Thindi places to check out while you wait in line at Rameshwaram Cafe

So you’re in the mood for some crisp dosas and idlis? All that Twitter hype might have led you to believe that Rameshwaram Cafe (RC) offers the greatest idli and dosa known to humankind – but Twitter shouldn’t always be trusted. There are better idli and dosa places in Indiranagar that don’t require you to wait for an hour or fight with strangers who won’t let your friends cut into the line next to you.

Let's start with the list! Since you’ve been waiting in line, you’re probably hungry, angry, and very emotional. Let’s focus on feeding you quickly and getting you some post-idli clarity. Just 600 meters from your location lies Umesh Refreshments on Indiranagar 13th main.

Start with their idlis (they’ll melt in your mouth) which can be eaten within 60 seconds of you entering the place (No lines? Who knew). They bring out their inner Lewis Hamilton by spraying the idlis with a packet of ghee before serving them to you. Grab a vada while you’re at it, they’re usually fresh and crisp during prime business hours. Also place an order for a ghee masal dosa, or maybe even a ghee podi onion dosa (this last one is not thin and crisp like the first two, it’s thick like a pancake but delicious nevertheless). There’s even a rice bath dosa if you’re trying to carb-load ahead of a marathon. Their coffee is very good – make sure you grab a couple of those for your squad. Summary: The idlis are a must try, their coffee is pretty good, and their sweets (their take on Gulab Jamoon) are nice too.

If you must have a thatte idli (akin to the one served at Rameshwaram Cafe), then head over to IDC Kitchen on Double Road in Indiranagar.

They offer it in three variants (plain, ghee, and masala) just like RC and the quality of their idli is equal (maybe slightly better) to the one from RC. Their coffee beats RC – ask for “extra strong” if you’re nuts like me – you won’t be disappointed. While the other items here are good, the Thatte Idli is the one item that I really recommend – very good. Their dosa is commendable (but not great).

Maybe you go to Rameshwaram Cafe because you like challenges, maybe you’ve always chased men/women who’re out of your league, and like playing life on hard mode. If so, head over to Iyer Idli.