Is there anyone who hasn’t had a roti prata? It is one of those food items that Singaporeans, regardless of race, language or religion, have always enjoyed. Google “prata” and Top 10 lists of the best pop up. Hang out with friends and a debate on where to go for the crispiest ones can simply spark. However, I think most of us are pretty happy to hit the stall closest to us whenever the craving calls. Fortunately, there are dozens of prata stalls peppered all over our little island city. Which means, more often than not, we are merely a tissue pack’s throw away from one.

Speaking of close proximity, a five-minute drive from my home is a little Indian-Muslim coffeeshop at Blk. 8, Jalan Batu that serves really good pratas. Boasting a level of crispiness that’s audible plus a flavourful dough that has a touch of sweetness, it’s one of those rare ones I actually enjoy on its own. Having said that, the fish curry they dish out here is also worthy of praise. Thick and spicy, the aromatic gravy is nothing like the insipid soups masquerading as curry you get at some places.

What strikes me most is how truly a soul food of Singapore a prata is. I am sure all of us at some point in our lives, have gathered with friends and/or family of different races and religions over a roti prata meal. Chances are, it was for supper, and the atmosphere at the table positively crackled with fun and laughter as we tucked into its assorted variations--egg, no egg, "telur bawang", paper, plaster, etc.--with equal gusto. Now, won’t it be fun to do that again? And soon? 😊

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