South Indian cuisine is far more than just crispy dosas and spicy sambar- it’s a celebration of subtle spices, coconut-laced gravies, fermented batters, tangy rasams, fluffy rice dishes, and comforting curd-based meals. In the heart of New Delhi, a city known for its diverse food scene, you’ll find a treasure trove of restaurants dedicated to bringing these authentic southern flavours to your plate. From Tamil Nadu’s pongal to Andhra’s puliogare, from Kerala’s appams to Karnataka’s bisibelebath—these eateries do justice to the rich tapestry of South Indian cuisine. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best South Indian restaurants in New Delhi.
1. Saravana Bhavan
A visit to Connaught Place is incomplete without digging into the hearty South Indian fare at Saravana Bhavan. Think crispy ghee-roasted dosas that arrive piping hot, soft idlis that melt in your mouth, and sweet, saffron-infused rava kesari. Served on traditional steel plates, the food here is simple, aromatic, and deeply satisfying- reminding you of home-cooked meals straight from the south. The Mini Tiffin platter is a must-try for anyone who wants to sample a bit of everything- uttapam, idli, vada, dosa, and more, all in one go. In addition, their rich and frothy filter coffee is a must-try.
While the place tends to stay busy all day (for good reason!), the best time to visit is post 8 pm when the crowd thins out slightly. Vegan and gluten-free options are available too, making it a welcoming spot for all kinds of food lovers.
📍Multiple locations across the city
2. Carnatic Café
Expect dosas toasted to perfection, fluffy white idlis, tangy sambar, and lots of sumptuous Carnatic dishes. This place is renowned for its distinctive rice-based dishes from Karnataka. You must try their bisibelebath—a spicy, tangy rice and lentil dish, loaded with vegetables and aromatic spices. Those seeking bold and zesty flavours, try puliogare—tangy tamarind rice tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and crunchy peanuts. It is usually crowded during lunch hours, so plan your visit accordingly.
📍Multiple locations across the city
3. Andhra Bhavan Canteen
Easily our favourite pick out of the South Indian restaurants in Delhi! Just a short walk from India Gate, the Andhra Bhavan Canteen on Ashoka Road is a hidden gem known for its no-frills, full-flavour food from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The highlight here is the power-packed vegetarian thali, served with hot rice, a robust sambar, tangy gongura chutney, flavourful podi, and a rotating selection of comforting curries. It’s the kind of meal that hits all the right notes—spicy, hearty, and deeply satisfying.
For meat lovers, the chicken biryani and mutton fry are unmissable, wafting richness, aroma, and packed with regional spices. Portions are generous, prices are affordable, and the service is fast, making it a perfect lunch spot.
📍Ashoka Road, close to Pataudi House, New Delhi
4. Juggernaut
Juggernaut is a contemporary South Indian restaurant that serves time-honoured flavours in a modern setting. Known for its thoughtfully curated menu, the restaurant offers a range of dishes, from hearty millet dosas and fluffy podi-coated ghee idlis to sweet pongal and creamy coconut chutney, which pairs beautifully with just about anything on the plate.
One of the highlights is the MLA Pesarattu, which is a green gram dosa stuffed with upma. Don’t miss their ganne ka ras, a refreshing take on traditional sugarcane juice. Juggernaut caters to a wide range of preferences with vegan and gluten-free options and is open from early morning to late evening, making it ideal for everything from a leisurely breakfast to a comforting dinner.
📍Multiple locations across the city
5. Padmanabham
Stepping into Padmanabham feels like entering a vibrant corner of South India, rich in both culture and flavour. Inspired by Kerala’s famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the restaurant makes an immediate impression with its intricate Mandala artwork, colourful kalamkari-covered walls, and traditional Chettinad pillars that bring a touch of southern heritage to its Janpath and Rajendra Place locations.
While the menu features highlights from all five South Indian states, Kerala’s bold and comforting cuisine takes the spotlight. Expect perfectly crispy dosas, a steaming bowl of rasam served with pappadam, and the vada duet—crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside. Kerala staples, such as red rice, bean thoran, avial, white pumpkin moru curry, and the delicate, sweet adai payasam, make the experience truly special.
📍Multiple locations across the city
6. Naivedyam
Naivedyam brings the essence of Karnataka to the heart of Delhi with its serene atmosphere, temple-inspired interiors, and traditionally served South Indian fare. The name Naivedyam, a Sanskrit word meaning “food offered to the gods,” reflects the restaurant’s philosophy- serving food with reverence and authenticity. Established in 1994, this restaurant has been a long-time favourite for its soulful ambience and flavorful vegetarian dishes.
From the calming strains of temple music to the soothing décor, every detail is designed to create a peaceful dining experience. The food is rich in flavour and beautifully spiced, especially the dahi idli, the indulgent Maharaja dosa, or the sweet and aromatic Kesari Bhath.
📍Multiple locations across the city