Street Food Trail Across India: Must-Try Dishes from Every Region of India

Whether you’re from India or visiting from abroad, there’s something about the country’s culture that pulls people in. But have you ever wondered – what’s the best way to truly explore India? The answer is simple, through its taste! India is not just diverse in its historical landmarks, culture, and heritage – it also has a culinary landscape that can leave you spoilt for choice. With so many dishes to choose from, it’s easy to feel confused about what to try and where to find the best of each region. What’s authentic, and what’s just internet hype? Well, if you’ve ever found yourself wondering what to eat next on your travels, you're in the right place. Grab your plate because we’re about to take you on a journey through India’s locally loved street food that you absolutely have to try at least once. Ready to dig in?

1. Chole Bhature – Delhi

No visit to Delhi is complete without trying Chole Bhature. This dish is the heartbeat of Delhi’s street food scene. The fluffy bhatura (deep-fried bread) is served with spicy chole (chickpeas) and topped off with tangy chutneys and crunchy onions. A steaming plate of Chole Bhature is often accompanied by sweet lassi, making it the perfect combination. If you're wondering where to try it, head over to Sita Ram Diwan Chand.

Where: 2243, Rajguru Marg, Chuna Mandi, Paharganj, New Delhi, Delhi 110055

When: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Price: Rs. 200

2. Vada Pav – Mumbai

In the fast-paced streets of Mumbai, the ever-popular Vada Pav stands out as a must-try snack. Imagine a spicy potato patty deep-fried in chickpea flour batter, sandwiched between a soft pav (bun) and served with a fiery garlic chutney and crispy fried chillies. It's simple yet irresistible. You’ll find Vada Pav everywhere, but the legendary Ashok Vada Pav in Dadar is a favourite for many locals cause it offers a taste of Mumbai's soul.

Where: Kashinath Dhuru Marg, Dadar West, Dadar, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400028

When: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Price: Rs. 100

3. Telebhaja – Kolkata

The streets of Kolkata are an explosion of flavours, and one dish that captures the city's essence is Telebhaja. These crispy fried fritters are made from a variety of ingredients like potato, eggplant, onions, and even fish, all battered and deep-fried to perfection. Whether it's an Aloo Chop (potato fritter), Beguni (eggplant fritter), or Dimer Chop (egg and potato fritter), Telebhaja is perfect with a cup of hot tea or served with muri (puffed rice). You can find these delightful treats at small stalls across North Kolkata, with Bagbazar being a popular area for the best Telebhaja.

Where: Bagbazar, North Kolkata

When:  4:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Price: Rs. 50

4. Mangalore Buns – Bengaluru

When you think of Bengaluru, think of the famous Mangalore Buns. These buns, made with ripe bananas, flour, and a hint of spice, are typically served with coconut chutney and sambar, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savoury. Found in the popular VV Puram Food Street (Thindi Beedi), Mangalore Buns are a popular breakfast snack or an afternoon indulgence. The soft, slightly sweet buns are the perfect accompaniment to the spicy chutney, making the experience unforgettable.

Where:  VV Puram Food Street, Thindi Beedi, in Bengaluru

When: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM

Price: Rs. 100

5. Baati Chokha – Varanasi

The spiritual city of Varanasi is not only known for its ghats but also for its iconic street food, Baati Chokha. This hearty dish consists of baati – round wheat flour balls stuffed with spiced sattu (roasted gram flour) – paired with chokha, a spicy mash of roasted vegetables like eggplant, tomatoes, and potatoes. Often accompanied by a dollop of ghee, it’s a warming comfort food perfect for any time of the day. Another winter delight you must try here is Malaiyyo, a creamy, frothy dessert made with milk and saffron, often served during the colder months. For a taste of authentic Baati Chokha and Malaiyyo, head to the local eateries near Dashaswamedh Ghat and Godowlia.

Where: Baati Chokha Restaurant at Teliyabagh and Varanasi Sweets – Gopal Mandir Gali

When: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM

Price: Rs. 200

6. Chikhvi – Tripura

If you’re heading to Tripura, one dish that should not be missed is Chikhvi. This dish is made from bamboo shoots, marinated with chicken, pork, or fish, and flavoured with turmeric, ginger, rice flour, and chilies. It’s a unique combination of ingredients that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Northeast India. To try this delightful dish, visit a food stall in Agartala, the capital of Tripura, where you’ll experience authentic Tripuri flavours.

Where: Food stalls in Agartala

When: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM

Price: Rs. 300

7. Laksa – Assam

Northeast India offers a unique culinary experience, and Assam Laksa is a dish that perfectly represents the region's taste profile. This spicy noodle soup is made with fish, tamarind, ginger, garlic, chilies, and fresh herbs and served with thick rice noodles. What makes Assam Laksa special is its unpredictable broth, which can vary depending on the fish used and the cook’s expertise. For the best Assam Laksa, visit the Wan Dao Tou Assam Laksa stall, where generations of cooks have perfected this dish.

Where: Wan Dao Tou Assam Laksa stall

When: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Price: Rs. 150

8. Prawn Rissois – Goa

In Goa, street food is an absolute feast for seafood lovers. One of the most popular street foods in the coastal state is Prawn Rissois. These deep-fried turnovers are filled with a creamy prawn mixture made with nutmeg, cheese, and cream. Crispy on the outside and bursting with flavour on the inside, these Prawn Rissois are the perfect snack to munch on as you stroll along the beaches of Goa. Head to Ritz Classic in Panjim for a taste of Goan street food at its finest.

Where: Ritz Classic in Panjim

When: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Price: Rs. 200

9. Malabar Parotta with Beef Curry – Kerala

No visit to Kerala is complete without trying the famous Malabar Parotta with beef curry. The flaky, soft parotta, paired with a rich and spicy beef curry, makes for an unforgettable meal. You’ll find this dish in small roadside eateries known as Thattukadas, especially in Kochi. Places like Malabar Restaurant offer the best Malabar Parotta with beef curry, making it a must-try for anyone visiting Kerala.

Where: Near Pudussery Panchayath Office, Kanjikode, Pudussery Central, Kerala 

When: 7:00 AM - 12:00 AM 

Price: Rs. 200

10. Kebabs – Lucknow

Lucknow is synonymous with kebabs, and the Galouti Kebab is perhaps the most famous of them all. These melt-in-your-mouth kebabs, made with minced meat and a variety of spices, are best enjoyed with roomali roti (thin flatbread). The city also boasts of Kakori Kebabs and Shami Kebabs, all offering a smoky, juicy experience. For the finest kebabs in Lucknow, head to Tunday Kababi, where generations of chefs have perfected these delectable treats.

Where: Tunday Towers, Kapoorthala Road, near Novelty Cinema, Sector F, Aliganj, Lucknow

When: 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM 

Price: Rs. 400