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Amritsari Kulcha Trail: From Ananya Pandey’s Pick to Crowded Favourites!

Craving Amritsari kulcha? Explore the best kulcha spots in Amritsar, from iconic dhabas to secret gems, and savour the city’s most authentic buttery delights!

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celebrity favourite kulcha shop in amritsar

When in Amritsar, you simply cannot leave without indulging in its legendary Amritsari kulcha. This crispy, buttery, stuffed flatbread is a local staple, paired with spicy chole and dollops of creamy white butter. Even Bollywood stars aren’t immune to its charm, Ananya Pandey herself has been spotted relishing these delights at some of Amritsar’s best kulcha spots! But with so many options, which ones truly live up to the hype? From century-old dhabas to secret local gems, let’s take you on a chatpata ride through the best kulcha joints in Amritsar!

A Bite into History: The Origins of Kulcha

best kulcha in Amritsar

Kulchas date back to the Mughal era, where they weren’t just a street delicacy but a royal treat. The story goes that in the court of the Nizams of Hyderabad, Mir Qamruddin, a Mughal governor, was served seven kulchas by Sufi mystic Hazrat Nizamuddin Aurangabadi. The mystic prophesied that his dynasty would rule for seven generations—a prediction that came true. Later, Emperor Shah Jahan himself developed a fondness for this stuffed bread, making it a breakfast staple in his royal kitchen. Eventually, as the Mughals and Nizams spread their influence, so did the kulcha, especially in Punjab, where it evolved into the buttery, crispy, spice-packed delight we know today. Now, let’s get to the real deal—where can you find the most drool-worthy Amritsari kulchas?

1. Kesar Da Dhaba

A living legend in Amritsar’s food scene, Kesar Da Dhaba has been recently visited by Ananya Pandey on her Amritsar trip. Established in 1916 by Lala Kesar Mal and his wife in Sheikhupura (now in Pakistan), this iconic dhaba became a favourite haunt for freedom fighter Lala Lajpat Rai before finding its home in Amritsar post-Partition. Tucked away in a narrow lane near the Golden Temple, this dhaba is where you go for the most decadent dal makhani, ghee-laden lachha parathas, and heavenly phirni served in traditional earthen pots. The rich, slow-cooked dal, simmered overnight in butter, is legendary and has remained unchanged for over a century. Even the late Anthony Bourdain, the world-renowned chef and travel documentarian, couldn’t resist its charm! He featured Kesar Da Dhaba in his famous series Parts Unknown, bringing global attention to its rustic yet unbeatable flavours. So, if you want to experience the soul of authentic Punjabi food, grab a seat, let the buttery aroma take over, and prepare for a meal that lingers on your taste buds long after you leave.

Where: Chowk Passian, Amritsar 143001

When: 12:30 PM – 10:45 PM

Price: Rs. 400 per meal

2. Bhai Kulwant Singh Kulchian Wale

Right in the heart of Amritsar, Bhai Kulwant Singh Kulchian Wale is a no-frills, all-flavour paradise for kulcha lovers. Located just a stone’s throw from the Golden Temple, this humble eatery has been serving golden, crispy kulchas for decades. Their secret? Five different types of kulchas, each with a stuffing that’s seasoned to perfection. Ananya Pandey mentioned this place also as her favourite kulcha spot in Amritsar. So, no doubt, whether it’s the classic aloo kulcha, the rich paneer kulcha, or their signature mix kulcha, every bite offers the perfect crisp-to-fluff ratio. The no-fuss seating and pocket-friendly prices make it a hotspot for both tourists and locals who swear by its quality. Don’t forget to wash it all down with their refreshing lassi, and you’ve got yourself a perfect Punjabi breakfast!

Where: Bazar Bikaneria, Near Golden Temple, Amritsar 143001

When: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Price: Rs. 200 per meal

3. Pehalwan Kulcha Shop

For a true taste of old-school Amritsari kulcha, head straight to Pehalwan Kulcha Shop. Established in 1953, this little shop might not be the biggest in town, but when it comes to flavour, it packs a serious punch. Located in the winding back lanes near ISKCON Temple, this eatery is one of the oldest kulcha makers in Amritsar. Their secret? Hand-rolled dough, baked to crispy perfection, and served with tangy chole that’s bursting with masalas. The name ‘Pehalwan’ (meaning wrestler) isn’t just for show—these buttery, crisp kulchas will wrestle your hunger to the ground! If you’re looking for a true, no-nonsense kulcha experience, this is the place to be.

Where: Lakshmanser Rd, Near ISKCON Temple, Amritsar 143001

When: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Price: Rs. 200 per meal

4. Kulcha Land

most famous kulcha spot in Amritsar

Established in 1951, Kulcha Land is an institution in itself. This place doesn’t believe in fancy menus or endless varieties—they serve just three types of kulchas: Paneer, Masala, and Mix. And guess what? That’s all you need! Their kulchas are made with hand-layered dough, baked in traditional clay ovens (tandoor), and served with creamy white butter, spicy chole, and chutney. The result? A perfect balance of crispiness and softness that melts in your mouth. For over 70 years, they’ve been delighting both locals and tourists with their consistent, homely flavours. A visit here is not just about eating—it’s about experiencing Amritsar’s rich culinary heritage.

Where: Opposite MK Hotel, Ranjit Avenue, Amritsar 143001

When: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Price: Rs. 200 

5. All India Famous Amritsari Kulcha

The name says it all—this place is famous, and for a good reason! What makes their kulchas special? A unique seven-layered dough technique gives them an unmatched crispiness. This eatery is so legendary that even celebrity chef Vikas Khanna swears by it! Their kulchas are perfectly crisp on the outside and delightfully soft inside, making every bite a crunchy, buttery indulgence. Pair it with their signature spicy pudina chutney, thick onion chutney, and a tall glass of lassi, and you’ve got a meal fit for a king. Despite its small size, the shop is always packed, but trust us—the wait is absolutely worth it!

Where: Maqbool Road, Amritsar 143104

When: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Price: Rs. 200 

6. Monu Kulcha Hut

A hidden gem among Amritsar’s kulcha spots, Monu Kulcha Hut is not as widely known as the others, but those who’ve been here can’t stop raving about it! This place became so popular that they had to double their seating capacity just to keep up with demand. Their secret? The perfect balance of a crispy exterior and a soft, buttery interior. Each kulcha is stuffed generously, baked to perfection, and served piping hot with chole and chutney. If you’re looking for a less touristy, more local kulcha experience, this is where Amritsaris in-the-know go to get their fix!

Where: Loharka Road, Near Love Dale School, Amritsar 143001

When: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Price: Rs. 300

Amritsar is a city that wears its flavours on its sleeve, and nowhere is that more evident than in its iconic kulchas. So, next time you’re in Amritsar, skip the diet, embrace the indulgence, and let the kulcha binge begin!

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