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Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world, is famous not only for its spiritual importance but also for its rich and varied food culture. From local dishes to street food that excites your taste buds, Varanasi is a food lover’s dream. The flavours here are a mix of traditional Indian spices, local ingredients, and cooking methods. Whether it's your first time visiting or you're a regular traveller, the food experiences in Varanasi are sure to make you want more.
Chai and Malai Toast - Laxmi Chai
Starting your day in Varanasi with a cup of chai and malai toast at Laxmi Chai is a must-do experience. This humble yet satisfying dish pairs perfectly with the city's early morning vibe. Laxmi Chai offers a simple cup of strong tea, perfect for those who prefer a robust, flavorful brew. The accompanying malai toast is crispy and buttery and served with a layer of rich cream, which is the perfect balance to the chai.
Where: Chowk
Pizza and Apple Pie - Pizzeria Vatika
If you're looking for a break from traditional Indian food, Pizzeria Vatika offers a delightful respite. Located near Assi Ghat, this cosy little pizzeria offers thin-crust pizzas with fresh toppings and delicious apple pies that provide a sweet ending to your meal. It's a unique fusion of international flavours in a city that's renowned for its rich heritage.
Where: Near Assi Ghat
Lassi - Pahelwan Lassi
Lassi is an iconic drink of Varanasi, and there’s no better place to try it than Pahelwan Lassi. Known for its thick, creamy consistency and perfectly balanced sweetness, Pahelwan Lassi is a treat you’ll want to sip slowly. It’s a great way to cool off after a walk through the narrow, bustling lanes of Varanasi.
Where: Lanka
Blue Lassi - Blue Lassi Shop
The Blue Lassi Shop is an iconic spot where you can enjoy the famous blue lassi. This refreshing drink is served with fresh fruits, yoghurt, and a variety of other ingredients. The vibrant blue colour of the lassi makes it a striking visual treat, but the taste will impress you.
Where: Near Manikarnika Ghat
Kachori and Jalebi - Ram Bhandar
Ram Bhandar is the place to go for an authentic Varanasi street food experience. Crispy, golden kachoris stuffed with spiced potatoes and paired with hot, syrupy jalebis create a mouth-watering combination. These indulgent snacks will leave you craving them long after you’ve finished your plate.
Where: Thatheri Bazaar
Banarasi Paan - Tambul Griha
No visit to Varanasi is complete without trying the famous Banarasi paan. Tambul Griha, located in Lanka, is known for its expertly crafted paans, filled with a variety of ingredients like gulkand, cardamom, and saffron. Plans are typically chewed after meals for digestion and as a mouth freshener, but in Varanasi, they are an essential cultural experience.
Where: Lanka
Malaiyo - Shreeji
Malaiyo is a seasonal dessert typically available only in the winter months. It’s a beloved treat in Varanasi. This frothy, creamy dessert is topped with saffron and served in small bowls. At Shreeji, the Malaiyo is made fresh daily, offering a light, airy texture that melts in your mouth.
Where: Near Dashashwamedh Ghat
Tamatar Chaat - Kashi Chaat Bhandar
Kashi Chaat Bhandar is a must-visit for lovers of tangy and spicy street food. Tamatar Chaat is a refreshing dish made from diced tomatoes mixed with a variety of spices and chutneys. The combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavours is irresistible and perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
Where: Godowlia
Thandai - Badal Thandai
Thandai is a traditional drink made with milk, spices, and nuts. While it’s typically enjoyed during festivals like Holi, it’s available throughout the year in Varanasi. Badal Thandai serves one of the best versions, making it a refreshing choice for hot afternoons.
Where: Godowlia
Golgappa (Pani Puri) - Deena Chaat Bhandar
Deena Chaat Bhandar is the go-to spot for Golgappa or Pani Puri, a popular street snack in Varanasi. The crispy puris filled with spicy, tangy water are served with a variety of fillings, making this dish a hit with locals and tourists alike.
Where: Luxa Road
Palang Tod Mithai
Palang Tod Mithai is a unique, deep-fried sweet that’s soaked in sugar syrup. Its soft, pillow-like texture makes it a favourite among Varanasi’s food lovers. It’s one of those desserts that combine crunchiness with sweetness to create a delightful treat.
Where: Various sweet shops
Launglata
Launglata is a sweet snack that’s filled with khoya (milk solids), deep-fried, and dipped in sugar syrup. The combination of the crispy exterior and the rich filling makes it a flavorful dessert enjoyed by many in Varanasi.
Where: Various sweet shops
Idli Chutney - Nav Durg Idli
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Although South Indian food may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Varanasi, Nav Durg Idli offers delicious idlis served with a variety of chutneys. The idlis are soft and fluffy, making it a great breakfast option for those craving something light.
Where: Near Godowlia
Malai Puri - Goverdhan Das Malai Wala
Goverdhan Das Malai Wala is known for serving Malai Puri, a dish that combines crispy puris with a rich, creamy topping of malai (clotted cream). It’s a traditional Banarasi dish that’s rich, indulgent, and perfect for anyone looking for a creamy street food experience.
Where: Near Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Lemon Tea - Pappu Tea Stall
Pappu Tea Stall offers a refreshing cup of lemon tea, a perfect beverage for those looking to refresh themselves after exploring the narrow lanes of Varanasi. The freshly brewed tea, with a burst of lemon, is both tangy and aromatic.
Where: Near Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Baati Chokha
Baati Chokha is a hearty dish with roasted wheat flour balls (baati) and mashed vegetables (chokha) like eggplant, tomatoes, and potatoes. It’s a traditional and filling meal that’s perfect for lunch.
Where: Baati Chokha Restaurant, Near Teliabagh
Banarasi Peda
Banarasi Peda is a rich, milk-based sweet made from condensed milk and sugar. It’s smooth, sweet, and very popular in Varanasi, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Where: Shivpur
Fire Uttapam - Godowlia
Fire Uttapam is a spicy South Indian pancake served at Godowlia. It’s topped with spicy ingredients and has crispy edges, giving it a bold, exciting flavour. Available only before 10 am, it’s a popular breakfast choice in the city.
Where: Godowlia
Palak Chaat
Palak Chaat is a crispy snack made with fried spinach leaves, topped with yoghurt, chutneys, and spices. It’s light, crunchy, and full of flavour, making it a great snack while you’re out and about.
Where: Deena Chaat Bhandar, Kashi Chaat Bhandar
Chola Samosa
Chola Samosa is a tasty snack that combines crispy samosas filled with spiced chickpeas (chole). Served with tangy chutneys, it’s a delicious treat that’s perfect for any time of the day.
Where: VT Bhu
These street foods and drinks capture the flavours of Varanasi, offering a mix of refreshing, spicy, and sweet options. Whether you’re walking around the city or relaxing in a café, these tasty treats are a must-try for any food lover.