9 Must Eat Foods for Bangalore Visitors and Foodies

Idli Vada: The Breakfast Staple

Idli and vada, considered staples of South Indian breakfast, are now available any time of the day in Bangalore, making them a beloved dish among locals.
Idli is traditionally served with sambar, which in Karnataka, has a unique flavor due to the addition of jaggery, giving it a slight sweetness.
The combination of idli and vada is a common choice among locals, appealing for its soft and crispy textures respectively.
The idli-vada pairing is often accompanied by coconut chutney, which enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
This classic South Indian dish is celebrated for its affordability, accessibility, and exceptional taste, making it a popular street food option in Bangalore.

Benne Masala Dosa is a popular variety of dosa in Karnataka, known for being generously smeared with butter to enhance its flavor.
This dish is characterized by its combination of a crispy exterior with a spicy potato filling that is typically unique to Mysore masala dosa.
Dosas are traditionally served with accompaniments like sambar (lentil stew) and various chutneys, adding to the overall taste experience.
Wait times at popular dosa eateries can be long, with some customers experiencing waits of over an hour during peak times, emphasizing the popularity of dishes like Benne Masala Dosa.
The unique preparation methods of different dosa varieties, which include fermentation or soaking rice overnight, contribute to their distinctive textures and flavors.

Bisi Bele Bath is a beloved dish from Karnataka that combines rice, lentils, and a medley of spices, making it a perfect blend of taste, nutrition, and simplicity.
The dish is a hearty one-pot meal typically garnished with ghee-fried cashews and served with a generous dollop of ghee, enhancing its rich flavors.
To prepare Bisi Bele Bath, rice and lentils are cooked in a flavorful broth including ingredients like tamarind and tomatoes, along with a unique spice blend.
It is popular among locals and can be enjoyed at home or in local eateries, providing a filling and balanced meal in a single bowl.
Bisi Bele Bath is not just a meal; it’s described as a complete experience that brings people together, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner during visits to Bangalore.

Thatte Idli is a popular variation of the traditional idli, characterized by its plate-sized, flattened appearance, measuring about 4 inches in diameter.
This larger version of idli is known for its softness and is typically served with sambar, coconut chutney, and a dollop of homemade butter for an enhanced flavor experience.
The unique juxtaposition of homemade butter with Thatte Idli is said to offer an unparalleled taste experience, often described as Nirvana.
Thatte Idli is a beloved dish available at local eateries such as Sree Shivasagar Bidadi Bisi Thatte Idly Hotel, located on the Bangalore-Mysore Highway.
The inspiration behind the thatte idli comes from Karnatakas culinary tradition, showcasing the regions emphasis on food that is both hearty and delicious.

Ragi Mudde, made from finger millet flour and water, is a staple dish rich in nutrients and commonly found across Karnataka, both in rural areas and cities.
This traditional dish typically has a bland taste on its own but becomes flavorful when paired with accompaniments like saaru or curry.
It is shaped into a tennis ball-sized form and is known for its filling properties, keeping you satiated and energized.
Ragi Mudde is easy to prepare, requiring only its basic ingredients, making it a convenient and healthy option.
The dish is often served alongside various types of saaru, providing a wholesome meal option that is deeply woven into Karnatakas culinary heritage.

Mysore Pak is a traditional sweet originating from Mysore, Karnataka, made from ghee, sugar, and gram flour (besan).
The texture of Mysore Pak can vary from hard and porous to soft and fudge-like, depending on the amount of ghee used in its preparation.
This sweet treat has a rich history and is enjoyed during festive occasions, weddings, celebrations, and as a snack during tea time.
The preparation of Mysore Pak involves a precise cooking process where ghee is heated and then mixed with chickpea flour and sugar, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Mysore Pak holds a special place in the hearts of both locals and visitors, making it one of the most famous foods in Karnataka.

Khali Dosa is a Karnataka specialty, known for its smaller, thicker, and spongier texture compared to regular dosas, making it a unique culinary delight.
Boiled Kusubalakki, a local rice variety, contributes to the soft and spongy nature of the Khali Dosa.
This dish is typically served with accompaniments such as sambar and chutney, enhancing its flavor profile.
A popular variant of Khali Dosa is the Benne Khali Dosa, which is generously topped with butter for added richness.
Hotel Dwarka in NR Colony, Basavanagudi, is renowned for serving mouth-watering Khali Dosa, attracting both locals and visitors.

Puliyogare is a traditional dish from Karnataka known for its complex flavors, which go beyond just the prominent tamarind component.
The unique taste of Puliyogare is enhanced by a combination of various spices and a generous amount of sesame oil.
This dish is often best enjoyed when paired with curds and papad, adding to its overall flavor profile.
It is commonly referenced in the culinary culture of Bangalore, showcasing its integral role in the regions cuisine.
Puliyogare can be savored at notable locations like Puliyogare Point in NR Colony, Basavanagudi.

Bangalores street food scene is a vibrant reflection of the citys culinary diversity, offering a wide array of delights from classic chaats to crispy bhajis found at bustling food stalls.
Many street Food vendors in Bangalore have adapted to modern payment trends, accepting various digital payment methods, including UPI, debit/credit cards, and mobile wallets, enhancing the customer experience.
The city is famous for its iconic street food items, such as Vadapav and pani puri, contributing to the allure of local culinary adventures.
Food lovers can explore numerous popular street food locations, including VV Puram Food Street, where vendors serve an array of dishes that are both authentic and budget-friendly.
A quintessential part of Bangalores culinary culture is the influence of its cosmopolitan nature, which has led to a fusion of traditional South Indian flavors with global cuisines available in the city.