Guntur, located in the state of Andhra Pradesh, is renowned for its spicy and flavorful food. The history of Guntur’s cuisine is deeply intertwined with the agricultural practices and cultural influences of the region. It is particularly famous for its chilli production which is evident in the local cuisine that prominently features a variety of chillies. The city’s food incorporates both the traditional tastes of the Telugu people and influences from its historical trade connections.
The staple food items include rice, lentils, and an array of vegetables and greens. The culinary practices were also influenced by the rule of the Mauryas, Chalukyas, and later the Mughals, bringing a diverse palate of flavors and ingredients to Guntur's food culture.
1. Pulihora (Vegetarian) - A tangy tamarind rice dish flavored with curry leaves, mustard seeds, and dry chillies.
2. Pesarattu (Vegetarian) - A crispy pancake made from green gram, served usually with ginger chutney.
3. Gongura Pachadi (Vegetarian) - A spicy chutney made from Roselle leaves which is a staple side dish in meals.
4. Ulava Charu (Vegetarian) - A traditional soup made from horsegram, known for its rich taste and health benefits.
5. Biryani (Goat or Chicken) - Aromatic rice dish cooked with spices, marinated goat or chicken, making it an exquisite non-vegetarian feast.
6. Punugulu (Vegetarian) - Deep-fried snack made from idli or dosa batter, often served with chutneys or sambar.
7. Mirapakaya Bajji (Vegetarian) - Chilli fritters made by batter-frying banana peppers, a popular street food.
8. Kobbari Burelu (Vegetarian) - Coconut and jaggery stuffed sweet dumplings, a festive delicacy.
9. Andhra Chicken Curry (Chicken) - A spicy curry made with local spices and herbs, cooked in a traditional Andhra style.
10. Bobbatlu (Vegetarian) - Sweet flatbreads stuffed with lentil and jaggery filling, usually served during festivals.
Grand Nagarjuna Restaurant
Address: 4/1, Brodipet, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh 522002
Famous Food: Andhra Thali (Vegetarian)
7 Biryanis
Address: 5th Lane, Main Road, Arundelpet, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh 522002
Famous Food: Biryani (Goat or Chicken)
Spice N Ice Restaurant
Address: 11-1-1, Naaz Centre, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh 522001
Famous Food: Pesarattu Upma (Vegetarian)
Swagath Restaurant
Address: 5/2, Arundelpet, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh 522002
Famous Food: Mirapakaya Bajji (Vegetarian)
Coastal Spice Kitchen
Address: 1st Lane, Guntur Vari Thota, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh 522001
Famous Food: Seafood varieties (Fish and Prawn)
Break Point Restaurant
Address: Inner Ring Road, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh 522006
Famous Food: Multi-cuisine delicacies (Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian)
Please note that while Guntur is famous for its non-vegetarian dishes, especially chicken and seafood, cow meat is not commonly used in Andhra cuisine due to cultural and religious considerations.