If you’re looking to escape the bustle of the city and unwind over a quiet, leisurely meal, Hermitage is the perfect spot. Tucked away on the charming 18th Main Road in Malleswaram, this award-winning vegetarian restaurant is an oasis of calm and elegance.
Set in a beautifully restored heritage home, the ambiance is a tasteful blend of colonial charm and modern sophistication. With its cozy corners, soft lighting, and old-world décor, the restaurant sets the mood for everything from a peaceful lunch date to a romantic evening out.
We had a reservation, and Ayush from the staff helped us with our overall service; we were seated immediately upon arrival. The staff was courteous and the overall experience felt thoughtfully curated. Now, to the food:
Broccoli & Cheddar Soup – Creamy, comforting, and packed with flavour. The croutons on top added the perfect crunch. A must-try!
Truffle Oil Mushroom Fettuccine – Rich, indulgent, and absolutely delicious. The aroma of truffle oil and the creamy parmesan made this my personal favourite.
Japanese Katsu Curry – Paneer cutlets with sticky rice and a luscious curry sauce. Tried it for the first time and absolutely loved it.
Thai Curry with Jasmine Rice – Aromatic, flavourful, and exactly how a good Thai curry should taste. Comforting and well-balanced.
Nasi Goreng – Nicely done Indonesian fried rice with a variety of veggies and tofu. The peanut sauce wasn’t to my taste, but the rice itself was very tasty.
Asparagus Glass Noodles: A delightful surprise — delicate glass noodles perfectly stir-fried with tender asparagus, tossed in a spicy garlic sauce with just the right hit of soy and chilli. The toasted sesame and scallion garnish added a lovely crunch and depth.
Crispy Fried Lotus Stem: Thinly sliced lotus stem fried to a beautiful golden crisp. Light, crunchy and seasoned just right — simple yet addictive.
Mushroom Bruschetta: A comforting classic elevated — earthy mushrooms on crisp toasted bread with the right balance of texture and umami.
Peachy Coconut (Mocktail) – Beautiful presentation, but the drink had a tangy aftertaste that didn’t quite work. Would skip this one next time.
Classic Margarita (Mocktail) – A simple mix of lime, orange, and agave. Refreshing and true to a classic margarita, just minus the alcohol.
Overall, Hermitage offers a thoughtful vegetarian menu with global influences, great service, and a serene atmosphere that makes you want to linger a little longer. Would highly recommend it for those looking for good food in a quiet,...
Read moreI recently had the chance to visit Hermitage, a charming spot located in an old colonial bungalow in Malleshwaram. The place brought back memories, as this house was once a popular location for movie shoots. Hermitage has beautifully preserved the old-world charm, from the red oxide flooring to the grand chandelier and vintage phone, among other nostalgic touches. Since I visited on a weekday, there was no need for a reservation. However, on weekends, it’s wise to plan ahead as seating is limited. It's a vegetarian-only establishment with no alcohol, so keep that in mind when planning your visit.
We began our meal with the Spicy Lemonade, which was absolutely perfect as a refresher. Next up was the Broccoli & Cheddar Soup, and I must say, the portion size alone was quite filling. The taste was delightful—each sip was loaded with fresh broccoli florets, and while the cheddar didn’t overpower, the subtle cheese flavour spread beautifully across the palate. The added croutons, lightly coated with cheddar, were a bonus, making the experience even more enjoyable.
The excitement only grew when the chef presented us with Gyoza (Japanese dumplings) served with Ponzu Sauce. The presentation was a highlight—the five dumplings were carefully arranged on a small BBQ rack, and the smoky touch from the charcoal lit right at the table was simply wow-worthy. Tasting it was even better. The first bite of the dumpling, dipped in the Ponzu sauce, burst with vegetable filling and a lovely smoky aroma—a must-try dish at Hermitage, in my opinion. Although I was quite full by then, I decided to end the meal with dessert. Unfortunately, the Alaskan by Iyengar was out of stock, so we opted for the Tres Leches Sheer Khurma. To be honest, it didn’t quite hit the mark. It tasted more like a plain Semiya Payasam, far from the authentic Sheer Khurma I had expected. This could definitely use improvement.
The total bill came to Rs. 1,420, including a 10% service charge. However, there were two areas that could be better: 1. The service was subpar, as the staff seemed understaffed. We had to repeatedly call the server to place our orders, and it wasn’t just us—other tables experienced the same. 2. The napkins were not clean and had an unpleasant odor. Even after asking for replacements, the issue persisted, so we ultimately decided not to use them.
Despite these shortcomings, my overall experience at Hermitage was positive, with both the food and ambiance standing out. It’s definitely a place...
Read moreA Serene Retreat for Plant-Based Delights
Located in Malleswaram it is more than just a restaurant; it's a serene escape into a world of pure vegetarian cuisine. Nestled within a beautifully restored heritage Bunglow, the ambiance is calming and inviting. The moment you step inside, you're transported to a peaceful haven, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The menu offers a delightful array of plant-based dishes, showcasing the diversity and flavor of vegetarian cuisine. From classic Indian delicacies to innovative fusion creations, there's something to satisfy every palate.
The presentation of each dish is elegant and visually appealing, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.The overall quality and freshness of the ingredients are commendable. The service is attentive and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
If you're seeking a tranquil setting to savor delicious vegetarian food, Hermitage India is an excellent choice. It's a place where you can relax, unwind, and indulge in a culinary journey that nourishes both your body and soul.
The restaurant's focus on plant-based cuisine is refreshing, with a menu that showcases the diversity and flavor of vegetarian dishes.
I am sure u will get a vibe of it being a home from 60s-70s. The cutlery used, a testament to craftsmanship, added a touch of refinement to the overall dining experience.
Serene ambiance
Attentive service
Diverse plant-based menu
Beautiful heritage building
Tips:
Make reservations in advance, especially on weekends.
Must try and my fav The Broccoli & Cheddar Soup, Crispy Fried Lotus Stem,Tiramisu.
Consider visiting during the day to appreciate the beautiful architecture.
Spl thanks to Yapang, ch.Bopinder,Mohan,Kailan & Sarabjeet for being such a...
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