Introduction
Bangalore is a city that never fails to surprise you—especially when it comes to food. I remember my first visit to this vibrant city; I was overwhelmed by the sheer variety of flavors available at every corner. Whether it’s the aroma of freshly made masala dosa wafting through the air or the sizzle of spicy chicken rolls being prepared on a street cart, Bangalore has something for everyone.
What makes Bangalore’s food scene truly special is its affordability. You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy a delicious meal here. In fact, some of the best food experiences I’ve had in this city were at small, unassuming eateries that serve authentic dishes for less than ₹200.
In this guide, I’ll take you through 15 budget-friendly eateries in Bangalore where you can enjoy mouthwatering meals without burning a hole in your pocket. Along the way, I’ll share personal stories, tips, and insights to help you make the most of your culinary adventure.
Why Choose Budget-Friendly Eateries in Bangalore?
Before we dive into the list, let me explain why these budget-friendly spots are worth exploring:
- Affordable Prices: Most meals cost between ₹50-₹200, making them accessible to everyone.
- Authentic Flavors: Many of these eateries have been around for decades, serving traditional recipes that haven’t changed over time.
- Variety: From South Indian staples like dosa and idli to North Indian curries and Chinese noodles, Bangalore offers a diverse range of cuisines.
- Local Experience: Eating at these places gives you a glimpse into the daily lives of Bangaloreans.
Reference: According to a 2022 survey by Zomato, Bangalore ranks among the top cities in India for affordable yet high-quality dining experiences.
Top 15 Cheap and Best Food Spots in Bangalore
1. Vidyarthi Bhavan
Location: Gandhi Bazaar
Specialty: Masala Dosa, Filter Coffee
Vidyarthi Bhavan is more than just a restaurant—it’s an institution. Established in 1943, this iconic eatery is famous for its crispy masala dosa, which is served with a side of homemade coconut chutney and sambar. The secret to their success lies in the quality of ingredients and the consistency of their recipes.
One morning, I decided to visit Vidyarthi Bhavan early to avoid the crowd. Even at 7 AM, there was a line outside the door. But trust me, the wait was worth it. The dosa was perfectly golden, and the chutney had just the right balance of sweetness and tanginess.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting during peak hours, be prepared to wait. Alternatively, go early in the morning or late in the evening.
Reference: Vidyarthi Bhavan – A Culinary Legacy
2. MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Rooms)
Location: Lalbagh Road
Specialty: Rava Idli, Kesari Bath
MTR is another legendary name in Bangalore’s food scene. What sets MTR apart is its commitment to hygiene and quality. Their rava idli is soft, fluffy, and melts in your mouth. And their kesari bath? It’s like a sweet hug in a bowl.
I once visited MTR with a group of friends, and we ordered almost everything on the menu. Each dish was a revelation. The buttery texture of the rava idli paired with the rich kesari bath made me realize why this place has stood the test of time.
Key Fact: MTR has been serving food since 1924 and is considered one of the pioneers of South Indian cuisine in Bangalore.
Reference: MTR Official Website
3. Shivaji Military Hotel
Location: Jayanagar
Specialty: Chicken Sukka, Neer Dosa
If you’re a non-vegetarian, Shivaji Military Hotel is a must-visit. This no-frills eatery serves authentic Mangalorean and Kodava cuisine. Their chicken sukka is a fiery, flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with neer dosa—a soft, rice-based pancake.
During one of my visits, I asked the owner about the secret behind their chicken sukka. He smiled and said, “It’s all about the spices.” True enough, the dish was bursting with flavor, leaving a lingering heat that was both satisfying and addictive.
Fun Fact: Shivaji Military Hotel has been featured in several local food blogs as one of the best places for Mangalorean cuisine in Bangalore.
Reference: Shivaji Military Hotel Review
4. Kailash Parbat
Location: MG Road
Specialty: Chole Bhature, Aloo Tikki
Kailash Parbat is a popular chain known for its North Indian street food. Their chole bhature is rich, spicy, and utterly satisfying. Pair it with a glass of lassi for the ultimate experience.
On a particularly hot day, I stopped by Kailash Parbat for a quick bite. The chole bhature was exactly what I needed to cool down (ironically, despite the heat). The chole was creamy, the bhature was fluffy, and the lassi was refreshing.
Key Point: Kailash Parbat has multiple outlets across Bangalore, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists.
Reference: Kailash Parbat Menu
5. Brahmin’s Coffee Bar
Location: Malleswaram
Specialty: Butter Toast, Khara Pongal
Brahmin’s Coffee Bar is a tiny eatery tucked away in Malleswaram. Despite its size, it’s always bustling with customers. Their butter toast is simple yet delicious, and their khara pongal is perfect for breakfast.
One morning, I decided to skip the usual coffee shop routine and try something local. That’s when I stumbled upon Brahmin’s Coffee Bar. The butter toast was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, while the khara pongal was comforting and filling.
Pro Tip: This place is a favorite among locals, so expect a short wait during peak hours.
Reference: Brahmin’s Coffee Bar Review
6. Corner House
Location: Multiple Outlets
Specialty: Ice Cream, Desserts
No trip to Bangalore is complete without visiting Corner House. While it’s slightly pricier than other places on this list, their ice creams are worth every penny. Try the Hot Chocolate Fudge or the Death by Chocolate—you won’t regret it!
After a long day of exploring the city, I treated myself to a scoop of Corner House’s signature chocolate fudge. It was so rich and decadent that I couldn’t finish it in one sitting.
Key Fact: Corner House has been voted as one of the best dessert places in Bangalore by TripAdvisor users.
Reference: Corner House on TripAdvisor
7. SLV Gourmet
Location: Brigade Road
Specialty: Veg Thali
SLV Gourmet offers a wholesome vegetarian thali at an affordable price. The thali includes rice, dal, curries, papad, and dessert—all served on a banana leaf.
I once visited SLV Gourmet during lunchtime, and the place was packed. The thali was a feast for both the eyes and the stomach. Each dish was flavorful and complemented the others perfectly.
Key Point: SLV Gourmet is a great option for those looking for a complete vegetarian meal under ₹150.
Reference: SLV Gourmet Review
8. New Udupi Upahar
Location: Jayanagar
Specialty: Masala Dosa, Uttapam
New Udupi Upahar is a vegetarian paradise. Their masala dosa and uttapam are light, crispy, and packed with flavor.
During one of my visits, I noticed how clean and organized the place was. The staff was friendly, and the service was quick. The masala dosa was served piping hot, and the chutney was fresh and tangy.
Pro Tip: This place is ideal for families and groups.
Reference: New Udupi Upahar Review
9. Taaza Thindi
Location: Basavanagudi
Specialty: Holige, Obbattu
Taaza Thindi is a go-to place for traditional Karnataka sweets. Their holige (sweet flatbread) is soft, sweet, and utterly delightful.
I visited Taaza Thindi on a lazy Sunday afternoon, and the holige was the perfect way to end my meal. It was sweet but not overly so, and the texture was spot-on.
Key Fact: Taaza Thindi is a local favorite for festivals and special occasions.
Reference: Taaza Thindi Review
10. Meghana Foods
Location: Multiple Outlets
Specialty: Chicken Biryani, Paneer Butter Masala
Meghana Foods is a budget-friendly chain that serves delicious biryanis and curries. Their chicken biryani is aromatic and flavorful, making it a crowd favorite.
I once ordered their chicken biryani for dinner, and it was so flavorful that I ended up eating two servings. The biryani was perfectly spiced, and the rice was fragrant.
Pro Tip: Try their paneer butter masala if you’re vegetarian—it’s equally delicious.
Reference: Meghana Foods Menu
11. Koshy’s
Location: St. Marks Road
Specialty: Anglo-Indian Cuisine
Koshy’s is a historic café that offers a mix of Indian and Continental dishes. Their beef steak and mutton chops are highly recommended.
I visited Koshy’s during a weekend brunch, and the ambiance was nostalgic. The beef steak was tender, and the mutton chops were juicy and flavorful.
Key Fact: Koshy’s has been around since 1940 and is a favorite among intellectuals and artists.
Reference: Koshy’s History
12. CTR (Central Tiffin Room)
Location: Malleswaram
Specialty: Benne Dosa, Filter Coffee
CTR is famous for its buttery benne dosa, which melts in your mouth. Pair it with a hot cup of filter coffee for the full experience.
During one of my visits, I noticed how busy the place was, even on a weekday. The benne dosa was crispy and buttery, and the filter coffee was strong and aromatic.
Pro Tip: Go early to avoid long queues.
Reference: CTR Review
13. Shetty Lunch Home
Location: Commercial Street
Specialty: Fish Curry Rice
Seafood lovers, rejoice! Shetty Lunch Home serves some of the best fish curry rice in town. The tangy and spicy curry pairs perfectly with steamed rice.
I once visited Shetty Lunch Home with a friend who loves seafood. The fish curry was so flavorful that we ended up ordering seconds.
Key Fact: This place is a local favorite for authentic Mangalorean seafood.
Reference: Shetty Lunch Home Review
14. Rolls on Wheels
Location: Indiranagar
Specialty: Egg Roll, Chicken Roll
If you’re craving a quick snack, Rolls on Wheels is the place to go. Their egg and chicken rolls are spicy, filling, and incredibly affordable.
During one of my late-night cravings, I tried their chicken roll. It was packed with flavor, and the spices were just right.
Pro Tip: This is a great option for a quick bite after a night out.
Reference: Rolls on Wheels Menu
15. Nandhini Deluxe
Location: Multiple Outlets
Specialty: Butter Chicken, Dal Makhani
Nandhini Deluxe is a budget-friendly restaurant chain that serves North Indian and Mughlai dishes. Their butter chicken and dal makhani are creamy and rich.
I once visited Nandhini Deluxe for dinner, and the butter chicken was so flavorful that I couldn’t stop eating. The dal makhani was equally delicious, with a smooth and creamy texture.
Key Fact: Nandhini Deluxe is known for its consistent quality and affordable prices.
Reference: Nandhini Deluxe Review
Tips for Exploring Bangalore’s Food Scene
- Try Local Specialties: Don’t miss out on dishes like masala dosa, bisibele bath, and ragi mudde.
- Carry Cash: Many small eateries don’t accept digital payments.
- Visit During Off-Peak Hours: Avoid crowds by dining during non-peak hours.
- Ask Locals for Recommendations: Locals know the best hidden gems.
Reference: Bangalore Food Guide by Lonely Planet
FAQ Section
Q1: What is the most famous food in Bangalore?
A: Masala dosa is undoubtedly the most famous dish in Bangalore.
Q2: Are there any vegetarian-only restaurants in Bangalore?
A: Yes, places like MTR, SLV Gourmet, and New Udupi Upahar are purely vegetarian.
Q3: How much does a meal cost at these budget-friendly eateries?
A: Most meals cost between ₹50-₹200, depending on the dish and location.
Q4: Is street food safe to eat in Bangalore?
A: Yes, as long as you choose clean and busy stalls, street food is generally safe.
Reference: Food Safety Guidelines by FSSAI
Conclusion
Bangalore’s food scene is a delightful mix of tradition and innovation. Whether you’re craving spicy street food or comforting home-cooked meals, the city’s budget-friendly eateries have got you covered. So, pack your appetite and embark on a culinary adventure through the streets of Bangalore.
Have you tried any of these places? Or do you have a favorite spot that didn’t make the list? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!