake with Coconut Cream will appeal to contemporary palates. Lychee Kulfi, pleases everyone as a refreshing conclusion that embodies the spirit of Diwali: rich, aromatic and joyously indulgent.
Rang Mahal’s Diwali Mithai gift sets are a perennial favourite. Their 2025 Diwali Artisanal Gift Box is a curated collection of handcrafted sweets, savouries and teas to celebrate the Festival of Lights with meaningful elegance. It features delights such as Millet Almond Cookies, Cashew Brittle Brownies and Kashmiri Kahwa.
10% of profits will be donated to the Breast Cancer Foundation, making this an especially meaningful choice for Diwali.
41 Seah Street, Naumi Hotel Singapore, Level 1, Singapore 188396
+65 9667 4244
Tue, Wed, Fri & Sun: 12pm – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10pm
Thu: 9am – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10pm
Sat: 6pm – 10pm
Closed on Mon
Facebook | Instagram | Website
10 best Indian restaurants in Singapore to add spice to your life
7. Revolver
Revolver Singapore offers an avant-garde Indian dining experience. The Caviar Coin Paratha (S$28++) presents a fusion of N25 caviar atop a traditional paratha. The Burrata Tartlet (S$26++) combines burrata with tomatoes and yuzu kosho, delivering a creamy and tangy starter. For a unique twist, the AvoMame Gem (S$28++) features avocado and edamame, offering a fresh and vibrant flavour profile.
In the ‘Small Bullets’ section, the Maitake Mushroom (S$26++) is prepared with a Nihari reduction, bringing earthy flavours to the forefront. The Chettinad Pulled Duck (S$28++) showcases tender duck in a spiced Chettinad sauce, highlighting bold and aromatic spices. The Wagyu Scotch Egg (S$28++) is a luxurious take on the classic, featuring wagyu beef and a soft-boiled egg. The Cheese Kulchette (S$20++) offers a comforting bite with its cheesy filling encased in a kulcha.
For mains, the Rock Lobster Manchurian (S$99++) offers a seafood twist on a traditional favourite. Vegetarians can indulge in the Butter Chicken Kulchette (S$20++), a rich and flavourful option. To conclude, the Textures of Alphonso (S$28++) provides a sweet and refreshing end to the meal, showcasing the iconic mango in various forms.
View their menus here.
Order their Diwali Gourmet Treats here.
56 Tras Street, Singapore 078995
+65 6223 2812
Tue to Sat: 11.45am – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10.30pm
Sun: 6pm – 10.30pm
Closed on Mon
Facebook | Instagram | Website
8. Gabbar
“For the love of Bollywood!” proclaims the Gabbar website and, if you have visited this Clarke Quay stalwart, you’ll know that they personify those words. This fun, energetic venue is known for great music featuring the best of Bollywood, and have also started featuring talented performers live.
They have different indoor and outdoor menus, but not a special Diwali one this year. However, you can get together for a lively musical get-together with your best and closest featuring Gabbar’s bar bites favourites.
We have always enjoyed their Gobi Manchurian (S$15) and Chilli Paneer (S$16) on the Outdoor Menu. If you want a bit of fusion, the Cheese Naan Bombs (S$16) and Paneer Nachos (S$18) are the way to go.
Indoors, it’s more of a sit-down affair with delectable choices like Amritsari Chole Kulcha (S$28) and Malai Paneer (S$22), and the very unique Dal Burrata (S$26).
3E River Valley Road, Clarke Quay, #01-05/06, Singapore 179024
+65 8755 5597
Mon to Fri : 12pm – 3pm (Lunch)
Sat & Sun : 11:30am – 3pm (Brunch)
Sun to Tue: 5pm – 12am (Dinner)
Wed: 5pm – 2am (Dinner)
Fri & Sat: 5pm – 3am (Dinner)
Facebook | Instagram | Website
9. Kailash Parbat
Founded in the 1940s, Kailash Parbat is one of the oldest Indian restaurant brands in Singapore. It is also completely vegetarian, making it the perfect option if you are observing Diwali. For a restaurant that does not serve any meat at all, the food is almost unbelievably good.
Crowd street food favourites such as Samosa Chaat (S$10) and Pani Puri (S$8) are always on the menu and the perfectly picturesque start to your Indian meal. Their signature dishes of Pav Bhaji (S$11), Veg Palak Biryani (S$15) and KP Kebab Platter (S$16) are highly sought after, too.
Not one to dispense with history easily, Kailash Parbat stills serves many dishes that were first introduced to the menu in 1952. That includes their Bhatura Platter (S$22), Chole Bhature (S$12.50) and Ragda Pattice (S$10). Kailash Parbat’s bento box options range from S$14++ to S$17++.
This year, Kailash Parbat ups the ante by offering a variety of traditional Indian sweets, including dry fruit sweets, mawa sweets, house special sweets, and special dry fruit selections. You’ll find delightful options including Kaju Katli, Chocolate Barfi, Kaju Roll, Kesar Peda and even Sugar-Free options for those watching their sugar intake.
Check out their Diwali sweets here.
For a full list of locations, contact numbers and opening hours, refer here.
Facebook | Instagram | Website
10. Samy’s Curry
There are not very many eating establishments of any kind in Singapore that can match the over half-century of heritage that Samy’s Curry boasts. Despite a series of refurbishments, they have maintained a simplicity in décor that speaks to authenticity; it’s a sentiment that extends to the cuisine.
As the restaurant’s name suggests, the curry here is what sparked the magic and that wonder continues today. You have to try the Fish Head Curry. It was this exact dish that wow-ed Singaporeans all those decades ago and has continued to do so for successive generations. Join the club.
Overshadowed by the legend but still holding its own is the Butter Chicken which is served with tender boneless chicken. Another wonderful dish is the Sambal Prawn, a dish that combines a mild sweetness with a persistent piquancy to create a delectable duet.
We also recommend the Palak Paneer and Tandoori Pomfret. Samy’s Curry also serves some of the most authentic renditions in Singapore.
Are you ready to get your taste buds dancing with the flavours of India at Samy’s Curry this Diwali? Join in for an unforgettable feast where tradition meets culinary excellence. Let’s raise a toast to good food, great company, and the spirit of Diwali!
25 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249670
+65 6472 2080
Wed to Mon: 11am – 3pm & 6pm – 10pm
Closed on Tue
Facebook | Website
*This post contains branded content.
10 best Indian restaurants in Little India, best vegetarian restaurants
