Saravana Bhavan
“I have had Dosas made my chefs from Oberoi hotel in India and some of the best Dosas in Nepal as well.”
“'Masala Dosa to Die For' was the title of a NYT article about the restaurant's founder, who's literally a murderer.”
“The food here tastes just like it might at any hotel in Bangalore (or I suppose Chennai, since that's where this chain is from).”
Saravana Bhavan
Delivery: Yes
Take-out: Yes
Accepts Credit Cards: Yes
Bike Parking: Yes
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Good for Kids: Yes
Good for Groups: Yes
Waiter Service: Yes
Caters: Yes
Price range.
$$ Price range $11-30
8 reviews
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We went to Saravana for breakfast on Sunday with one of our Indian friends. He ordered for us and we were pleasantly surprised by the quality and tastes we experienced. We had one Masala Dosa which was amazing and one idly with chutneys. I also ordered a coffee and masala tea.. All fantastic. Service was prompt and we were in and out within 30 mins as we were in a rush.
Given the dearth of good dosa places in Manhattan this place gets the job done but how I wish they'd just out in a little more effort, into….everything! Service leaves much to be desired, food quality isn't anything to write home about, literally (Ami I right, desi people?)
Finally, the prices, holy hell…$9 for a plate of idlis!!? Bordering highway robbery.
So yeah, check it out if you're really craving dosas but if you're not feel free to skip this very highly overrated south Indian spot.
I v had better Rasam in other places that serve south indian food in NY, but their paper masala dosa was hands down amazing! Only thing I didn't like was the pace at which the main course came- which didn't let any of us finish our appetizers. Also, be careful of the portions cause my dosa could easily be shared between two ! Definitely try their trio of chutneys (which come with most of their dosa/idli/vada type dishes). Found the place a tad bit expensive for the kind of food and ambiance. The service was a little appalling cause when I asked the server to pour my hot rasam from my bowl into a glass he first looked at me with surprise, then got me a glass to do it myself. I mean how am I supposed to do the task of pouring hot liquid from one steel container to another on my table without spilling it all over?? Then when we asked the guy to pack our unfinished dosa into a doggy bag- he again looked surprised and then got us an empty box to do it ourselves! If you expect a tip, I would suggest polishing some of these rough edges in service.
Was finally able to go to the restaurant after a few years and everything was as good and mouth watering as I remembered. Onion chilli masala rava dosa and mysore masala dosa hit the spot!!!!
Hands down, my favorite vegetarian eats in the city! Discovered a new found love for South Indian food. Their veggie korma and Kerala porotta is my absolute favorite. All of their dosas are perfect and always fresh! I love the coconut chutneys and almost always wipe the plate clean. I have been back multiple times and plan to come even more. I don't think you can find any more authentic South Indian food in the city. Worth a visit!! Or two or three or four…..who's counting anyways.. 😛
The finest experience one can have when it comes to Masala Dosa, Kaima Idly and other fine vegetarian dishes. My family goes here probably once or twice a month. The service is always familiar, friendly and attentive. Food is prepared fresh and served on the typical shiny metal plates and trays. The seating might
be a bit tight in the front but they are able to accommodate my rather huge father in law. The ambiance is bright, clean and energetic. I have never ordered a drink from the bar but always get a big King Fisher or two, served cold with the proper glasses. Love this place and could eat here everyday if given the opportunity.
Walking into Saravana reminded me of walking into my favorite tiffin room in HYD. The thali was good and the dosa was crispy and spicy. Chutney's were slightly watered down. And the rice was not great. I'd go back.
I've been to this place a handful of times expecting that it will get better each time. It really hasn't. It's a completely vegetarian restaurant which is awesome but I really don't think it's as good as everybody says it is. Everyone I know is obsessed with this place and I just really can't figure out why.
I mean don't get me wrong It's a pretty solid Indian restaurant on curry hill but I wouldn't say it's the ABSOLUTE best. Portions are massive so you won't be hungry, but I think if you're looking for South Indian food, Pongal is your best bet and only a block away.
The dosas here a huge but includes the smallest amount of filling. The sambar on the side isn't as spicy as I would want it and not as flavorful. One time I decided to try the Chana Bhatura and I would never try that again. It's just so bland and flavorless. The staff is great and everybody is really friendly which is why I give it three stars. But I think my personal preference would be to choose another South Indian restaurant if I'm really craving that cuisine.