Bengaluru: Bengaluru’s iconic Mavalli Tiffin Rooms (MTR) is set to expand its international footprint with the launch of its first franchise in Sydney, Australia. The announcement marks another milestone for the 102-year-old restaurant, renowned for its crisp dosas, filter coffee and the invention of the popular rava idli.
The development was revealed by Australia’s Assistant Minister for Citizenship, Customs and Multicultural Affairs, Julian Hill, who recently visited the restaurant in Bengaluru.
Sydney to welcome MTR
Sharing photographs from his visit on Instagram, Julian Hill expressed his enthusiasm for the restaurant and confirmed its expansion plans.
He posted images of himself enjoying dosa, vada, filter coffee and other South Indian delicacies, writing that MTR would soon open in Sydney through a franchise.
His announcement has generated excitement among Australians as well as the Indian diaspora, many of whom are eagerly awaiting the arrival of one of Bengaluru’s most celebrated culinary institutions.
The Sydney outlet will join MTR’s growing international network, taking the restaurant’s traditional South Indian cuisine to another major global city.
Expanding global footprint
Over the years, MTR has steadily expanded beyond its original Bengaluru location.
Apart from operating outlets in several Indian cities, the restaurant has established an international presence in cities including Singapore, Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Seattle, Toronto and Bristol. The upcoming Sydney franchise will further strengthen its global reach and introduce authentic Karnataka-style cuisine to Australian diners.
The expansion reflects the increasing global demand for traditional South Indian food and Bengaluru’s rich culinary heritage.
A legacy that began in 1924
The story of MTR dates back to 1924, when brothers Ganappaiah Maiya and Parameshwara Maiya established a modest eatery called Brahmins’ Coffee Club on Lalbagh Fort Road in Bengaluru.
Following the death of Parameshwara Maiya in 1933, their brother Yagnanarayana Maiya joined the business and transformed it into Mavalli Tiffin Rooms (MTR), the name that has since become synonymous with quality South Indian cuisine.
In 1959, the restaurant shifted to its present Art Deco building on Lalbagh Road. It also introduced an open kitchen concept, allowing customers to observe food preparation—an innovative idea for its time.
Birth of the famous rava idli
One of MTR’s most enduring contributions to Indian cuisine emerged during the Second World War.
With rice in short supply because of wartime restrictions, Yagnanarayana Maiya experimented with semolina (rava) and sour curd to prepare an alternative version of the traditional idli.
The innovation resulted in the creation of rava idli, which has since become one of South India’s most popular breakfast dishes and remains a signature offering at MTR.
The restaurant is also widely recognised for its dosas, vadas, filter coffee and traditional vegetarian meals, which continue to attract visitors from across India and abroad.
Third generation driving expansion
Today, MTR continues to be managed by the Maiya family. The third generation, including Hemamalini Maiya, Vikram Maiya and Arvind Maiya, has spearheaded the restaurant’s expansion across Karnataka, other Indian cities and overseas markets.
The brand began expanding beyond its original outlet in 2004 and has since established multiple branches while maintaining its emphasis on traditional recipes and quality.
Sydney marks another milestone
For more than a century, MTR has remained one of Bengaluru’s most iconic dining destinations. The upcoming Sydney franchise represents another significant chapter in its history, bringing a taste of Karnataka’s culinary tradition to Australia.
With its combination of heritage, innovation and authentic South Indian flavours, MTR continues to strengthen its reputation as one of India’s most recognised restaurant brands on the global stage.