Udupi is a coastal town in the South Indian state of Karnataka. The word Udupi is believed to have originated from the Sanskrit words udu and pa, meaning stars and Lord respectively. It is popular for its beaches and its food. Its local culture boasts of folk art, buffalo races and the popularity of its vegetarian cuisine all over the country. The popularity of Udupi food can be explored through the best restaurants in Udupi. Festivals like Janmashtami, Parya Youthsava and Makar Sankranti are met with religious ceremonies and festivities that may go on for eight days.
Best Restaurants In Udupi: A Foodie’s Guide To Culture
Have a look at the best places to eat in Udupi and familiarise yourself with the delicacies offered by the coastal town. These eateries must make the itinerary of every foodie out there, as the diverse range of cuisines offered leave the mind overwhelmed but the stomach hungry for more.
1. Woodlands Restaurant
Woodlands is a popular vegetarian eatery in Udupi, well-known for its diverse presence of South Indian and North Indian preparations. Its popularity can be attributed to its proximity to the Shree Krishna Temple and its dedication to the authenticity of flavours. Some of the most sought-after dishes at the restaurant include its South Indian thali, ghee-prepared dosa, bread masala and mini gudbad ice cream. This can definitely double up as one of the best restaurants in Udupi for lunch on a sunny weekend in Udupi!
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2. MTR
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Mavalli Tiffin Room, more popularly known in the area as MTR, is a popular vegetarian restaurant in town. Its centralised location and clean dining make it a popular eatery and contribute to its positive reviews on popular travel websites. MTR is also a part of a chain of restaurants called the Udupi Palace, which is a go-to place for Indian Cuisine in Southern California, USA.
3. Gokul Krishna Veg Restaurant
Gokul Krishna is a popular vegetarian restaurant located near the Udupi bus stand. It offers customers a pleasant atmosphere and quality food. The restaurant’s menu includes authentic vegetarian coastal cuisine and a myriad of dosa varieties, such as Mysore masala dosa, Neer dosa, and Rava masala dosa. Customers also rave about their tea preparation and praise its welcoming atmosphere and breakfast variety.
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4. Hotel Naivedya
Hotel Naivedya, located in the heart of Udupi, offers cuisines ranging from North Indian to South Indian dishes. Their most popular item is a dosa named after the hotel itself. Other dishes include parottas and Mangalorean buns. The eatery offers a pleasant ambience and good service and contains separate areas for family dining, including AC areas for the convenience of the visitors.
5. Hotel Diana
Described as ‘cosy yet modern’, Hotel Diana is located opposite Syndicate Bank Towers at the Diana Circle. It is one of the best restaurants in Udupi for breakfast and serves simple breakfast dishes and special Udupi dishes, including different types of chutneys. It offers an excellent dining experience and is designed as a space meant to unwind and relax in the presence of the comfort of the simplicity of Udupi food.
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6. Kediyoor Gazebo
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Kediyoor Gazebo is a renowned restaurant located near the city bus stand in Udupi. It offers a wide range of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Visitors have praised the delicious food, generous portions, and high-quality ingredients used in their meals. The restaurant’s ambience is also highly appreciated, with clean facilities and friendly service adding to the overall dining experience. Kediyoor Gazebo must be on your list in your quest to explore the best family restaurants in Udupi.
7. Thamboolam
Thamboolam is a chicken lover’s paradise due to its sheer variety of non-vegetarian options. Thamboolam is a bustling and popular restaurant that recently underwent renovations. Despite the ongoing changes, the place remains busy, with a diverse menu that includes options from Shivanna Military Hotel. The fact that the crowd relentlessly visits this beautiful restaurant is a testament to its great food. The staff are known for their friendly and courteous service, and the ambience is spacious and welcoming to large groups. While there may be some wait time due to its popularity, visitors praise the tasty dishes served at Thamboolam, particularly recommending the full chicken meals as a must-try option.
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8. Thimmappa Fish Hotel
Thimmappa Fish Hotel in Udupi is a delightful seafood haven offering traditional Kerala thali served on banana leaves and a tempting array of dishes. The restaurant’s fish preparations are particularly outstanding, known for its incredible flavour and divine taste. Its authenticity gives it an edge over other of its contemporaries. With reasonable prices and exceptionally friendly staff, it provides great value for money and ensures every customer feels welcome and satisfied. Hotel Thimmappa boasts of good portions for substantially low prices, making it a crowd favourite among all those travelling on a budget.
Further Read: Hotels In Udupi
Now that you have been familiarised with the food culture of Udupi don’t miss the chance to book your tickets and travel to this beautiful coastal town with your loved ones. Immerse yourself in the comfort Udupi offers and experience the trip to Karnataka of a lifetime. Check out the best restaurants in Udupi for a great food experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Best Restaurants In Udupi
Why are Udupi restaurants famous?
Udupi restaurants and food are mostly famous due to their use of selective pure Indian spices.
What is the popular dish of Udupi?
Udupi cuisine prides itself on being native to dishes like majjige palidya, drakshi gojju, gulliappa, mango marbles, huli, and gojju. These dishes are surrounded by many urban legends behind their conception.
Which sweet is famous in Udupi?
Deserts such as Mohan laddoos, aval laddoos, kaju barfi, milk peda etc. are famously found in Udupi. In order to experience the desert culture of Udupi, it is encouraged that local sweet shops be visited.
What is the best time to visit Udupi?
Since Udupi is a coastal town, it is recommended that Udupi be visited in October and March. Since it is peak tourist time, people can also visit between June and September in order to experience Udupi in its peace and calm.
Which language is spoken in Udupi?
The most spoken language in Udupi town is Tulu. Kannada and Konkani are also spoken in Udupi town. Dakhini Urdu and Beary are spoken by Muslims in the region.
How to reach Udupi?
Udupi is not connected by an airport. The closest airport is Mangalore, which is 60km away from Udupi. Once landed at the airport, cabs or buses can be hired to reach the town.
What can I shop for in Udupi?
Udupi is reputed to be a storehouse of traditional clothing and textiles. Kanjeevaram, Dharmavaram and Banarasi silk sarees can be found at reasonable rates. Other traditional and modern garments and various types of jewellery are also particularly popular amongst the locals and tourists alike.
What kind of local transport does Udupi offer?
Udupi is well-connected locally by buses and auto rickshaws. Walking can also be considered within the town.
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