South Indian food is universally loved. There’s nothing that a plate of idli can’t solve. And who doesn’t love themselves a plateful of coconutty Avial? If you haven’t tried it yet, you’ve missed out! No worries though. Curly Tales is here to save the day because we’ve got a list of the best South Indian restaurants in Mumbai.
Best South Indian Restaurants In Mumbai
1. Cafe Madras
Pleasing people for 85 years straight! Cafe Madras is home to the panpoli – a dessert made with jaggery and banana and it’s absolutely delicious. The Rasam Vada was introduced to the menu in 1960 and it’s still served today – delicious and with a hint of nostalgia.
Where: 38 B, Circle House, King’s Circle Near Maheshwari Udyan, Matunga East
When: Tuesday to Sunday; 7 am–2:45 pm, 4 pm–10:30 pm
Cost: ₹250 for two approx.
Also read: An Ode To Udipi Restaurants – A. Ramanayak in Matunga
2. Banana Leaf
Banana Leaf is a vegetarian amalgamation of South India. The restaurant proudly serves dishes from Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu on its menu. Sure they have the regulars like dosas and uttapams but what makes this place better is their quirky dishes like the oatmeal uttapam, potato medu vada and the ragi dosa. Delicious!
Where: Multiple Locations
When: Varies based on location
Cost: ₹600 for two approx.
3. Arya Bhavan by Muthuswamy Caterers
If you want to get in here on the weekend, you better wake up early because this place is always packed and with good reason. Arya Bhavan has simple seating where you squeeze in to fit. All you need is a large appetite because everything is good here. The service, the food and the place – all soul-warming.
Where: Multiple Locations
When: Varies based on location
Cost: ₹400 for two approx
4. Hotel Ramashraya
This one is bound to become a personal favourite. From the pineapple sheera to the lassi in a bottle, there is nothing here that can disappoint you. A special ode should be written about the masala dosa and the tamarind rice. The service is absolutely phenomenal with the servers working there for over a decade.
Where: Shop 3-6 ground floor, Jamnadas Mansion, Bazar, Laxmi Narayan Ln, Matunga (C.R.), Matunga East
When: 6 am-9 pm
Approx cost for two: ₹200
5. Dakshinayan
Ever heard of a Mulagapudi Idli? You get it here. Another thing to try is the pepper dosa. If you’re looking for a relaxed meal, then Dakshinayan is not the place for you. This place is eternally crowded and the waiters don’t give you a chance to dilly-dally around your very tasty meal.
Where: Multiple Locations
When: Varies based on location
Cost: ₹700 for two approx.
6. Simbly South
There’s nothing like a plate of gunpowder idli and filter coffee and you get it here. Simbly South may not have the legacy of its competition, but it is just as good.
Where: 4R5X+47J, Shahaji Raje Marg, near Bhuta High School, Vishnu Prasad Society, Navpada, Vile Parle East, Vile Parle
When: 8 am-11 pm
Cost: ₹300 for two approx.
7. Cafe Mysore
If you’re looking to eat a home-cooked South Indian meal, Cafe Mysore is the place to be. Simplicity is the name of the game at this no-frills restaurant. The neer dosa and the idli gadbad are highly recommended.
Where: 461, Nishant Building (Formerly Durlabh Nivas), Bhaudaji Road, Opposite King’s Circle Garden, Matunga East
When: Thursday to Tuesday; 7 am–10 pm
Cost: ₹500 for two
8. Mani’s Lunch Home
If you’re a student or an ex-student of Ruia’s College then you don’t need to read any further. Mani’s Lunch Home is just what it says it is – a home. Head to this place for the lunch thali. Remember that avial I was talking about? Try some of it here!
Where: Multiple locations
When: Varies based on location
Cost: ₹200 for two approx.
9. South Of Vindhyas – The Orchid
If you like a bit of spice in your meal, then you’ll adore this restaurant. They have a set menu which is absolutely delicious. Plus, it’s great to not worry about the ordering and have the restaurant serve one delicious preparation after another! The music and the food perfectly complement each other and you’ll leave the restaurant with a satiated heart and a full tummy.
Where: The Orchid Hotel, 70C, Nehru Road, Vile Parle East
When: 12 pm – 3 pm, 7 pm – 11 pm
Cost: ₹3,000 for two approx.
10. A. Ramanayak
You didn’t think we’d leave A. Ramanayak out, did you? A. Ramanayak is steeped in history and serves the most delicious South-Indian meals you will ever eat.
Where: 2/461 A, Ram Niwas, King Circle, Matunga East
When: Tuesday to Sunday; 10:30 am – 3 pm, 7 pm – 10 pm
Cost: ₹400 for two approx.
11. Cafe Vrindavan
Vrindavan serves three different cuisines – South Indian, North Indian and Chinese. But their South Indian breakfast dishes are spot on! You must try their Masala Dosa, Idli Sambar, Idli Vada and Paneer 65. One of the popular dishes here is Pav Bhaji; and if you like Maharashtrian Food, Shrikhand Puri is also one of the options you should try. Filter Coffee will always be on the list of favourites.
Where: Vrindavan Cafe, Cosmos Commerical Centre, 3rd Road, Near Railway Station, KharWest, Khar
When: 9 am to 11:30 pm
Cost: ₹700 for two approx.
12. Sharada Bhavan
By now, you must have noticed that all the amazing South Indian restaurants are in Matunga. Don’t be amazed if you find two or three South Indian restaurants in one small lane. Sharada Bhavan is also one of those little Udippi restaurants. It serves delicious idli and vada which are a perfect way to start your day!
Where: 2VG2+M8Q, Lakhamsi Napoo Rd, Matunga East
When: Thursday to Tuesday; 7 am–1 pm, 4–8 pm
Cost: ₹200 for two approx.
13. Poornima Restaurant
Poornima is located in two places in Mumbai one of them is Lower Parel and another one is Fort. This place serves some amazing South Indian and North Indian dishes. You can try their range of Dosas and Uttapams which are just spot on. And the best part here is that you can call for extra ghee and butter on your dishes which will surely make them even more delicious.
Where: Multiple locations
When: Varies based on location
Cost: ₹200 for two approx.
14. Kerala House
As its name suggests, this place has authentic Kerala Cuisine. If you are looking for authentic Kerala food which is also very affordable, then this restaurant in Vashi is the right place! The flavours in every dish are just perfect and give you Kerala feels. They have a very simple menu in which they have a veg thali and non-veg thalis. End your meal with delicious Payasam or Buttermilk. This one is definitely in your budget with the authentic taste of Kerala.
Where: Plot 8, Sector 30 A, Vashi, Navi Mumbai
When: 12 pm-4 pm
Cost: ₹500 for two approx.
15. Anand Bhavan
Some of their popular dishes are dosa, Neer dosa, Rava Dosa, and Rava Masala. Their specials’ board has Ulundu, Set Dosa, Tuppa Pola and among other things. They also have Maharashtrian Misal Pav which is very delicious. You must try their filter coffee and Pineapple Sheera when you are around.
Where: Anand Bhavan, 461/A, Ram Niwas, Maheshwari Udyan, Ambedkar Road, Matunga East
When: Wednesday to Monday; 7 am–10 pm
Cost: ₹250 for two approx.
16. Dakshin Culture Curry
You will be amazed at the variety of South Indian cuisines served here like, Chettinad, Hyderabad, Andhra and Kerala. Some of their popular dishes are Chicken Chettinad, Portuguese Chicken, Sorpotel, Appam, Sea Food especially their prawn dishes, and Neer Dosa. The Malabari Paratha that they serve here just melts in your mouth. For dessert, you must try their Rabdi and Shahi Tukda.
Where: Dakshin Culture Curry, Near Hinduja Hospital, Mahim
When: 12 pm-11:30 pm
Cost: ₹200 for two approx.
17. Vinay Health Home
Vinay Health Home in Charni Road is a one-of-a-kind casual restaurant that serves Maharashtrian as well as South Indian breakfast dishes. This affordable little place has a small section dedicated to South Indian breakfasts like their steamed Idlis, fried butter Idli and Dahi Vadas. Their filter coffee is just delicious. Apart from their South Indian menu, they also have delicious Maharashtrian breakfast. They specialize in different types of Misal Pav. They give you so many options and it is just an amazing thing at cheap prices.
Where: Jawahar Mansion, 71/83, Thakurdwar, Dr Babasaheb Jaykar Marg, Fanas Wadi, Naka
When: Thursday to Tuesday; 7 am-10 pm
Cost: ₹250- 300 for two approx.
18. Thambbi
Thambbi has multiple outlets. Mostly frequented by the students of the popular colleges in the vicinity, Thambbi makes the best Schezwan Idli there is. And when we are not snacking on that, we settle for the Cheese Masala Dosa which comes with a generous dosage of cheese.
Where: Multiple outlets
When: Varies based on location
Cost: ₹350- 400 for two approx.
19. Thangabali
As soon as you step in, it feels like you have entered a high-end restaurant in the south of India. The Andhra Chicken here is to die for because of just the right amount of spice used in it to marinate the soft chicken.
Where: Multiple outlets
When: Varies based on location
Cost: ₹1,400 for two approx.
20. The Tanjore Tiffin Room
If you have been looking to live out your best South Indian culinary experience in Mumbai then you don’t need to look further than The Tanjore Tiffin Room. Every item on their menu tastes absolutely impeccable and you will question every South Indian dish you have had so far. Their curries are the best in the city and you get to taste them all before you decide which ones you want to call for.
Where: The Tanjore Tiffin Room, Jewel Mahal Shopping Center, 7 Bungalows, Versova, Andheri West
When: JEWEL MAHAL, Jewel Mahal Shopping Centre, Bungalow Rd, Ratan Kunj, Aram Nagar, Versova, Andheri West
Cost: ₹1,800 for two approx.
21. Madras Diaries
The ambience at Madras Diaries is as warm and tasteful as the food here. We are big fans of their flaky Malabar Parathas that pair great with the curries on offer. While you are there, don’t forget to get yourself some of their Payasam. It’s the perfect way to end the meal.
Where: Madras Diaries, Shop 7, Ground Floor, Muzaffar Manor, 117 Waterfield Road, Linking Road, Bandra West
When: 7:30 am–11:30 pm
Cost: ₹700 for two approx.
22. Hotel Gopal Krishna
At Hotel Gopal Krishna, you just have to order their Thali. It honestly tastes like something your mother would make and you are bound to shed a tear due to the nostalgia.
Where: Parekh Road, near Railway Station, Malad, Vijaykar Wadi Industrial, Vijaykar Wadi, Malad West
When: Tuesday to Sunday; 8:30 am–10 pm
Cost: ₹350 for two approx.
23. Ayyapan Idli
Ayyapan makes the fluffiest idlis that you would have had the privilege of digging into. They are fermented just right and taste like pillowy clouds because they are oh-so-soft!
Where: Ayyapan Idli Stall, Plot 21, Shop 7, Ground Floor, Bhaudaji Road, Bharat Mansion, Near SIES High School, Matunga
When: 7 am–11 pm
Cost: ₹200 for two approx.
24. Kamats Legacy
Kamats Legacy in Mumbai is a renowned South Indian vegetarian haven. Established in 1942, it boasts a rich history and a loyal following. The restaurant is famed for its authentic dishes like idli, dosa, vada, and uttapam, prepared with traditional recipes and fresh ingredients. Known for its consistent quality and affordable prices, Kamats Legacy remains a beloved dining destination for locals and tourists alike.
Where: Multiple Locations
When: Varies depending on location
Cost: ₹1,200 for two approx.
25. Vanakkam Vihar
Vanakkam Vihar is a much-loved South Indian restaurant in Mumbai, known for its authentic and flavorful dishes. This establishment has been a staple in the city for many years, offering a taste of southern India to locals and tourists alike. From crispy dosas to soft idlis, the menu at Vanakkam Vihar is a vegetarian’s delight. The restaurant’s warm and inviting atmosphere, coupled with its affordable prices, makes it a popular choice for casual dining.
Where: No. 524, Sandhurst Building, Opera House, S V Patel Road
When: 8 am-11 pm
Cost: ₹800 for two approx.
26. Benne
Benne in Bandra is a popular South Indian restaurant specializing in authentic Bangalore-style dosas. The menu features a variety of dosas, including the signature Benne Masala Dosa, known for its unique blend of spices and ghee. The restaurant’s focus on fresh ingredients and traditional recipes has earned it a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.
Where: Shop no. 1, plot 85, TPS 3, Louis Bell Building, 16th Rd, opposite Shree Sagar, Bandra West
When: Tuesday to Sunday, 7 am–3:30 pm, 5–11:30 pm
Cost: ₹500 for two approx.
27. Dakshin Coastal – ITC Maratha
Dakshin Coastal at ITC Maratha in Mumbai is a fine-dining restaurant showcasing the diverse coastal cuisine of India. From Kerala’s seafood delicacies to Goan curries and Mangalorean specialities, the menu offers an exquisite culinary journey. The elegant ambiance and impeccable service further enhance the dining experience at this acclaimed restaurant.
Where: 31/1, 31/2, Itc Maratha, 31/3, IA Project Rd, Sahar Village, Andheri East
When: 7 pm-11:30 pm
Cost: ₹8,000 for two approx.
28. Amba Bhavan
Amba Bhavan in Matunga East is a renowned South Indian vegetarian restaurant. This iconic eatery is a beloved local institution, famous for its delicious and authentic dishes like idli, dosa, vada, and uttapam. The restaurant’s simple yet flavourful preparations and quick service make it a popular choice for a satisfying and affordable meal.
Where: King’s Circle Flyover, 373, Bhandarkar Rd, Matunga East
When: Thursday to Tuesday, 7 am–12:30 pm, 3:30–8 pm
Cost: ₹200 for two approx.
29. New Hotel Selvi
New Hotel Selvi, located in Dharavi, is renowned for its authentic South Indian cuisine. This popular eatery is a favourite among locals and visitors alike, offering a wide range of dishes including fluffy idlis, crispy dosas, and flavourful curries. The restaurant’s commitment to fresh ingredients and traditional recipes ensures a consistently delicious dining experience.
Where: Shop B- 200, 90 Feet Rd, near Kamraj School, P.K. Kunte Nagar, Dharavi
When: 6 am–2 am
Cost: ₹300 for two approx.
30. Malgudi
Malgudi in Oberoi Mall offers a taste of South India within a modern setting. This restaurant is known for its diverse menu featuring classic dishes like idli, dosa, and uttapam, alongside innovative creations. The vibrant ambiance and efficient service make it a popular dining spot in the mall.
Where: 10, 3rd Floor, Oberoi Mall, Food Court, Western Express Hwy, Goregaon
When: 11 am–11 pm
Cost: ₹450 for two approx.
With contributions from Tooba Shaikh and Natasha Monteiro.
Cover Image Credits: @bananaleaf_india_ and @benne.bombay/Instagram
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