Used to come here with my colleagues when we were doing a client’s engagement in Sungei Kadut. Now I lived nearby, I continue to come here whenever I need a briyani fix.
Located next to Khatib Camp, Shami Banana Leaf in Sembawang delights diners with its flavourful biryani and authentic South Indian cuisine. Patrons rave about the perfectly cooked rice, tender mutton, and succulent chicken, all marinated to perfection with minimal fat.
After you picked what you like from the counter, or put in the order for their curry fish head and dum biryani, they will serve you a complimentary portion o papadum, or lentil crackers, at your table. Usually one portion is never enough.
Shami is one of the last places in Singapore that still insist of serving tasty food served on traditional banana leaves, while many others have switched to plastic plates with banana leaf printed on it. This is regular basmati rice served briyani (and yes, they do not spell it “biryani” like in India) style with a portion of boneless mutton curry and masala gravy. The amount of rice was enough to share with two persons.
The dum briyani cooking method is said to produce a more aromatic, tender, and flavourful dish compared to regular briyani. The long, slow cooking process allows the spices to meld together and permeate the ingredients thoroughly. I want the chicken dum briyani, but it was already sold out so I had to settle with the mutton one instead.
Their dum briyani was really a treat. The rice was perfectly cooked. The mutton didn’t have that typical musky smell, testament to good cleaning and marination. The masala gravy was tasty and not too spicy. I asked for more gravy but had to wait for a long time.
Luckily I ordered a portion of the chicken masala. I couldn’t get my preference of the chicken part, so I got a piece of white meat instead of dark meat. However the chicken was succulent and juicy, even though it was the chicken breast.
Offering affordable prices compared to competitors, Shami Banana Leaf maintains approachable service and sincerity. Their curry fish head is one of the cheapest in Singapore and still drawing in crowds seeking value and taste. While not the absolute best, the quality comes remarkably close. I love drizzling the thick curry on the freshly made naan.
This garlic naan is soft and warm, with just enough garlic to be flavourful without overpowering the rest of the dish. The naan comes with a side of yogurt raita, which is a refreshing complement to the spiciness of the dish.
Food was yummy, with a variety of both veg and non veg. The service staff are really approachable and sincere, although at the peak hours of meal time, the service can be very slow. Another problem, parking is a hassle in front of the store, although there’s parking opposite in the HDB neighbourhood or near Khatib camp, but they are all quite a walking distance.
Shami Banana Leaf Delights
349 Sembawang Rd, Singapore 758356
Tel : +65 6754 3898
Visited Oct 2025
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