Southern comfort

Kavis Cafe in Navi Mumbai is a no-nonsense restaurant that whips up authentic, value-for-money South Indian cuisine, from crowd-pleasing uttampams and dosas to lesser-known specialties like idiyappam and vadakari

South Indians in this part of town can rejoice. Kavis Cafe opposite Juinagar Railway Station comes as respite for those who would travel to Vashi or Chembur for their fix of authentic South Indian fare.

Podi Idli

The two-month-old Kavis Cafe is a well-lit small restaurant and functional in appearance, with four sets of plastic tables and chairs. The place reminded us of the typical friendly neighbourhood joint, like the ones that sprout around most colleges.

The menu, to our delight, featured typical South Indian cuisine from idlis, dosas, uttapams, South Indian Thali to the rarely available Idiyappam and Vadakari. Starved from our trek to reach Juinagar, we quickly ordered the Rava Onion Masala Dosa (Rs 40) and Idiyappam (Rs 20). Though we entered the restaurant at 9.40 pm, the sambar and chutney that accompanied our orders tasted fresh and delicious. The dosa and its potato filling got full marks for its taste and authenticity. The idiyappam didn't disappoint either. The idiyappam, a steamed dish that came served with fresh chutney, won our vote too. The service was prompt and the portions are generous.

Next, we ordered the Podi Idli (Rs 25). Podi in Tamil means powder. Typically, this powder made of different ingredients (red chillies, chana dal, udad dal, sesame seeds, asafoetida powder and salt) is mixed with oil and eaten with idlis and dosas. Though we could not identify all the ingredients in the podi, this is a yummy, adventurous option.

Being reasonably full didn't dissuade us from trying the Cheese Masala Uttappa (Rs 40). It was perfect, and we were well fuelled for our return journey. The wide grin on our faces was compounded by news that the owner plans to introduce several other traditional items on their menu including Appam, Vadai and Pongal.

At Shop no 6, Plot No 6, Bakthi Residency, Sec - 11, Sanpada, opposite Juinagar Railway Station.
Time 7.30 am to 10 pm
Call 9167166311 / 9167166322
Kavis Cafe didn't know we were there. The Guide reviews anonymously and pays for meals.