The Oldest Bakeries in Bangalore: A Delicious Journey Through Time

There’s something undeniably magical about old bakeries. The aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the air, the sight of golden-brown puffs sitting pretty on the shelves, and the feeling of stepping into a time machine, where tradition meets taste. Bangalore, with its fast-paced tech life, also has a side that slows down just enough to savour the delightful flavours crafted by its age-old bakeries. These aren’t just places to grab a snack, they’re culinary relics, each with its own unique story and recipe passed down through generations. Let’s take a bite-sized tour of Bangalore’s oldest bakeries and discover why their legacy is still kneaded into the city's culture.

1. Albert Bakery 

Nestled in the heart of Frazer Town, Albert Bakery is one of Bangalore’s oldest and most iconic bakeries. Established in 1902, this family-run bakery has been a favourite for over a century. The bakery is famous for its mutton kheema samosas, coconut puffs, and delicious assortment of baked goods. While the bakery’s products have evolved over the years, the charm of the place and its old-world ambience remain intact. It's the perfect blend of tradition and taste, serving its loyal patrons for generations.

Must-Try: Mutton Kheema Samosa, Hot Cross Buns

When: Open from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Where: 93, Mosque Rd, Cleveland Town, Pulikeshi Nagar, Bengaluru

2. O.G. Variar & Sons Bakery 

A Bangalore classic, O.G. Variar & Sons Bakery in Rajajinagar has been delighting its customers since 1955. Known for its traditional bakery items like butter biscuits, milk bread, and puffs, the bakery has an incredible reputation for consistency in quality. The simple yet delicious treats from this bakery carry a unique old-school charm that transports its customers back in time. Despite the many new eateries around, O.G. Variar continues to attract a large crowd of loyalists.

Must-Try: Butter Biscuits, Milk Bread, Plum Cake

When: Open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM 

Where: 68, 12th Main Road, 2nd Block Behind ESI Hospital, 231, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru

3. VB Bakery 

Located in the bustling locality of VV Puram, VB Bakery is another gem from the 1950s that has retained its legendary status in Bangalore. Famous for its "Congress Buns" (spiced peanut-filled buns) and "Khara Bun" (spicy buns), VB Bakery is a must-visit for anyone who loves traditional South Indian bakery items. For many, a visit to VB Bakery is not just about the food, but about reliving childhood memories in a bakery that has served generations.

Must-Try: Congress Bun, Khara Bun, Cream Puffs

When: Open from 6:30 AM to 11:00 PM

Where: 20, Sajjan Rao Cir, Vishweshwarapura, Shankarapura, Bengaluru

4. Fatima Bakery 

Tucked away in the quieter parts of Bangalore near Shivajinagar, Fatima Bakery may not have the same limelight as others but is equally cherished by the locals. Opened in 1957, this bakery has built a loyal following over the decades, serving everything from classic puffs and rolls to decadent cakes and pastries. With a no-frills approach, Fatima bakery focuses on delivering freshness and flavour in each of its offerings.

Must-Try: Chicken Puffs, Honey Cake, Plum Cake

When: Open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Where: 904, 80 Feet Rd, 6th Block, Koramangala, Bengaluru

5. Thom's Bakery 

Another vintage bakery, Thom's Bakery in Frazer Town, has been a crowd-puller since the 1960s. Thom’s is more than just a bakery – it’s also a grocery store, but its bakery section is where the magic happens. From their famous sponge cakes to crunchy biscuits, Thom's offers an array of freshly baked goods. It’s a one-stop destination for everything from fresh bread to intricate cakes for special occasions.

Must-Try: Sponge Cake, Rum Balls, Fresh Bread

When: Open from 8:30 AM to 9:30 PM

Where: 1, Wheeler Rd, Sindhi Colony, Pulikeshi Nagar, Bengaluru

6. Sri Jayalakshmi Bakery 

Sri Jayalakshmi Bakery is a traditional bakery serving quality baked goods for decades. Known for its fresh bread, rusks, and puffs, Sri Jayalakshmi keeps it simple yet irresistible. It’s one of those bakeries where you know exactly what you're getting – pure, unadulterated goodness. The bakery is deeply embedded in the local community, with many loyal patrons visiting it regularly.

Must-Try: Masala Bread, Butter Biscuits, Rusks

When: Open from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Where: 15, Kothnur Main Rd, 8th Phase, J. P. Nagar, Bengaluru

7. Excelsior Bakery 

A small, humble bakery located in Shivajinagar, Excelsior Bakery is one of Bangalore’s hidden gems that has been in business since the 1930s. While it might not be as widely known as some of the other bakeries on this list, it is old-school charm and delicious baked goods have made it a favourite among locals. The bakery’s assortment of cakes, biscuits, and breads have a nostalgic quality, with each bite offering a glimpse into Bangalore’s culinary history.

Must-Try: Plum Cake, Biscuits, Fruit Cake

When: Open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Where: 44/2, Kamaraj Rd, Sivanchetti Gardens, Bengaluru