Matunga has long been Mumbai’s undisputed hub for traditional South Indian cuisine. Lined with age-old Udupi-style eateries, temple-inspired kitchens, and legendary breakfast joints, this neighbourhood continues to attract food lovers from across the city. Whether you’re planning a Matunga food walk 2026 guide or simply hunting for the Best South Indian restaurants in Matunga 2026, January is the perfect time to indulge – cooler mornings, festive menus, and the aroma of freshly brewed filter coffee filling the air.
Here’s a list of five authentic South Indian restaurants in Matunga that truly define authentic South Indian food Matunga Mumbai.
5 Authentic South Indian Restaurants In Matunga
1. Ram Ashraya – The Sunrise Legend Of Matunga
If Matunga had a culinary heartbeat, it would start at Ram Ashraya. Famous for opening at 5:00 AM sharp, this iconic eatery is a top search for early-morning cyclists and joggers, making it a unique breakfast destination in South Mumbai.
Why Ram Ashraya Is Unmissable
- Opening time: 5:00 AM (one of the earliest in Mumbai)
- Specialty: The Best Pineapple Sheera in Mumbai, soft and aromatic
- Other must-tries: Medu Vada, Upma, Rasam, and classic dosas
- Ram Ashraya Matunga menu 2026: Still rooted in tradition, with consistent quality
Expect a short Cafe Madras Matunga wait time–style queue here too, especially on weekends, but the efficiency is legendary.
Essential Details
Address: Shop 3–6, Ground Floor, Jamnadas Mansion, Laxmi Narayan Lane.
Timings: Opens at 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily, perfect for early-morning cyclists and joggers
Price for Two: Approx. INR 200 for two – excellent value for hearty South Indian fare.
Best for: Early breakfast lovers, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone exploring Top 5 Matunga eateries for breakfast.
2. Cafe Madras – The Benchmark For Authenticity
No list of Legendary Udupi restaurants in Mumbai is complete without Cafe Madras. For decades, it has set the standard for authentic Tamil and Udupi cuisine.
What Makes Café Madras Iconic
- Famous dishes: Rasam Vada and Paan Poli (a rare festive-style sweet)
- Authentic Filter Coffee Matunga: Strong, aromatic, and perfectly balanced
- Cuisine style: Pure vegetarian, Tamil Brahmin-inspired
The Cafe Madras Matunga wait time can stretch during peak hours, but service is swift and worth the wait.
Essential Details
Address: Ground Floor, Kamakshi Building, 391/B, Bhaudaji Road.
Timings: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM; 4:00 PM – 10:30 PM (closes on Mondays) – many start lining up in the morning due to popularity.
Price for Two: Approx. INR 250 for two.
Best for: Traditional meals, soulful rasam, and some of the Best Filter Coffee in South Mumbai.
3. Arya Bhavan – Brahmin Flavours Done Right
Arya Bhavan is a quieter yet deeply respected name among South Indian food purists. Known for its clean flavors and no-frills setup, it caters to those seeking temple-style vegetarian food.
Highlights of Arya Bhavan
- Signature: Arya Bhavan Brahmin Idli – light, fluffy, and easy to digest
- Special mentions:
- Authentic Bisibelebath Mumbai lovers swear by
- Simple yet flavorful sambhar and chutneys
This place is ideal if you want a peaceful, wholesome meal without crowds.
Essential Details
Address: Shop No. 9 & 10, Bhanujyoti Building, Opposite Matunga Central Railway Station, Lakhamsi Napoo Rd.
Timings: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily.
Price for Two: Approx. INR 400– INR 500 for two (pocket-friendly within South Indian staples).
Best for: Classic Brahmin cuisine and comfort South Indian food in Matunga.
4. Café Mysore – A Celebrity Favourite with Coastal Touches
Often described as Mukesh Ambani’s favorite South Indian restaurant (a high-CTR hook that sparks curiosity), Café Mysore blends tradition with Mangalorean and coastal influences.
Must-Try Dishes at Café Mysore
- Cafe Mysore Neer Dosa: Soft, lacy, and served with coconut chutney
- Paniyaram: Crisp outside, soft inside
- Buttercoin Idlis: A rare variety and a high-engagement favourite
- Also popular for Where to get Goli Baje in Matunga
The restaurant also handles large orders and is linked with Muthuswamy catering Matunga, known for weddings and festive events.
Essential Details
Address: Durlabh Niwas, 1/461, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Rd, Opposite B.N. Maheshwari Udyan.
Timings: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily (closed on Wednesdays).
Price for Two: Approx. INR 500 for two.
Best for: Unique South Indian breakfast items and dosa lovers looking beyond the usual.
5. Mani’s Lunch Home – The New-Age Classic
Mani’s Lunch Home has become a modern classic, especially after buzz around Mani’s Lunch Home Matunga new location, which offers a more spacious and comfortable dining experience.
Why Mani’s Stands Out
- Unlimited South Indian Thali Mumbai: One of the most satisfying vegetarian thalis in the city
- Best Ghee Podi Idli in Matunga: Rich, aromatic, and generously served
- Authentic Bisibelebath Mumbai: Consistently excellent
- Unique South Indian breakfast items: Kadi Vada, Dilkhush Dosa
Mani’s strikes the perfect balance between tradition and variety.
Essential Details
Address: Mhaskar Building, Plot No. 153/C, Lakshami Narayan Rd.
Timings: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily (closed on Mondays).
Price for Two: Approx. INR 200.
Best for: Hearty meals, families, and anyone wanting an all-in-one South Indian experience.
Summing Up
From 5:00 AM breakfasts at Ram Ashraya to leisurely thalis at Mani’s Lunch Home, Matunga continues to dominate when it comes to authentic South Indian cuisine. These five restaurants represent the very best of authentic South Indian food Matunga Mumbai, combining heritage, consistency, and unmatched flavors.
Whether you’re planning a Matunga food walk 2026 guide, hunting for Top 5 Matunga eateries for breakfast, or simply craving the Best Filter Coffee in South Mumbai, these legendary spots ensure that Matunga remains timeless – and delicious – in January 2026 and beyond.
