Must Try Street Foods in India

Dec 20, 2024

By Richa Shandilya

India, renowned for its culinary ingenuity, offers a diverse array of street foods that tantalize the taste buds. From the iconic samosas and dosas to the indulgent jalebis, the country's street food scene is a feast for the senses. Each city boasts its own unique culinary specialties, with Mumbai's pani puri and Delhi's chaat being among the most popular. Embark on a culinary adventure as we explore the best street foods India has to offer.

Delhi

Chaat, a beloved Indian street food, is a delightful medley of textures and flavors. Aloo chaat, one of the most popular variations, features a vibrant mix of potatoes, chickpeas, spices, chutneys, and yogurt, all topped with a tangy tamarind sauce. This flavorful dish is a must-try for any visitor to Delhi.

Mumbai

Mumbai, often hailed as the street food capital of India, boasts Chowpatty Beach as its culinary crown jewel. Pani puri, a beloved street food, reigns supreme here. The crispy, hollow puri is filled with a tantalizing mixture of tangy chickpeas, potatoes, and chutney. For a heartier option, pav bhaji is a must-try. This comforting dish features a soft, buttery bun dipped into a flavorful vegetable stew.

Kolkata

Long before wraps became a global food trend, Nizam's of Kolkata was already serving its iconic kati rolls. The traditional kati roll, featuring a juicy lamb kebab wrapped in a fresh roti, has become a beloved street food. Over time, Nizam's has expanded its menu to include vegetarian options, solidifying its reputation as the premier destination for kati rolls in India.

Jaipur

Jalebi, a delightful Indian sweet, consists of crispy, golden-brown spirals drenched in sweet syrup. When visiting Jaipur, venture into the heart of the Pink City to witness the mesmerizing process of jalebi-making. Watch as skilled vendors deep-fry these delicate treats and savor them fresh, a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

Shimla

Shimla's strategic location in the far north of India has led to a unique culinary influence from neighboring Nepal and Tibet. One such example is the popular momo, a delectable dumpling that can be steamed or fried and filled with a variety of ingredients, from pork to spring greens.

Lucknow

We owe the delectable kebab to the royal nawabs, and Lucknow is the city that truly celebrates this culinary delight. From the fiery galouti kebab to the succulent boti kebab, each bite is a flavor-packed experience. These tender kebabs are best enjoyed with soft, paper-thin rumali roti.

Ahmedabad

Gujarat, renowned for its vibrant street food scene, boasts the delectable dhokla as a local favorite. This steamed savory sponge, tempered with curry leaves and mustard seeds, is a true delight. Another popular dish is khandvi, a savory snack made from gram flour pancakes, topped with fragrant coriander.

Hyderabad

Hyderabad, renowned for its iconic Charminar mosque and vibrant pearl trade, is equally celebrated for its delectable biryani. Kacchi biryani, a culinary masterpiece, is a must-try. This aromatic dish features tender, marinated lamb cooked together with fragrant rice in a sealed pot, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic meal.

Kochi

The dosa, a beloved South Indian staple, is a versatile food enjoyed throughout the day. From crispy, ghee-fried cones to savory masala-filled crepes, the dosa comes in countless variations. Its adaptability extends even to dessert, with sweet fillings like jaggery and ice cream.

Chennai

While much of India is known for its love of chai, Tamil Nadu stands out as a dedicated coffee-drinking state. Chennai, in particular, is famous for its filter coffee, a strong and aromatic brew served in traditional steel cups at numerous local cafes.