Must-Try Foods In Indore (Madhya Pradesh) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India

Indore, the bustling city of Madhya Pradesh, is not only known for its historical monuments and vibrant culture but also for its rich and diverse culinary heritage. The food history of Indore is influenced by the Maratha, Rajput, and Mughal reigns, which have left an indelible mark on the local cuisine. The city thrives on its street food culture, which has been a significant part of the local lifestyle for centuries. Additionally, the trading routes that passed through the region brought a variety of spices and cooking techniques which amalgamated into the unique taste Indore offers today.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Indore for Tourists

1. Poha Jalebi - (Veg): A delightful combination of soft flattened rice (Poha) and crispy, sweet jalebis is a quintessential breakfast in Indore.
2. Bhutte ka Kees - (Veg): This dish is made from grated corn cooked with milk and spices, a monsoon specialty of the region.
3. Shikanji - (Veg): Not to be confused with the nimbu paani or lemonade found elsewhere, Indore's shikanji is a spiced milk-based drink, laden with dry fruits and saffron.
4. Kachori - (Veg): These are deep-fried pastries filled with spiced lentils or potatoes, and Indore serves up some of the most delectable varieties.
5. Sabudana Khichdi - (Veg): Indore’s version of sabudana khichdi is well seasoned and often enjoyed during fasting periods, yet it remains a staple snack.
6. Dal Bafla - (Veg): A variant of the popular Rajasthani dish, dal bati, Bafla is a wheat dough ball that’s boiled before being baked and served with daal (lentil curry) and ghee.
7. Samosa - (Veg): Indore's samosa, larger than usual and filled with a spicy mixture of potatoes and peas, is a popular tea-time snack across the city.
8. Garadu - (Veg): Deep-fried yam chunks seasoned with spices, Garadu is a winter specialty and a much-loved street snack in Indore.
9. Indori Namkeen - (Veg): A variety of salty, spicy, and crunchy snacks that have a place of pride in Indore's culinary scene.
10. Malpua - (Veg): Indore serves up some of the richest malpuas, an Indian pancake soaked in sugar syrup and often eaten with creamy rabri.

Top Famous Restaurants in Indore

Sarafa Bazaar

Address: Sarafa Bazar, Rajwada, Indore

Famous Food: Chaat Varieties, Poha Jalebi, Bhutte Ka Kees (All Veg)

Chappan Dukan

Address: New Palasia, Indore

Famous Food: Variety of Snacks, Indo-Western Fast Food (Both Veg and Non-Veg Available)

Shreemaya Celebrity

Address: R.N.T. Marg, Indore

Famous Food: Indian Platter, Continental Cuisine (Both Veg and Non-Veg Available)

Apna Sweets

Address: Multiple Outlets

Famous Food: Traditional Sweets, Chaat, Samosa (All Veg)

Johny Hot Dog

Address: 56 Dukan Street, Indore

Famous Food: Veg and Egg Banjos (Vegetarian and Egg Variants Available)

The Square - Sayaji Hotel

Address: H/1, Scheme No.54, Vijay Nagar, Indore

Famous Food: Buffet Spread (Both Veg and Non-Veg Available)

Nafees Bakery

Address: Old Palasia, Indore

Famous Food: Baked Goodies (Both Veg and Non-Veg Available)

Hotel Guru Kripa

Address: South Tukoganj, Indore

Famous Food: Shahi Paneer, Dal Makhani (All Veg)

Madhuram Sweets

Address: Yeshwant Road, Indore

Famous Food: Sweets and Namkeen (All Veg)

Guru Kripa

Address: Sarwate Bus Stand Area, Indore

Famous Food: Poha and Jalebi (All Veg)