Mysore, the cultural heart of Karnataka, is more than just a city of historical landmarks and palaces. It’s a place where heritage seamlessly blends with modernity, a fusion evident not only in its architecture and festivals but also in its diverse cuisine. When you visit Mysore, you’re not just immersing yourself in history but also entering a food lover’s haven. Whether you’re a fan of traditional South Indian dishes or eager to discover the hidden gems of Mysore street food, this city caters to every palate. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the top restaurants and spotlight the famous food places in Mysore you must visit. Whether you’re searching for where to eat in Mysore or the best of Mysore street food during your travels in Mysore, this guide has got you covered.
1. Mylari Agrahara: The Legacy of Dosas
When it comes to Mysore restaurants, Mylari Agrahara holds a special place. Established decades ago, this restaurant is a testament to Mysore’s rich culinary heritage. Located near the historic Mysore Palace, Mylari Agrahara has been serving its iconic Saggu Masala Butter Dosa for years, and it continues to draw both locals and tourists alike.
Unlike the common dosas found elsewhere, the Saggu Masala Dosa at Mylari Agrahara is an experience. The dosa is soft and fluffy, almost like a pancake, yet packed with familiar and novel flavours. It is served with a unique onion gravy that perfectly complements the dosa’s buttery richness. The experience of eating at Mylari Agrahara is as much about the ambience as it is about the food. The old-world charm of the restaurant, combined with its proximity to the Mysore Palace and Karanji Lake, makes it a must-visit on your Mysore adventure.
2. Guru Sweets: The Birthplace of Mysore Pak
No visit to Mysore is complete without indulging in its world-famous sweet – the Mysore Pak. Guru Sweets, located in the bustling KR Market area, is the birthplace of this delectable treat. Invented by Kakasura Madappa, a chef in the royal courts of the Mysore Maharaja, the Mysore Pak is a sweet that has stood the test of time.
At Guru Sweets, you’ll find two primary varieties of Mysore Pak: the “wet” version, which is rich in ghee and has a fudgy texture, and the traditional porous version that melts in your mouth. Both varieties are equally delicious and reflect the city’s love for sweets. If you have a sweet tooth, this is one of the famous food places in Mysore that you cannot miss. The shop itself is modest, but its legacy is rich, and the flavour of its Mysore Pak is unmatched.
3. Hotel Vishnu Priya: A Haven for Idli Lovers
If you’re searching for a spot to enjoy a hearty breakfast in Mysore, look no further than Hotel Vishnu Priya. This renowned restaurant is celebrated for its Mallige Idli, a soft and spongy idli named after it resembles the jasmine flower (Mallige in Kannada). Served with a generous helping of sambhar and coconut chutney, it’s an ideal way to kickstart your day.
But Hotel Vishnu Priya offers more than just idlis. It’s also famous for its Pongal rice and Bisi Bele Bath—two quintessential South Indian dishes. The Bisi Bele Bath, a spicy and tangy rice dish with vegetables and lentils, is a must-try for anyone visiting Mysore. The restaurant’s emphasis on rice-based dishes reflects the region’s culinary traditions, providing a variety of options to suit different tastes. For rice enthusiasts, Hotel Vishnu Priya is a top choice among Mysore restaurants.
For meat lovers, Hotel Hanumanthu is a culinary landmark in Mysore. Established in 1932, this restaurant has been serving some of the best meat dishes in the city for decades. It is especially known for its Chicken Pulav and Mutton Pulav, both prepared using traditional methods that involve slow-cooking over a wood fire. The robust and earthy flavors, enhanced by classic South Indian spices, make Hotel Hanumanthu a standout. Don’t miss out on their mutton chops and chicken curry, which are crafted from age-old recipes. The rustic charm and mouth-watering dishes at Hotel Hanumanthu make it one of the famous food places in Mysore for non-vegetarian fare. If you’re using Mysore cab services to explore the city, make sure this gem is on your itinerary.
4. Anima Madhva Bhavan: A South Indian Heritage Experience
Anima Madhva Bhavan offers a unique dining experience deeply rooted in South Indian heritage. Located in the serene Gokulam area, this restaurant is known for its pure vegetarian fare that is prepared without onions, garlic, or other intense ingredients. The food here is served on a plantain leaf, which adds to the authenticity of the experience.
One of the must-try dishes at Anima Madhva Bhavan is the Heritage Platter, which includes a variety of traditional items such as Paddu (steamed rice balls), Nucchinunde (dumplings made from lentils and greens), and Sodhi Payasa (a dessert made from broken wheat and ghee). Each dish celebrates South Indian flavours and traditions, and the restaurant’s homely atmosphere makes it a perfect place for a leisurely meal. If you want to experience the essence of Mysore’s culinary heritage, Anima Madhva Bhavan is a must-visit on your Mysore adventure.
5. Gayathri Tiffin Room (GTR): The Dosa Legend
Gayathri Tiffin Room, popularly known as GTR, is a legendary restaurant in Mysore, serving some of the best dosas in the city for decades. The restaurant is especially famous for its Masala Dosa, a crispy, golden dosa filled with spicy potatoes and served with chutney and sambhar.
One of the unique offerings at GTR is the Green Dosa, which is made with a mixture of Palak (spinach), Methi (fenugreek), and Coriander leaves. This dosa is served with a unique green chutney and a piping hot cup of filter coffee, making it a perfect breakfast or snack option. GTR’s dosas are legendary, and many locals claim that your trip to Mysore isn’t complete until you’ve had a dosa at GTR. It’s one of those Mysore restaurants that has become an institution over the years, and it continues to draw crowds with its delicious food and nostalgic ambience.
6. Lalitha Mahal Palace Road: The Street Food Extravaganza
Every exploration of Mysore street food is complete with a visit to Lalitha Mahal Palace Road, which has become a popular destination for street food lovers. This bustling street has stalls selling various snacks, from Panipuri and Churmuri to more innovative offerings like Pizza Dosa and Sweet Corn Dosa.
The street food scene here is vibrant and diverse, offering something for every palate. One of the highlights is the 99 Varieties of Dosas, a concept that has gained popularity in recent years. These dosas come in all kinds of flavours and fillings, from the traditional to the quirky, and they are perfect for those who love to experiment with their food. Whether you want something spicy, tangy, or sweet, you’ll find it on Lalitha Mahal Palace Road. It’s a street food experience that captures the essence of Mysore’s culinary diversity and is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore Mysore street food.
Conclusion
Mysore’s culinary landscape is as rich and diverse as its cultural heritage. From traditional Mysore restaurants serving the same dishes for decades to vibrant street food stalls offering a modern twist on classic flavours, the city has something to offer every food lover. Whether you’re a fan of South Indian vegetarian cuisine, a meat lover seeking hearty dishes, or someone with a sweet tooth looking for the best Mysore Pak, this city will not disappoint.
To discover where to eat in Mysore, visit these iconic food spots that have stood the test of time and continue to delight locals and visitors. Each of these famous food places in Mysore offers a unique experience beyond just the food – it’s about the history, the atmosphere, and the people who have made these establishments what they are today.
So, the next time you find yourself in Mysore, let your taste buds lead the way as you explore the top restaurants in Mysore and the hidden gems of Mysore street food. Your Mysore adventure will be all the more memorable, with the flavours and aromas of this incredible city lingering long after you’ve left.