Mysore captured me with Ashtanga Yoga, I stayed a month longer than planned, making a film in the end. Mysore has architectural beauty, opportunities to volunteer, yoga, an inspiring artistic community, and of course food.
Down the street from Mantra House 3RD Stage in Gokulam is a small hole with no name in which you can get Idli with Coconut Chutney. On Sunday they also make lemon rice with peanuts. This will cost you 12 rupees.
In Gokulum down the road from the Coconut Stand is Iyengar Bakery. This establishment creates a delicious sweet bread called Plum Cake which is fresh out the oven right in stand if you have a 5:30 AM start at the Shala. Often this is served with a compliment as well. 
One shop separates Iyengar Bakery and the place in which I found my favorite Samosas in India, due to the chutney. This being a spicy creation balanced by mint.
