Being born and raised in Bengaluru, chef Suresh DC has seen the culinary landscape of the city evolve over the years. Here are some of his go-to eats, and the places to find them.
One place that I constantly visit is VV Puram. If you’re a foodie visiting Bangalore, chances are you’ve heard whispers of the legendary “Food Street” or ‘Thindii Beedi’ at VV Puram. It’s a bustling stretch with eateries, street vendors, and food trucks stretching as far as the eye can see. You’re spoilt for choice, with something to appeal to every palate!
One of my most favourite indulgences is kodubele, a gem among Karnataka’s most loved snacks. Growing up, this was a staple snack stored at home. Crafted from rice flour, coconut, ground roasted gram powder, and, of course, deep-fried to golden perfection, this crunchy, savoury delight is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of starter snack that you can grab and munch on while deciding which eatery you want to explore next.
Food Street truly comes alive during the Avarekai Mela in January. This unique food festival is a celebration of hyacinth beans (avere), showcasing over a hundred innovative delicacies featuring this ingredient. My personal favourite is averebele dosa with its crispy fried edges, generously loaded with averebele, onions, and fresh herbs.
Image Credit: Chitra’s Food Book
Another one I most certainly recommend is the akki roti, where the iconic aroma and flavour of dill leaves perfectly complement every element of the roti. Whatever you choose, roti or dosa, nothing completes the experience until each bite is generously dipped in piping hot vegetable sambar. You cannot afford to skip this part.
Food Street was our college hangout, our regular spot, and it still remains one of my favourites.
If you are a biryani lover, the revered Sivaji Military Hotel is the place to have it. Their renowned donne mutton biryani lures enthusiasts from all over the city. This family-run restaurant gets packed to the brim within no time due to its widespread popularity.
Among their array of signature dishes, I highly recommend the mutton kheema – a delicacy where the mutton is tender and succulent, and bursting with flavours.
Image Credit: Geek Roboccok
Unlike the other conventional biryani spots, Sivaji Military Hotel extends its excellence to breakfast options as well. The paya with dosa is a morning delight that you absolutely must try.
For the days when I am craving kebabs, I head to Siddique Kabab Centre. Each type of kebab here boasts its own fan following, from the succulent seekh kababs to the aromatic and flavourful Bombay kheema rolls. Their signature dish is thinly sliced pieces of meat called phall. This tender meat not only melts in your mouth, but is an explosion of exquisite flavours.
My ultimate comfort food is pork pepper fry along with some hot rasam and rice. I have discovered that the best version of this is served at a local gem, Karavali Restaurant (in Banaswadi), which is right down the street from my former residence.