If you have never had a dosa, you are in for a treat. It is one of the most loved dishes in South India, eaten for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and it is becoming one of London’s favourite Indian dishes too. Here is everything you need to know — plus every dosa on our menu at Meghna Grill in St John’s Wood.
What is a dosa?
A dosa is a thin, crisp South Indian pancake — a bit like a crêpe — made from a batter of rice and lentils that is left to ferment. The fermentation gives it a light, slightly tangy flavour. The batter is spread very thin on a hot griddle until the outside turns golden and crunchy.
A dosa is usually served with sambar (a lentil and vegetable stew) and chutneys on the side.
What is a masala dosa?
The masala dosa is the most famous dosa of all. The crisp dosa is filled with a spiced potato masala — potatoes cooked with onions, tomatoes and spices — then folded or rolled. At Meghna Grill our Masala Dosa is £12.
How do you eat a dosa?
With your hands, if you like! Tear off a piece of dosa, wrap it around some of the filling, dip it into the sambar or chutney, and eat. A knife and fork is fine too — nobody is judging.
Every dosa on our menu
- Plain Dosa (£10) — crispy, thin and golden, served with chutneys and sambar.
- Ghee Dosa (£10) — the classic dosa roasted golden and crisp in pure ghee.
- Potato Masala Roast (£10) — golden and crispy outside, soft and fluffy inside.
- Masala Dosa (£12) — the favourite, filled with spiced potato masala.
- Podi Dosa (£12) — layered with fiery “gunpowder” spice mix. For those who like heat.
- Cheese Dosa (£12) — loaded with melted cheddar. A hit with children.
- Palak Paneer Dosa (£14) — filled with spinach and cottage cheese.
- Paneer Tikka Masala Dosa (£14) — stuffed with smoky paneer tikka masala.
- Chicken Dosa (£15) — filled with spiced chicken kheema.
- Mutton Dosa (£16) — topped with spiced mutton, egg and fresh garnish.
Which dosa should I order?
First time? Go for the Masala Dosa. If you love spice, try the Podi Dosa. Want a full meal in one? The Chicken Dosa or Mutton Dosa. A dosa is also perfect for scooping up a South Indian curry — read our guide to Madras and Chettinad curries.
Please tell your server about any allergies or dietary requirements.
Dosa in London — St John’s Wood, NW8
Looking for dosa in London? You will find us at 113 Boundary Road, St John’s Wood, a short walk from Lord’s Cricket Ground and Abbey Road. See the full menu, book a table, or order online for takeaway.
Book a table or order online
Meghna Grill, 113 Boundary Road, St John’s Wood, London NW8 · 020 7624 2595