Food In Guwahati

Food History of Guwahati, Assam, India

The food of Guwahati is deeply tied to the rich cultural heritage and diverse ethnicity of Assam. Historically, the cuisine is influenced by various tribes and communities of the region, including the largest group, the Assamese. The staple ingredients revolve around rice, fish, and an assortment of leafy greens and herbs unique to the region, known for their distinctive flavors and health benefits. The traditional methods of food preparation in Guwahati often involve slow cooking, fermentation, and the use of bamboo shoots. Over time, the food here has also been influenced by neighboring states and countries, integrating elements from Bengali, Nepalese, and Burmese cuisines.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Guwahati

1. Khaar – A unique non-veg Assamese dish made primarily from raw papaya, pulses, and a key ingredient called 'khaar' - an alkaline extract from the ashes of sun-dried banana peels.
2. Masor Tenga – A tangy fish curry dish that's a staple in Assamese cuisine. It's light and sour, typically made with local fish varieties, and best enjoyed with rice.
3. Aloo Pitika – A simple yet beloved vegetarian dish, Aloo Pitika is smashed potatoes mixed with mustard oil, onions, coriander, and chillies, resembling a rustic form of mashed potatoes.
4. Assamese Thali – A platter (non-veg or veg depending on the selection) showcasing an array of dishes that give diners a taste of the full spectrum of Assamese cuisine.
5. Pitha – A traditional Assamese snack, Pithas are typically sweet, made from rice flour and can be both steamed or fried, filled with ingredients like coconut or jaggery (vegetarian).
6. Tekeli Pitha – Another variety of Pitha, these are steam-cooked on a kettle lid and can have sweet or savoury fillings (vegetarian).
7. Ja Tenga – A vegetarian sour dish prepared with tomatoes, outenga (elephant apple), and other ingredients that give it a distinctive flavor.
8. Bamboo Shoot Fry – Made from tender bamboo shoots, this dish is often enjoyed as a savory snack or a side; its vegetarian and packs a punch of flavors.
9. Luchi – Deep-fried flatbreads made from fine maida flour that puff up when cooked (vegetarian). They are similar to the North Indian ‘Poori’ and are often eaten as a breakfast item or a snack.
10. Bhapa Ilish – Although a Bengali dish, Bhapa Ilish has made a comfortable home in Guwahati. It consists of Hilsa fish steamed with mustard paste and is a non-vegetarian delight savored by the locals.

Top Famous Restaurants in Guwahati with Address and Famous Food

1. Paradise Restaurant
   Address: G.S Road, Shillong - Guwahati Hwy, Lachit Nagar, Guwahati, Assam
   Famous Food: Masor Tenga (non-veg)
2. Gam's Delicacy Restaurant
   Address: MD Shah Road, Paltan Bazaar, Dighalipukhri East, Guwahati, Assam
   Famous Food: Assamese Thali (available in both veg and non-veg options)
3. Maihang
   Address: Bhangagarh Flyover, ganeshguri, Guwahati, Assam
   Famous Food: Khaar (non-veg)
4. Khorikaa
   Address: GNB Rd, Dighalipukhuri, Guwahati, Assam
   Famous Food: Duck Roast (non-veg)
5. Heritage Khorikaa
   Address: Chandmari, Guwahati, Assam
   Famous Food: Bamboo Shoot Fry (veg)
6. Bhut Jolokia
   Address: Roodraksh Mall, Bhangagarh, Guwahati, Assam
   Famous Food: Bhoot Jolokia Chicken (non-veg) - Note: The restaurant's name is derived from the famously spicy Assamese chili but they also offer vegetarian dishes.
7. Parampara Paradise
   Address: RG Baruah Road, Guwahati, Assam
   Famous Food: Aloo Pitika (veg)
8. The Morung
   Address: Opposite Goswami Service, GNB Rd, Silpukhri, Guwahati, Assam
   Famous Food: Naga Cuisine Platter (offers both veg and non-veg options)