Iyer Idly Vignana Nagar — Restaurant in Bengaluru

Dear Iyer Idly Owner,

I've been a loyal customer of your shop since around 2004 or 2005, back when your father was running the place. At that time, your shop was next to the FAIR CHOICE store, and idlis were priced at just Rs. 2 each. I remember when you later moved to the current location. I even recall the brief period when your father tried adding Veg Noodles and Gobi Manchurian to the menu in this new place.

Your father was incredibly kind, and though we may not have had much in common beyond speaking Tamil, we would often chat at length, even after I’d finished my meal. I remember how he’d precisely time the removal of idlis from the cooker, noting the timings with chalk on the cooker itself. Even if we were talking, he never missed the right moment to take the idlis out.

For almost 20 years (aside from a few years when I was away from Bangalore), your shop has been my go-to spot for breakfast and dinner, unless I was specifically craving puri or pongal.

However, I wanted to share something I’ve noticed recently, with the intention of providing constructive feedback. Lately, I’ve observed some customers buying dosas or other items from nearby shops (or even preparing them at home) but then coming to your shop solely for chutney. For just 3-4 idlis, they often ask for extra chutney, and your staff generously provides it. I've even overheard people saying things like, "Koncham Chutney Jaasthi keetu Vaangunga, Veetla Dosai odda vechikalaam" (Translates to: Get some extra chutney, we can have it with the dosas at home). This has happened on multiple occasions, and I felt it would be helpful to bring this to your attention. You give a standard quantity of chutney that should be more than sufficient for anyone. Beyond that you can charge for additional chutney, at premium price. People wanting additional Chutney need to pay some Rs.10.

I also had a disappointing experience myself, which I bring to your notice as a well wishes. Few days back I bought 4 idlis, but the chutney provided was quite limited. When I saw that the amount of chutney was a bit low, I politely asked your staff member TWICE for just one extra spoonful, but he said that the given amount was enough. It was disheartening, especially as a loyal customer of nearly 20 years, to feel that my genuine request (twice) for just a little more chutney was dismissed. Meanwhile, others who ask for extra chutney to pair with items bought elsewhere seem to be accommodated without hesitation. Please do talk to your people on this.

To give you a sense of my customer loyalty, I also buy your chutney powder to use at home when making dosas, as I genuinely enjoy the quality of your products.

The respect for your Dad and that relationship is great. So thought must drop this message.

Recently saw that you have opened a branch in Koramangala (or Kagadaspura). Good luck, that you open another 5 branches in 5...

I visit Iyer Idly quite often—it’s right in my area and honestly, it’s been a real lifesaver. Everyone knows their idly is amazing, that’s no surprise. But this isn’t about the food. This is about something more—something that’s stayed with me every time I’ve walked in hungry.

There’s a lady who manages the place (I’m sorry I don’t know your name), and I can’t express how much her presence means. Especially on those nights when my mom’s out of town and I’m starving, usually arriving just as the idlys and vadas are running out. I’m so hungry sometimes I feel like I might just collapse if I have to wait another two minutes.

But somehow, this lady sees that. She notices. And she treats me with the kind of care and urgency only a mother would show her own child. She doesn’t just serve food—she serves comfort, empathy, and love. She’s pulled out steaming hot idlys just for me, literally risking burning her hand—because in that moment, feeding me mattered more to her.

She’s like a sister-mother figure to me. And I’ve come to believe that Iyer Idly isn’t just about food—it’s about feeding people with heart. They’re not just in the food business; they’re in the business of serving hunger with humanity.

Thank you, ma’am. I’ll never forget how you’ve treated me. Your kindness and warmth are what make Iyer Idly so special. The owner may have started it, but you’re the reason it keeps going strong.

P.S. —...

Iyer Idly is a place that truly transforms the humble idli into something extraordinary and worth anticipating. The restaurant's ability to make a simple dish like idli so special is commendable.

One standout element of the experience at Iyer Idly is their zingy and spicy chutney. This flavorful accompaniment takes the idlis to a whole new level. The unique combination of spices and ingredients in their chutney sets it apart and makes it unparalleled in taste.

In addition to their idlis, Iyer Idly also excels in preparing vadas. These vadas strike the perfect balance between being crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The combination of textures and flavors makes them a delightful treat for the taste buds.

For many people, Sunday mornings have become synonymous with enjoying a delicious breakfast at Iyer Idly. The anticipation and excitement that come with starting the day with their idlis and vadas is a testament to the restaurant's quality and reputation.

In summary, Iyer Idly has managed to turn the seemingly plain idli into a culinary delight that customers eagerly look forward to. The outstanding spicy chutney and delectable vadas contribute to an exceptional dining experience. If you're in search of a delightful breakfast spot, Iyer Idly is highly recommended for their mouthwatering idlis and crispy...