In total, there are three Komala Vilas outlets in Singapore, all located quite close together, in the Little India area. Just a few months ago, I reviewed their most long standing outlet, on Serangoon Road (review here). I was inspired to promptly review their Buffalo Road outlet, due to the influx of comments I received from my readers - Mainly Deepak and Rama - Who suggested for me to try other drinks and dishes. Therefore, it seemed only polite to oblige. Little India MRT is where you will need to alight, taking Exit E, will lead you to emerge conveniently just outside Buffalo Road.Komala Vilas Vegetarian Restaurant
Location: 12 Buffalo Road
Contact:
Opening Hours: Mon–Sun: 7am – 10.30pm
One thing which certainly appeals to me about this Buffalo Road outlet is that it remains out of the limelight from tourists, unlike the Serangoon Road outlet, which is regularly feature in Lonely Planet, and other Singapore travel books. This lack of exposure gives this outlet a more authentic and genuine feel. Menu wise, the food is almost identical to Serangoon Road, with all the food being reasonably priced South Indian delights. Komala Vilas could have easily gone down the same road as Ananda Bhavan, and use their success to increase the menu pricing to a ridiculous extent - However, even throughout their success, they continue to provide extremely affordable food - This must be commended.
One item Rama was very keen on me to try, was the Filter Coffee. Before even drinking this coffee, I was impressed by how it arrived, the waiter literally 'pulls' the coffee (a process of flinging the liquid from cup to saucer to generate air within the drink) right next the customer. I have seen this done many times in the cooking area, but never before right next to the customer. Frankly, for myself, this was a wonderful experience. Taste wise, the coffee was very fragrant, and went perfectly with the bhattura (discussed below). It was not too creamy, and the sugar level was just right. Those looking for a nice warm drink to go with the food, I would certainly recommend this, or the masala tea.Price: $1.30. 7/10
Kothu Parotta, originating from the Tamil Nadu state of India, was a refreshing and new experience for me. The term 'parotta' relates to our well known Singapore prata. However, the twist in this dish, is the parotta is chopped into pieces and cooked in spices. The term 'kothu' literally means 'minced'. The traditional version of this dish will include meat and egg, these two ingredients are not present in this version, though. The flavours were delicious, and I just couldn't stop eating it. Not only was the parotta delicious, but this dish came with the best vegetable kurma I have ever tried.Price: $2.90. 9/10
Although this looks like some paranormal blob from the planet Jupiter, I can assure you this is a food item. The Bhattura could barely be contained in the metal tray, which it was sitting in - It was absolutely huge! Having previously eaten the bhattura from Serangoon Road, I was taken aback by how much bigger this version was, it is at least 1/3 bigger. Not only is it a huge portion, it tasted absolutely delicious. The only downside to bhattura is that for many people, it will be too oily. Underneath this behemoth, is channa (chickpea) curry, and fresh onion and lime. A dish eaten best with the right hand, if not, using cutlery will be a troublesome task.Price: $4.20. 9/10
We move on to a popular South Indian snack, the Onion Uttappum. For those wondering how uttapum is created, the batter is identical to that of dosai, only difference being, the batter is not spread as thinly on the tava. When cooking on the tava, ingredients and spices are added to it. For this dish, we have green chilli and onion added. Personally, the green chilli added too much heat, and ultimately I found myself picking them out. That aside, it was an enjoyable snack, especially with the delicious sambar and chutneys that accompanied it.Price: $3.00. 7/10
Certainly the best value dish on the menu is the Rice Meal. This thali style dish has a numerous selection of curries, curd, vegetables, dessert and rice. What stood out in particular, was the bhindi (ladyfingers) dry dish, which was flavoured beautifully. What is special about this thali meal, is that it is effectively a sit-down buffet. The customer may request for more curries, more dessert, more sauces, and more rice - Until their needs (or stomachs) are satisfied. This really makes the price tag for this dish great value, as you can simply eat as much as you desire for that price. The food being served on a banana leaf enhances the flavor of the food, and adds to the authenticity of the dish.Price: $6.55. 8/10
Conclusion - Komala Vilas are a chain of restaurants that have undoubtedly grown on me. The first time I visited one of their restaurants was over four years ago, since that time, my love for Komala Vilas has manifested to what it is today. Although I am a North Indian food addict, I can appreciate the value and quality of the food here. The Buffalo Road outlet, which I reviewed here, was just as great as the Serangoon Road outlet - If not better. The bhattura, kothu parotta, and rice meal are all must try dishes. But more important than the food, it is an enjoyable cultural experience for any non-Indian customers.
Overall Rating
Food - 8/10
Ambiance- 9/10
Service - 8/10
Value - 8/10
