Death by Dosa
A round-up of the best Dosa joints around Bangalore — greatly inspired after the ‘Death by Dosa’ tour curated by Gully Tours, Bangalore, India.
As I walk into a dosa diner in Malleswaram, I almost swoon at the aroma of ghee that emerges from the open kitchen at the back. The heady fragrance of clarified butter intensifies, teasing my senses and heightening my anticipation. I lick my lips, hoping that I am not seen salivating, only to see that the guests around me are in no way bothered about the rest of the world, as they massacre the fresh dosas and vadas and play slam-dunk with the array of chutneys on the side. This was clearly a sport!
I find a seat, my eyes fixed on what lay before me. The chef’s talent unfolded as he skillfully flipped and folded the dosa, ensuring it achieved the perfect balance of crispness and tenderness. The golden-brown hue deepened, and the aroma became even more pronounced, promising a sensory delight that was worth the wait.
As my order arrived, the ghee dosa was presented on a gleaming plate, a visual masterpiece that mirrored the expertise displayed in its creation. The glistening surface of the dosa reflected the warm glow of the diner’s ambiance, inviting me to embark on a culinary journey.
With the first bite, the delicate crunch gave way to the luscious, velvety texture within. The ghee imparted a luxurious buttery note, elevating the dosa to a level of indulgence that was nothing short of extraordinary. The accompanying chutneys, served in vibrant colors, added bursts of flavor that harmonized with the ghee-kissed dosa, creating a medley of taste sensations that danced on my palate.
The first encounter with a ghee dosa is a sensory journey that begins with the gentle crackle as your teeth break through the outer layer, revealing the ethereal combination of a paper-thin crust and a soft, pillowy interior. The texture, a harmonious marriage of crispy and tender, beckons your palate to savor each bite with anticipation, leaving a lingering warmth that enhances the overall flavor profile. The dosa itself, a fusion of fermented rice and urad dal, imparts a mild tanginess, perfectly balancing the richness of the ghee and the endearing coconutty chutneys. By now, I’m pretty sure I’ve got your mouth watering! So, let’s dive into some of the hot dosa spots around the city!
CTR (Central Tiffin Room): Famous for its Benne Masala Dosa.
Being a resident of Malleswaram, this was one of the first spots I visited. I tried a few times to get in, only being told that the restaurant was full, and was asked to come at another time. I realized that CTR had sweet spots of entry or else it would be jam-packed, and you would get no seats. I discovered 7:30 am was one of those spots and that’s when I ended up going there.
CTR-Central Tiffin Room is celebrated for its signature dish, the “Benne Masala Dosa.” The dosas served here are known for their unique preparation, with liberal use of butter (“benne” in Kannada) and a flavorful potato masala filling. The dosas are typically thin, crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside, showcasing the culinary expertise of the chefs at CTR.
The atmosphere at CTR is often described as charmingly nostalgic, maintaining a classic and timeless ambiance that has attracted patrons for decades. The restaurant has retained its traditional charm despite the changing culinary landscape of Bangalore.
Vidyarthi Bhavan
Vidyarthi Bhavan is another iconic eatery in Bangalore, India, celebrated for its rich history and delectable South Indian cuisine. Located in the bustling area of Gandhi Bazaar, Vidyarthi Bhavan has been a culinary landmark since its establishment in 1943.
Vidyarthi Bhavan is particularly famous for its Masala Dosa, which is a must-try for anyone visiting the establishment. The dosas are known for their crispy texture and the flavorful masala filling. Served with coconut chutney and tangy sambar, the Vidyarthi Bhavan Masala Dosa has become a cherished favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The name “Vidyarthi Bhavan” translates to “Student’s House” in English, reflecting its historical connection to the student community. Over the years, the restaurant has become a meeting place for people from various walks of life, adding to its cultural significance.
SLV Corner
Located in Basavangudi, this is one of the oldest haunts in Bangalore known for its coffee and dosas. Vani Vilas Roas adorns SLV corner just before the Ramakrishna Ashram Circle. Two outlets are situated across from one another. There is a restaurant with chairs on one side and a fast-food joint on the other where you may eat breakfast while standing on the sidewalk. SLV offers a tasty breakfast, although the quality varies. Delicious chutney is served with crispy dosas and soft idlis. The sambar that is given is delicious. Yes, I am one of those who is a fan of sweet sambar, don’t murder me! During lunch and dinner, they also provide North Indian food, however, like any North Indian food joint in a South Indian city, the flavors don’t match those of Delhi or Mumbai. This restaurant serves delicious breakfasts from South India though, including my favorite sambar.
Indian Coffee House on Church Street
The Indian Coffee House in Bangalore is situated in a central area, providing accessibility to locals and visitors alike. The coffee house has a classic and simple ambiance, with vintage-style furniture, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of an earlier era. The menu at Indian Coffee House typically features a range of coffee options, with a focus on South Indian filter coffee, as well as snacks and light meals. The emphasis is on providing affordable and traditional offerings. Similar to other Indian Coffee Houses, the one in Bangalore may serve as a cultural hub, attracting intellectuals, artists, and individuals looking for a place to engage in discussions and share ideas. One of the hallmarks of Indian Coffee House is its affordability, making it a popular choice for a diverse clientele.
A funny conversation I heard while I was there, a group of twenty somethings were talking about how to give dosa related one-liners. The winner was: Hey, do you have a map? Because I just got lost in the aroma of your dosas.
Dosa Point on BVK Iyengar Road
Nestled in the heart of the city, this dosa joint that has mastered the art of dosa-making, and it’s not just about the crispiness or the variety of chutneys. What sets this place apart is the perfect touch of ghee that adorns their dosas, creating a heavenly mix of flavors.
Unlike many other joints where the ghee might be sparingly applied or, on the contrary, overwhelming, this dosa spot strikes the ideal balance. The dosa is generously brushed with just the right amount of ghee, creating a golden sheen that enhances both the texture and taste. It’s a culinary finesse that elevates the dosa experience, making each bite a celebration of flavors.
The aroma of the dosa, mingled with the richness of the ghee, wafts through the air, inviting patrons to indulge in a sensory delight. The ghee, with its nutty undertones, complements the earthiness of the dosa batter, adding a layer of decadence that lingers on the palate.
In a city where dosa joints abound, this particular spot stands out not just for its perfectly cooked dosas but for the meticulous attention to the ghee application. It’s a testament to the dedication of the chefs who understand that sometimes, it’s the little details, like the right amount of ghee, that can transform a simple dosa into a culinary masterpiece.
Siddappa Hotel on Richmond Road
The highlight of Siddappa hotel was the chutney — a delightful blend of flavors, combining the freshness of cilantro, the zing of green chilies, and the nuttiness of coconut. Its texture was perfectly balanced, with a smooth consistency that complemented the crispy and savory nature of the dosa. The chutney enhanced every bite of the dosa, providing a burst of taste that lingered on the palate.
As for the service, it was top-notch. The staff was attentive, friendly, and efficient. They took the time to explain the menu, offered recommendations, and ensured that each order was prepared to perfection. The waitstaff checked in regularly, making sure that everything was satisfactory and addressing any requests promptly. The overall dining experience was not just about the delicious food but also about the welcoming atmosphere created by the attentive and friendly service.
R K Dosa Camp at Wilson Garden
The dining experience at this dosa joint was absolutely delightful. The dosas were perfectly crispy on the outside and wonderfully soft on the inside, filled with flavorful and aromatic ingredients. I thoroughly enjoyed the variety of chutneys served alongside, which added an extra burst of taste to each bite.
In addition to the dosas, I have to rave about the refreshing juices available at the joint. The juices were not only delicious but also complemented the spices in the dosas, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The chat items on the menu were also a hit, offering a mix of tangy, spicy, and sweet tastes that added an extra layer of satisfaction to the meal. Overall, it was an awesome culinary experience that left a lasting impression.
The friend who accompanied me got so excited after having this dosa, he composed a ‘Dosa rap’. Here it is! *to be read in a hip hop-y manner*
Yo, we talkin’ ‘bout dosa, a South Indian delight, Flippin’ in the kitchen, sizzlin’ hot, just right. Batter on the griddle, cookin’ up the dream, Crispy on the edges, soft in between.
Dosa, dosa, the flavor so bold, Fold it, roll it, that dosa gold. Chutney on the side, a spicy affair, Savor every bite, in the dosa lair.
Masala dosa, with a spud surprise, In the dosa game, it takes the prize. Ghee on the top, a touch of grace, Dosa in my hand, put a smile on my face.
Dosa, dosa, the flavor so bold, Fold it, roll it, that dosa gold. Chutney on the side, a spicy affair, Savor every bite, in the dosa lair.
Dosa Aunty
The aunty who served the dosa at the spot embodied the essence of warmth and hospitality. Their friendly demeanor and genuine interest in ensuring a positive experience made the dining occasion special. From the moment they took our order, there was a nurturing quality to their service that resonated with a motherly feel.
As they prepared the dosa, there was a meticulous and caring touch evident in their craft. Each fold and flip of the dosa seemed to be done with the same care and attention one might associate with a mother preparing a meal for her loved ones. The dosa itself was a testament to the cook’s skill — thin, crispy edges with a soft and flavorful center.
Throughout the meal, the person attending to us ensured that we were comfortable and satisfied. They shared insights about the dishes, almost like a mother passing down cherished family recipes. It wasn’t just about serving food; it felt like being taken care of by someone who genuinely cared about our dining experience. This personal touch created a warm and nurturing atmosphere, leaving a lasting impression that went beyond just the taste of the dosa.
Real Fresh Dosa Corner, Brookefield
The dining experience at this dosa spot was truly exceptional, with a special highlight on the quality of the dosa batter. The dosas were very tasty, showcasing a batter that had been skillfully fermented to perfection. The result was dosas with a divine balance of crispiness and softness, revealing the expertise and dedication of the chef.
The batter itself had a distinct texture, giving each dosa a unique character. It was evident that the dosas were made with high-quality ingredients, and the attention to detail in the fermentation process contributed to a rich and complex flavor profile. The person relished not just the toppings and accompaniments but also appreciated the fundamental element — the dosa itself — thanks to the outstanding quality of the batter.
The overall dining experience was elevated by the commitment to excellence in crafting the dosa batter, making it a standout feature of the meal.
Dosa’s at Chickpete — Avenue road
In the vibrant streets of Chickpete, the dosas boast a unique flavor that sets them apart from the regular city dosas. The distinctiveness lies not just in the preparation but in the passion and dedication of the owners. Many of these dosa joints are family-owned, with the owners residing next to their establishments. It’s a testament to their commitment, as they seem to be tirelessly working, almost around the clock, to bring these special dosas to the locals.
What makes the Chickpet dosas truly stand out is the personal touch infused into every aspect of the dining experience. The cramped quarters, with joints being super tiny and lacking in tables, create an intimate atmosphere. Visitors are urged to quickly savor the dosas and enjoy the burst of flavors that result from the carefully fermented batter and the unique spice blends.
What’s equally fascinating is the coffee culture in these spots. Each joint takes pride in offering a specialty coffee that complements the dosa experience. From aromatic filter coffee to creative flavored concoctions, the coffee is as much a highlight as the dosas themselves.
In the heart of Chickpet, the dosa joints become more than just eateries; they embody a culinary tradition. The owners, living next door, become the custodians of these flavors, working tirelessly to ensure that every customer experiences the special allure of Chickpet dosas, even if it means enjoying them in the swift, yet vibrant, environment of these tiny establishments.
After all these explorations, I still feel the best dosa in the world is my Mom’s! ❤
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