Here’s a guide to the must-visit restaurants in Chikkamagaluru (Chikmagalur) for tourists, including detailed information to ensure visitors have all they need without further searching.
1. Town Canteen
- Description: Town Canteen is a popular spot among locals, offering traditional Karnataka snacks and breakfast options. This restaurant is great for a quick and delicious meal, especially if you’re craving authentic South Indian food on the go.
- Cuisine: South Indian, Karnataka breakfast dishes.
- Special Dishes: Dosa, idli, vada, sambar, and filter coffee.
- Best For: Quick, budget-friendly meals and authentic local breakfast.
- Address: Town Canteen, Near Old Bus Stand, Chikkamagaluru.
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
2. Rotti Mane
- Description: Rotti Mane offers a rustic, homely atmosphere where visitors can enjoy traditional Malnad-style food, especially the famous “rotti” (flatbread) and “saaru” (spicy curry). It’s a fantastic spot for an authentic, regional food experience.
- Cuisine: Traditional Malnad cuisine, South Indian.
- Special Dishes: Rotti with chutney, Malnad chicken curry, and sweet coconut payasa (dessert).
- Best For: Authentic, local food lovers looking to experience the flavors of Chikkamagaluru.
- Address: Rotti Mane, Near KSRTC Bus Stand, Chikkamagaluru.
- Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 9:30 PM
3. The Serai
- Description: The Serai is a luxury resort and restaurant offering a sophisticated dining experience in a tranquil setting. The restaurant offers a mix of local and international cuisines, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy the beautiful garden views while dining in an elegant atmosphere.
- Cuisine: North Indian, South Indian, Continental, and Chinese.
- Special Dishes: Try the local Malnad cuisine, including spicy chicken curry, neer dosa, and filter coffee.
- Best For: Special occasions, family gatherings, and those seeking a fine dining experience.
- Address: The Serai, Near Kemmangundi Road, Chikkamagaluru.
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
4. Jade Garden Restaurant
- Description: Known for its great ambiance and expansive menu, Jade Garden offers a mix of North Indian, South Indian, and Chinese cuisines. The restaurant is perfect for family dinners, serving both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.
- Cuisine: Indian, Chinese, Continental.
- Special Dishes: Butter chicken, paneer tikka, and fried rice.
- Best For: Family dining and those seeking variety in cuisine.
- Address: Jade Garden, Gandhi Nagar, Chikkamagaluru.
- Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
5. Silver Oak Cafe
- Description: Silver Oak is one of the most popular restaurants in Chikkamagaluru, offering a cozy and comfortable ambiance for visitors to relax and enjoy their meals. The restaurant is known for its North Indian and South Indian delicacies, with prompt service and a spacious seating area.
- Cuisine: North Indian, South Indian, Chinese.
- Special Dishes: Tandoori dishes, biryani, masala dosa, and curd rice.
- Best For: Family gatherings, group meals, and those who enjoy a variety of cuisines.
- Address: Silver Oak Restaurant, Near Railway Station, Chikkamagaluru.
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Detailed Information for Visitors
- Best Time to Visit: Most restaurants are open throughout the year, with peak tourist season being from October to March. This is the best time to visit for pleasant weather and a vibrant atmosphere in Chikkamagaluru.
- What to Try: Don’t miss out on the local Malnad dishes such as neer dosa, rotti, chicken curry, and fresh filter coffee. Chikkamagaluru is also famous for its coffee plantations, so make sure to enjoy a cup of authentic local coffee at any of the cafes.
- Where to Stay: Many of these restaurants are near popular tourist spots, so it’s best to stay close to the town center or near resorts to make your dining experience more convenient.
Things to Do Around Restaurants
- Coffee Plantation Tours: After dining, consider visiting the nearby coffee plantations to learn about the coffee-growing process and sample some freshly brewed coffee.
- Sightseeing: You can plan visits to nearby attractions like Mullayanagiri, Hebbe Falls, or Kemmangundi after your meals.