Chinatown Teh Tarik is an authentic Indian mamak-style restaurant strategically located at 40B Sago Street, at the junction with Trengganu Street, just behind Smith Street Food Centre and near Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. Distinguished by its eye-catching yellow color theme, this establishment offers the best of al-fresco dining with most seating situated outside the shophouse, creating a vibrant street-side atmosphere. The comprehensive menu features classic mamak specialties including fragrant biryanis, flavorful curries, freshly made naan bread, prata, thosai, tandoori dishes, and nasi biryani alongside vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Their signature teh tarik - the traditional "pulled tea" made by skillfully pouring black tea and condensed milk between mugs to create a frothy, creamy texture - perfectly complements the diverse food offerings. The beverage menu extends to include kopi, halia, milo, horlicks, lassi, milkshakes, and bottled beer. Open daily from 7:30am to 10:30pm, Chinatown Teh Tarik serves as an ideal destination for both hearty breakfasts and satisfying dinners, representing Singapore's multicultural food heritage in the heart of historic Chinatown.
If Gordon Ramsay ever walked into this place, he’d probably hurl the pan across the street and tell the chef to change careers. I ordered the nasi goreng, expecting at least a simple, decent fried rice. What landed on my table was a disaster — worse than junk fast food. At least junk food has some taste. This tasted like rice fried in pure regret, sprinkled with apathy, and served with the enthusiasm of someone who clearly despises cooking.
Every spoonful was bland, lifeless, and oily — like the culinary equivalent of recycled cardboard. For a coffeeshop claiming to sell Singaporean-Indian food in Chinatown, it’s downright embarrassing. Singapore’s hawker food culture is world famous, full of color, spice, and passion. This? A tourist trap cashing in on location while serving food that feels like a cruel parody of what nasi goreng should be.
Save your taste buds, your wallet, and your dignity — spend your money elsewhere. There are countless real hawker stalls nearby that will actually remind you why Singapore is a food paradise. This place? A one-star joke.
G H
We came across this place in Chinatown. Our experiences were very poor. The vegetable Dum Biriyani was I am certain an uncle Ben’s rice with a few peas and carrots. The Chicken set meal had chopped chicken with bone in it and more bone than meat. The chicken was deep fried in bread crumb or similar. The rice was ok and the sauces were fine. We neither ate our food. All our other experiences in Singapore were good.
Nikhilesh Paul
Only good thing in my opinion would be the location. Food quality is bad, too oily. Look at my photos
Positive Reviews
Triveshni Sharma
I went for teh tarik but I stayed for the food. The teh tarik was lovely and smooth. I ordered a chicken dish and butter paratha. Halfway through the meal I realized I needed another paratha so I tried the plain one. Both parathas were lovely and the chicken dish was flavorful. My friend ordered the mutton dum biryani and that was the highlight. I am not a fan of mutton biryani but this one was really good. The mutton was soft and juicy. 10/10 meal. Service was great. The only issue i had was that when the plates were brought to us, one of it was dirty. The server immediately changed it but when eating there, just check to see if the plates and utensils brought to you are clean.
Meli Chan Lee
This review is for masala dosa! Which was GREAT. Flavourful filling, crispy dosa, wrapped evenly. In an area with less available Indian food (or towards the quays, only with much higher end Indian restaurants), this one has standard, def leaning on the spicey side which I liked but fair warning. $6.20 so expect prices a little higher (I think Nasi goreng was like $8.50). Nice location to people watch.
TH Chea
TANDOOR BITES
At Chinatown Teh Tarik, the food is tasty and comforting with quick, no-fuss service. The maggie goreng stands out as a must-try, while the cheese egg prata could use a bit more cheese. The rice with fish set was filling and flavorful. A spot I’ll happily revisit.
Mark Lim
Today’s Foodie Walkabout Ends with a Spicy Bang at Chinatown! 🌶️🥳
Wandered around aimlessly until our taste buds brought us to Teh Tarik Curry House at Chinatown – and what a solid choice it was!
✨ On the menu:
1️⃣ Plain Dosa – A thin, crispy South Indian crepe made from fermented rice and urad dal batter. Light, tangy and perfect for dipping in sambar and chutney!
2️⃣ Mutton Biryani – Fragrant basmati rice cooked with spices and tender mutton pieces. Rich, hearty and packed with flavour.
3️⃣ Teh O Limau (Hot & Cold) – The ultimate Malaysian-style lime tea – zesty, refreshing, and a perfect balance to all that spice.
Simple comfort food that hits the spot 🔥
Will I be back? Definitely… especially for that biryani and teh combo!
#ChinatownEats #TehTarikCurryHouse #IndianFoodCravings #DosaLove #MuttonBiryani #TehOLimau #SingaporeEats #FoodieTrailSG #SpiceItUp #FoodieWanderlust #ComfortFoodFix #SavourTheFlavour
Sultan Melaka II
Chinatown Teh Tarik is a casual yet vibrant spot that captures the charm of local flavors in the heart of Chinatown. The place is known for its signature teh tarik, which is served hot, frothy, and full of flavor, making it the perfect drink to enjoy whether you’re starting your day or taking a short break. Alongside the drinks, the menu offers a variety of local favorites such as roti canai, nasi lemak, and light snacks that complement the beverages well. The food is served fresh, flavorful, and reasonably priced, which makes it an attractive choice for both locals and tourists. The atmosphere is lively, with the hustle and bustle of Chinatown adding to the experience. Seating is simple but comfortable enough for a quick stop or a relaxed chat with friends. The service is friendly and efficient, ensuring orders are taken and served without long waiting times. The location is also convenient, as it sits right in one of the busiest parts of the city, making it easy to drop by while exploring the surrounding streets and attractions. Overall, Chinatown Teh Tarik offers a warm and authentic experience, combining good food, tasty drinks, and a setting that reflects the local culture.
