Best Dishes at Apollo Banana Leaf
Mutton Kothu
MainsKothu is the Sri Lankan answer to fried rice — roti bread is chopped and stir-fried with meat and vegetables. The mutton version features dense, moist chunks of spiced mutton throughout. Reviewers call it surprisingly satisfying despite its simplicity, with just the right amount of heat. Multiple reviews cite it as particularly nice.
Crab Masala
MainsA luxurious main where whole crabs are cooked in a warm, richly spiced sauce with coconut. Reviewers note that unlike many curry houses, the seafood quality here is excellent — meat is always on point. Warning: it's as messy to eat as it is delicious. The richly spiced sauce and proper technique set it apart.
Mutton Rolls
StartersCrispy on the outside, these hand-held starters are packed with dense, chunky strands of moist mutton meat. Reviewers describe them as interesting and delectable, with lightly fiery heat balanced by the potato filling. At £0.85 per piece, they're a bargain.
Sambar Vadai
StartersA traditional South Indian breakfast item made from chickpea flour, deep-fried until golden and crispy, then steeped in sambar (spiced lentil broth). The texture contrast between crispy exterior and soft interior is key. Reviewers appreciate it as an authentic starter.
Deep-Fried Cauliflower
StartersBite-sized cauliflower pieces fried until perfectly crispy and golden. Packed with flavour from the spiced batter and just the right amount of heat. Simple but executed with care. Reviewers praise it for texture and seasoning balance.
About Apollo Banana Leaf
Operating since 2004, Apollo Banana Leaf is a no-nonsense Sri Lankan spot that's become a Tooting institution. The BYO policy keeps bills low — full meals average £13-15 per person. Known for rich coconut curries, meat-heavy kothu (shredded roti), and crab dishes where the meat is always on point.
Top 5 dishes at Apollo Banana Leaf:
- Mutton Kothu – 88% recommended(Signature)
- Crab Masala – 85% recommended(Signature)
- Mutton Rolls – 82% recommended
- Sambar Vadai
- Deep-Fried Cauliflower
Details
- Cuisine:
- Sri Lankan
- Price Range:
- ££
- Phone:
- +44 20 8696 1423
- Website:
- Visit Website
- Services:
- Dine-in, Takeaway, BYOB, Vegetarian Options
Hours
- Friday:
- 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM(Open Now)
- Sunday:
- 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM
- Monday:
- 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM
- Tuesday:
- 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM
- Wednesday:
- 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM
- Thursday:
- 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM
- Saturday:
- 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM
It's BYOB — bring your own wine or beer. This policy means full meals cost £13-15 per person, not £20-25. Makes a huge difference.
Apollo Banana Leaf is humble and unfancy, but the authenticity and meat quality are what matter. Everything is properly executed.
Unlike many curry houses, the meat and seafood quality here is excellent. Ask if they have any daily specials for cuts or whole animals.
Located a five-minute walk from Tooting Broadway Station. No reservations needed but expect waits on Friday-Saturday evenings.
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