Kolar, Karnataka, offers a delightful array of local and regional dishes that reflect the rich culinary heritage of the area. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 foods to try when visiting Kolar:
1. Akki Rotti
- Description: A traditional rice flour flatbread mixed with grated coconut, onions, and green chilies, cooked on a griddle. It’s typically served with chutney or sambar.
- Where to Try: Sahana Darshini, Doddapet.
2. Ragi Mudde
- Description: Finger millet balls served with sambar or spicy curries. A staple in rural Karnataka, it’s known for its health benefits.
- Where to Try: Local eateries in rural Kolar.
3. Neer Dosa
- Description: Soft, thin rice crepes from Tulu Nadu, served with coconut chutney or spicy curries.
- Where to Try: Hotel Nandi Grand, Narasapura.
4. Kolar Panka
- Description: A traditional, refreshing drink made with jaggery, lemon, and spices, perfect for hot summers.
- Where to Try: Street vendors in Kolar.
5. Kolar Bora (Bengali Banana Fritters)
- Description: Sweet fritters made from ripe bananas, flour, and spices, deep-fried to perfection.
- Where to Try: Local sweet shops in Kolar.
6. Mutton Biryani
- Description: Fragrant rice cooked with tender mutton and aromatic spices, a must-try for non-vegetarian lovers.
- Where to Try: SVS Mess, Kolar.
7. Kolar Special Fish Fry
- Description: Spicy and crispy fried fish, a delicacy for seafood enthusiasts.
- Where to Try: Local seafood restaurants in Kolar.
8. Kesari Bath
- Description: A sweet dish made from semolina, sugar, ghee, and cashews, often served as a dessert or breakfast item.
- Where to Try: Vasudev Adiga’s, Kolar.
9. Desi Obbattu (Bele Holige)
- Description: A sweet flatbread stuffed with a mixture of lentils, jaggery, and coconut, traditionally prepared during festivals.
- Where to Try: Local sweet shops in Kolar.
10. Kabab and Grilled Meats
- Description: Succulent kababs and grilled meats, marinated with local spices, offering a smoky flavor.
- Where to Try: Narayanaswamy Kabab Center, Malur.
Where to Try These Delicacies
| Restaurant | Specialty | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Sahana Darshini | Akki Rotti, Ragi Dosa | Doddapet |
| Hotel Nandi Grand | Neer Dosa, South Indian Meals | Narasapura |
| SVS Mess | Mutton Biryani, Kebabs | Kolar |
| Narayanaswamy Kabab Center | Grilled Meats, Kababs | Malur |
| Vasudev Adiga’s | Kesari Bath, South Indian Thali | Kolar |
Embarking on a culinary journey through Kolar will introduce you to a blend of traditional and regional flavors, offering a true taste of Karnataka’s rich food heritage.