Thelagram: A Hidden Gem for Authentic Indian Street Food in JP Nagar

Bengaluru: In a city known for its cosmopolitan vibe, a dash of nostalgia for traditional Indian street food often feels like a rarity. South Bangalore, especially, has not been the go-to place for authentic street food especially North Indian that truly captures the spirit of the bustling lanes of Delhi, Kolkata, or Mumbai. Until, Thelagram arrived—transforming the food scene with its exciting promise of Indian street food served with a cinematic twist. For anyone who’s been craving those heartwarming, finger-licking snacks, Thelagram feels like a godsend—a true boon for the foodies in this part of the city.

From the moment you step into Thelagram, it’s evident that this isn’t just another restaurant—it’s an experience. The name “Thelagram” itself is an intriguing homage to the iconic ‘thelas’ or food carts, and the playful menu design brings to mind the charm of Bollywood films and the kitsch of 90s pop culture. The decor features vibrant colors, Bollywood posters, and rustic touches that transport you straight to the streets of Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. It’s almost like stepping onto a film set, with each corner of the restaurant showcasing the vibrant culture of Indian street food.

What’s most exciting, though, is the thoughtfully crafted menu that brings the street-style food from different parts of India under one roof. The dishes are inspired by famous street food, and yet they are elevated in a way that adds a bit of flair while retaining the authentic flavors. There’s a fun, playful element to the whole experience: it’s food, but with a cinematic touch. The menu feels like a movie script, each dish a protagonist with a storyline of its own. Let’s dive into some of the must-try dishes that will take your taste buds on a roller-coaster ride across India.

Chicken Kheema Samosa

The humble samosa gets a much-needed makeover here at Thelagram, and the Chicken Kheema Samosa is one of the stars of the show. A classic street food favorite with a twist, this samosa is stuffed with minced chicken kheema, spiced to perfection with a medley of traditional Indian spices. The outer crust is crispy, flaky, and golden brown, and when you take a bite, the warmth of the filling hits you first—tender, savory, and perfectly seasoned. It’s not just the taste but also the textures that work so well. Whether paired with chutneys or eaten on its own, this dish makes for a great start to any meal.

Chilli Bajji Stuffed with Potato

If you’ve ever had the joy of walking down the streets of South India on a rainy day, you’ve probably come across hot, crispy chili bajjis (or bhajis) being served with spicy tamarind chutney. Thelagram takes this classic snack up a notch by stuffing these crispy green chilies with mashed potato. The result is a glorious balance of heat and softness. The crunch of the batter complements the tender, spiced potato filling, and the dish has just the right amount of heat to make it addictive. It’s perfect for those who like their street food with a bit of kick.

Chole Bhature

There are few dishes as universally loved as Chole Bhature, and Thelagram’s take on this iconic North Indian dish is one to remember. The chole (chickpea curry) is rich, spicy, and full of deep flavors, simmered with a variety of spices, including cumin, coriander, and amchur (dry mango powder), giving it a sharp tang. The bhature (fried bread) is pillow-soft on the inside, with a crisp exterior that melts in your mouth with every bite. It’s comfort food at its finest—perfectly balanced, hearty, and fulfilling.

Puchkas from Kolkata

No trip to an Indian street food joint would be complete without a taste of Puchkas (also known as Golgappa or Pani Puri), and Thelagram delivers a beautifully authentic version of this iconic Kolkata snack. The crispy, hollow puris are stuffed with spiced potato filling and dunked in the tangy, spiced water that’s served with it. The water is a burst of flavors—tangy, spicy, and a little sweet—all coming together to create the perfect explosion in your mouth. If you’re looking for that “pani puri” street-side experience, look no further than Thelagram.

Mutton Rogan Josh and Butter Roti

For those craving something hearty and rich, Thelagram’s Mutton Rogan Josh paired with butter roti is an absolute winner. The mutton is slow-cooked, tender, and infused with the deep, fragrant flavors of Kashmiri spices. The gravy is velvety and rich, with a perfect balance of spice, tang, and depth. Paired with a hot, soft butter roti, this dish is a comforting hug in the form of food. The spices are warming and familiar, yet they have a unique complexity that takes the dish beyond your average curry.

Double Chicken and Cheese Frankie

The street food scene in Mumbai is synonymous with Frankies, and Thelagram takes this humble wrap to new heights with the Double Chicken and Cheese Frankie. Soft, doughy paratha encases tender chicken pieces and oozing cheese, all drizzled with a tangy sauce that ties everything together. The result? A smoky, cheesy, savory wrap that’s a real indulgence. It’s the kind of dish you could eat in any season, and it’s perfect for when you want something filling but with that street food flair.

Dal Makhani

Dal Makhani is one of those dishes that’s loved all across India, but when done right, it’s nothing short of magical. At Thelagram, the dal is rich, creamy, and smooth, with just the right level of spice and smokiness. It’s slow-cooked to perfection, and the richness of the lentils is complemented beautifully by the generous dollop of butter and cream. Pair it with their soft, fluffy naan or rice, and you have a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Drinks: Mohabbat Ka Sharbat and Dilli Shikanji

Thelagram brings a refreshing twist to traditional Indian beverages with their Mohabbat Ka Sharbat and Dilli Shikanji. The Mohabbat Ka Sharbat is a fragrant rose-based drink, cool and floral, with the sweetness of melon balancing the floral notes. It’s refreshing and light, making it perfect for a hot afternoon or as a palate cleanser between courses. The Dilli Shikanji, on the other hand, is a tangy, spicy lemonade made with fresh lime, ginger, black salt, and a few secret ingredients. It’s zingy, flavorful, and packed with a punch—ideal for cutting through the richness of the food.

Desserts: Jalebi with Rabdi, Gajar Halwa, and Dry Fruits Falooda

No meal is complete without a touch of sweetness, and Thelagram excels in this department too. Their Jalebi with Rabdi is nothing short of heavenly—crispy, hot jalebis drenched in sweet syrup are paired with a chilled, creamy rabdi. The contrast in temperatures and textures is absolutely divine. The Gajar Halwa is rich, fragrant, and beautifully spiced with cardamom. It’s indulgent yet comforting, evoking the feeling of home-cooked food. Finally, the Dry Fruits Falooda is a refreshing end to your meal, a cold dessert packed with fruits, nuts, and rose syrup, and topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

The Alcohol Offering

What sets Thelagram apart from many other street food joints is their recent introduction of alcohol on the menu. They’ve carefully curated a selection of cocktails and mocktails that pair well with the vibrant, flavorful street food. Whether you want a chilled beer to go with your Chole Bhature or a refreshing cocktail to balance the spice of your Frankie, Thelagram’s drinks menu offers plenty of options for every palate.

Thelagram isn’t just about food; it’s about celebrating the bold, delicious, and varied street food culture of India in all its glory. With an innovative approach that merges authentic flavors with a quirky Bollywood-inspired theme, Thelagram stands as a beacon for food lovers in South Bangalore. Whether you’re reminiscing about your favorite street food from childhood or just exploring something new, Thelagram serves it all with a side of nostalgia and fun.

It’s a place where food and entertainment intersect, where the dishes on the menu tell a story, and where every bite feels like a scene from your favorite 90’s Bollywood film. With its unbeatable combination of vibrant decor, delicious street food, and the added bonus of alcohol, Thelagram is truly a hidden gem that every street food lover in Bangalore needs to try.