By Mewati Sitaram
Singapore’s dining scene is set for a vibrant evolution as The Song of India Group, led by Michelin-starred Chef Manjunath Mural, unveils three new restaurant concepts—Varq, Amrith, and Indian Saaga. The launch marks a fresh chapter for the city’s first Michelin-starred Indian restaurant, expanding its legacy through innovative experiences that fuse tradition with modern culinary sensibilities.
Established in 2005, The Song of India quickly became a culinary landmark, earning Singapore’s first Michelin star for an Indian restaurant in 2016 under Chef Mural’s leadership. The restaurant retained its star for four consecutive years until 2020. Returning now as Group Director of Cuisine, Chef Mural is steering the group toward inclusivity, accessibility, and contemporary dining formats designed to engage a broader audience.
Varq offers a modern take on private dining, featuring bespoke menus personally curated by Chef Mural. The concept promises a refined yet approachable experience, appealing both to seasoned gourmets and those discovering Indian cuisine for the first time. Its intimate setting and thoughtfully crafted dishes elevate the art of Indian gastronomy to a sophisticated level.
Amrith pays homage to The Song of India’s Michelin-starred legacy while embracing a more casual format. Classic dishes such as tandoor-grilled meats, curries, and naan are reimagined in a relaxed, inviting environment. A colonial-style bar serving curated cocktails, fine wines, premium whiskeys, and craft beers completes the experience, making it ideal for social dining and casual gatherings.
Indian Saaga caters to Singapore’s diverse community, focusing on Halal North Indian cuisine. Aromatic curries, bold spices, and premium ingredients make it both authentic and accessible to Muslim diners and beyond, filling a unique niche in the city’s culinary landscape and broadening the reach of fine Indian dining.
Together, the three concepts reflect The Song of India Group’s vision of making Indian fine dining inclusive, engaging, and memorable. Chef Mural’s signature style—blending regional Indian flavors with modern culinary techniques—remains central to the initiative.
Chef Manjunath Mural said, “At Varq, Amrith, or Indian Saaga, diners embark on a journey through Indian cuisine, where classic techniques meet contemporary creativity and thoughtful presentation. Our goal is to inspire a new generation of food enthusiasts to explore and celebrate India’s rich gastronomy, while preserving the traditions and legacy that have made The Song of India a globally recognized benchmark of culinary excellence.”
An alumnus of IHM Bangalore, Chef Mural has honed his skills at luxury hotels in India and prestigious international restaurants including Rang Mahal, Adda, Gunpowder, and Cali Chilli in Los Angeles. Under his leadership, The Song of India earned a Michelin Star, one of Southeast Asia’s first Indian restaurants to achieve this distinction.
Padma Shri Awardee Chef Sanjeev Kapoor, speaking to Mumbai Messenger, said, “Chef Manjunath honed his skills under my guidance at Centaur Hotel Juhu Beach, consistently showing exceptional dedication and mastery over flavors. I am confident he will work wonders at The Song of India, delighting diners with truly memorable culinary experiences.”
The Song of India, Singapore’s acclaimed Michelin-starred Indian restaurant, continues to fuse traditional flavors with modern techniques, delivering innovative, unforgettable dining and setting a benchmark for Indian gastronomy across Southeast Asia.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
