Mangaluru, a vibrant coastal city in Karnataka, India, boasts a rich culinary scene that caters to diverse palates. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast, a vegetarian connoisseur, or someone seeking international flavors, Mangaluru has something special to offer. Below is a curated list of the top 10 restaurants in Mangaluru, complete with detailed information to guide new tourists and city visitors.
1. Machali
Location: Sharada Vidyalaya Road, Kodailbail, Mangaluru
Description: Renowned for its authentic Mangalorean seafood, Machali offers a homely ambiance with delectable dishes that capture the essence of coastal Karnataka.
Signature Dishes:
- Anjal (Kingfish) Fry
- Prawn Ghee Roast
- Fish Curry with Rice
Cost per Person: Approximately ₹300 – ₹500
Timings: 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM; 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Contact: +91 824 249 8322
Address: Behind Ocean Pearl, Sharada Vidyalaya Road, Kodailbail, Mangaluru, Karnataka 575003
Note: Due to its popularity, expect waiting times during peak hours.
2. Gajalee Sea Food Restaurant
Location: Circuit House Compound, Kadri Hills, Mangaluru
Description: Set atop Kadri Hills, Gajalee offers a serene dining experience with panoramic views, serving traditional Mangalorean seafood in a colonial-era setting.
Signature Dishes:
- Tandoori Crab
- Bombil (Bombay Duck) Fry
- Clam Sukka
Cost per Person: Approximately ₹500 – ₹800
Timings: 10:30 AM to 3:00 PM; 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM
Contact: +91 824 221 6666
Address: Circuit House Compound, Kadri Hills, Vasanth Vihar, Kadri, Mangaluru, Karnataka 575004
Note: Reservations recommended, especially for dinner.
3. Hotel Narayana
Location: Bunder, Mangaluru
Description: A humble eatery famed for its simple yet flavorful fish fry, Hotel Narayana has been a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Signature Dishes:
- Fish Fry (various local catches)
- Fish Curry
Cost per Person: Approximately ₹200 – ₹300
Timings: 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM
Contact: +91 824 242 1109
Address: Mukhyaprana Temple Road, Bunder, Mangaluru, Karnataka 575001
Note: Arrive early to avoid long queues.
4. Pallkhi Restaurant
Location: Balmatta Road, Mangaluru
Description: With over two decades of excellence, Pallkhi offers a blend of traditional Indian and coastal cuisines in a sophisticated setting.
Signature Dishes:
- Chicken Ghee Roast
- Mutton Rogan Josh
- Neer Dosa
Cost per Person: Approximately ₹400 – ₹600
Timings: 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM; 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM
Contact: +91 824 244 2237
Address: 3rd Floor, Tej Towers, Balmatta Road, Opp. Jyothi Cinema, Next to KMC, Mangaluru, Karnataka 575001
Note: Offers both alfresco and indoor dining options.
5. New Taj Mahal Café
Location: Kodailbail, Mangaluru
Description: One of the oldest restaurants in Mangaluru, the New Taj Mahal Café offers lip-smacking vegetarian options of Mangalorean food. The café is known for its traditional snacks and filter coffee.
Signature Dishes:
- Tuppa Dosa (Ghee-fried Dosa)
- Phanas Molik (Jackfruit Fritters)
- Biscuit Roti
- Goli Bhajji
Cost per Person: Approximately ₹100 – ₹200
Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM
Contact: +91 824 242 7750
Address: Near Navabharath Circle, Kodailbail, Mangaluru, Karnataka 575003
Note: A great place to experience traditional Mangalorean breakfast items.
6. Sizzler Ranch
Location: Nehru Avenue Road, Lalbagh, Mangaluru
Description: Sizzler Ranch brings Western cuisine to Mangaluru, specializing in a variety of sizzling dishes. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, providing a cozy ambiance for diners.
Signature Dishes:
- Barbecue Chicken Sizzler
- Chicken Shashlik
- Jalapeno Balls
- Sizzling Brownie
Cost per Person: Approximately ₹350 – ₹500
Timings: 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM; 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Contact: +91 824 245 5656
Address: Beatle Apartment, Nehru Avenue Road, Lalbagh, Mangaluru, Karnataka 575003
Note: Reservations are recommended during weekends due to its popularity.
7. Maharaja Restaurant
Location: Bunts Hostel Road, Hampankatta, Mangaluru
Description: Maharaja Restaurant is favored by families seeking affordable yet delicious meals. The restaurant offers both air-conditioned indoor seating and an outdoor area, catering to diverse preferences.
Signature Dishes:
- Ghee Roast (available in vegetarian and non-vegetarian options)
- Neer Dosa
- Caramel Custard
- Malai Kofta
Cost per Person: Approximately ₹350 – ₹500
Timings: 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM; 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM
Contact: +91 824 242 0420
Address: Bunts Hostel Road, Hampankatta, Mangaluru, Karnataka 575001
Note: The restaurant is known for its quick service and hospitable staff.
8. Madhuvan’s Village
Location: Airport Road, Yeyyadi, Mangaluru
Description: Madhuvan’s Village offers a unique dining experience with its village-themed decor, including mud pots, wooden items, and a thatched roof. The restaurant is divided into five different cottages, each with a unique theme, surrounded by a green garden.
Signature Dishes:
- Peri Peri Chicken Skewers
- Taiwan Chicken
- Chicken Junglee Kabab
- Murgh Ghee Roast
Cost per Person: Approximately ₹500 – ₹700
Timings: 11:30 AM to 11:30 PM
Contact: +91 824 221 1919
Address: Airport Road, Yeyyadi, Mangaluru, Karnataka 575008
Note: The restaurant offers valet parking and is suitable for large groups.
9. Janatha Deluxe
Location: KS Rao Road, Mangaluru
Description: Janatha Deluxe is a popular vegetarian restaurant known for its quick and wholesome breakfast options. The restaurant also offers a variety of options for lunch and dinner at affordable prices.
Signature Dishes:
- Thali Meals
- Masala Dosa
- Vada
- Filter Coffee
Cost per Person: Approximately ₹150 – ₹300
Timings: 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM; 4:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Contact: +91 824 244 0220
Address: Shaan Plaza Building, Opposite Prabhath Theatre, KS Rao Road, Mangaluru, Karnataka 575001
Note: Ideal for a quick and affordable vegetarian meal.
10. Sagar Ratna
Location: Navabharath Circle, Kodailbail, Mangaluru
Description: A part of the renowned Sagar Ratna chain, this restaurant is a haven for vegetarians, serving authentic South Indian delicacies.
Signature Dishes:
- Paneer Ghee Roast
- Masala Dosa
- Thali Meals
Cost per Person: Approximately ₹200 – ₹400
Timings: 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Contact: +91 824 241 3800
Address: Opp. Passport Office, The Ocean Pearl, KS Rao Road, Navabharath Circle, Kodailbail, Mangaluru, Karnataka 575003
Note: Ideal for breakfast and vegetarian meals.