Authentic South Indian Experience at Saravana Bhavan – Edison, NJ
This was our second visit to Saravana Bhavan in Edison, and once again, it did not disappoint. We came with high expectations, and the food lived up to the brand's reputation for authentic South Indian cuisine. Whether it's the Medhu Vada, Poori, or Dosa, everything was flavorful, well-prepared, and consistently delicious. Our kids especially appreciated the balanced spice levels, making it enjoyable for the whole family.
The South Indian Thali continues to be our go-to choice for a complete, satisfying meal—it offers a great spread (over 10 items!) and captures the traditional flavors perfectly. Tip: ask for ghee with your Thali—it’s not included by default, but the staff is happy to provide it.
Menu Variety There’s a wide range of breakfast and tiffin items to choose from. If you’re new, we highly recommend trying the traditional South Indian dishes—they truly showcase the restaurant’s culinary strengths.
Value for Money While prices may seem slightly on the higher side, the quality and taste justify it. The Thali, in particular, is reasonably priced considering the generous portions and variety.
Service & Hospitality The front desk team was warm, efficient, and transparent about wait times, even using an app to track your spot in the queue. Once seated, service was fast and friendly. The staff were attentive and made an effort to engage with children, creating a comfortable and family-friendly atmosphere. Most dishes are made fresh to order and served hot.
Cleanliness & Ambience Cleanliness is clearly a priority here. The dining area, floors, and wash areas were well maintained, even during a busy weekend rush. The open kitchen is a nice touch—kids will especially enjoy watching Pooris being freshly fried in large cradles!
Location Situated on bustling Oak Tree Road, just off the Garden State Parkway, it’s in the heart of a vibrant Indian shopping and dining strip. Perfect spot for a filling lunch followed by a stroll (you’ll need it!).
Don't Miss:
The filter coffee – a must for true South Indian coffee lovers.
The sweet paan at the end – the perfect digestive and a flavorful finish to your meal.
Final Verdict If you're craving authentic South Indian food in New Jersey, Saravana Bhavan is a top choice. Delicious food, great service, and a lively atmosphere. Highly...
Read moreI ordered take out for the masala dosas. I had tried to place the order online but the payment didn't go through so I called in to place the order for the masala dosas. The girl on the other side of the phone she didn't even ask me spicy or mild. I asked it comes with chutneys sambhar and potatoes on the side. She said yes. She asked me anything else. I said no. I paid $16 for each masala dosa that comes with 3 different variety of churneys. I went for pickup the order was ready. When I got home and ate the masala dosa the potatoes were mild the sambhar was mild just a little bit salty. But all three chutneys were very spicy with chillies and hot! I couldn't believe it! I thought I ordered masala dosa I did not order spicy chilli hot masala dosa. The girl didn't even ask me spicy or mild. The potatoes were mild the sambhar was a bit salty and all three chutneys chilli hot. This just ruined a perfectly good experience of eating food from a restaurant. I paid $16 each for the masala dosas and that is not cheap. But I think this business does not care for customer satisfaction. Updated review: I called the restaurant and spoke with one young lady. I asked to speak with a manager or supervisor. Was not available. She asked is there anything I can do? So I explained to her about my order and I was very disappointed with my order especially how the 3 chutneys came. She said I will get a call sometime later from the manager tonight or tomorrow morning. I said if I don't pickup then leave a message. I did not get a phone call that night or in the morning. After I got off from work and got home I called the restaurant and one man answered. I asked are you the manager? He said no. What can I help you with? So I explained to him everything and I was quite upset. I spent around $50 for my order. He was calm and patient. He asked me would you like a refund. I said yes. He put me on hold and refunded my order. He said It will take a couple of days for the refund to go through. So I waited. And yes I got a full refund. I'm still disappointed because the whole experience...
Read moreSaravanaa Bhavan, in Edison, is a beacon of authentic South Indian cuisine. The moment you step inside, you are greeted with the tantalizing aroma of spices that sets the tone for a remarkable culinary journey.
The Onion Rava Masala Dosa, a standout dish on their extensive menu, encapsulates the essence of comfort food. The dosa is crispy, the masala is flavorful, and together they create a symphony of tastes that lingers on your palate. The addition of gunpowder chutney, upon request, adds an extra layer of complexity to the flavors, making the experience even more enjoyable.
The service at Saravanaa Bhavan is commendable. The staff is attentive and prompt, ensuring that your dining experience is smooth and pleasant. Their quick response to requests, such as the addition of gunpowder chutney, is a testament to their dedication to customer satisfaction.
For the younger patrons, the Mini Idly is a hit. Its appealing size and delicious taste make it a perfect dish for kids, ensuring they enjoy their meal as much as the adults do. It’s a thoughtful inclusion that highlights the restaurant’s family-friendly approach.
The Rasam, a traditional South Indian soup, is another dish worth mentioning. While not overly spicy, it is delicious and provides a comforting warmth that is especially appreciated on a cold day. It’s a soothing blend of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors that is sure to open up your sinuses and leave you feeling refreshed.
In conclusion, Saravanaa Bhavan is more than just a restaurant - it’s a culinary experience that transports you to the heart of South India. From the quality of the food to the level of service, every aspect of the dining experience has been carefully curated to ensure customer satisfaction. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking to enjoy authentic South Indian cuisine. While the prices may be a bit steep, the exceptional culinary experience offered by Saravanaa Bhavan makes it worth...
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