best south indian restaurants in bangalore
  • April 16, 2025

Best South Indian Restaurants in Bangalore – A Food Lover’s Guide

Bangalore is the ultimate destination for South Indian food lovers, offering a diverse range of restaurants that serve authentic and flavorful dishes. Whether you’re craving crispy dosas, soft idlis, spicy biryanis, or traditional thali meals, this city has something for every palate. This guide explores the Best South Indian Restaurants in Bangalore, highlighting both legendary eateries and modern hotspots where you can experience the best of Karnataka, Tamil, Kerala, and Andhra cuisine.

The Best South Indian Restaurants in Bangalore offer a mix of traditional recipes and contemporary flavors, reflecting the city’s rich culinary heritage. From classic vegetarian breakfast spots to popular veg & non-veg restaurants, each place has something unique to offer. Whether you’re a fan of filter coffee, Mysore masala dosa, or spicy Andhra biryani, Bangalore’s food scene has everything you need to indulge in authentic South Indian cuisine. If you’re looking for South Indian food outside Bangalore, check out the Best South Indian Restaurants in Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Delhi.

What Makes Bangalore’s South Indian Cuisine Special?

Bangalore is a melting pot of South Indian culinary traditions, influenced by the flavors of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala. The city’s diverse food scene offers everything from traditional vegetarian delicacies to spicy non-vegetarian delights.

Key Features of Bangalore’s South Indian Cuisine

  • Regional Influence:

    • Karnataka: Bisi Bele Bath, Mysore Masala Dosa, Ragi Mudde

    • Tamil Nadu: Pongal, Chettinad Chicken, Filter Coffee

    • Kerala: Appam, Malabar Parotta, Kerala Sadya

    • Andhra Pradesh: Andhra Biryani, Gongura Chicken, Pesarattu

  • Must-Try Dishes in Bangalore:

    • Masala Dosa from famous dosa spots like Vidyarthi Bhavan and CTR

    • Idli-Vada with coconut chutney and sambar

    • Traditional South Indian thalis with a variety of curries, rice, and accompaniments

    • Spicy Andhra-style biryani from popular South Indian restaurants

    • Rich, aromatic filter coffee served in steel tumblers

Now, let’s explore the Best South Indian Restaurants in Bangalore where you can experience these delicious flavors.

Top 10 Best South Indian Restaurants in Bangalore

Bangalore is home to some of the finest South Indian eateries, ranging from century-old establishments to modern culinary hotspots. Whether you crave crispy masala dosas, piping hot idlis, or spicy Andhra-style biryanis, the Best South Indian Restaurants in Bangalore promise an authentic gastronomic experience.

Below is a detailed look at the top 10 must-visit South Indian restaurants in Bangalore, each offering its own signature flavors and specialties.

1. Mysore Aduge – Authentic Vegetarian Delights

Mysore Aduge is a hidden gem in Bangalore, known for its dedication to Mysorean cuisine. This restaurant is a paradise for vegetarians who appreciate traditional Karnataka flavors.

Why Visit Mysore Aduge?

  • Serves authentic Mysore Masala Dosa, Puliyogare (Tamarind Rice), and Bisi Bele Bath

  • Uses homemade spices and locally sourced ingredients

  • Traditional South Indian interiors enhance the dining experience

  • One of the Best South Indian Restaurants in Bangalore for pure vegetarian food

This restaurant is a great choice for those who enjoy homely, nutritious, and flavor-packed vegetarian meals.

2. Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) – A Legacy of Taste

MTR is one of Bangalore’s most famous food institutions, established in 1924. This historic eatery is credited with inventing Rava Idli, a unique twist on the traditional steamed rice cake.

What Makes MTR Special?

  • Rava Idli – A soft, steamed semolina-based idli served with coconut chutney

  • Masala Dosa – A crispy dosa with rich ghee flavor and potato stuffing

  • Signature filter coffee, brewed to perfection

  • Spacious, vintage-style ambiance with old-world charm

Despite its old-school approach, MTR remains a favorite for both locals and tourists, solidifying its place among the Best South Indian Restaurants in Bangalore.

3. Vidyarthi Bhavan – Iconic Dosa Destination

Since 1943, Vidyarthi Bhavan has been serving the best dosas in Bangalore, making it one of the most famous dosa spots in the city. The restaurant, originally started as a student eatery, now attracts food lovers from all walks of life.

Why People Love Vidyarthi Bhavan?

  • Famous for its thick, buttery, and crispy Masala Dosa

  • The strong filter coffee pairs perfectly with their breakfast menu

  • Nostalgic charm with old photographs and rustic décor

  • Often crowded, but worth the wait for an unforgettable dosa experience

If you are a dosa enthusiast, Vidyarthi Bhavan should be at the top of your list!

4. Brahmin’s Coffee Bar – Best for Idli & Chutney

Brahmin’s Coffee Bar is an iconic breakfast spot that serves just a handful of items, but each one is flawlessly executed. Known for its soft, fluffy idlis and legendary coconut chutney, this is a must-visit place for a classic South Indian breakfast.

What Makes Brahmin’s Coffee Bar Stand Out?

  • The idlis are so soft they melt in your mouth

  • The vadas are perfectly crispy on the outside and soft inside

  • No sambar is served—only thick, flavorful coconut chutney

  • Best filter coffee to start your day right

This small eatery has a cult following and continues to be one of the Best South Indian Restaurants in Bangalore.

5. CTR (Sri Sagar) – Famous for Benne Dosa

CTR (Central Tiffin Room), now called Sri Sagar, is a legendary dosa joint that has been delighting Bangaloreans for decades. It’s best known for its Benne (Butter) Masala Dosa, which is crisp on the outside and soft on the inside.

Why Choose CTR?

  • Benne Masala Dosa – One of the best dosas in Bangalore

  • Authentic Karnataka-style breakfast in a casual setting

  • Simple menu, but unbeatable taste

  • Frequently ranked as one of the top dosa spots in Bangalore

If you are looking for a rich, buttery dosa experience, CTR is the place to be.

6. Halli Mane – Village-Style Karnataka Cuisine

Halli Mane, which means “Village House,” is an eatery that brings rural Karnataka cuisine to the heart of Bangalore. The restaurant is designed to give diners an authentic village-style dining experience.

Why Visit Halli Mane?

  • Serves an elaborate South Indian thali with multiple side dishes

  • The rustic ambiance and banana leaf serving style enhance the experience

  • Famous for Ragi Mudde (millet balls) and Jolad Roti (jowar bread)

  • Affordable pricing for traditional South Indian meals

Halli Mane is one of the Best South Indian Restaurants in Bangalore for those who want an immersive cultural and culinary experience.

7. Tandoori Wala – South Indian Non-Veg Delicacies

For those who enjoy non-vegetarian South Indian food, Tandoori Wala is a must-visit restaurant. Unlike the traditional vegetarian South Indian spots, this place offers a blend of Tandoori and South Indian flavors.

What’s Special About Tandoori Wala?

  • Offers a mix of South Indian and Mughlai flavors

  • Best dishes: Chicken Chettinad, Mutton Sukka, and Kerala-style seafood

  • Serves non-veg dosas, including Chicken Kheema Dosa

This is one of the Best South Indian Restaurants in Bangalore for those looking for a non-vegetarian twist to traditional dishes.

8. Meghana Foods – Best for Andhra-Style Biryani

For spice lovers, Meghana Foods is a paradise. Known for serving one of the best Andhra-style biryanis, this restaurant is famous for its bold, fiery flavors.

Why Meghana Foods is a Must-Try?

  • Signature Andhra-style Chicken Biryani, rich in spices

  • Delicious Gongura Chicken, Mutton Fry, and Prawns Curry

  • Large portions, perfect for sharing

If you love spicy food, this is one of the top South Indian non-veg restaurants in Bangalore.

9. Rameshwaram Café – Fusion of Tradition & Innovation

Rameshwaram Café is a modern take on traditional South Indian flavors, offering a fusion of old and new. This is a great place to enjoy innovative dosa varieties alongside classic dishes.

Why Visit Rameshwaram Café?

  • Offers creative dosas, such as Cheese Burst Dosa and Schezwan Dosa

  • Elegant ambiance with a mix of modern and traditional elements

  • Great for those who enjoy experimenting with food

This café is an exciting addition to Bangalore’s South Indian food scene.

10. Koshy’s – A Blend of South Indian & Continental

Koshy’s is an old-world café and restaurant, serving both South Indian and continental dishes. Established in 1940, it is a favorite spot for generations of Bangaloreans.

Why Koshy’s is Special?

  • Famous for its traditional South Indian breakfasts

  • Offers a mix of seafood, Kerala cuisine, and continental options

  • Vintage charm and rich history make it one of Bangalore’s iconic food destinations

If you want to experience Bangalore’s legendary food culture, Koshy’s is a must-visit.

These Best South Indian Restaurants in Bangalore offer a delightful mix of traditional and modern flavors, making them perfect for food lovers seeking an authentic South Indian dining experience.

Famous Dosa Spots in Bangalore

If you’re searching for the most famous dosa spots in Bangalore, here are the must-visit places:

  • Vidyarthi Bhavan – Crispy, buttery dosas with chutney

  • CTR (Sri Sagar) – Benne (butter) dosa, famous for its rich texture

  • MTR – Thick, flavorful Mysore Masala Dosa

  • Rameshwaram Café – Offers innovative dosa varieties with a modern twist

These restaurants are known for serving some of the best dosas in Bangalore, each with its own unique style and preparation method.

Where to Find the Best Veg & Non-Veg South Indian Cuisine?

  • Best Vegetarian Restaurants: MTR, Mysore Aduge, Vidyarthi Bhavan

  • Best Non-Vegetarian Restaurants: Meghana Foods, Tandoori Wala, Koshy’s

To fully experience Bangalore South Indian cuisine, explore both veg & non-veg restaurants and enjoy the city’s diverse food culture.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

MTR, Vidyarthi Bhavan, and Brahmin’s Coffee Bar are among the Best South Indian Restaurants in Bangalore for authentic flavors.

Vidyarthi Bhavan and CTR are the most famous dosa spots known for their rich, buttery dosas.

Halli Mane and MTR offer authentic South Indian thalis with a variety of dishes.

Brahmin’s Coffee Bar and MTR are famous for their strong, aromatic South Indian filter coffee.

Meghana Foods and Tandoori Wala serve some of the best South Indian non-vegetarian dishes.

Meghana Foods is known for its spicy Andhra-style biryanis and curries.

Brahmin’s Coffee Bar, Vidyarthi Bhavan, and Halli Mane offer affordable yet delicious meals.

Rameshwaram Café and Halli Mane provide a unique dining experience with a blend of tradition and modern aesthetics.

Chef Shajahan M. Abdul

Chef Shajahan M. Abdul is a renowned culinary entrepreneur and the visionary behind multiple successful restaurant and franchise brands across India. With over a decade of expertise in hospitality, Chef Abdul shares deep insights into the food franchise business, restaurant operations, and culinary trends. His blogs cover a wide range of topics—from starting a restaurant and low-investment franchise opportunities to regional food trends and business strategies—helping aspiring entrepreneurs make informed decisions in the fast-growing food industry.

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