Original Hanumanthu Devi Mess (since 1930) — Restaurant in Karnataka

I've heard a lot of buzz about this spot, and I’m happy to say they fully live up to the hype. The mutton pulav was absolutely delicious — perfectly spiced with tender mutton pieces that retained their natural flavor. The owner at the counter was incredibly welcoming and happily answered all my curious questions. It's no wonder this pulav has been winning hearts for over a century.

The place has a cozy, no-frills charm, with walls adorned with photos of celebrities who’ve visited over the years. Despite its age, it’s clean and well-maintained, which is always a big plus.

I visited for lunch on a Thursday, and it wasn’t crowded at all. However, I was told that Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays are their busiest, so plan your visit accordingly.

The owner also recommended stopping by early in the morning, around 6:30–7 a.m., when the pulav is freshly made and served piping hot. I'm definitely planning to give that a try on my next visit!

P.S. If you’re used to North Indian or Hyderabadi biryani, know that South Indian biryani (and pulav) isn’t layered, so adjust your expectations accordingly!

There are a total of eight restaurants with similar names, all belonging to the extended family. Only this one is in mess format, others are...

Hanumanthu Devi Mess in Mysore is legendary for its rich, authentic flavors and the heritage behind its famous mutton dishes, especially the much-loved Mutton Palai. Known for keeping the legacy alive since the early 1930s, this small yet vibrant eatery has become a go-to spot for food lovers seeking a taste of Mysore’s traditional flavors.

The Mutton Palai here is a masterpiece of robust spices and tender meat, cooked to perfection. The mutton is incredibly soft, infused with a blend of spices that hits just the right notes of warmth and depth, offering a taste that’s both soulful and savory. The unique preparation style, steeped in age-old methods, truly makes every bite memorable.

The mess might be humble in appearance, but the culinary experience it offers is nothing short of extraordinary. It’s always bustling, filled with locals and visitors alike who flock here to savor the famous mutton delicacies. If you’re a fan of mutton or just love exploring authentic, traditional flavors, Hanumanthu Devi Mess should be at the top of your list...

Let me tell a honest review. (Only about chicken pulow, didn’t tried other dishes. As it’s too costly, just wanted to try pulow)

I ordered the chicken pulow after seeing Google reviews. And the cost was ₹180 in Google. I went and asked for half pulow just to try the taste. But they said everything is Full only, no half. Then I ate, the taste is not that good. One time eatable. You can try once. I don’t know about other dishes here. I don’t wanted to try it. Simply wasting money.

I used to eat chicken pulow near NIE college, for ₹90 with more quantity and more and big chicken pieces. The taste and quantity is so much worth than this one. Here they charged ₹200 for pulow, and I don’t know for what I paid that much money.

You can sit and eat with a leaf plate. And you have a watchman there to salute you, so again u need to give some tips to him.

Anyways for ₹200 it’s not worth wasting money. They can sell chicken pullow...