The body is a temple and good food, the nectar of life.
While this concept is assumed to have originated in ancient Greece and Rome, Indians have practised it for far longer. Rooted in Vedic principles, Indian cuisine is both rich in nutrition and flavourful with a subtle warmth that touches something deep within.
India is home to billions of people, living in different cities, speaking different languages, each savouring different foods on their table. The immeasurable array of traditions and culinary diversity, some with their sweet palate, others with hotter, spicier and tangy flavours that are perfect to awaken your taste buds. Restaurants in Udupi offer the best of both worlds.
From a bowl full of Payasam with its delightful sweet overtones to Uttapam and classic Masala Dosa with warm sambhar and coconut chutney served on banana leaf; food in the best restaurants in Udupi will give you an authentic taste of South India. But, like any other city, Udupi cuisine is deeply influenced by its history and centuries-old culture. It is simple yet savouring and a unique experience altogether.
The city is home to many old temples among which Udupi Shri Krishna Temple has greatly influenced the course of Udupi cuisine. Visiting the temple is one of the best things to do in Udupi for this will give you a glimpse into the Udupi cuisine, also known as the Madhva cuisine which comprises of vegetarian food made with locally sourced ingredients. Your typical dishes may include Goli Baje, Kosambari, and varieties of Dosa, especially Neer Dosa, Kaddubu, Pathrade, Rasam, Spiced Rice, Tallu, Kashi Halva, Payasam, Upma, Idli etc.
But, over the years, be it due to different settlements, or to cater to the changing dietary needs of Udupi residents, most places to eat in Udupi have introduced an elaborate menu with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food.
On your trip to Udupi, besides visiting the most incredible tourist destinations, take time to visit some of these Udupi famous restaurants to munch on the authentic taste of Udupi.
Restaurants in Udupi
- Viraasat - The Heritage Fine Dine (Essentia Manipal Inn)
- Woodlands Restaurant
- MTR - Mavalli Tiffin Room
- Udupi Rasoi (Essentia Manipal Inn)
- Mitra Samaj
- Kediyoor Gazebo
- Gokul Krishna Veg Restaurant
Viraasat - The Heritage Fine Dine (Essentia Manipal Inn)
Viraasat is the perfect spot, a go-to destination for a fine dining experience with family and friends. Part of the Essentia chain of luxury hotels & resorts, Viraasat is known to serve the top choice for culinary delights. The restaurant bears a resemblance to Rajputi and Mughal aesthetics with jaali partitions, Mughlai motifs and unique seating arrangements, including the famous Baithak area with low-laying sofas. A hand-carved sandstone fountain stands as a focal point at the entrance and the warm lighting adds an intimate touch to the setting. The sophisticated atmosphere and quick service make it one of the best restaurants in Udupi. Order yourself a chefтАЩs special or your go-to dish and enjoy the dance of different flavours in your mouth.
Hours: Visit between 12-3 PM and 7-11 PM
Serves vegetarian and non-vegetarian. Fine dining ambience.
Woodlands Restaurant
Woodland Restaurant is the best vegetarian restaurant in Udupi. The restaurant serves the most delectable recipes passed down through generations. The meticulously prepared dishes are highly palatable, flavourful and traditional with a contemporary flair. Woodland restaurant is one of the best places to eat in Udupi and definitely something to put on your bucket list. The warm ambience and well-lit interiors create an inviting atmosphere, perfect for winding down after a full-day excursion. In addition to South Indian staples, the restaurant serves continental and North Indian dishes as well. Some of the specials to try include South Indian thali, Ghee-prepared Dosa, Beetroot Cutlets and Rava Kesari baath. Top it off with Gudbud ice cream to round off the meal.
Hours: 8:30 AM-3:15 PM and 5:30-10:15 PM
Serves Vegetarian. Accepts cash. No reservations.
MTR - Mavalli Tiffin Room
Despite its name, Mavalli Tiffin Room is one of the most famous pure vegetarian restaurants in Udupi. This restaurant in Udupi is part of the MTR chain across the globe, serving the original taste of South India. In addition to the flavourful dishes, the restaurant also takes pride in its hygiene, health and sanitation practices. Special meals, mini meals complete with Masala Dosa, Bisibele Bath, Curd Rice, Pickle, Sagu, Papad, Rasam and other wholesome dishes are a must try.
Hours: 7 AM-9:30 PM
Serves vegetarian. Famous for mini meals. Value for money.
Udupi Rasoi (Essentia Manipal Inn)
Unlike Viraasat, Udupi Rasoi has a more informal setting, but there is nothing informal about the food served here. As EssentiaтАЩs only pure-vegetarian restaurant in Udupi, Udupi Rasoi serves the most iconic South Indian dishes. The menu brings together different elements and cultures of South India. With lighter yet nutritious meals made with the best ingredients, spices, curry leaves, peppercorns, tamarind, coconut and chillies add a touch of deliciousness. Besides food, guests get to enjoy a well-lit interior. The walls of the restaurant are clad with laterite and framed silk Kanjeevaram sarees which give off a тАЬveryтАЭ South Indian vibe.
Hours: 7 AM-11 PM
Serves traditional South Indian vegetarian dishes. Handmade desserts. Informal setting.
Mitra Samaj
If you are looking for a low-key South Indian restaurant, that looks like it has been pulled right out of a Tollywood movie, plan a visit to Mitra Samaj. This small restaurant with a traditional setting serves the tastiest Goli Baje, Dosas and Pineapple Ksheera. Because of its popularity, Mitra Samaj is always full to the brim but rarely accepts reservations. With luck, you can grab yourself a seat and order a plateful of Button Idlis, Masala Dosa, Goli Baje and a cup of filter coffee. Located inside the Shri Krishna Temple complex, Mitra Samaj is one of the must-visit restaurants in Udupi.
Hours: 6:10 AM-12:30 PM, 3:40-9 PM
Serves Vegetarian and Vegan. No reservations.
Kediyoor Gazebo
Kediyoor Gazebo is a family restaurant in Udupi that serves a variety of dishes. Part of the Kediyoor Hotels, this restaurant is located near the city bus stand and is known for its delicious food, generous portions, and high-quality ingredients. Perfect for those craving some North Indian dishes like Butter Naan, Chicken Achari Gravy and Ghee Roast meals. With multiple options to choose from, including Continental and Chinese, there is something for everyone in Kediyoor Gazebo. The service at this restaurant does not disappoint either. Every guest receives royal treatment and great service. Kediyoor Gazebo is a famous restaurant in Udupi that serves the most delicious non-veg dishes. The chefs at this restaurant are particularly passionate about non-vegetarian food and bring their years of expertise in cooking lip-smacking Chicken Ghee Roast, Mutton Mutka Biryani, Chicken Bhuna Masala, Chicken Kasturi and the most delicious Cheesy Chicken Lasagna Pizza.
Hours: 11 AM-3:30 PM, 6:30-11:30 PM
Multicuisine. Exceptional service. Ambient.
Gokul Krishna Veg Restaurant
Gokul Krishna is also a part of Kediyoor Hotels but serves the experience of authentic vegetarian coastal cuisine. With a variety of dishes including Udupi Masala Dosa, Tulunadu Special Manni, Neer Dosa, Kai Bella, Sheera Puri and the fluffiest idlis, Gokul Krishna Veg Restaurant caters to a variety of tastes and preferences. Committed to quality and hygiene, this restaurant follows sustainable practices where every ingredient is sourced locally and the least waste is produced during preparation. Some of the signature dishes to try in Gokul Krishna Veg restaurant in Udupi are Benne Dosa, Paneer Green Garlic, Dry Fruit Faluda, Paneer Chilly Dosa, Paneer Tikka Biriyani, Special Thali, Charcoal Paneer Tikka. Top your meal with Kediyoor's special ice cream and rest back in your seats to enjoy the soft music wafting through the speakers overhead.
Hours: 7 AM-10:30 PM
Serves vegetarian. Nostalgic taste.
With a spectrum of mouthwatering dishes, every bit of them sweet, spicy and savoury, restaurants in Udupi serve every mood. Be it a plate full of fluffy Lemon Rice, sweet Halbai or Chicken Vinsaloo that is spiced for perception, every bite is a treat to the senses.
Book our Udupi tour packages. Let us plan your trip while you prepare your taste buds for the delight that awaits in the best restaurants in Udupi.
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