CHOWRASTA

Masala Dosa

The benchmark dish — a long, golden crepe with spiced potato filling and house-ground chutneys that gauge everything else on the menu

Paper Dosa

Larger and crispier than the masala version, this tests the fermentation quality of the batter — a good litmus test for the kitchen's South Indian fundamentals

Idli Sambar

Soft, steamed rice cakes with a lentil vegetable sambar that's tangy and properly spiced — a reliable indicator of kitchen quality

Chicken Biryani

Halal-certified long-grain rice dish layered with spiced chicken — a draw for diners who can't get this combination at most South Indian kitchens

Medu Vada

Crispy fried lentil donuts with a dense, savory interior — order these with sambar for dipping

Uttapam

Thick, savory pancake topped with onions and chilies — a heartier alternative to dosa for those who want more substance