Bangalore's food scene has earned its reputation, especially when it comes to South Indian food. This trail covers the spots locals actually frequent, from old institutions to a few quieter places worth tracking down.
Breakfast Champions
Vidyarthi Bhavan has been around since 1943 and the masala dosa is what people queue for. Crisp, golden, served with coconut chutney and sambar. Get there before 9 AM unless you enjoy waiting in line.
MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Room) does a rava idli that is genuinely worth a trip. Soft, light, dotted with curry leaves and cashews. The filter coffee comes in a steel tumbler the way it should.
Lunch Time Favorites
Karavalli at The Gateway Hotel serves coastal Karnataka food in a more upscale setting. The fish curry with neer dosa is the order to make. On a budget, Shri Sagar (CTR) in Malleshwaram does unlimited thalis that fill you for the rest of the day.
Evening Snacks
Brahmin's Coffee Bar is the right kind of evening stop. The idli-vada combo is simple and good. The filter coffee tastes the way filter coffee is supposed to taste.
Dinner Delights
End the trail at Nagarjuna for Andhra food. The biryani has a real kick and the gongura mutton is the kind of dish you remember. For something more traditional to Karnataka, Ragi Gudda runs a finger millet menu that's worth trying.
Pro Tips
A lot of the older places have a limited menu and close by 8 or 9 PM. Carry cash, because cards aren't always accepted. Weekday mornings are quieter. And if a place looks crowded, that's usually a good sign.