Samy's Curry — Review by Bon Appetit
Singapore, Singapore — Indian, Singaporean
Samy's Curry, a Singapore institution since 1963, specializes in traditional banana leaf meals and the iconic fish head curry. The reviewer explores how the restaurant sources Angoli fish and meticulously prepares the curry to showcase different textures from various parts of the fish head, delivering an authentic Singaporean dining experience.
What was great: Fish head curry made to order, variety of textures from different parts of the fish head, traditional banana leaf meal buffet with multiple curries and dals, authentic Singaporean cuisine, long-standing establishment with quality cooking
What could improve: Nothing mentioned
The Dishes
The highlight of this visit is the fish head curry, a signature dish that must be made to order in the kitchen. The restaurant uses Angoli fish, also known as white snapper or seabream, specifically chosen for the shape and structure of its head. The fish head provides multiple textures and cuts when cooked properly, including the upper lip, bottom jaw, cheek, and bottom sections, each offering distinct culinary experiences. Beyond the fish head curry, Samy's Curry operates a buffet system where diners receive a banana leaf as their base, topped with rice and an array of curries and dals that showcase the restaurant's depth of flavors and culinary textures.
The Experience
The restaurant maintains an authentic kitchen setup with enormous cooking pots where flavors simmer from early morning hours. The buffet format allows customers to explore various dishes while the fish head curry is specially prepared to order, creating a unique dining flow. The kitchen is open for viewing, allowing diners to witness the traditional cooking methods and appreciate the scale of preparation involved.
Value and Pricing
Pricing information is not mentioned in the transcript, though the buffet-style service suggests reasonable value for the variety and quality of dishes available.
Notable Moments
They've been open since 1963 and they specialize in Sapa Do, this banana leaf meals
The biggest pots I've ever seen in my life. Gigantic. Flavors slowly simmering away
The tour through the kitchen reveals the scale and dedication to traditional cooking methods, with massive pots containing slowly simmering curries and a deep knowledge of fish preparation.
The Verdict
Samy's Curry is essential for anyone seeking authentic Singaporean cuisine and the unique experience of fish head curry. The restaurant's six-decade history speaks to its commitment to traditional recipes and techniques. This establishment is perfect for adventurous eaters interested in experiencing genuine local specialties and understanding the culinary philosophy behind using different parts of the fish head.