Japanese influencer’s Bengaluru cafe visit goes viral

Japanese creator Sho Takei’s Bengaluru cafe visit went viral after he tried the Mudde Meal, praising Karnataka’s vegetarian cuisine and sparking online pride

A Japanese content creator’s first visit to The Rameshwaram Cafe in Bengaluru has gone viral, winning praise for his decision to embrace local recommendations and explore traditional South Indian flavours.

Sho Takei, a travel and food influencer, documented his maiden experience at the popular vegetarian eatery on Instagram. Instead of choosing familiar dishes such as dosa or idli, he asked the staff to suggest a meal that would best represent Karnataka’s culinary culture. Their recommendation was the Mudde Meal, a traditional platter featuring ragi balls, rice, masala vada, sambar, rasam, kosambari, pickle, curd, and chilli, accompanied by strong filter coffee.

The spread showcased the diversity of Karnataka’s vegetarian cuisine, with ragi mudde standing out as a staple food in the region. Takei’s reactions highlighted his appreciation for the textures and flavours, especially the millet-based dish that many visitors often overlook. He also noted the affordability of the platter, priced at just ₹200, making it accessible to a wide audience.

The video quickly gained traction online, drawing enthusiastic responses from viewers across India and abroad. Many praised his openness to trying authentic local food and commended the café staff for guiding him toward a traditional choice. Social media users responded with humour, pride, and further recommendations, turning the comments section into an informal food guide for Bengaluru. Suggestions included biryani outlets, darshinis, and other Karnataka-style eateries.

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The episode reflects a growing trend of international creators showcasing regional Indian cuisines beyond globally popular dishes. Food bloggers and cultural commentators observed that such videos help challenge stereotypes and bring attention to lesser-known traditions. Karnataka’s emphasis on millets, coconut-based preparations, and balanced flavours is increasingly finding recognition worldwide through social media.

Takei’s viral video has not only spotlighted Karnataka’s vegetarian cuisine but also reinforced the value of trusting local recommendations, transforming a simple meal into a moment of cultural connection and shared pride.

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