Shivaji Military Hotel — Restaurant in Bengaluru

Shivaji Military Hotel is a well-known, long-standing eatery in Bengaluru, particularly famous for its non-vegetarian dishes, especially its biryani. Here's a summary of what people seem to say in reviews: General Impressions: Iconic and Popular: It's often described as an iconic and very popular place in Bengaluru, running for many decades (since around the 1930s). Bustling Atmosphere: Expect a busy and energetic environment. Getting a seat, especially during peak hours, can be tough, and you might have to wait. Simple and Rustic: The ambiance is generally described as basic, simple, and rustic, reminiscent of older establishments. Don't expect a fancy setting. Focus on Food: The focus is clearly on the taste and quality of the food rather than the decor or extensive service. Food Highlights: Mutton Biryani: This is the star dish, often referred to as authentic and flavorful. It's a "Donne Biryani," served in bowls made of stitched leaves ("donne"). Some reviewers mention it's more like a mutton pulao with short-grain rice. Tender Mutton: The mutton in the biryani is frequently praised for being very tender and melting in the mouth. Limited Menu: The menu is usually not extensive. They primarily serve mutton biryani and a few side dishes that might change daily. Don't expect a large variety. Other Recommended Dishes: Besides the biryani, some reviewers recommend Mutton Fry, Chicken Biryani, Chicken Fry, Mutton Liver, and Leg Soup. Served in Leaf Plates: Food is traditionally served on plates made of leaves. Reasonably Priced: Generally considered to be reasonably priced. Things to Note (Potential Drawbacks): Cleanliness: Some older reviews mention concerns about the cleanliness of tables. It's advisable to check recent reviews for the current situation. Service: Some reviews point out that the service can be disorganized or that customer management could be improved, especially when it's crowded. Waiting Times: Long waiting times for a table are common due to its popularity. Cash Only: Some older reviews mention that they only accept cash, so it's worth confirming the current payment options. Recent Developments: Expansion: As of early 2025, Shivaji Military Hotel has expanded to Hyderabad and is also planning to open an outlet at Bengaluru International Airport. This might indicate changes in their operations and potentially their menu or service style at new locations. However, the original Jayanagar outlet remains a landmark. In summary, Shivaji Military Hotel is highly recommended for non-vegetarian food lovers, especially those seeking authentic and flavorful Donne Biryani in a no-frills setting. Be prepared for a potentially crowded environment and some waiting, but the taste of the biryani seems to be the main draw for its loyal customers. It's always a good idea to check the most recent reviews closer to your visit for the latest updates on food quality, service,...

Shivaji Military Hotel is a well-known spot in Bangalore, especially among fans of traditional South Indian non-vegetarian dishes, particularly their iconic biryanis. Here’s an in-depth look at my experience:

Food Quality & Taste: The highlight of Shivaji Military Hotel is undoubtedly the food. Their mutton biryani is the star of the menu, prepared with flavorful spices and tender, well-cooked meat. The biryani has a unique, old-school taste that sets it apart from the usual restaurant offerings in Bangalore. Along with the biryani, their mutton chops, liver fry, and other side dishes are equally popular and delicious. The food is rich in flavor, cooked in a traditional style that resonates with long-time patrons.

Portion Size & Pricing: The portions are generous, and the pricing is reasonable, given the quality and taste. The biryani is filling, and the side dishes complement it perfectly. For the quality of food offered, the prices are quite fair, especially compared to more upscale restaurants that serve similar dishes.

Service & Ambiance: The service at Shivaji Military Hotel is quick and efficient, but the ambiance is simple and basic. It’s a no-frills establishment that focuses more on food than on decor or luxury. The seating is functional, and the restaurant is usually crowded, with people lining up to get a taste of the famous biryani. Don't expect a fine dining experience – it’s more about fast service and authentic flavors here.

Crowded & Busy Atmosphere: One of the downsides of Shivaji Military Hotel is the crowd. It’s almost always packed, especially during lunch hours and weekends. The popularity of the place means you often have to wait for a table or stand in line. For those who prefer a quieter or more relaxed dining experience, this can be a drawback. However, the food is often worth the wait for most people.

Parking Issues: Parking is a major challenge here. The area around the restaurant can get very congested, and there’s limited parking space available. Many customers end up parking far away and walking to the restaurant, which can be inconvenient, especially during peak hours or weekends. This is something to be prepared for if you’re visiting the hotel.

Conclusion: Shivaji Military Hotel is a must-visit for lovers of traditional, flavorful non-vegetarian dishes, especially biryani. While the crowded environment and parking issues might be a hassle, the quality of food makes up for it. If you don’t mind the wait and the basic ambiance, this place offers one of the most authentic biryani experiences in...

Go there for the Hype, Food taste and to experience how a legendary place has stood the test of time.

Now let's talk about 2025. Since they have gained a lot of popularity through social media and word of mouth, they get a lot of customers everyday. But sadly the management who probably earns in lakhs everyday doesn't want to spend either on manpower or on the infrastructure.

Parking: Look for a road side parking around the area.

Washroom: Both Men and Women washrooms are horrible. There's a bus stop right next which has a Sulabh Souchalaya which is better kept than this. Mens washroom is attached to the general handwash area. So enjoy the show and the stench.

Food : Great in taste. Vegetarians please stay away because there is no veg served here. I have been visiting this place for around 10 years now. Taste is something constant. So as the infrastructure (sadly)

Management: For the people who don't know how the system works here read this. So basically you go inside, tag a table where people are having food, keep looking / staring at them, once they are done with the food, snatch their seats and pray to almighty that somebody will come and clean the table atleast 50% . Now you'll be given a disposable sheet and a banana leaf. Waiter will come with the starters and biryanis, you pick what you want. You're a god's child, if you get water and cold drink during your meals. You finish your food, go out, while somebody else who was staring at you eat, snatches your seat and sits. You pay and you leave. MISSION ACCOMPLISHED.

You have a paan and a dessert section at the ground floor. And many of you will need it considering the spicy food you just ate.

TIP : CHICKEN DISHES ARE SPICIER THAN MUTTON DISHES. ORDER COLD DRINK WHEN YOURE STANDING AND STARING AT THE TABLE NOT ONCE YOU'RE SEATED.

On weekends it's not worth the efforts. You'll feel like taking a bath immediately after exiting the place. No AC, no ventilation. Just some fans spinning at speed 2. With hundreds of people inside you can smell the sweat and the steam from the dishes simultaneously.

This place has gone beyond reading and responding to any reviews. But if somebody from the management reads this, pls improve a little of infrastructure, keep a token or waiting system, increase the manpower, and pls pls pls keep the areas clean. It's food. The washroom needs a demolition and rebuild. Don't think that thing can be cleaned manually.

So...