Start your day right with a visit to one of Mysuru's oldest restaurants, Vinayaka Mylari. This small, family-run eatery is renowned for its fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth masala dosas and spicy chutney, which is made fresh each morning. Be aware that seating is limited, and queues can be long, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.
After your breakfast at Vinayaka Mylari, stroll down to the nearby Mylari Cafe for a cup of filter coffee, made with freshly roasted Arabica beans, and a plate of crispy vada or sweet holige. The cafe has a lovely atmosphere, with old photographs and memorabilia on the walls, and friendly staff who are happy to chat about the history of the place.
For a taste of authentic, home-style Karnataka cuisine, head to Raghavendra Stores for lunch. This cafeteria-style eatery offers a range of vegetarian dishes, including thali meals, curries, and rice dishes. Don't miss the akki roti, a crispy rice bread served with a spicy coconut chutney.
After a busy morning of exploring Mysuru, stop by The Barge for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. This cozy cafe, set on the banks of the Kukkarahalli Lake, serves freshly brewed coffee, artisanal teas, and delicious cakes and pastries. Try the coconut cake or the chocolate tart for a sweet treat.
End your day with a dinner at the iconic Hotel Hanumanthu. This no-frills eatery is famous for its mutton pulao, a delicacy made with fragrant biryani rice, tender mutton, and aromatic spices. The portions are generous, so you may want to share a plate with a friend. Finish your meal with a cup of sweet, milky chai.
Start your second day in Mysuru with a visit to Oyster Bay, a trendy cafe that serves a mix of Indian and continental breakfast options. Try the avocado toast with poached eggs or the spicy mushroom omelet for a filling and flavorful meal. Wash it down with a fresh juice or a smoothie.
Indulge your sweet tooth at Coorg Homemade Chocolates, a small shop that specializes in artisanal chocolates made with locally sourced ingredients. Take a guided tour of the production facility, where you can see the chocolates being made and learn about their history and production process. Sample a selection of truffles, bars, and pralines, and don't leave without taking some home.
For a taste of South Indian fusion cuisine, head to Tiger Trail, a stylish restaurant located in the Royal Orchid Brindavan Gardens hotel. The menu combines local ingredients with global flavors to create unique dishes like mango and prawn curry, lamb keema samosas, and tandoori paneer tikka. Ask for a table by the poolside for a lovely view.
As the day winds down, head up to Chamundi Hill Tea for a tasting of some of the region's finest teas. The plantation, located at the foot of the Chamundi Hill, offers tours of its gardens and processing facilities, where you can see how the leaves are harvested and dried. Take a seat in the tasting room and sample a selection of black, green, and white teas, along with some snacks and sweets.
If you have more time, be sure to visit the iconic Mysore Palace, the beautiful Brindavan Gardens, and the Chamundeshwari Temple atop Chamundi Hill. For a unique shopping experience, head to Devaraja Market, where you can find everything from spices and silk to handcrafted souvenirs. If you have less time, consider skipping Mylari Cafe and The Barge, since they are relatively close to each other, and combining lunch and tea tasting in one location.