Samy's Curry - Family Run Banana Leaf Cookhouse In Dempsey Hill Since 1960s

If you’ve lived in Singapore long enough, chances are you’ve heard of Samy’s Curry. Tucked within the lush greenery of Dempsey Hill, this family-run Indian restaurant has been a beloved institution since the 1960s — and over six decades later, it’s still packing tables with loyal regulars and curious first-timers alike.

Dining at Samy’s is an experience in itself. Food is served on banana leaves in true South Indian tradition, and every customer who orders a rice set gets free-flow rice, complemented by papadum and vegetable side dishes. White rice is priced at $4.50+ while biryani goes for $5+ — an absolute steal given the setting and the quality. You do need to order at least one main dish to enjoy the set, but with a menu this good, that’s hardly a constraint.

Fish Head Curry ($25+ / $30+ / $35+)

The undisputed star of the menu, Samy’s Fish Head Curry is available in small, medium, and large portions. Made with white snapper simmered in a rich, slightly sour tamarind-based curry, it’s bold, deeply spiced, and layered with flavour. It’s the dish that built Samy’s reputation, and it continues to be the reason many diners make the trip out to Dempsey time and again. If you’re dining solo or in a smaller group, a single portion of Curry Fish at $5.50+ per piece is a great alternative.

Masala Chicken ($7+)

A crowd favourite that never disappoints, the Masala Chicken features tender chicken pieces coated in a fragrant, generously spiced masala. It’s comforting, aromatic, and pairs perfectly with a mound of free-flow biryani.

Mysore Mutton ($16+)

A classic dish that hails straight from Mysore, this one features slow-cooked mutton drenched in a robust sauce of onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and red chilli peppers. Rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying — it’s a must-try for any meat lover at the table.

Sambal Prawn ($7+)

Plump prawns tossed in a fiery, aromatic sambal sauce — this one is a steal at the price and a great addition to any shared spread.

Curry Squid ($15+)

Tender squid rings bathed in a flavourful curry sauce — a solid seafood option that holds its own alongside the more famous dishes on the menu.

Black Squid ($15+)

A chef’s favourite that doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves. The squid is cooked in a dark, intensely flavoured sauce that’s hard to stop eating once you’ve started.

Chicken Tikka 65 ($15+)

For those who prefer their protein with a bit of char, the Chicken Tikka 65 delivers smoky, well-seasoned bites with a satisfying kick of spice.

Fish Cutlet ($2.50+ per piece)

Don’t overlook this humble menu item — the Fish Cutlet is a crispy, perfectly spiced fish patty that punches well above its price point. The chef recommends it, and so do we.

Samy’s occupies a rare space in Singapore’s dining scene — it’s a heritage establishment in an upscale neighbourhood that has somehow managed to keep its prices accessible and its soul intact. A full meal here won’t set you back as much as neighbouring Dempsey restaurants, yet the flavours are just as memorable, if not more so.

The no-frills, cafeteria-style setup means service can get a little hectic during peak hours, but that’s all part of the Samy’s experience. Come hungry, order generously, and eat with your hands if you’re feeling adventurous — it’s the only proper way to enjoy a banana leaf meal.

Address: Block 25 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249670
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Monday, 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
Contact: +65 6472 2080
Getting There: Two bus stops from Napier MRT Station