Tucked away in the peaceful CIT Colony, Kaylir Canteen beckons you with vibrant graffiti that encapsulates its founder's inspiring vision. The profound words 'Yaadhum Oore Yaavarum Kelir' grace its walls, meaning 'To us, all towns are one, and all people are our kin', inspired by Sangam literature. This eatery is a sanctuary of unity and inclusivity. Bhargav and Dhanya, the creative minds behind this culinary haven, have deliberately steered clear of conventional cafe vibes and upscale restaurants. Instead, they've crafted a space where every visitor feels at home. Even your furry companions are welcome at this pet-friendly gem.
Upon entering Kaylir, you'll be greeted by a vibrant display of graffiti and colourful artwork adorning both its exterior and interior, each piece crafted by various talented artists, carefully selected by Bhargav and Dhanya. From bamboo ceilings to rustic wooden furniture reminiscent of village thinnais, every element echoes the couple's commitment to simplicity and sustainability.
Kaylir's menu, thoughtfully presented on a blackboard near the food counter, showcases a curated selection prepared by passionate home chefs—each dish a unique and authentic delight. The founders extend an open invitation to anyone with a passion for cooking and a willingness to commit to joining their culinary journey. Their ever-evolving menu celebrates the pleasures of vegetables, featuring koottu, poriyal, paruppu podi, green leafy vegetables, rice, sambar, and rasam for lunch. Breakfast options range from idly, dosa, and vada to some new creations like Appalam Koottu and Bread Upma.
The uniqueness of this food joint is its functioning. Service at Kaylir embodies a community spirit. Customers are required to collect their pre-filled thali from the dispensing counter upon entering the restaurant, serve themselves water from the coolers, and clear their own plates, with the only additional services being unlimited refills and beverages at an extra cost.
In a city where food trends come and go, Kaylir Canteen believes in the ethos of 'Veetu Saapadu' (Home Cooking), dedicating itself solely to comfort food that warms the heart. Looking ahead, the founders plan to host regular weekend events and are gearing up to expand their offerings to include snacks and dinner. Kaylir is more than just a canteen; it's a heartwarming ode to simplicity, community, and the sheer joy of savouring good food.
