Bangalore, fondly known as Namma Bengaluru, is a city that thrives on its vibrant culture, technological innovation, and a culinary scene that caters to every palate. Among its gastronomic treasures, the city’s sweet shops stand out, offering a delightful array of traditional Indian mithai, regional specialties, and innovative desserts that have captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. From the iconic Mysore Pak to melt-in-the-mouth Rasgullas and modern twists like Royal Baklava, Bangalore’s sweet shops are a testament to the city’s rich culinary heritage and its openness to global flavors. This article takes you on a delectable journey through some of Bangalore’s most famous sweet shops, exploring what makes them special, their signature offerings, and why they’ve become landmarks in the city’s food culture.
1. Sri Venkateshwara Sweetmeat Stall: The Home of Legendary Mysore Pak
Nestled in the bustling Balepet area, Sri Venkateshwara Sweetmeat Stall is a name synonymous with Mysore Pak, one of Karnataka’s most iconic sweets. Established decades ago, this shop has a storied history, with its origins tracing back to a time when the recipe for Mysore Pak was perfected in the royal kitchens of Mysore. The shop, which later split into two entities (Original and Venkateshwara), is celebrated for its soft, ghee-laden Mysore Pak that melts in the mouth, leaving behind a trail of rich, buttery sweetness.
What makes Sri Venkateshwara special is its unwavering commitment to tradition. The Mysore Pak here is made with high-quality ghee sourced from local villages, gram flour, and sugar, crafted with a technique that ensures a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Unlike the harder, crumbly versions found elsewhere, their soft Mysore Pak is a crowd favorite, often praised for its creamy consistency. Posts on X have lauded Venkateshwara as the “pioneer in ghee soft Mysuru Pak,” with many claiming that “no one can beat them even today.”
Beyond Mysore Pak, the shop offers other traditional sweets like Om Pudi and a variety of burfis, all prepared with an emphasis on hygiene and authenticity. The no-frills decor and simple glass shelves reflect their focus on quality over ostentation, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Karnataka’s sweet heritage.
Why It’s Famous: The unparalleled soft Mysore Pak, a recipe perfected over generations, and its reputation as a Bangalore institution.
Must-Try: Soft Mysore Pak, Om Pudi.
Location: Balepet Road, with multiple outlets across the city.
2. Kanti Sweets: A Sweet Empire Across Bangalore
With over 80 outlets spread across Bangalore, Kanti Sweets is one of the city’s largest and most recognized sweet shop chains. Since its founding in 1957, Kanti Sweets has grown from a humble stall to a household name, offering a vast array of Indian sweets that cater to diverse tastes. From North Indian classics like Kaju Katli and Gulab Jamun to South Indian favorites like Mysore Pak, Kanti Sweets is a one-stop destination for sweet lovers.
Kanti Sweets is particularly famous for its innovative approach, introducing unique creations like Spirulina Nutra-Chikki and Spirulina Nutberry to promote health-conscious indulgence. Their Kaju Pappadi, Gulab Pappadi, and Mini Rasgollas are customer favorites, often praised for being made with pure ghee and fresh ingredients. Recent reviews on Tripadvisor highlight the “awesome taste” of their Kaju Katli and the shop’s ability to handle bulk orders with care and hygiene. However, some reviews note that the pricing can be high, and the quality of certain North Indian preparations may not always meet expectations.
The chain’s accessibility, with branches in neighborhoods like Rajajinagar, Indiranagar, and Yelahanka, makes it a convenient choice for festive shopping or casual sweet cravings. Kanti Sweets also offers an app for hassle-free ordering and is available on delivery platforms like Swiggy, boasting an impressive 4.6 rating.
Why It’s Famous: A vast network of outlets, a wide variety of high-quality sweets, and innovative offerings that blend tradition with modernity.
Must-Try: Kaju Katli, Mysore Pak, Rose Laddu, Spirulina Nutra-Chikki.
Location: Multiple outlets, including Rajajinagar, Indiranagar, and BTM Layout.
3. Anand Sweets & Savouries: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
Located on Commercial Street and with multiple outlets across Bangalore, Anand Sweets & Savouries is a legendary name that combines the best of Indian sweets with global influences. Known for its hand-crafted mithai, Anand Sweets has earned a reputation for freshness, quality, and a vast selection that includes North Indian classics like Kachori and Jalebi, as well as innovative desserts like Royal Baklava, infused with pistachios and rosewater.
The shop’s Coconut Barfi and Kaju Katli are particularly popular, with Tripadvisor reviews praising their “mouth-watering” taste and the helpfulness of the staff. The outlet on Commercial Street, though small and often crowded, is a landmark in itself, offering a true taste of India’s diverse sweet repertoire. Their Middle Eastern-inspired Baklava has become a modern favorite, showcasing Bangalore’s evolving dessert scene. The shop also offers readymade gift boxes, making it a go-to for festive gifting.
While the high prices and limited seating can be drawbacks, the quality justifies the cost for many customers. Anand Sweets is also available on Swiggy and Dunzo, making it easy to enjoy their treats at home.
Why It’s Famous: A perfect blend of traditional Indian sweets and innovative global desserts, coupled with consistent quality and a strong presence on Commercial Street.
Must-Try: Royal Baklava, Coconut Barfi, Kaju Katli, Jalebi.
Location: Commercial Street, with multiple outlets across Bangalore.
4. KC Das: The King of Bengali Sweets
When it comes to Bengali sweets, KC Das is an undisputed leader in Bangalore. Credited with creating the iconic Rasgulla and Rasmalai, this sweet shop has a loyal following for its authentic Bengali mithai. With outlets across the city, KC Das brings the flavors of Bengal to Bangalore, offering soft, spongy Rasgullas, creamy Rasmalai, and delicate Sondesh that melt in the mouth.
Their Kheer Kadam and Barfis are also highly recommended, with customers appreciating the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Available on Swiggy, KC Das makes it easy to enjoy these Bengali classics at home. The shop’s legacy, rooted in the family that pioneered canned Rasgulla, adds to its allure, making it a must-visit for anyone craving East Indian sweets.
Why It’s Famous: The birthplace of Rasgulla and Rasmalai, offering authentic Bengali sweets with a rich legacy.
Must-Try: Rasgulla, Rasmalai, Kheer Kadam, Sondesh.
Location: Multiple outlets, including Church Street and St. Mark’s Road.
5. Sri Krishna Sweets: The Mysore Pak Maestro
Hailing from Coimbatore, Sri Krishna Sweets has made a significant mark in Bangalore with its velvety, ghee-rich Mysore Pak, often considered the best in the city. Established over 70 years ago, this sweet shop has mastered the art of crafting Mysore Pak with a melt-in-the-mouth texture that’s softer and creamier than traditional versions, known as Mysurpa. Their Son Papdi, Motichur Laddoo, and fruity Halwas are also popular, offering a range of South Indian delights.
With multiple outlets across Bangalore, Sri Krishna Sweets is a favorite during festivals, with customers flocking to grab trays of their signature sweets. The shop’s commitment to quality and its use of pure ghee ensure that every bite is a burst of flavor. Their outlets are often busy, especially on weekends, so it’s wise to order early or opt for delivery.
Why It’s Famous: The creamiest Mysore Pak (Mysurpa) in Bangalore, made with a time-honored recipe and pure ingredients.
Must-Try: Mysurpa, Son Papdi, Motichur Laddoo.
Location: Multiple outlets, including Malleshwaram and Koramangala.
6. Asha Sweets: A North Bangalore Gem
Located in Malleshwaram, Asha Sweets is a beloved name in North Bangalore, known for its high-quality milk-based sweets and hygienic standards. Their Kaju Burfi, made from premium cashews and pure ghee, is a standout, often paired with their Dry Fruit Laddoos for festive gifting. Customers also rave about their Malai Gulla, Chenna Pais, and hot or cold Badam Milk, which add to the shop’s appeal.
Asha Sweets is frequently compared to Kanti Sweets, with many locals arguing that it surpasses its competitor in quality and hygiene. The shop’s no-nonsense approach and focus on traditional recipes make it a favorite among North Bangalore residents.
Why It’s Famous: Exceptional milk-based sweets and a reputation for hygiene and quality in North Bangalore.
Must-Try: Kaju Burfi, Malai Gulla, Dry Fruit Laddoos, Badam Milk.
Location: Malleshwaram, with other outlets in North Bangalore.
7. India Sweet House: Sustainable Sweetness in Koramangala
A relatively new entrant to Bangalore’s sweet scene, India Sweet House in Koramangala has quickly gained popularity for its organic and sustainable approach. With three outlets in the city, this shop uses organically produced fresh milk from its own dairy farm for its milk-based sweets, ensuring purity and quality. Their Ghee Mysore Pak is often cited as the best in Bangalore, with reviews praising its rich, buttery flavor.
India Sweet House also offers a “Bygone Era” section, reviving traditional mithai recipes that are rarely found elsewhere. Their chats, like Pav Bhaji, and savories are equally delicious, making it a versatile spot for sweet and savory cravings. Customers appreciate the shop’s hygiene and well-managed operations, as noted in Google reviews.
Why It’s Famous: Organic, sustainable sweets and a focus on reviving traditional recipes, with a standout Ghee Mysore Pak.
Must-Try: Ghee Mysore Pak, traditional sweets from the Bygone Era section.
Location: Koramangala, with outlets in BTM Layout and Whitefield.
8. Grand Sweets: A Taste of Chennai in Bangalore
Originating in Chennai, Grand Sweets has become a beloved name in Bangalore since its establishment in 1982. Known for its ghee-rich Chandrakalas and Kala Jamuns, this shop offers a range of South Indian sweets that are perfect for festive occasions. Their Boondi Laddoos and Mysore Pak are also highly sought after, made with pure ghee and traditional recipes.
Grand Sweets’ expansion to over 20 outlets in Bangalore reflects its popularity. The shop’s focus on authentic South Indian flavors and its ability to cater to bulk orders make it a go-to for celebrations. Customers can also pair their sweets with South Indian mixture snacks for a balanced treat.
Why It’s Famous: Authentic South Indian sweets with a Chennai legacy, known for their ghee-rich Chandrakalas and Mysore Pak.
Must-Try: Chandrakala, Kala Jamun, Boondi Laddoo.
Location: Multiple outlets, including Jayanagar and Malleshwaram.
Why Bangalore’s Sweet Shops Stand Out
Bangalore’s sweet shops are more than just places to satisfy a sweet tooth; they are cultural institutions that reflect the city’s diverse culinary influences. From the royal kitchens of Mysore to the vibrant streets of Bengal, these shops bring together flavors from across India and beyond. Their fame stems from:
- Authenticity and Tradition: Shops like Sri Venkateshwara and KC Das preserve time-honored recipes, ensuring that classics like Mysore Pak and Rasgulla remain true to their origins.
- Innovation: Anand Sweets and Kanti Sweets blend tradition with modern twists, offering delights like Royal Baklava and health-conscious chikkis.
- Quality and Hygiene: Establishments like India Sweet House and Asha Sweets prioritize fresh, high-quality ingredients and hygienic practices, earning customer trust.
- Accessibility: With multiple outlets and delivery options through platforms like Swiggy and Zomato, these shops make it easy to enjoy their treats anywhere in the city.
Conclusion
Bangalore’s sweet shops are a testament to the city’s love for celebration and indulgence. Whether you’re craving the ghee-soaked Mysore Pak from Sri Venkateshwara, the innovative Baklava from Anand Sweets, or the authentic Bengali Rasgulla from KC Das, these iconic establishments offer something for every sweet lover. Their legacy, quality, and ability to cater to both traditional and modern tastes make them must-visit destinations in Bangalore’s culinary landscape. So, the next time you’re in the city, embark on a sweet adventure and savor the flavors that have made these shops legendary.
