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3 Days in Bengaluru for a Food Lover's Trip
Bengaluru is a paradise for food lovers, offering everything from traditional Karnataka meals to global cuisines. Over three days, you'll dive into local flavors, explore bustling food streets, and discover hidden gems that make this city special. I've eaten my way through Bengaluru countless times, and this itinerary covers the best spots without missing the classics.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Bengaluru
Kick off your Bengaluru food journey with iconic landmarks and must-try local flavors, blending history, culture, and delicious eats.
Activities
Breakfast at Vidyarthi Bhavan
Start your day with Bengaluru's legendary masala dosa at this 75-year-old institution. The crispy, buttery dosas here are a rite of passage for any food lover. The old-world charm of the place, with its wooden benches and bustling waiters, adds to the experience.
- Try their benne masala dosa (butter dosa) and filter coffee
- Cash only – no cards accepted
Explore Lalbagh Botanical Garden
Walk off your breakfast at this 240-acre green oasis in the heart of the city. The glasshouse (inspired by London's Crystal Palace) and the 3,000-year-old rock formation are highlights. Perfect for a morning stroll among rare plants and serene lakes.
- Visit the flower show if you're here on a weekend
- Look for the giant banyan tree near the west gate
Lunch at Mavalli Tiffin Rooms (MTR)
Head to this century-old eatery for an authentic Karnataka thali. Their signature dishes like rava idli, bisibele bath, and mango kesari are must-tries. The restaurant still follows traditional cooking methods, making it a true taste of old Bangalore.
- Try their special badam milk for dessert
- They stop service promptly at 2:30 PM – don't arrive too late
Must Try Foods
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Day 2
Day 2 in Bengaluru
A mix of iconic landmarks and local flavors, from historic sites to bustling markets and legendary eateries.
Activities
Visit Bangalore Palace
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Bangalore Palace, a mix of Tudor and Scottish Gothic architecture. The palace grounds are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the interiors are filled with vintage photographs, royal memorabilia, and intricate wood carvings. Don’t miss the grand Durbar Hall.
- Carry cash for tickets as card payments aren’t always reliable.
- Guided tours are available for a deeper dive into the palace’s history.
Lunch at Koshy’s
Head to Koshy’s, a Bengaluru institution since 1940. This old-school eatery is known for its Anglo-Indian fare and old-world charm. Try their famous mutton stew with appam or the Kerala-style fish curry. The filter coffee here is a must, served in classic steel tumblers.
- The bakery section sells delicious plum cake and marzipan—great for takeaways.
- Weekends can get crowded, so weekdays are better for a relaxed meal.
Explore Commercial Street & Shivajinagar Market
Spend the afternoon soaking in the chaos of Commercial Street and nearby Shivajinagar Market. From trendy boutiques to street stalls selling everything from fabrics to spices, it’s a shopper’s paradise. Don’t miss the iconic Russell Market in Shivajinagar for fresh flowers, fruits, and local snacks like kebabs from Sharief Bhai’s stall.
- Bargaining is expected in street markets—start at 50% of the quoted price.
- Try the iconic ‘Irani chai’ at any small stall—it’s strong, sweet, and served with bun maska (buttered bread).
Must Try Foods
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Day 3
Day 3 in Bengaluru
A relaxed day exploring Bengaluru's hidden gems, from serene lakes to quirky cafes, and ending with a taste of the city's vibrant nightlife.
Activities
Morning at Ulsoor Lake
Start your day with a peaceful stroll around Ulsoor Lake, one of Bengaluru's oldest and most scenic lakes. Rent a paddleboat for a serene ride or just sit by the water with a cup of chai from a nearby stall. The lake is especially beautiful in the early morning light, with locals practicing yoga and joggers making their rounds.
- Carry a light jacket—mornings can be slightly chilly.
- Avoid weekends if you prefer fewer crowds.
Breakfast at Brahmin's Coffee Bar
Head to Brahmin's Coffee Bar, a no-frills local favorite known for its melt-in-the-mouth idlis, crispy vadas, and strong filter coffee. This tiny spot is always buzzing, so be prepared to share a table with strangers—it’s all part of the charm. Their chutney is legendary, so don’t hold back!
- Arrive early—they often run out of vadas by mid-morning.
- Cash only, so keep small change handy.
Explore Cubbon Park & State Central Library
Spend the late morning wandering through Cubbon Park, Bengaluru’s green lung. Unlike Lalbagh, this park feels more like a quiet retreat with its towering trees and colonial-era buildings. Don’t miss the red-brick State Central Library—a beautiful old structure perfect for book lovers and photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes—the park is sprawling.
- Look out for the occasional weekend flea markets.
Lunch at Nagarjuna Restaurant
For lunch, dive into Andhra-style flavors at Nagarjuna Restaurant. Their fiery biryanis, tangy pulihora (tamarind rice), and crispy gongura chicken are must-tries. The meals come on banana leaves, adding to the authentic experience. Be warned: the spice levels aren’t for the faint-hearted!
- Ask for 'mild' if you can’t handle heat—they’ll adjust.
- Their buttermilk is a lifesaver after spicy dishes.
Evening at Toit Brewpub
Wrap up your trip with a visit to Toit, Bengaluru’s most popular brewpub. Try their signature Tintin Toit beer or a fruity Basmati Blonde while digging into wood-fired pizzas or garlic cheese toast. The industrial-chic vibe and live music make it a great place to unwind.
- Go early or book ahead—it gets packed post 8 PM.
- Their beer sampler lets you taste multiple brews.