This South Indian vegetarian joint in Little India is where to go for curry-drenched banana leaf plates with free-flow servings of rice and toppings — all below $10. The dishes and condiments at Arunchala are reminiscent of home-cooked meals — warm, hearty, nicely balanced, and not overly oily or cloying. The wallet-friendly price point of $9.90 for the basic rice meal is all you need to fill you up for the rest of the day. You get endless rice top-ups, rasam (a South Indian soup made with tamarind, tomatoes, spices, and herbs), vadai, papadum, three kinds of vegetables, and of course, dahl. The best way to enjoy this glorious mess? With your hands, and a mandatory side of teh halia (ginger tea).
The dosai here is great stuff too — there are over 18 variations, which all come with the mandatory accompaniments of coconut chutney and the like. The plain starts at $3, but our favourite is the onion masala ($6), which is stuffed with a punchy potatoey filling and diced onions for extra crunch. Order a cup of filter coffee to complete the experience.
