Few cities outside the southern states love South Indian food as much as Mumbai. From Matunga’s famous filter coffee houses and tiffin joints to countless dosa stalls across the city, these flavors are part of Mumbai’s daily life. While purists debate authenticity—such as simple, crispy dosas versus Mumbai’s Schezwan dosas—the love for this cuisine is undeniable.
Now, two new restaurants—Uppu in Bandra and Oor in Kala Ghoda—are adding fresh flavors to the city, each with its own unique story.
Uppu: Matunga’s Spirit in Bandra
Started by the Ahuja family, Uppu is inspired by their tradition of Sunday breakfasts in Matunga. The restaurant’s name means “salt” in four South Indian languages. With cane chairs, rattan lamps, and Carnatic music in the background, Uppu feels like a cozy neighborhood café.
The menu goes beyond dosas and idlis, offering dishes rarely seen in Mumbai restaurants—like Pineapple Menaskai from Karnataka, Mor Kulambu (curd-based curry), and Mushroom Sukka. Breakfast runs all day, with fluffy idlis, crispy vadas, and strong filter coffee at the center.
Oor: A Taste of Home in Kala Ghoda
Oor, run by Vijay and Panchali Bhatia, feels like dining at someone’s home. Panchali, from a Mangalorean family, cooks using her mother’s recipes, fresh masalas, and traditional methods—no shortcuts.
The menu includes homely favorites like thatte idlis, benne dosas, pineapple rasam, and kottige idlis steamed in jackfruit leaves. The warm décor, with woodwork and Kathakali masks, makes it feel rooted in South Indian tradition.
Why They Matter
Though very different, both Uppu and Oor reflect Mumbai’s relationship with South Indian food. Uppu is an outsider’s love letter to the cuisine, while Oor preserves family traditions. Together, they show how food in Mumbai keeps evolving—blending cultures, honoring memories, and always bringing comfort.
#MumbaiEats #SouthIndianFood #FoodInMumbai #UppuBandra #OorKalaGhoda #IdliDosaLove #MumbaiFoodies #FilterCoffeeVibes #AuthenticSouthIndian #FoodCulture