Karandi’s is a brilliant little Indian restaurant which specialises in South Indian, specifically Chettinad cuisine. There are two branches, the first and original is a stone’s throw away from Rasoi Ghar in Karama, and there’s the one I visited in Building 20 on Street 1 in Discovery Gardens. In addition to being in total compartmentalised compliance with C-19 regulations, its interior is also colourful, cheerful and spotlessly clean. That’s the good news. The bad news is that parking is an absolute nightmare, especially in the front side of the restaurant. If coming by car, forget the front and drive around to the back where there is much more space.
Colourful, cheerful and spotlessly clean interior 
A view from the compound 
Interior is in total compartmentalised compliance with C-19 regulations
I was here to try their South Indian breakfast, a ritual I have every Friday. And as always, I start with an idli-vada dip before moving on to a dosa of some sort, usually a masala dosa. The idli-vada dip at Karandi’s is insane! Interestingly, they serve the idli and vada all broken up as opposed to whole. They also add a topping of chopped red onion and tomato which adds an amazing dimension to the already delicious taste. A hellishly hot white chutney acts as a turbo over-boost, allowing for an instantaneous kick of ouch when needed. The sambar isn’t as tangy as at some South Indian restaurants; perhaps that’s why the idli-vada stands out.
Idli-Vada Dip 
Hellishly hot white chutney 
Chopped idli, chopped vada, chopped onion – delicious!
If it were not for the amazing red and white chutneys and superb potato filling, the masala dosa would have been a let-down. As it turns out, though not nearly as good as the idli-vada dip, it was lovely in its own way. I highly recommend both dosa and idli-vada dip. I would have liked to have tried they paya but was told it is only served in the evenings. Who eats paya at night? Also try the filter coffee. It’s the real deal.
Masala Dosa; those chutneys were amazing 
Delicious potato filling 
The staff at Karandi’s are a friendly and accommodating bunch. I like this place; it’s easily one of the best South Indian breakfast spots in Discovery Gardens and totally worth a try.
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Xerxes physically dines at, or orders from, each and every venue he reviews. He pays in full for whatever he and his companions eat, drink, take away or occasionally throw at each other. Xerxes accepts no money, gifts, discounts or free meals in return for reviews or favouritism. What you have read was NOT influenced in any way by the venue. Join me on Instagram @ravenousxerxes or email me on xerxes@dellara.com.