Food In Berhampur

Food History of Berhampur, Odisha, India

The food history of Berhampur, known locally as Brahmapur, is deeply rooted in Odia culture, with influences from South Indian cuisine due to its geographical proximity. The city, often hailed as the 'Silk City' for its famous silk saris, is equally renowned for its unique and delectable culinary offerings. The traditional cuisine here is characterized by the balance of flavors - a blend of sweetness and spice. Much of the food in Odisha, including Berhampur, is cooked in mustard oil which imparts a distinct taste to the dishes. Rice being a staple, is usually paired with an assortment of lentil-based dishes, vegetables, and a variety of seafood, given the coastal influence.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Berhampur for Tourists

1. Pakhala Bhata (Veg) - This is fermented rice soaked in water, often served with side dishes like fried or mashed vegetables. It's a soothing dish especially consumed to beat the summer heat.
2. Dalma (Veg) - A nutritious lentil dish prepared with a variety of vegetables and seasoned with roasted cumin and red chili; it’s a cornerstone in Odia meals.
3. Khatta (Veg) - A tangy side dish made from fruits like tomato, mango, or dried mango slices (ambula) complementing the main course.
4. Chungdi Malai (Non-Veg) - A creamy, coconut milk-based prawn curry which has rich flavors and a velvety texture.
5. Malpua (Veg) - A sweet pancake-like dessert made from flour and sugar, often enhanced with cardamom or fennel and dipped in syrup.
6. Jhili (Veg) - A soft and spongy sweet delicacy made of cottage cheese soaked in sugary syrup.
7. Aloo Dum (Veg) - A potently spiced potato dish that generally accompanies pooris or chapatis, it’s loved across age groups in Berhampur.
8. Pitha (Veg) - Various kinds of cakes or dumplings, such as Enduri Pitha or Chakuli Pitha, made especially during festivals or as part of ritualistic offerings.
9. Santula (Veg) - A lightly spiced vegetable stew that can be either fried (bhaja santula) or boiled (sijha santula), and is high on the health quotient.
10. Pohala Macha Bhaja (Non-Veg) - Fried Pohala fish, which is marinated with turmeric and salt, and fried until it is crisp and golden.

Top Famous Restaurants in Berhampur, Odisha, India

Hotel Ganesh Bhavan

Address: Baidyanathpur, Main Road, Berhampur

Famous Food: South Indian Thali (Veg)

Gupta's Restaurant

Address: Annapurna Market, Berhampur

Famous Food: Dalma (Veg)

Utkal Misthan Bhandar

Address: Giri Road, Berhampur

Famous Food: Malpua (Veg) and Jhili (Veg)

Sri Krishna Vilas

Address: Gajapati Nagar, Berhampur

Famous Food: Pakhala Bhata (Veg) with side dishes

Tara Tarini Restaurant

Address: Near Taratarini Temple, Berhampur

Famous Food: Chungdi Malai (Non-Veg)

Biriyani Box

Address: Christian Hospital Road, Berhampur

Famous Food: Chicken Biriyani (Non-Veg) – Although it's not mentioned here, it's worth noting for those who include chicken in their diet.

Note: The above-mentioned restaurants cater to a range of dietary preferences, including both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Though some famous local dishes may include fish or other non-vegetarian ingredients, there are abundant vegetarian options available that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Berhampur and Odisha.