Food In Konark

Food History of Konark, Odisha, India

The cuisine of Odisha, which Konark is a significant part of, has a rich culinary tradition with influences from both religious practices and the region's natural bounty. The diet often consists of rice, a staple of the area, along with a variety of lentils, vegetables, and leafy greens. Due to the coastal location, seafood also features prominently. The food traditionally tends toward the less spicy yet flavorful, with a generous use of local spices and Panch Phutana—a mix of five seeds that provide a distinct aroma and taste. Konark’s cuisine has been greatly influenced by the temple food culture, known as 'Mahaprasad', served in the Jagannath Temple in nearby Puri.

Top 10 Food Dishes in Konark, Odisha for Tourists

1. Dalma - A traditional dish made with lentils and a mix of vegetables, flavored with a light blend of spices. It is a vegetarian dish that’s nutritious and essential to Odishan cuisine.
2. Chhena Poda - Often referred to as the cheese dessert of Odisha, this sweet dish is made from caramelized cheese and is a vegetarian delicacy.
3. Pakhala Bhata - A fermented rice dish served with fried or mashed vegetables. This vegetarian dish is especially popular in the summer to beat the heat.
4. Kanika - A type of sweet pulao that is fragrant and contains a hint of sweetness. It is made with rice, ghee, and sugar and is a vegetarian dish.
5. Santula - A simple and healthy vegetable curry made from boiled/roasted vegetables which is vegetarian and known for its nutrition.
6. Prawn Malai Curry - A creamy and rich curry made with prawns and coconut milk. This is a non-vegetarian dish known for its divine taste.
7. Chungdi Jhola - A spicy gravy dish made with prawns and customarily enjoyed with rice. This non-vegetarian curry is a must-try for seafood lovers.
8. Khicede - A holy dish that is usually served in the Jagannath temple. This is a simple, yet divine mix of rice, lentils, and vegetables, making it vegetarian.
9. Besan ka Cheela - A savory pancake made from chickpea flour mixed with spices and vegetables. It is vegetarian and can be served as breakfast or a snack.
10. Aloo Dum - A spicy and tangy potato curry that can be enjoyed on its own or with roti or puri. This dish is vegetarian.

Top Famous Restaurants in Konark, Odisha

1. Chandrabhaga Restaurant

   Address: Near Konark beach, Konark, Odisha

   Famous for: Dalma (Vegetarian)

2. Konark Grand

   Address: Near Sun Temple, Konark, Odisha

   Famous for: Chhena Poda (Vegetarian)

3. Labanya Restaurant

   Address: Marine Drive Road, Konark, Odisha

   Famous for: Prawn Malai Curry (Non-Vegetarian)

4. Yummy India Restaurant

   Address: Konark Sun Temple, Konark, Odisha

   Famous for: Aloo Dum (Vegetarian)

5. Sea Inn Konark

   Address: Near Ramchandi Beach, Konark-Puri Marine Drive Road, Konark, Odisha

   Famous for: Chungdi Jhola (Non-Vegetarian)

Note for travelers: Reflecting the local custom and religious beliefs, finding pure vegetarian and 'satvik' food in Konark is quite common, while seafood is also a major attraction given the coastal geography of the region.