Zam Zam Singapore: the best Murtabak in Town

INTRODUCTION to Zam Zam Singapore

If you find yourself exploring the vibrant streets of Kampong Glam, you’ll have to head to Zam Zam Singapore. Situated directly across from the magnificent, golden-domed Sultan Mosque, this institution has been serving locals and travellers since 1908. 

What to Expect When You Arrive to Zam Zam Singapore

The first thing you will notice about Zam Zam is the energy. The place is almost always buzzing with activity, a testament to its enduring popularity. 

The restaurant is often packed, particularly during the lunchtime rush (around 12 PM to 2 PM) and on Fridays, when the nearby mosque is busiest. If you arrive during these peak hours, you may need to wait for a table. You can use this time to admire the stunning architecture of Sultan Mosque or browse the unique shops lining the streets of Kampong Glam. 

Choosing Your Seat

Zam Zam Singapore has two distinct dining areas, and knowing the difference is one of our most important tips for tourists. 

The ground floor is fast-paced and bustling. It’s where you’ll see the chefs flipping roti prata and murtabak at the front. Seating is functional and service is quick. This section is cash only. 

If you prefer a more relaxed and cooler environment, head upstairs. The seating area here is air-conditioned, which can be a welcome relief from Singapore’s tropical heat. It’s generally calmer, making it a better choice for families or those wanting to linger over their meal. Another key benefit: card payments are accepted upstairs. 

What to Order at Zam Zam Singapore

The menu at Zam Zam Singapore is filled with classic Indian-Muslim dishes, but one item is rumored to stand above the rest. When eating at Zam Zam, ordering murtabak is non-negotiable. 

The Star of the Show: Murtabak

Word on the street is that the murtabak here is legendary, a pan-fried parcel stuffed with minced meat, onions, and egg, served alongside a savoury curry for dipping. Pretty much everyone says it’s a must-try, and many claim it’s the best murtabak in Singapore.

When it comes to flavours, you’ll often hear that mutton is the classic choice, and chicken is a close second. There’s also the deer (venison) murtabak, which people sometimes describe as having a rich, gamey flavour and being quite unique. Out of curiosity, we decided to try the deer murtabak ourselves. Surprisingly, it wasn’t as gamey as we expected, in fact, it tasted a lot like the lamb version. So, if you’re hesitant, don’t worry, it’s not dramatically different or anything too intense.

The most popular murtabak flavours are Mutton (the classic) and Chicken. The portions are famously generous, ranging from small to extra-large, but even a small is substantial. Ordering a large or extra-large is a great idea for groups, as it’s perfect for sharing.

Other Must-Try Dishes

While murtabak is the main event, other dishes on the menu are equally delicious and worth your attention. 

Nasi Briyani

Honestly, we actually prefer the briyani over the famous murtabak here. The long-grain basmati rice is cooked with plenty of aromatic spices and comes with a tender piece of meat, usually chicken or mutton. The rice is fluffy, full of flavour, and feels a little lighter yet more satisfying. If you only try one dish at Zam Zam, the briyani might just surprise you.

While the main dishes grab the headlines, the supporting acts at Zam Zam are just as vital to the experience. Their complimentary dhal, as captured in the close-up below, is a velvety masterpiece. Instead of a standard watery gravy, it is a thick, earthy, and deeply satisfying lentil curry packed with texture. Pouring this rich comfort food over their fragrant biryani or dipping a crispy piece of murtabak into it is exactly what transforms a great meal into a legendary one

Iced Teh Tarik

To complete your meal, you must order an Iced Teh Tarik. This is the chilled version of Singapore’s famous “pulled tea.” It’s a cold, sweet, and milky tea that is poured between two cups to create a frothy top and served over ice, making it the perfect refreshing drink to cool down and balance the rich, spicy flavours of your food.

The Verdict: Historical, Delicious, and MEmorable!

If you’re looking for an authentic slice of Singapore’s food culture, Zam Zam is a must-visit for its history, atmosphere, and famed location. However, we have to admit we’re not huge fans of the murtabak. Though it’s what most people rave about, it didn’t quite win us over. What really stole the show for us was the briyani: full of flavour, lighter yet more satisfying, and a definite highlight of our meal. The bustling vibe, especially during peak hours, is all part of the experience and adds to the charm.

• Go if: You appreciate bold, hearty flavours, enjoy affordable meals, or want to immerse yourself in local culture. 
• Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet, fine-dining experience or aren’t a fan of heavy, spice-forward dishes.