Varanasi, popularly known as Kashi, is an ancient city steeped in history and culture. But if there is one thing that can instantly win over a traveler’s heart, it is the city’s food.
The streets of Varanasi are lined with food vendors selling an array of delicacies, each with a distinct flavor and aroma. If you are a foodie, a food tour of Varanasi is an experience that should be on top of your list.
The cuisine of Varanasi is a fascinating blend of flavors and techniques that have evolved over centuries. Influenced by the Mughals, the British, and the local Bhojpuri culture, the food of Varanasi is an exciting mix of sweet, savory, spicy, and sour flavors.
In this article, we will take you on a culinary journey to explore the must-try dishes in Varanasi, along with the best spots in the city to try them. So, get ready to indulge your taste buds and discover the hidden gems of Varanasi’s food scene.
Here are Must-Try Dishes in Varanasi
Kachori Sabzi
Kachori Sabzi is a very delicious and popular breakfast dish in Varanasi. It consists of deep-fried, crispy bread that is filled with a spicy lentil mixture. The dish is served with a side of potato curry, which is a delicious and tangy accompaniment.
The best place to try out Kachori Sabzi in Varanasi is Ram Bhandar, which is located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. They serve some of the crispiest and most delicious kachoris in the city.
Baati Chokha
Baati Chokha is a traditional dish that is popular in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It consists of baked dough balls that are served with a spicy lentil curry and a side of mashed potatoes. The dish is a hearty and filling meal that is perfect for a cold winter day.
The best place to try out Baati Chokha in Varanasi is at Deena Chat Bhandar, which is located near Godowlia Chowk. They serve some of the most authentic and flavorful baati chokhas in the city.
Tamatar Chaat
Tamatar Chaat is a popular street food in Varanasi. It consists of boiled potatoes, tomatoes, and spices that are mixed together to create a delicious and tangy chaat. The dish is then topped with tamarind chutney and crispy fried noodles.
The best place to try out Tamatar Chaat in Varanasi is at Kashi Chaat Bhandar, which is located in the heart of the city. They serve some of the most flavorful and well-spiced tamatar chaats in the city.
Samosa Chaat
Samosa Chaat is also a popular street food in Varanasi. It consists of crispy samosas that are broken into pieces and topped with a mixture of boiled chickpeas, chopped onions, tomatoes, and spices. The dish is then garnished with tamarind chutney, mint chutney, and sev.
The best place to try out this dish is at Kashi Chat Bhandar in the Godowlia area of the city.
Malai Gilori
Malai Gilori is a sweet dish that is made by stuffing khoya (dried milk solids) and dry fruits into a betel leaf and then dipping it in a creamy mixture of condensed milk, saffron, and cardamom. The dish is then garnished with chopped almonds and pistachios.
The best place to try out this dish is at Ram Bhandar in the Chowk area of the city.
Malaiyo
Malaiyo is a popular dessert in Varanasi that is made from milk foam. The milk foam is flavored with saffron, cardamom, and sugar, and is then garnished with chopped nuts and rose petals. The dish has a light and creamy texture and is perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
The best place to try out Malaiyo in Varanasi is at Ksheer Sagar, which is located near Godowlia Chowk. They serve some of the creamiest and most delicious malaiyos in the city.
Lassi
Lassi is a refreshing drink that is popular throughout India. It is made from yogurt, milk, and sugar, and can be flavored with various fruits and spices. The drink is perfect for a hot summer day and is often served in a clay pot to keep it cool.
The best place to try out Lassi in Varanasi is at Blue Lassi, which is located near the Manikarnika Ghat. They serve some of the thickest and most flavorful lassis in the city, and offer a variety of flavors to choose from.
Kulfi Falooda
Kulfi Falooda is a popular dessert in Varanasi, especially during the summer season. It is a rich and creamy dessert that is made by mixing kulfi (Indian ice cream) with falooda (thin vermicelli noodles) and topped with rose syrup and chopped dry fruits.
The best place to try out this dish is at Blue Lassi Shop or Kashi Chat Bhandar.
Paan
Paan is a popular after-meal mouth freshener in India, and Varanasi is known for its variety of paan.
Paan is made by wrapping betel nut and various fillings such as fennel seeds, cardamom, rose petals, and more in a betel leaf. It is then topped with a variety of sweet syrups and sometimes even tobacco.
The best place to try out Paan is Keshav Tambul Bhandar. They have been serving paan for over a century and have a wide range of flavors to choose from.
Thandai
Thandai is a refreshing drink that is perfect for the summer months. It is made by blending milk, sugar, and a variety of nuts and spices such as almonds, cardamom, fennel seeds, and rose petals. It is often served during festivals like Holi and Shivratri.
The best place to try out Thandai is Ram Bhandar, located near the famous Manikarnika Ghat.
Conclusion
Apart from having so many things to explore in the city, Varanasi is a food lover’s paradise. With its rich history and diverse culture, it has an extensive range of local delicacies that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
From the famous kachori sabzi to the refreshing thandai, each dish has its unique flavor and is a must-try. Make sure to visit these local eateries and try out these mouth-watering dishes on your next trip to Varanasi.
