Social media is choc-a-block with opinions about fusion desi foods, most of which often land in hot water due to their unusual ingredient combination. In the last few years, with the rise in casual and quick-service South Indian eateries, the number of mix-and-match dishes featuring classic dishes like idli, sambhar, dosa and rasam has gone up. Recently, another such dish caught the Internet’s attention after an X user shared a picture of a particular chaat which had an unusual mix of ingredients.
The user took to his X account to criticise Bengaluru Hatti Kaapi for introducing an unconventional dish called Idly Chaat. He posted a picture showing an idli chaat on a glass shelf at the outlet. Rotti questioned why the coffee and snack brand, known for its beloved authentic filter coffee "with or without bella (jaggery)," would offer such a fusion dish. He lamented the direction the brand had taken, accusing them of “killing our dishes.” He also tagged journalist Shiv Aroor and X user Abhijit Iyer-Mitra, who are known for their quips on South Indian fusion cuisine.
According to the description, this Idly Chaat from Hatti Kaapi, contains 83.33 kcal, featured soft idlis topped with tangy chutneys and spicy seasonings, and offers a flavorful twist on the traditional idli. However, the dish didn’t visually resemble either an idli or chaat.
Hatti Kaapi is a popular chain of coffee outlets based in Bengaluru, known for serving authentic South Indian filter coffee. The brand has gained a loyal following for its traditional preparation methods, offering rich, aromatic coffee brewed using high-quality coffee beans and served in stainless steel tumblers, which enhances the overall experience. Established with the intent of preserving Bengaluru’s coffee culture, Hatti Kaapi emphasizes the essence of simplicity and authenticity in its beverages.
In addition to its signature filter coffee, Hatti Kaapi offers a variety of South Indian snacks such as idlis, vadas, and dosas, making it a popular stop for a quick breakfast or evening snack. The brand is particularly known for its blend of filter coffee which has an 80:20 ratio of coffee and chicory. Several foodies on social media came forward to share their opinions about the fusion idli chaat. “Isn’t idli chaat basically bisibele bath?” an X user commented.
Several people commented on how this dish can be made with leftover idli or spare idlis. “Many make idli upma with leftover idlis.. idli chat an innovation we don't need,” commented a foodie. “If not this guy today, someone will do it tomorrow. Food fusion cannot be halted in India. Nope. Not happening,” wrote another user.