Food In Agra

Food History of Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India

The culinary history of Agra is deeply intertwined with its Mughal past. The Mughals, who were great patrons of arts and culture, also had an immense influence on the food in Agra. Their penchant for rich, aromatic, and flavorful dishes gave rise to a unique cuisine that has been passed down through generations. Agra's food scene presents an amalgamation of rustic charm and royal delicacies, often with a distinct touch of flavors that can be traced back to the Persian influence on the Mughal cooking techniques and ingredients.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India

1. Petha - A translucent soft candy made from ash gourd or white pumpkin flavored with essence of rose, kewra or saffron. It is a renowned sweet from Agra and is definitely vegetarian.
2. Bedai - A spicy and filling street food dish comprising a deep-fried, puffy bread served with a spicy curry of potatoes and yogurt. It is vegetarian and is usually enjoyed as a breakfast item.
3. Dalmoth - A traditional savory snack made from fried lentils, nuts, and spices. This crunchy delicacy is a perfect accompaniment to tea and is vegetarian.
4. Paratha - Agra has its own variation of stuffed parathas, which are breads stuffed with various fillings like potatoes, paneer, or mixed vegetables and then shallow fried. These are hearty and vegetarian.
5. Chaat - No visit to Agra is complete without tasting the street-side chaat. From Aloo Tikki to Bhalla, Agra offers a variety of these tangy and spicy snacks, which are vegetarian.
6. Mughlai Cuisine - Although traditionally Mughlai cuisine includes many non-vegetarian dishes, many restaurants in Agra offer vegetarian versions of Mughlai delicacies, with rich gravies made of cashews, almonds, and cottage cheese.
7. Jalebi - This is a sweet treat made by deep-frying wheat flour batter in pretzel or circular shapes, which are then soaked in sugar syrup. Jalebi is vegetarian and typically served warm.
8. Gazak - A brittle and crunchy sweet made from sesame seeds or jaggery, often enjoyed during the winter months. Gazak is vegetarian and a specialty of Agra.
9. Paneer Dishes - Paneer (cottage cheese) is a common ingredient in Agra's vegetarian cuisine. Dishes like Shahi Paneer and Kadai Paneer are creamy and full of flavor.
10. Kachori Sabzi - This is a breakfast delicacy consisting of spicy kachoris served with a savoury potato curry. It is a vegetarian dish and is widely loved by locals and tourists alike.

Top Famous Restaurants in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India

• Pinch of Spice - This upscale restaurant is known for its North Indian Mughlai and Continental cuisine. It is located at Fatehabad Road, Agra. The vegetarian Paneer Lababdar here is a flavorful delight.
• Esphahan at The Oberoi Amarvilas - A luxurious dining option offering Mughlai and North Indian specialties. Located at Taj East Gate Road, the vegetarian delicacies like Dal Makhani are sumptuous.
• Lakshmi Vilas - A dining spot famous for its South Indian meals as well as for North Indian cuisine, located at Fatehabad Road, Agra. Its vegetarian thali is a hit among visitors.
• Joney's Place - This cozy eatery is popular with both locals and tourists for its delicious offerings. Located near Shilpgram, Taj Ganj, one must try their Malai Kofta, which is vegetarian.
• Dasaprakash - A restaurant well-known for its South Indian vegetarian cuisine, located in Shilpgram, Taj Ganj. Tourists often rave about their comforting dosas and uttapams.
• Shankara Vegis - This is a restaurant that offers delicious vegetarian food with a homely touch. Located at Shilpgram Road, their thalis and South Indian dishes are quite popular.
• Shankar Ji - For those looking for the authentic Agra street food experience, this is the place to be. Located at Chipitola Road, the Aloo Tikki and chaat here are unmatched.
• Peshawri - ITC Mughal - Offering a luxurious experience with a range of kebabs, curries, and breads, this place provides vegetarian versions of traditional Mughlai dishes. It is located at Taj Ganj.
• GMB Gopika Sweets - Known for its delicious Petha and other sweets, this place is a must-visit for those with a sweet tooth. It's located in Kinari Bazaar, Rawatpara, Agra.
• Deviram Sweets - Famous for its breakfast options such as Bedai and Jalebi, this establishment at Pratap Pura, Agra is a favorite among locals and tourists.