End of Komala Vilas? Jewellery store to open at former premises of heritage Indian eatery

Those hoping for Komala Vilas' return may be in for a surprise. 

Following months of uncertainty surrounding the heritage Indian vegetarian restaurant's future, its premises at 76 to 78 Serangoon Road is set to be replaced by a new tenant. 

During the Deepavali season, Ishtara Jewellery will be opening its second outlet at the above-mentioned location, Tabla! reported. The local jeweller's first outlet is located at 111 Serangoon Road. 

Speaking about the expansion, Ishtara Jewellery's owner Parthiban Murugaiyan said he felt fortunate to have secured the heritage eatery's unit, adding that it would strengthen the brand's presence in Little India. 

"I consider it an auspicious location, with a rich heritage and a special place in the hearts of many Singaporeans," he told Tabla!

Iconic heritage restaurant

Komala Vilas, started in 1947 by Murugiah Rajoo, is an South Indian vegetarian restaurant serving a variety of dishes such as thosai, biryani and more. 

Besides the flagship restaurant at 76 to 78 Serangoon Road, the family-run business opened a second outlet at 291 Serangoon Road, as well as a store selling sweets and snacks along Upper Dickson Road.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/B-y41cMlb9w/[/embed]

Komala Vilas is also known for having hosted former Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a meal in 2015.

The flagship restaurant, however, had been shut since Jan 19 for "renovations".

As months went on, the premises remained quiet and there were no further updates from Komalas Vilas. 

When The Straits Times visited its flagship eatery in March, it reported no visible signs of renovation. The temporary closure notice was still up then. 

The restaurant's other outlet in Little India had been taken over by another Indian vegetarian restaurant. Its sweet shop Komala Vilas Sweets and Savouries, also closed permanently. 

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/CAwoKuaFcv5/[/embed]

'Deeply missed' 

News of Komalas Vilas' flagship restaurant's takeover drew the attention of diners, with several sharing fond memories online. 

"Ate there many times during childhood. Another part of childhood gone now," one commented, while another wrote: "So sad it's gone without a trace. No information, just MIA. A lot of memories eating there with my late dad." 

Others mourned the loss of part of Singapore's heritage.

"Yet another landmark gone," one commented. 

Said another: "A landmark and a soft spot in all our hearts. Komalas is deeply missed." 

[[nid:742942]]

carol.ong@asiaone.com