Welcome to the City Foodie Guide, an exclusive series from Times Foodie where we dive deep into the best foodie experiences in cities across India. With the help of food lovers, bloggers and experts on the culture of their cities, we handpick the best places to eat – from hidden street food gems to the places only insiders know about, to the must-visit historical spots you can’t miss. Stay tuned for tailored guides to help you eat better wherever you go.
Bengaluru, a city known for its thriving tech industry, is also a foodie’s paradise. The culinary landscape of the “Silicon Valley Of India” is as diverse as its population, offering everything from traditional South Indian dishes to international cuisines. Be it the irresistible street food, cozy cafes, or the countless restaurants dotting the city’s bustling neighborhoods, Bengaluru has something to satisfy every palate.
To explore this rich food scene, who can be a better guide than the city’s passionate food bloggers? These local experts know every nook and cranny of Bengaluru, uncovering hidden gems and showcasing the city’s diverse food offering to the outside world. In a recent conversation with Times Foodie, five of Bengaluru’s expert food bloggers revealed their favourite places, hidden gems and many other insights into Bengaluru’s cuisine.
What are the famous street foods that everyone in Bengaluru must try?
When it comes to street food, Masale Puri and Churmuri are the original dishes that define Bengaluru’s street food culture. These dishes have a unique taste that truly represents the city. I always recommend people to try them out at the famous stalls spread across the city – you will taste the authenticity in every bite.
What are your favorite hangouts in the city?
I have a couple of favourite places that I always go back to. Rogue Elephant Cafe is a lovely place with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for chilling out. Another place I adore is Airlines Hotel – it has that old world charm and serves really good South Indian snacks.
Is there any? Hidden Gems in Bengaluru What not to miss?
Bengaluru has some fantastic hidden places that often go unnoticed. Gopal Tiffin Room, SK Tiffin Room, Siddappa Hotel and SV Tiffin Room are some of those places. These restaurants offer some of the most delicious and authentic South Indian dishes. Trust me, once you visit these places, you will thank me.
What are some of the most overrated foods in the city?
I have been to Iyer Mess a few times, but honestly, it is not worth the money. Every time I have visited, the experience has not been up to par. There are better places in Bengaluru to enjoy a satisfying meal.
Which are the best areas in Bengaluru to explore gastronomy?
For those who enjoy vegetarian breakfasts and evening snacks, Nagarathpete, VV Puram, Basavanagudi and Avenue Road are must-visit areas. If you are in the mood for partying, JP Nagar and Indiranagar are the places to head to.
What are the famous street foods that everyone in Bengaluru must try?
When it comes to street food, you can’t miss out on trying Bangarpete Pani Puri, an iconic spot. Other dishes that you can’t miss include nippe masala, bajjis, bonda, gobi manchurian, avarekalu dosa and gulkand ice cream at VV Puram. These dishes truly capture the essence of Bengaluru’s street food culture.
What are your favorite hangouts in the city?
Church Street for pubs and cafes, especially Koshys for coffee and sandwiches. Koramangala for street food and pubs, Commercial Street for budget eats, Jayanagar for vegetarian food and Malleshwaram for street food and cafes.
Are there any hidden gems in Bengaluru that one shouldn’t miss?
Narang Kababs near Navrang Theater in Rajajinagar, Kentaky Chicken Center on Raja Roy Mohan Road, Siddiq Kabab Center on Curley Street, Siddappa Hotel in Sampangiramnagara, SLV Coffee Bar in Banashankari, All Saints Bakery and Excelsior Bakery are some hidden gems.
What are some of the most overrated foods in the city?
I must say that places like Vidyarthi Bhavan, MTR, CTR and Nagarjuna are overrated. While they have their own fan base, I think there are other places in Bengaluru that deserve more attention.
Which are the best areas in Bengaluru to explore gastronomy?
Malleshwaram, Jayanagar, Frazer Town, Basavanagudi, Banashankari, Commercial Street, Church Street, Koramangala and Shivajinagar are the best areas to explore food. Each of these areas has its own ambiance and culinary specialties.
What are the famous street foods that everyone in Bengaluru must try?
Bengaluru is known for its Bengaluru-style chaats and midnight idli and dosae stalls. My favourites are the Aralimara Pani Puri stall near Uma Theatre in Chamrajpete, the idli and dosae stalls in Nagarathpete, and the chaats with pineapple slices and tomato slices at National College Basavanagudi. Don’t miss them.
What are your favorite hangouts in the city?
If there is a good filter coffee, you will find me there regularly. Namma Filter Coffee is one such place. I recently discovered Tambuli Mane, which serves authentic Tambuli drinks from Malnad. On weekends, I enjoy craft beers at The Bier Library or partying at TORYE in RR Nagar, which has a great Kannada music scene.
Are there any hidden gems in Bengaluru that one shouldn’t miss?
Bengaluru has some fantastic hidden spots. Shree Idly Corner on Veerapillai Street is a gem, and the Kashi Halwa and Dumroot at Sri RamaVilas Sweets (Gundappa Hotel) on SP Road are to die for. VB Bakery on VV Puram is another place you shouldn’t miss – it’s a classic.
What are some of the most overrated foods in the city?
In my opinion, all the places to eat in Andhra are a bit overrated. However, I have a soft spot for Mayuri – it’s where you can enjoy the original Andhra culinary experience, especially their Pappu and gunpowder, which are exceptional.
Which are the best areas in Bengaluru to explore gastronomy?
If you are looking for authentic South Indian and Bangalore food, South Bangalore is second to none, especially Jayanagar, Basavanagudi and Chamrajpete. If you are looking for non-vegetarian Naati style food, Nagarabhavi and Banashankari are the best options, and Shivaji is a must-visit.
What are the famous street foods that everyone in Bengaluru must try?
Pongal, Bisi Bele Bath, Akki Roti, Ragi Mudde with Chicken Curry, Podi Idli, Thatte Idli, Crispy Ghee Miri Podi Dosa and Pesarattu Dosa are unique street foods best enjoyed in Bengaluru.
What are your favorite hangouts in the city?
There are a few places that I visit frequently. Taza Thindi is a go-to place for a quick bite to eat and I love Mandipete Mysore Palav. If you are looking for something a little different, I enjoy dining at CTR, Andhra Gun Powder, Nagarjuna and Meghana Foods – these are my favourite places.
Are there any hidden gems in Bengaluru that one shouldn’t miss?
While Bengaluru is known for its popular places, there are some hidden gems that I always come back to. Thirupathi Bhimas in Yelahanka and Mandipete Mysore Palav are my favourites. These places may not be well-known, but they offer something special.
What are some of the most overrated foods in the city?
Honestly, I don’t think anything is overrated in Bengaluru. The food culture in the city is so diverse and rich that people just overhype what’s really good.
Which are the best areas in Bengaluru to explore gastronomy?
Koramangala, HSR Layout, VV Puram and Wilson Garden are fantastic areas to explore gastronomy.
What are the famous street foods that everyone in Bengaluru must try?
Sheekh Chicken Kebab at Khan Saheb Grills and Rolls in Indiranagar, Butter, Jam and Honey Bread Cake at VB Bakery in VV Puram, Chitranna Dosa at Ramu Tiffin Centre in VV Puram, Paddu at VV Puram Street Food Road, Gobi Manchurian at Raja Gobi, Egg Rice at Uncle Egg Rice Corner, Butter Idly at Shree Idly Corner and Egg Puff at Thom’s Bakery are some must-try street foods.
What are your favorite hangouts in the city?
When I want to relax, I usually go to Airlines Hotel, Brahmins Coffee Bar, Amudham Cafe, TOIT or URU Brewpark. These places have great food and drinks and I love spending time there.
Are there any hidden gems in Bengaluru that one shouldn’t miss?
Biryani at Kundana Family Restaurant in JP Nagar, idly at South Kitchen in NR Colony, Khali Dosae at Dwaraka Hotel in NR Colony and chow chow baath at Upahara Darshini in NR Colony are hidden gems that you should not miss.
What are some of the most overrated foods in the city?
Food at Meghana Foods, Nagarjuna Restaurant, A2B and Nandini is overrated.
Which are the best areas in Bengaluru to explore gastronomy?
VV Puram, Frazer Town Food Street during Ramzan, Jayanagar 4th Block, Malleshwaram 8th Cross and Vijayanagar Chat Street are the best areas to explore food.
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