It was a bright morning as we breathed in the clean Mysore air and made our way to the legendary Mylari Hotel of Mysore. I had heard about it many times from my father but had never been there before. He used to rave about Mylari Dosas, a place he frequented during his student days. So, for me, the visit to the Mylari Hotel of Mysore was not just about its Dosas; it was an emotional journey back in time.
We were in Mysuru as part of the Discover Mysuru programme organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, Bengaluru Office. This post is all about the iconic Mylari Dosa Mysore, its legendary taste, and the rich history behind it.
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Old Original Vinayaka Mylari Hotel in Mysore
“OLD ORIGINAL VINAYAKA MYLARI,” “SINCE 1938,” proclaimed the board at the entrance in letters of gold. The suffixes to the name were an attempt to stamp its claim to originality, when there were many fakes around in the city, and elsewhere. The restaurant had a clean and welcoming look it had gone through multiple makeovers and changes of location since its inception, however, it still seemed to retain its original charm and warmth.
Nestled in the heart of the city, the Mylari Hotel of Mysore is a vintage landmark that has stood the test of time. This small yet iconic eatery is famous for its soft, buttery dosas that have been delighting food lovers for decades. If you’re visiting Mysore, experiencing the magic of Mylari is an absolute must.
The Legacy of Mylari Hotel In Mysore
Old Original Vinayaka Mylari has been serving its legendary dosas for over 85 years, making it one of the city’s oldest and most cherished establishments. Unlike commercialized food chains, this eatery remains a family-run venture, preserving the traditional flavours and recipes that have been passed down through generations.
The name ‘Mylari’ has become synonymous with the dosa culture of Mysore, but it is important to note that this particular establishment — Old Original Vinayaka Mylari — is the true custodian of the legendary recipe. If you want to relish the original Mylari Dosa, a visit to the original Vinayaka Mylari, popularly known as Hotel Mylari Mysore, is an absolute must.
The restaurant itself is small and unpretentious, reflecting its commitment to authentic food rather than lavish interiors. The walls are adorned with a few photographs and newspaper clippings praising the eatery’s culinary excellence. However, it’s the crowd of eager patrons waiting for their turn that speaks volumes about the popularity of this legendary spot.
With minds and palates pregnant with anticipation, we took our seats at the end of the rectangular restaurant. In what is a ritual of sorts, we started with Idlis. Yes, Mylari Hotel of Mysore is known for its dosas, but the idlis blew our minds away. They were soft, white orbs of velvety that simply melted in the mouth. The idlis in tandem with the flavourful chutney orchestrated a gastronomic symphony that sent the palate into raptures.
The idlis were so good that we had to go in for another round before proceeding to the famed dosas. The dosas arrived.
What Makes Mylari Hotel Dosa Special? | Mylari Dosa Of Vinayaka Mylari Mysore | Mylari Dosa Mysore
The Mylari dosa at Mysore Mylari Hotel is unlike any other dosa you may have tasted. Unlike the usual crispy dosa, Mylari dosa is soft, fluffy, and packed with a unique aroma. The secret lies in its age-old batter preparation, which involves a special fermentation process that enhances its texture and taste. Cooked on a cast-iron tava and generously slathered with fresh homemade butter, the dosa is then served with a delectable coconut chutney and a Sagu that is full of flavours.
The uniqueness of the dosa is attributed to the quality of ingredients used and the meticulous preparation method. The urad dal and rice used in the batter are carefully sourced, and the fermentation process is conducted with great attention to detail. The dosas are cooked on traditional iron griddles, which impart a distinct flavour that cannot be replicated by modern non-stick cookware.
We also visited the kitchen to see first-hand the making of the famous Mylari Dosa. It was poetry in motion, as the hand of the cook moved swiftly and rhythmically in circles to lay the batter on the pan. Soon, lo and behold, he had a tray full of steaming hot Dosas to serve to a patiently waiting clientele.
Each bite of the Mylari dosa melts in your mouth, leaving behind a burst of flavours enhanced by the richness of the butter. Unlike regular dosas that often rely on chutneys or spicy powders for flavour, the Mylari dosa is delightful on its own. The coconut chutney, fresh and aromatic, serves as a perfect accompaniment without overpowering the dosa’s inherent taste.
We found the dosas really good with a character of their own. However, we like our Masala Dosas with the traditional potato curry or Alu Palya, rather than the Sagu. We thought that we had enjoyed the idlis better than the dosas.
The Ambience and Experience At Vinayaka Mylari Hotel of Mysore | Vinayaka Mylari Mysuru
Old Original Vinayaka Mylari exudes an old-world charm with its simple interiors and no-frills setup. The place is small, with limited seating, but the experience is truly authentic. The moment you step in, the aroma of freshly made dosas welcomes you, and the sight of dosas being flipped on the griddle is enough to make your mouth water. The hospitality here is warm, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a traditional South Indian home.
Unlike modern eateries with elaborate menus, Mylari keeps things simple. The focus is on quality over quantity, ensuring that every dosa that leaves the kitchen maintains the same high standard. The staff members, many of whom have been with the establishment for years, serve with a smile and offer recommendations to first-time visitors.
Another highlight of dining at Mylari is the sense of community. Given the limited space, customers often share tables with strangers, engaging in conversations about their love for food. It’s not uncommon to see people from all walks of life—locals, tourists, and even celebrities—sitting together, enjoying a shared appreciation for good food.
What To Eat At Mylari Hotel Mysore / Old Original Vinayaka Mylari
While the Mylari dosa – Vinayaka Mylari Dosa is the star attraction, you must also try their idlis—soft, fluffy, and served with the same delicious chutney. Pair it with a cup of traditional filter coffee, and you have a breakfast that will linger in your memory and also evoke nostalgia for a time that is gone.
Another must-try is their Khali Dosa, which is even softer and pairs wonderfully with the chutney. Though the menu is limited, each item is perfected to give customers an unforgettable epicurean experience. The portion sizes are generous, and the use of homemade butter elevates the flavours to another level.
Which is The Original Mylari Hotel of Mysore?
One of the biggest confusions surrounding Mylari dosas in Mysore is the existence of multiple eateries claiming to be the ‘original.’ The Old Original Vinayaka Mylari is widely recognized as the authentic one, but several other restaurants with similar names have cropped up over the years. While some may serve decent dosas, true connoisseurs agree that the dosa at the Old Original Vinayaka Mylari retains the unbeatable taste and timeless authenticity of the traditional recipe.
Vinayaka Mylari Mysore Location To Have Authentic Mylari Dosa Mysore
If you are looking for the authentic Mylari Dosa experience, head to Vinayaka Mylari Mysore, the legendary eatery that has preserved its original taste for decades. Here are the location, address, timings, and contact details to help you plan your visit.
Location Map:
Click here for location.
Address:
Old Original Hotel Vinayaka Mylari
79, Nazarbad Main Rd,
Doora,
Mysuru – 570010
Karnataka
Old Original Vinayaka Mylari Timings
9:00 am – 9:30 pm
Vinayaka Mylari Mysore Contact
Phone: +91 7801807744
Old Original Vinayaka Mylari Of Mysore Video
For a visual insight into the authentic Mylari Dosa experience, watch our video here.
Mysore Mylari Dosa FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions About Mylari Dosa Mysore
Mylari Dosa is a renowned culinary delight originating from Mysore, celebrated for its unique taste and preparation. This section addresses common queries to enhance your understanding and appreciation of this iconic dish.
What is Mylari Dosa?
Mylari Dosa is a soft, fluffy dosa native to Mysore, distinct from the typical crispy dosas, and is often served with coconut chutney and sambar.
Where did Mylari Dosa originate?
It originated at the Old Original Hotel Vinayaka Mylari in Mysore, which has been serving this delicacy for over 80 years.
What makes Mylari Dosa different from regular dosas?
Unlike the typical paper-thin, crispy dosa, Mylari Dosa boasts a pancake-like thick and fluffy texture, offering a unique taste experience.
What are the main ingredients of Mylari Dosa?
The dosa is prepared using boiled rice, raw rice, urad dal, rice flour, and maida flour, resulting in its characteristic softness.
Is Mylari Dosa vegetarian?
Yes, Mylari Dosa is a vegetarian dish, typically served in pure vegetarian eateries.
What are the operating hours of the original Mylari Hotel?
The restaurant opens at 6:30 AM, closes from 1:30 PM to 3 PM, and then operates again until 9 PM.
Is there usually a wait time to get a seat at the restaurant?
Due to its limited seating capacity of up to 12 diners, there may be a wait during peak hours.
How much does a Mylari Dosa cost?
Both plain and masala dosas are priced at INR 30 each.
Is the Mylari Dosa served with any accompaniments?
It is typically served with coconut chutney and sometimes sambar, enhancing its flavor.
Is the recipe for Mylari Dosa publicly available?
While the exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, several adaptations are available online for enthusiasts to try at home.
Are there other dishes served at the original Mylari Hotel?
The eatery primarily focuses on dosas and idlis, maintaining a limited yet cherished menu.
Is the Mylari Dosa gluten-free?
Given its rice and urad dal base, it is generally gluten-free, but it’s advisable to confirm with the restaurant regarding cross-contamination.
Can I order Mylari Dosa online or for takeaway?
Availability for online orders or takeaway may vary; contacting the restaurant directly is recommended.
Is there parking available near the original Mylari Hotel?
The hotel is located in a narrow lane, so parking might be challenging; it’s advisable to use public transport or park at a distance.
Are there other restaurants claiming to serve Mylari Dosa?
Yes, several eateries claim to serve Mylari Dosa, but the original is credited to Hotel Vinayaka Mylari in Mysore.
Some restaurants are known for the food they serve, while others are legends and serve emotions and history on a platter. The Mylari Hotel of Mysore belongs to the latter category. Have you tucked into a fluffy Mylari Dosa in Mysore? If yes, how did you find it? Do share your experience with us in our comments section. We hope you liked reading our post about the Old Original Vinayaka Mylari Hotel in Mysore.
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