Bangalore is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from traditional Karnataka dishes to cutting-edge fusion cuisine. The city’s culinary scene reflects its cosmopolitan vibe, while still staying rooted in South Indian flavors. Here are the must-try local foods and the best restaurants to experience them.
1. Masala Dosa at Vidyarthi Bhavan
Why visit: A legendary eatery in Basavanagudi, famous for its thick, crispy dosas served with heaps of chutney.
Highlights: Signature ghee-laced masala dosa – Vintage wooden interiors – Long-standing local favorite
Timing: 6:30 AM to 11:30 AM, 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM (Closed on Fridays)
Entry: Around ₹60 per dosa
2. Bisi Bele Bath at MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Room)
Why visit: MTR is an iconic Bangalore institution serving authentic Karnataka-style meals since 1924.
Highlights: Bisi bele bath with homemade ghee – Rava idli invented here – Traditional filter coffee
Timing: 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM, 12:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Entry: Around ₹120 per dish
3. Ragi Mudde with Soppu Saaru at Halli Mane
Why visit: A popular restaurant near Malleswaram offering wholesome North Karnataka-style thalis.
Highlights: Ragi balls with leafy green curry – Jolad rotti combo – Rustic interiors with folk decor
Timing: 7:00 AM to 10:30 PM
Entry: Thalis start from ₹180
4. Mangalorean Seafood at Kudla
Why visit: A hidden gem for authentic coastal Karnataka seafood specialties in the heart of the city.
Highlights: Neer dosa with chicken sukka – Crab ghee roast – Coconut-based fish curries
Timing: 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM, 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Entry: ₹250–₹400 per dish
5. Filter Coffee at Brahmin’s Coffee Bar
Why visit: A no-frills joint that serves the best filter coffee and South Indian breakfast in South Bangalore.
Highlights: Steaming idlis and vadas – Strong filter coffee – Standing-only quick-serve counter
Timing: 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Entry: ₹30–₹50 per item
6. South Indian Thali at Nagarjuna
Why visit: Known for its Andhra-style meals with bold flavors and unlimited servings.
Highlights: Spicy Andhra thali – Guntur chilli dishes – Banana leaf presentation
Timing: 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM, 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Entry: ₹250 for vegetarian thali
7. Obbattu (Holige) at Vidhyarthi Bhavan and A2B
Why visit: A traditional sweet flatbread stuffed with jaggery and dal, perfect for festive cravings.
Highlights: Warm, buttery obbattu – Served during Ugadi and festivals – Often paired with milk or ghee
Timing: Available at breakfast and lunch hours
Entry: ₹40–₹60 per piece
8. Churumuri & Street Snacks at VV Puram Food Street
Why visit: A street food haven offering spicy, crunchy, and sweet local delights in one vibrant lane.
Highlights: Churumuri, paddu, holige, dosa varieties – Evening-only atmosphere – Lively street vibe
Timing: 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Entry: ₹20–₹80 per item
9. Donne Biryani at Shivaji Military Hotel
Why visit: A cult-favorite military hotel serving spicy biryani wrapped in banana leaves (donne).
Highlights: Donne-style chicken and mutton biryani – Pepper chicken fry – No-frills canteen-style seating
Timing: 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM
Entry: ₹150–₹200 per portion
10. Vada Pav & Snacks at SLV Corner
Why visit: A popular snack corner in Jayanagar serving piping-hot vadas, pakoras, and Bangalore-style vada pav.
Highlights: Karnataka take on vada pav – Evening snacks with coffee – Crowd favorite among locals
Timing: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹20–₹50 per item
Feature Image:- Photo by Surabhi Siddaiah
