5 Places in Bengaluru for a Great Iftar Meal This Ramadan

It was not until a few years ago that the Iftar meal became a phenomenon in Bengaluru. The food scene, especially around Mosque Road exploded bringing delicious marvels that even hardcore food lovers had not really thought of. In the last year or so, however, things have been toned down a bit, to bring in order to the chaos and to ease traffic pressures in key areas. Nevertheless, there is still quite a spread for you to choose from, across town. Here is a look at some of them.

Mosque Road: Yes, the number of stalls have come down this year, quite drastically, but there is still a bit to choose from. Restaurants like Empire and Karama have their own stalls right outside their restaurant. Should you prefer to sit down and eat, then a traditional style seating, closer to the floor is also available. Do not forget to try out the Paya Bun, which is quite like Bunny Chow except with the bread bowl stuffed with Paya Soup. Albert Bakery for their Bheja Samosas and Khoya Naans and make room for the Patthar ka Ghosht by the one gentleman who is there every year dishing it up. You will also find a camel meat counter at some point. Chichabas too has a massive selection of food from Laham Mandi to Paya to Biryani and more.

Johnson Market: Stop by at the Makkah Café for their Kheema Samosas and if you spot the gentleman outside making some steaming Harira, do make sure to get a glass. Hop over to Fanoos for their progressively large rolls, depending on whether you want a Jumbo, Rambo or Mogambo roll! Do not forget to step over to Siddique adjacent to Johnson Market for some great kababs. The Phal at some of the standalone carts dotting the entire stretch is also great. And for some Beef Biryani, it has to be Khazana.

Tilaknagar: Tilaknagar has seriously picked up over the last two years in terms of the spread available during Iftar. With Bilal Masjid on Bannerghatta road being a no-go this year for several reasons, Tilaknagar is seeing all the hungry hordes gather here. The Haleem at Paani Kum Chai is on the spicier side but is worth a try. The Biryanis at The Taj never disappoint. What you must try is the Beef Phal from any of the vendors that have their tavas sizzling away. The Kaadi Chicken, or Chicken on a Stick is brilliant as well. Very close to the mosque is a vendor with just a table on hand serving up some really good Bun Maska with Jam. The Lassi and Sabja Drinks vendor right next to him are worth a shot too. The Patthar Ka Ghosht available on this stretch comes with freshly sliced onions and a wedge of lime. The Kuluki Sharbat – a spicy green mango drink is also delish.

Koramangala: This area, though extremely crowded has a row of stalls, most associated with restaurants and some standalone that you may want to try. From Shrimp to Seekh Kebab to Phal, Patthar Ghosht, Biryani and Haleem you get it all.

Shivajinagar: This is one place which sees it all – quails in red and green masala, Kalmi Kababs, Coconut Naan, Seviyan Chutney, Puffs of different meats and more. The range of desserts too are phenomenal with Phirni, Gajar or Pineapple Halwa, Karamel being there to satiate those taste buds.