Given that Mangalore is located along the coastal belt of Karnataka, it is an understatement to say that you will taste some of the finest seafood preparations in the country here. But it is not just the only reason why this coastal town deserves a discerning foodies full attention. As a bustling port town and a part of the Madras Presidency once upon a time, Mangalore's culinary culture possesses a distinct character, having been shaped by diverse influences—from the British and Portuguese to the Tuluvas and Konkanis. Add to that the influx of spices from the Far East and Middle East, and you will begin to see the different veins running through all the dishes that are considered authentically "Mangalorean." It is only here that you will taste the best sukka, goli baje and rawa fish fry within a radius of only a few kilometres, as long as you know just the right places to go. And for that, check out our list of best places to visit in Mangalore:

　　Indra Bhavan

　　When in Mangalore, the best way to welcome the day is to feast on piping-hot goli bajji and filter coffee, and there is no better spot for it than Indra Bhavan. Established in 1952, the one-room eatery has rightfully earned a legendary status among locals and boasts a long list of devoted patrons. While you can choose any dish from their two columns long menu, the locals swear by the Mangalore buns, uppittu avalakki, tuppa dosa and idli-vada.

　　Address: Dwaraka Complex, Arya Samaj Road, Balmatta, Mangaluru

　　Timings: 6:30 am to 1 pm; 3pm-7 pm; closed on Sundays

　　The Balli Shop

　　If you missed out on your chance to try goli bajjis at Indra Bhavan (given that they sell out like hot cakes), The Balli Shop in Bhavathi is where you should head to next. While this hole-in-the-wall eatery is known for serving one of the city's best Mangalore buns, you can also dig into all kinds of favourite snacks loved by locals, such as cabbage vada, biscuit roti, and sanjeera (a sweet kachori-like preparation). The best part is that around 5 pm, you can enjoy these snacks fresh off the stove.

　　Address: Car Street, Bhavathi, Bunder, Mangaluru

　　Timings: 11 am to 7:30 pm; closed on Sundays

　　Hotel Narayana