We, the Tadka girls, are rather eclectic when it comes to dine-out choices. While we love a lavish spread at a fine dining restaurant every so often, we’re also fond of the odd wayside eatery that serves delicious ‘fast food,’ so to speak. So in keeping with our diverse tastes as such, here are a few of our favourite places to eat at.

Kamat Yatrinivas: We are big fans of the big North-Karnataka style meal at this unassuming place in the heart of the city - Gandhinagar. Served on a plantain leaf, everything here is packed with rich, distinct flavours. No two side dishes taste the same and the ‘Jolada Rotti’ is the highlight of this meal. The coconutty, peanutty influence in the spice blends is prominent and simply fabulous.

Veena Stores: This quaint ‘store’ in Malleswaram gets our vote for serving the best hot breakfast in town. The Idli-Vada and Shavige bhath are exceptional, and the freshly made Coconut Chutney is lip-smackin’ good.

Chianti: We love a good, authentic Italian meal and Chianti is our go-to place for just that. The Melanzane Di Parmigiana Al Forno would be a hot pick, with the Sula Merlot. The Tiramisu is simply not to be missed.

California Burrito: Who says that chain restaurants serving fast food can’t get it right? California Burrito has a wholesome Mexican themed spread that oozes freshness and flavour in every bite. Our order is usually the Rice or Salad Bowl, with all the hot and spicy trimmings, and a scoop of gooey guacamole.

Karavalli: Karavalli is our pick for home-style coastal delicacies, perfectly re-created and served in comfortable, vintage Bengaluru ambience. This is where we take out-of-town guests to give them a taste of the South. The Tiger Prawn Roast is superlative and the masala wrapped around the prawns leaves you licking your fingers.

Krazzy Folds: Excellent food, quirky decor and the spiffy plating make this a well-loved cafe-style hangout in South Bangalore. The energetic vibe and an eclectic menu have us planning our next visit once we’ve pegged out our current order. The tacos are almost too pretty to eat and the mac ‘n cheese is pure comfort all the way.
Ranjini and Ruchira are two best friends whose brainchild is Tadka Pasta, which spans a food blog (tadkapasta.wordpress.com), corporate and educational cooking workshops, and two published books with many more in the works. They love to cook, eat and travel, not necessarily in that order. They can be reached on: tadkapasta@gmail.com.