What you see – We do not need any directions to reach Gayathri Tiffin Room (or GTR as it is popularly known) because once we close in on Chamundipuram circle, the irresistible aroma of a Mysore Masala Dosa works like a natural navigator to this vegetarian restaurant that is located just a few meters from the circle. Although the restaurant looks rather plain on the outside, the packed crowd inside negates this observation. GTR is filled with foodies digging into some varying and rather tempting South-Indian cuisine. We wait for our turn (for ten minutes) to sample the feast, until a friendly steward guides us in. The interiors carry the stamp of a typical old-world setup with white painted walls, high ceilings, photographs of deities and a seating of wooden chairs and tables for 25 diners arranged uniformly along the wall.
What you get – GTR, serving city-folk for the last six decades, is one of the oldest restaurants in Mysore. Owned by Mahesh, GTR serves pure vegetarian breakfast meals and evening snacks. The restaurant is a landmark in Chamundipuram and is known throughout Mysore. It serves South Indian food and authentic Karnataka food, which include a variety of dosas, idli, upma and Mangalooru Bajji (for evening snacks). For dosas, you can choose from Mysore Masala Dosa (Rs. 14), Onion Dosa (Rs. 18), Rava Dosa (Rs. 16) and Onion Rava Dosa (Rs. 20). The Mysore Masala Dosa, the most sought-after variety here, is served golden brown and piping hot with butter. It comes with a filling of lightly cooked potatoes and fried onions, with coconut chutney. It is soft and melts in the mouth, tickling our taste buds instantly. The Upma (Rs. 8) and Kesari Bhath (Rs. 8) are the other delectable ‘tummy-fillers’. Amongst GTR’s evening snacks, the Mangalooru Bajji (Rs. 8 per plate) is worth a try, to go along with filter coffee. The restaurant also serves hot Badam milk, mineral water and bottled soft drinks. GTR offers takeaway facilities, without any extra charge.
Our verdict – GTR restaurant is an ideal breakfast haunt and an evening snack point in Mysore. Apart from the mouthwatering taste of the food, the restaurant has clean facilities and offers quick service (despite the heavy rush). Parking space is shared with neighboring stores, and you can also park your vehicle along the road.
What you pay for a meal for two – Rs. 75
Anytime between – 7.30 AM – 11 AM and 3.30 PM – 7 PM
By Sachin Somanna
