Idlis and dosas may have the popular vote amongst South Indian staples, but it’s the crisp Vada that’s a true textural delight — validating its presence in the menus of the best breakfast spots in Bangalore. Here’s where you should head for a bite of the comfort classic.
Peek at the plates of most diners at a darshini in Bangalore and you’re bound to see a medley of breakfast classics — Masala Dosa, Rava Idli, Khara Bath, or even Uttappam. Also a popular feature? The humble Vada — golden and swimming in some jaggery-sweetened sambar or fresh mint-coriander chutney. It’s not uncommon to see them drenched in curd as well. Crisp on the outside and soft on the inside — every bite of this fritter is a textural journey.
While the origin of every iteration varies, the classic Medu rendition is believed to have originated in the neighbouring town of Maddur in Karnataka and is made with black lentils. And while most South Indian staples are a part of every household’s dining rotation — these are tricky to get right. Naturally, most prefer turning to a neighbourhood spot that’s perfected the fluffy-to-crisp ratio. The good news? Several restaurants in Bangalore — particularly the iconic breakfast spots — promise the best vada experiences. Here’s a reckoner of spots worth visiting.
Best breakfast spots in Bangalore for vada enthusiasts
Jump To / Table of Contents
Brahmin’s Coffee Bar
View this post on Instagram
Serving up delicious breakfast staples to South Bengaluru since 1965 — this popular hole-in-the-wall is hailed for its consistency and cleanliness. The Vada Chutney as well as Idli Vada Chutney here are quite popular — with the fried creation itself being soft on the inside and crisp on the outside. The batter for the same comes from a home kitchen. These are served with the signature green chutney — supervised by the owner and poured in generous amounts. Wrap the meal with some fragrant Filter Coffee.
Additional Information
Taaza Thindi
6. Taaza thindi, Jayanagar. pic.twitter.com/OK4RPcDS4i
— AB (@ajit_bhaskar) March 30, 2022
Despite being rather young in Bangalore’s bustling breakfast scene — Taaza Thindi has firmly established itself in the dining habits of locals. The menu is crisp — featuring classics like Khara Bath, Masala Dosa, Plain Dosa, Kesari Bath, Khara Bath, and Chow Chow Bath. The Vada here, however, comes highly recommended. Perfectly crunchy — it pairs well with the runny green chutney made of curry leaves and mustard seeds. The portions here are generous and the prices wallet-friendly. Round out a meal with some Horlicks or coffee.
Additional Information
Rameshwaram Cafe
Wow wow wow…
Very Pricy…but totally worth..Very neat clean and hygiene..
Sambar vada – 100/10
Ghee podi idly – 8/10
Dip idly – 8/10
Dosa – 100/10Filter coffee must try
The great rameshwaram cafe
Is really really great. Must try!! pic.twitter.com/IoEIVsxv4a— Tweeting from UG. (@Nash5633) January 26, 2024
Perhaps one of the most popular brands in Bangalore — Rameshwaram is always bustling with customers. The menu highlights here include Open Butter Masala Dosa, Garlic Roast Dosa, Gongura Rice, and Ghee Sambar Button Idlis. The Vada comes highly recommended as well — crunchy on the outside, and soft and fluffy on the inside. It’s served with some well-spiced sambar and coconut chutney. Round out a meal with some filter coffee.
Additional Information
Vidyarthi Bhavan
View this post on Instagram
An iconic breakfast spot that’s been around for over 75 years — Vidyarthi Bhavan’s dosas have a cult following. However, the Uddin Vada is just as popular — served with some classic coconut chutney and sambar made the Karnataka way. The Rava Vada is also a good bet and comes swimming in the nutty and flavourful chutney. These pair well with the fragrant filter coffee here. The place gets quite crowded, especially over the weekends, so be sure to head there early.
Additional Information
Veena Stores
View this post on Instagram
A condiment store-turned-breakfast icon — Veena Stores has been around since 1977. The menu features an assortment of staples — Bisi Bele Bath to Kesari Bath. And while the Idlis are the stars of the show, the Vadas here are just as delightful. Crispy on the outside, and soft and fluffy on the inside — they do well to soak up the signature mint-coriander-coconut chutney. Every bite has remained consistent over the years. As always, pair a bite with some filter coffee.
Additional Information
Rounding out this list is a Malleshwaram stalwart that has been around since 1975. The chow chow bath, shavigi bath, coffee, and tea here are quite popular. The menu here is crisp — a deliberate move to ensure that the quality remains top notch. The vada here is made using a batter that’s prepped in a kitchen a few steps away from the store. It’s served with chutney made with coconut, mustard seeds, and green chillies.
Additional Information
Which of these spots is making it to your next vada adventure?
Hero and feature images: Courtesy StockImageFactory.com/Shutterstock
Tags
Written by
Eshita Srinivas
Senior Digital Writer - Entertainment and Food & Drinks
Eshita is a food, alcohol, travel, and entertainment writer who spends her days zeroing in on the next big trend to write about. She’s a communication graduate with bylines in Conde Nast Traveller India, GQ India, Deccan Herald, and Girls Buzz. When not at work, you’re likely to find her hunting for a good read or charting out the perfect itinerary for a solo trip across Asia.
Most Popular
