Saravanaa Bhavan - Sunnyvale

Title: A Resurgence of Authentic South Indian Flavors at Saravanaa BhavanReview:Having been a longtime patron of Saravanaa Bhavan, especially at the Sunnyvale location, I have a deep-rooted affection for this bastion of South Indian vegetarian cuisine. With its widespread presence in India and beyond, Saravanaa Bhavan has consistently been a culinary flagbearer for the richness and diversity of Southern Indian flavors.In its early days, prior to the relocation to the larger Mary Ave facility, this establishment was nothing short of a gastronomic delight. Whether you ordered a Dosa of your choice, Vada, or any meal selection, the food quality and preparation were nothing short of exemplary. The authenticity and consistency of flavors had been the hallmark of Saravanaa Bhavan.However, post-relocation, there seemed to be a noticeable shift in the taste, potentially due to changes in the kitchen staff. It was a rather disappointing phase, and yet, I returned occasionally, hopeful for a revival of the flavors I had come to associate with the place.Fast forward to the present, as of August 1, 2023, I am elated to report a delightful resurgence in the authenticity and quality that had initially drawn me to Saravanaa Bhavan.On my recent visit, I ordered the Thali SPL Meal, a sumptuous platter comprising an array of daily specials, sambar, rasam, a variety of curries, rice, yogurt, a sweet, and a choice of chapati or poori. The portions, while modest, provided a flavorful overview of South Indian cuisine, each item more delicious than the last.It seems that Saravanaa Bhavan has managed to reclaim its former glory. The tastes and servings have once again reached their former excellence, signaling a triumphant return to form.In conclusion, Saravanaa Bhavan remains a must-visit for those who appreciate vegetarian food and a particular haven for those who relish South Indian vegetarian cuisine. The recent improvements are a promising sign that the culinary heritage of Saravanaa Bhavan continues to thrive, bringing authentic South Indian flavors to the heart of Sunnyvale.

There are plenty of South Indian restaurants in this area but none as clean. Plus none of them have an open kitchen. We loved these things about this restaurant. The food was super fresh, ambience was pleasant and everything was super clean. The food was tasty! The sambhar made us nostalgic, reminded of homemade sambhar. Portions sizes were good as well.Addition the manager thanked us by sending over a complimentary Kesari which was amazing!We couldn’t believe it took us so long to try this restaurant.

Not really worth the money!We reached at 9:00 p.m and they rushed us to order our food and rushed us to pay as soon as we placed the order. We ordered a few dosas and Thali. Most of their appetizers were over.The dosas and the Thali were good.But ee also got Gobi Manchurian which was really very bad. They served soupy kinda dish and named it Manchurian.

Went on a weekend. The place is busy. I tried their combo menu. Atleast combo prices felt reasonable. Ravakichidi is superb. I felt they charge a premium of 2-3$ more on each dish just for their brand name??Food: 4/5

Order a lunch thali, decent food, not everything in the thali was great, overall it was decent, I can say I’ve had better lunch thali in other places.Food: 3/5