Lassi is a great coolant – whether it is given a twist adding fruits, or kept simple with a dash of sugar or salt. A lassi bar on Lavelle Road in a Bengaluru of the 1970s ...imagine. Probably one of the earliest times when a concoction from the north was available here? In the south it has largely been a much watered down buttermilk that has been the cooling drink.
With a history of over 40 years, Sreeraj Lassi Bar is one of the most iconic spots on the city’s food map. For many of us old timers here, the place holds strong gustatory memories. In simpler times, it was a Sunday family treat... almost a revered ritual — going to Cubbon Park and then treated to the lusciously thick lassi and creamy kulfis at Sreeraj Lassi Bar.
The memory of that same taste is refreshed each time you have their goodies, because things haven’t changed much at Sreeraj. Milk still comes from a dairy farm in Namakkal, Tamil Nadu. It is still boiled on wooden fires -- one of the open secrets of the distinct taste that all their products have. The curd is made in-house. Any milk found unsatisfactory while boiling at their Shantinagar factory is sent right back!
Abdu Rahiman, who came from Kerala to Bengaluru in the 1970s initially sold kulfis on the street out of boxes. After a few years of struggle, Sreeraj Hotel on Lavelle Road offered him space to set up a stall, and the lucky name has stuck on to the legendary chain ever since. Today they have nine branches spread across Bengaluru and one in Dubai, with a second soon to be added.
Today, Abdu Rahiman is no more and Sreeraj Lassi Bar is run by his three sons. Kahab C.K., the youngest of the three, talks of how they initially started with four flavours of lassi – sweet, salt, khara and pudina. They are served in thick tall glass tumblers. Mango lassi, introduced in summer, is a hot favourite and continues to be on the menu seasonally. You just need to take a sip of this divine drink. In fact it is so thick you can eat it with a spoon! Apparently the consistency is maintained by putting the lassi though a churner, not a conventional mixer. Sweet mango does a tango with the slightly sour notes of the lassi and the final balance it creates is sublime. Another seasonal favourite is the pink jewel-toned strawberry lassi.
“Fresh fruits go well with lassi,” observes Kahab. Their pineapple and grape lassi, available through the year, are the other classic staples. Their more recent addition is the mixed fruit lassi -- starring apple, banana, pineapple and papaya. Lassi is traditionally sought out as a “coolant”, more so in summers, but people are apparently not deterred by...
Read moreA Fresh New Look with the Same Great Taste!
Sreeraj Lassi Bar has always been a go-to place for refreshing lassis, and with their recent revamp, they’ve taken things up a notch. This is one of the oldest outlets, and the makeover has truly transformed it. The interiors are beautifully done, creating a fresh and inviting ambience that enhances the overall experience.
The menu has also been updated, offering more variety while still retaining their signature classics. Being a longtime fan of their lassi, I was excited to try the revamped experience. As always, the lassi was rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced in sweetness—just the way I love it!
Since we were quite hungry, we also ordered a cheese grilled sandwich, and it did not disappoint. The bread was toasted to perfection, with a generous, gooey cheese filling that made each bite absolutely delightful. It paired so well with the lassi, making for a satisfying meal.
The service was another highlight. The staff was quick, attentive, and made sure everything was served fresh. It’s always great when a place not only improves its interiors but also maintains high-quality food and service.
Overall, the revamped Sreeraj Lassi Bar is a must-visit, whether you’re craving their classic lassi or looking to try something new from their updated menu. The combination of great food, a welcoming atmosphere, and excellent service makes it worth...
Read moreHad an extremely disappointing experience at Sreeraj Lassi Bar and would not recommend it to anyone. I visited the establishment and ordered three kulfis and 1 falooda at the POS machine. After making the payment, I received two bills—one for payment and one to give to the server to collect the parcel. When I handed the parcel bill to the server, which included all the details of my order, I was later asked specifically for the payment bill.
Upon receiving the parcel and confirming with the server that it contained three kulfis and 1 falooda, I returned home only to find that there was only one kulfi in the parcel. Understandably, mistakes can happen, so I promptly called their number to inform them of the error. I was assured that they would review the security footage and get back to me. However, despite their promise, I never received a callback.
Not only did they fail to fulfill my order correctly, but their lack of accountability and follow-up is extremely disappointing. They have taken both my bills, leaving me with only my Google Pay transaction information as proof of purchase. Considering the exorbitant prices they charge merely for their kulfis, it's unacceptable that they can't even get orders right. Save your money and avoid this place...
Read more