Bangalore, the Garden City of India, is not just known for its lush greenery and pleasant weather but also for its vibrant culinary scene. From traditional South Indian delicacies to global cuisines, Bangalore offers a diverse range of gastronomic delights that cater to every palate. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate through the city’s best places to eat, ensuring a memorable culinary journey.
Traditional South Indian Delights
Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR)
Location: Lalbagh Road
Must-Try: Rava idli, Masala dosa, Filter coffee
Overview: Established in 1924, MTR is an institution in Bangalore, offering authentic South Indian cuisine. The rava idli, invented here during World War II due to a rice shortage, is a must-try. The masala dosa, served with ghee and a variety of chutneys, is another crowd favorite. Don’t miss their strong, aromatic filter coffee to complete your meal.
Vidyarthi Bhavan
Location: Basavanagudi
Must-Try: Masala dosa, Kesari bath
Overview: A heritage eatery that has been serving Bangaloreans since 1943, Vidyarthi Bhavan is famous for its crispy, buttery masala dosa. The ambiance is nostalgic, with a legacy that has been preserved through generations. The kesari bath, a sweet semolina dish, is a delightful way to end your meal.
Iconic Restaurants
Koshy’s
Location: St. Mark’s Road
Must-Try: Fish curry rice, Appam with stew
Overview: Koshy’s is a Bangalore landmark that has hosted celebrities and dignitaries over the years. The restaurant exudes old-world charm and serves a mix of South Indian and continental dishes. The fish curry rice is a beloved favorite, and their appam with stew offers a perfect blend of flavors.
The Only Place
Location: Museum Road
Must-Try: Steak, Apple pie
Overview: A haven for meat lovers, The Only Place is renowned for its American-style steaks and burgers. The cozy, rustic ambiance adds to the dining experience. Their apple pie, served with a generous dollop of ice cream, is the perfect dessert to round off a hearty meal.
Street Food Extravaganza
VV Puram Food Street
Location: VV Puram
Must-Try: Benne dosa, Chitranna, Gulkan ice cream
Overview: VV Puram Food Street, also known as Thindi Beedi, is a bustling food lover’s paradise. The benne dosa (butter dosa) is crispy and indulgent, while the chitranna (lemon rice) offers a tangy delight. End your food trail with the unique and refreshing gulkan ice cream, a rose-flavored treat.
CTR (Central Tiffin Room)
Location: Malleshwaram
Must-Try: Benne masala dosa, Mangalore bajji
Overview: CTR is another legendary eatery that has stood the test of time. Known for its benne masala dosa, generously laden with butter, it offers a decadent breakfast experience. The Mangalore bajji, a savory fritter, is perfect for snacking.
Unique Food Joints
SodaBottleOpenerWala
Location: Lavelle Road
Must-Try: Berry pulao, Dhansak, Irani chai
Overview: This quirky restaurant brings the flavors of a Bombay Irani cafe to Bangalore. The berry pulao, a Parsi delicacy, is fragrant and flavorful. The dhansak, a mutton and lentil curry, is rich and satisfying. Pair your meal with their signature Irani chai for an authentic experience.
Rasta Cafe
Location: Mysore Road
Must-Try: Continental breakfast, Pastas, Shakes
Overview: Rasta Cafe is the perfect spot for a late-night drive and meal. Located on the outskirts of Bangalore, it offers a relaxed, open-air ambiance. Their continental breakfast options are popular, and the pastas and shakes make for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Global Cuisines
Shiro
Location: UB City
Must-Try: Sushi, Dim sum, Teppanyaki
Overview: Shiro is a haven for lovers of Pan-Asian cuisine. The restaurant’s elegant decor and ambient lighting create a sophisticated dining atmosphere. The sushi platter is a must-try, featuring fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their dim sum selection and teppanyaki dishes are also highly recommended.
Toit
Location: Indiranagar
Must-Try: Wood-fired pizzas, Craft beers
Overview: Toit is a popular microbrewery that offers a blend of Italian and American cuisine. The wood-fired pizzas, with their perfectly crisp crusts and fresh toppings, are a highlight. Pair your meal with one of their signature craft beers for a complete experience.
Hidden Gems
Karavalli
Location: Residency Road
Must-Try: Alleppey fish curry, Mangalorean chicken ghee roast
Overview: Karavalli offers an exquisite dining experience with its coastal Karnataka cuisine. The Alleppey fish curry, cooked in a tangy coconut-based gravy, is a standout dish. The Mangalorean chicken ghee roast, rich in spices and flavor, is a must-try for meat lovers.
CTR (Central Tiffin Room)
Location: Malleshwaram
Must-Try: Benne masala dosa, Mangalore bajji
Overview: CTR is another legendary eatery that has stood the test of time. Known for its benne masala dosa, generously laden with butter, it offers a decadent breakfast experience. The Mangalore bajji, a savory fritter, is perfect for snacking.
Tips for Foodies Exploring Bangalore
Plan Ahead: Some of the most popular eateries in Bangalore tend to have long wait times, especially on weekends. It’s a good idea to make reservations or visit during off-peak hours.
Try Local Specialties: While Bangalore offers a wide range of global cuisines, don’t miss out on local specialties like the Mysore masala dosa, filter coffee, and traditional South Indian thalis.
Explore Street Food: Bangalore’s street food scene is vibrant and diverse. Venture out to places like VV Puram Food Street for an authentic and flavorful experience.
Embrace the Diversity: Bangalore’s culinary landscape is a melting pot of different cultures and cuisines. Be open to trying new dishes and flavors from various parts of India and the world.
Engage with Locals: Interacting with locals can provide valuable insights into the best places to eat and the must-try dishes. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations.
Conclusion: A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Bangalore’s culinary scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. From iconic traditional eateries to innovative food joints and vibrant street food, the city offers a plethora of options for every kind of foodie. Whether you’re savoring a buttery dosa at a heritage restaurant or indulging in a gourmet meal at a trendy cafe, each dining experience in Bangalore is unique and memorable.
As you explore the city’s gastronomic delights, remember to savor the flavors, enjoy the ambiance, and appreciate the culinary heritage that makes Bangalore a true food lover’s paradise. Happy eating!
Stay tuned for more updates and reviews on Bangalore’s vibrant food scene. Bon appétit!
