Bangalore, known as India’s Silicon Valley, is also a culinary hub that blends local Karnataka flavors with diverse influences. From bustling street food stalls to cozy cafes and legendary restaurants, the city offers a food experience as lively and varied as its people. Here’s a guide to Top 10 Picks in Bangalore – a mix of iconic eateries, hidden gems, and beloved local haunts. Get ready to explore the best of Bangalore’s flavors!
- 1. Vidyarthi Bhavan – For Authentic Masala Dosa
- 2. CTR (Central Tiffin Room) – Iconic Breakfast Spot
- 3. Brahmin’s Coffee Bar – Best Idlis in Town
- 4. Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) – A Taste of Tradition
- 5. VV Puram Food Street – Street Food Paradise
- 6. Koshy’s – A Classic for Continental Fare
- 7. Toit – A Craft Beer Lover’s Haven
- 8. Empire Restaurant – Late-Night Favorite for Biryani
- 9. Airlines Hotel – Relaxed Garden Cafe for Filter Coffee
- 10. Corner House – Best Ice Cream and Desserts
1. Vidyarthi Bhavan – For Authentic Masala Dosa
A landmark in Gandhi Bazaar since 1943, Vidyarthi Bhavan is famed for its crisp, golden-brown Masala Dosa served with a flavorful coconut chutney. The dosa here is perfectly crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, with a spiced potato filling that’s simply delightful. You may have to wait for a table, but the nostalgic ambiance and legendary dosas are well worth it.
- Must-Try Dishes: Masala Dosa, Filter Coffee
- Cost for Two: ₹150-₹200
- Average Rating: 4.6/5
- Atmosphere: Nostalgic, bustling, with quick service and a mix of locals and visitors
2. CTR (Central Tiffin Room) – Iconic Breakfast Spot
Located in Malleshwaram, CTR is known for its melt-in-the-mouth Benne Masala Dosa, a butter-laden version that’s incredibly popular with locals. Pair it with a cup of their strong filter coffee for a classic Bangalore breakfast. The simple, old-school decor and bustling crowd give CTR its charm.
- Must-Try Dishes: Benne Masala Dosa, Idli, Filter Coffee
- Cost for Two: ₹200
- Average Rating: 4.5/5
- Atmosphere: Casual and lively, with a constant flow of customers
3. Brahmin’s Coffee Bar – Best Idlis in Town
Located in Basavanagudi, Brahmin’s Coffee Bar is famous for its soft, fluffy Idlis and Vadas, served with a side of their flavorful coconut chutney. There’s no seating, so it’s common to see patrons enjoying their breakfast standing, with steaming cups of filter coffee in hand. The idlis here are unmatched in their softness and are a must-try for any Bangalore food tour.
- Must-Try Dishes: Idli, Vada, Filter Coffee
- Cost for Two: ₹100
- Average Rating: 4.4/5
- Atmosphere: Street-style with no seating, fast-paced, and popular among locals
4. Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) – A Taste of Tradition
A heritage restaurant since 1924, MTR on Lalbagh Road serves traditional South Indian meals on banana leaves. Their Rava Idli, invented here during World War II, is a signature dish, as is their classic South Indian Thali. This place is a walk through Bangalore’s culinary history, and each dish is packed with flavor.
- Must-Try Dishes: Rava Idli, South Indian Thali
- Cost for Two: ₹300
- Average Rating: 4.5/5
- Atmosphere: Traditional, family-friendly, with a focus on authentic flavors and heritage
5. VV Puram Food Street – Street Food Paradise
VV Puram Food Street, also known as Thindi Beedi, is a bustling hub of street food vendors offering everything from Pani Puri and Masala Puri to local specialties like Chiroti and Akki Roti. I highly recommend starting with the paddu (small, spiced rice balls) and ending with a sweet treat like jalebis or gulkand. The lively atmosphere, with vendors cooking fresh food right before your eyes, makes it an unmissable stop for street food lovers.
- Must-Try Dishes: Pani Puri, Masala Dosa, Akki Roti
- Cost for Two: ₹200-₹300
- Average Rating: 4.4/5
- Atmosphere: Street-style, vibrant, with a lively mix of locals and tourists
6. Koshy’s – A Classic for Continental Fare
Koshy’s has been a Bangalore institution since 1940, known for its old-world charm and eclectic menu that spans Continental, Indian, and breakfast items. Try their famous Chicken Liver on Toast or the fluffy Appam with Stew. The cozy, vintage atmosphere, complete with wooden furniture and chandeliers, offers a step back in time.
- Must-Try Dishes: Chicken Liver on Toast, Appam with Stew
- Cost for Two: ₹1000-₹1200
- Average Rating: 4.3/5
- Atmosphere: Classic and nostalgic, perfect for a leisurely brunch or afternoon tea
7. Toit – A Craft Beer Lover’s Haven
Located in Indiranagar, Toit is Bangalore’s go-to spot for craft beer and fusion dishes. Their Toit Red Ale is a popular choice, as are the pizzas and small plates like Pork Chops. The trendy, industrial interiors and vibrant crowd make it a favorite among young locals and tourists alike.
- Must-Try Dishes: Craft Beer (Toit Red Ale), Pork Chops, Margherita Pizza
- Cost for Two: ₹1500
- Average Rating: 4.5/5
- Atmosphere: Trendy and lively, with an energetic crowd and upbeat vibe
8. Empire Restaurant – Late-Night Favorite for Biryani
Empire Restaurant, with branches across the city, is a popular spot for late-night meals, especially for their signature Chicken Biryani and Grilled Chicken. The food here is flavorful and filling, catering to night owls and post-party crowds looking for a hearty meal.
- Must-Try Dishes: Chicken Biryani, Grilled Chicken
- Cost for Two: ₹500-₹600
- Average Rating: 4.2/5
- Atmosphere: Casual and bustling, with a mix of families and late-night diners
9. Airlines Hotel – Relaxed Garden Cafe for Filter Coffee
Airlines Hotel is an open-air garden cafe popular for its relaxed ambiance, perfect for unwinding with friends over filter coffee and snacks. Their crispy Dosas and Vadas are highly recommended. The old-school setting, with patrons sitting under trees, adds to the charm.
- Must-Try Dishes: Masala Dosa, Vada, Filter Coffee
- Cost for Two: ₹200
- Average Rating: 4.3/5
- Atmosphere: Open-air, relaxed, with a laid-back vibe that’s ideal for leisurely coffee breaks
10. Corner House – Best Ice Cream and Desserts
Corner House is a dessert institution in Bangalore, known for its indulgent ice cream sundaes and chocolate fudge. Try the Death by Chocolate, a rich, chocolatey sundae that’s loved by locals. The classic dessert menu and casual setup make it a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
- Must-Try Dishes: Death by Chocolate, Hot Chocolate Fudge
- Cost for Two: ₹300-₹400
- Average Rating: 4.6/5
- Atmosphere: Simple and casual, perfect for a quick dessert stop
Local Tips
Exploring Bangalore’s food scene is best done early in the morning for breakfast spots and later in the evening for nightlife and street food. Many traditional eateries are cash-only, so keep that in mind. Bangalore’s food culture reflects its diverse crowd, so take your time to enjoy the local flavors as well as global influences.
Wrap-Up
From crispy dosas to craft beer and rich desserts, Bangalore has a flavor for every food lover. This list offers a glimpse into the city’s diverse food culture – a perfect blend of the old and new. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these spots promise an unforgettable culinary journey through Bangalore.
Also Read: 4-Day Delhi Itinerary: Explore the Best of India’s Capital in 4 Days
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Top 10 Picks in Bangalore
