Bangalore, a bustling city in southern India, is a food lover’s paradise, offering an extensive array of local cuisines that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage. The city’s diverse food scene is a blend of traditional South Indian dishes and influences from various parts of the country. From street food to sit-down meals, the city caters to every palate, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore new and exciting flavors.
The heart of Bangalore's culinary culture lies in its South Indian classics, such as dosas, idlis, and vadas. These iconic dishes, made from rice and lentils, are often served with chutneys and sambar, offering a satisfying combination of savory flavors. Dishes like the crispy benne dosa, soft idlis, and flavorful vadas are staples in local restaurants and are enjoyed as part of breakfast or light meals throughout the day. Whether at a street-side stall or a traditional restaurant, these dishes are always in high demand.
Bangalore is also known for its vibrant street food scene. Pani puri, bhel puri, and chaat are popular quick bites, offering a burst of tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors. Unique snacks like churmuri and vada pav are beloved by locals and visitors alike, adding to the city’s dynamic food culture. These street foods provide a taste of Bangalore’s rich culinary diversity and are perfect for those on the go.
For dessert lovers, Bangalore offers indulgent sweets like Mysore Pak and Rava Kesari. These rich, flavorful desserts are often served during festivals and special occasions, making them a significant part of the city’s food traditions. Coupled with a strong cup of filter coffee, these desserts offer the perfect conclusion to any meal. Whether you’re craving savory snacks or sweet treats, Bangalore’s local cuisines are sure to satisfy every craving and leave you with a memorable culinary experience.
1. Masala Dosa
Masala Dosa is a crispy, thin crepe made from fermented rice and urad dal batter, filled with a spiced potato mixture. Served with coconut chutney and tangy sambar, it offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Originating in South India, Masala Dosa has become a favorite breakfast dish in Bangalore, known for its irresistible taste and versatility. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack or a full meal, it remains a staple of Bangalore’s vibrant food culture, loved by all who try it.
Where to Try: Basavanagudi, Lalbagh Road
2. Rava Idli
Rava Idli is a soft and spongy steamed dish made from semolina, offering a light, mildly spiced flavor. It is traditionally served with coconut chutney and potato sagu, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Invented by MTR during World War II, Rava Idli quickly became a favorite in Bangalore and beyond. It remains a beloved breakfast staple, reflecting the city’s rich culinary heritage and timeless flavors, cherished by locals and visitors alike.
Where to Try: MTR outlets across Bangalore
3. Bisi Bele Bath
Bisi Bele Bath is a traditional Karnataka dish that combines rice, lentils, and vegetables, all simmered together in a fragrant blend of spices. This comforting, one-pot meal is both hearty and nutritious, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
Served with crispy boondi or a side of papad, Bisi Bele Bath is a perfect example of the region's rich culinary heritage. Its unique flavor and wholesome ingredients make it an essential dish to try for anyone looking to experience authentic Bangalore cuisine.
Where to Try: CTR (Central Tiffin Room), Malleshwaram
4. Khara Bath
Khara Bath is a spicy, semolina-based dish mixed with vegetables, commonly enjoyed as a breakfast in Bangalore. Known for its savory flavor, it’s often paired with the sweet and aromatic Kesari Bath as part of the popular "Chow Chow Bath" combination.
This delicious duo offers a perfect balance of flavors, making it a comforting and fulfilling start to the day. A favorite at local eateries, Khara Bath provides a satisfying and flavorful breakfast experience, embodying the essence of Bangalore’s culinary culture.
Where to Try: Brahmin’s Coffee Bar, Basavanagudi
5. Kesari Bath
Kesari Bath is a beloved South Indian dessert made from semolina, ghee, and flavored with aromatic saffron and cardamom. Its rich, sweet taste and vibrant golden color make it a popular treat, often enjoyed during breakfast or special occasions.
This indulgent dish offers a comforting experience with its soft texture and fragrant flavors, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether served on its own or as part of the "Chow Chow Bath" combination, Kesari Bath is a delightful addition to any meal.
Where to Try: SLV Corner, Jayanagar
6. Akki Roti
Akki Roti is a traditional South Indian flatbread made from rice flour, mixed with onions, green chilies, and a blend of spices. This gluten-free dish is both flavorful and satisfying, often served with coconut chutney or curry for added taste.
Its soft texture and savory flavor make it a popular choice for breakfast or as a snack. Akki Roti is a favorite in many households, showcasing the simplicity and deliciousness of South Indian cuisine. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with accompaniments, it’s a delightful and comforting treat.
Where to Try: VV Puram Food Street
7. Ragi Mudde
Ragi Mudde is a nutritious dish made from finger millet, a staple in rural Karnataka. This soft, dough-like ball is traditionally served with spicy sambar or meat curry, offering a hearty and wholesome meal.
Packed with fiber and essential nutrients, Ragi Mudde is known for its sustaining qualities, making it a popular choice year-round. Whether enjoyed as a filling meal or as part of a traditional feast, this simple yet nourishing dish holds a special place in Karnataka’s culinary heritage.
Where to Try: Nandini Deluxe, Koramangala
8. Puliyogare
Puliyogare is a tangy rice dish from Karnataka, prepared with tamarind, peanuts, and curry leaves, creating a rich, aromatic flavor. Its zesty taste and perfect blend of spices make it a popular choice for a quick snack or light meal.
Often enjoyed during festivals or as a travel food, Puliyogare captures the essence of Karnataka’s culinary heritage. Its simplicity, combined with bold flavors, makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This dish offers a true taste of Karnataka in every bite.
Where to Try: Kamath Hotel, Gandhinagar
9. Mysore Pak
Mysore Pak is a decadent South Indian dessert made from gram flour, sugar, and ghee. Originating from Mysore, this iconic sweet is celebrated for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, buttery flavor.
Known for its indulgent taste, Mysore Pak is often served during festivals and special occasions, making it a beloved treat in Karnataka. This sweet delicacy is a true representation of the state's culinary traditions, offering a delightful experience in every bite.
Where to Try: Krishna Sweets, Indiranagar
10. Bonda Soup
Bonda Soup is a comforting South Indian dish consisting of crispy, golden fried lentil balls (bondas) served in a flavorful lentil soup. This hearty combination offers both warmth and satisfaction, making it the perfect dish for cooler evenings.
Often enjoyed as a snack, particularly during the monsoon season, Bonda Soup is a beloved comfort food. The crispy bondas paired with the rich, savory soup create a delightful experience that captures the essence of South Indian flavors.
Where to Try: Janatha Hotel, Malleshwaram
11. Filter Coffee
South Indian Filter Coffee is an essential part of daily life in Bangalore, offering a rich, aromatic taste that energizes the senses. Made with freshly brewed coffee decoction and milk, this strong, frothy coffee is a beloved ritual in the city.
The comforting warmth and bold flavor make it the perfect start to a busy day in Bangalore. Whether enjoyed at home or at a local café, South Indian Filter Coffee captures the essence of the city’s vibrant culture and is a must-try for coffee lovers.
Where to Try: Indian Coffee House, MG Road
12. Maddur Vada
Vada is a popular South Indian snack made with a unique blend of rice flour, semolina, and onions, deep-fried to golden perfection. The result is a crispy, crunchy exterior with a soft, flavorful interior.
Often paired with chutney or sambar, vada is enjoyed as a breakfast dish or snack during tea time. Its satisfying texture and savory taste make it a beloved choice among locals and visitors alike, offering a delicious bite of Bangalore’s culinary traditions.
Where to Try: Maddur Tiffany’s, Mysore Road
13. Gobi Manchurian
Crispy Cauliflower is a fusion street food favorite, where golden-brown florets are coated in a spicy Indo-Chinese sauce. This dish perfectly blends bold, tangy flavors with a satisfying crunch, making it an irresistible treat.
Whether enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, its combination of heat and flavor makes it a popular choice for food lovers. Offering the best of both Indian and Chinese cuisines, crispy cauliflower is a delicious way to indulge in street food with a twist.
Where to Try: VV Puram Food Street
14. Neer Dosa
Neer Dosa is a light, lacy crepe made from rice batter, known for its crispy edges and soft center. This delicate dish is traditionally paired with coconut chutney or chicken curry, offering a wonderful balance of textures and flavors.
Popular in South India, neer dosa is a versatile meal, perfect for breakfast or dinner. Its subtle taste and satisfying texture make it a beloved choice for those looking to enjoy an authentic and light South Indian dish.
Where to Try: Mangalore Pearl, Indiranagar
15. Chitranna
Lemon Rice is a vibrant and tangy dish made by tossing rice with zesty lemon juice, aromatic curry leaves, and crunchy peanuts. The perfect harmony of sour and savory flavors makes it a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Often enjoyed as a snack or light meal, lemon rice is a beloved comfort food, offering a burst of flavors with every bite. Its simplicity and refreshing taste make it a popular choice in South Indian cuisine.
Where to Try: Upahara Darshini, Basavanagudi
16. Thatte Idli
Thatte Idli is a unique and larger version of the traditional idli, popular in Karnataka. These plate-sized idlis are made from the same fermented rice and urad dal batter but are bigger and fluffier, offering a soft and spongy texture.
Usually served with coconut chutney, sambar, and sometimes a spicy chutney, Thatte Idli is a hearty and satisfying meal, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. Its distinctive size and flavor make it a must-try for those exploring South Indian cuisine.
Where to Try: Bidadi Tatte Idli, Bangalore-Mysore Highway
17. Obbattu/Holige
Obbattu, also known as Holige or Puran Poli, is a traditional South Indian sweet flatbread stuffed with a delicious mixture of jaggery, coconut, and lentils. The soft, golden dough is rolled out and stuffed with this sweet filling, then cooked on a griddle until perfectly golden and slightly crispy.
This rich, aromatic dish is often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions, offering a perfect blend of sweetness and savory flavors. Obbattu is a beloved treat in Karnataka, providing a delightful experience with every bite.
Where to Try: Holige Mane, Jayanagar
18. Churumuri
Churumuri is a popular street food snack in Bangalore, made from puffed rice tossed with a blend of spices, fresh vegetables, and a tangy tamarind sauce. The crunchy puffed rice is complemented by chopped onions, tomatoes, and coriander, creating a vibrant, flavorful mix that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Often served in a cone-shaped paper, this light and spicy snack is perfect for those on the go, offering a delightful burst of flavors with every bite. Churumuri is a quintessential part of Bangalore's street food culture, loved by locals and visitors alike.
Where to Try: VV Puram Food Street
19. Mangalore Bajji
Mangalore Bajji is a delicious snack made from a simple batter of refined flour, rice flour, and spices, deep-fried to golden perfection. These soft and fluffy fritters have a crispy exterior and a warm, savory interior, making them an irresistible treat.
Typically served with a side of coconut chutney or spicy ketchup, Mangalore Bajji is a popular choice for breakfast or tea time. This dish is a beloved specialty of Mangalore, offering a delightful taste of coastal Karnataka in every bite.
Where to Try: Mangalore Pearl, Indiranagar
20. Vangi Bath
Vangi Bath is a flavorful rice dish from South India, made by cooking rice with tender brinjal (eggplant), aromatic spices, and a special Vangi Bath powder. The spices infuse the rice with a rich, savory flavor, while the brinjal adds a soft, melty texture that complements the dish perfectly.
This one-pot meal is often enjoyed as a satisfying lunch or dinner, offering a burst of flavors in every bite. Vangi Bath is a staple in many South Indian households, cherished for its comforting and delicious taste.
Where to Try: Halli Mane, Malleshwaram
21. Idiyappam
Idiyappam, also known as string hoppers, is a delicate South Indian dish made from rice flour dough, pressed into thin, noodle-like strands. These soft, steamed strands are traditionally served with sweet coconut milk and jaggery for a comforting, sweet treat or paired with a spicy curry for a savory meal.
Idiyappam is a popular dish in South India, enjoyed for its light texture and versatility. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it’s a delightful option that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings.
Where to Try: Nandhini Palace, Koramangala
22. Avarekalu Dosa
Avarekalu Dosa is a delightful variation of the traditional dosa, made with hyacinth beans (avarekalu). This savory dish is especially popular during the Avarekalu festival in Bangalore, when the beans are in season. The dosa is served hot and crispy, with the addition of avarekalu adding a unique flavor and texture to the classic recipe.
Typically enjoyed with chutney or sambar, Avarekalu Dosa makes for a flavorful and nutritious breakfast or snack. It’s a must-try for those looking to experience a regional twist on the beloved South Indian dosa.
Where to Try: VV Puram Food Street
23. Benne Masala Dosa
Benne Masala Dosa is a rich and indulgent variation of the traditional masala dosa. The dosa is generously smeared with ghee, which adds a buttery, flavorful richness to its crispy exterior. Inside, a spiced potato filling offers the perfect balance of savory goodness.
Served with coconut chutney and sambar, this version of masala dosa is a satisfying and comforting treat, making it a must-try for those who enjoy the rich, flavorful taste of South Indian cuisine.
Where to Try: CTR (Central Tiffin Room), Malleshwaram
24. Paniyaram
Paniyaram are small, savory dumplings made from fermented rice and lentil batter. These bite-sized treats are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, offering a delightful texture with every bite.
Typically served with chutney, paniyaram is a popular South Indian snack, perfect for breakfast or as a tasty snack throughout the day. Its unique combination of flavors and textures makes it a beloved dish in South Indian cuisine.
Where to Try: Street vendors at VV Puram
25. Kharabath with Coffee
Kharabath with Coffee is a delightful breakfast combo, featuring the spicy, savory kharabath paired with a strong, aromatic filter coffee. The kharabath, made with semolina and seasoned with a mix of spices and vegetables, offers a comforting and flavorful experience.
The rich, robust coffee perfectly complements the savory dish, creating an ideal balance of flavors. This energizing combination is a popular choice for a hearty and satisfying start to the day in South India.
Where to Try: MTR, Lalbagh Road
Discover the rich flavors of Bangalore with these 25 must-try local cuisines. From crispy Masala Dosa to spicy Bisi Bele Bath, the city's food scene is a treat. Start your day at the best breakfast cafes or savor authentic dishes at Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) and Vidyarthi Bhavan for an unforgettable culinary experience!
