EAT: Bangalore, Hotel Empire

Although not on my list of places to eat while briefly touring the city of Bangalore, Hotel Empire was a recommendation by our driver. Initially he had planned to take us to a 5 star, white linen tablecloth location to which my reply was, not expensive, just neat and clean. His choice was a good one.

Located just steps off the busy main road, guests have their choice of dining in the A/C hall or the main non-A/C hall just as you enter. We were shown to the A/C room thanks to our tourist status. That said, my travel companion and I both appreciated the coolness after a morning of sightseeing in the sun and heat of South India.

One menu was brought to the table and handed only to me. How quickly I had forgotten about the general rule of excluding the females from a menu. I tried to talk my companion out of ordering meat on her first day in India but she decided to be brave. Our order was brought quickly given we had a simple selection of veg biryani, non-veg thali and a sweet lassi.

The veg biryani was chock full of fresh vegetables and mild in spices. With some raita scooped over for added taste I was careful to stop myself from eating the entire serving. My companion’s thali was, however, quite spicy yet delicious. Mutton in a masala sauce, chicken from the tandoor, dal, rice and a potato dish were more than she could finish.

Hotel Empire is perfect for travelers looking for neat and clean, safe food and the A/C room was a nice touch. However, don’t expect to see any fellow tourists here. This is strictly a local joint catering to the nearby businessmen and the neighborhood families.

Total cost Rs 216 ($4.70), tip included.

© 2010 FullStopIndia.com India Travel Blog

Related posts:

• EAT: Bikaner, Hotel Harasar Haveli
• EAT: Delhi, Daniell’s Tavern, Imperial Hotel
• HOTEL: Chandigarh, Hotel Sheronz
• HOTEL: Recong Peo, Ridang Hotel & Bar
• EAT: Varanasi, Haifa Restaurant