Food In Nainital

Food History of Nainital, Uttarakhand, India

Nainital, located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, is known for its diverse cuisine that largely reflects the culinary traditions of the Kumaoni people. The staple food usually consists of rice and dal (lentils), accompanied by vegetables and roti (flatbread). This hilly region's diet is adjusted to the cool climate and includes a variety of pulses, millets, and grains. Traditional food habits in Nainital revolve around locally sourced ingredients, including a variety of lentils, soya beans, and potatoes. The cuisine is typically high in fiber and nutritionally rich but low in fat, as it utilizes a minimal amount of oil and spices.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Nainital

1. Aloo Ke Gutke (Veg) - A spicy dish made from boiled potatoes, sautéed with local herbs and spices, which is a popular snack.
2. Ras (Veg) - A creamy lentil dish often prepared during festivals and important gatherings, served with rice or roti.
3. Bhatt Ki Churdkani (Veg) - A rich and heavy dish made with black bhatt (a type of soybean) and thick gravy, enjoyed particularly during the winters.
4. Gahat Ki Dal (Veg) - Also known as Kulath dal, it is a nutritious lentil soup made from horse gram, which is reputed to have health benefits.
5. Arsa (Veg) - A sweet, puffed rice cake made with jaggery, a traditional dessert loved by locals and visitors alike.
6. Baadi (Veg) - Made from Kwada ka aata (a type of chaulai flour), often served with gahat dal or bhatt ki dal.
7. Kumaoni Raita (Veg) - A refreshing side dish prepared with cucumber and yogurt, flavored with mustard seeds.
8. Kandalee Ka Saag (Veg) - A green leafy vegetable dish prepared from a local plant known as Hempseed leaves, a delicacy of Kumaon.
9. Singodi (Veg) - A sweet delicacy made from khoa (milk solids), coconut, and wrapped in a maalu leaf, giving it a distinctive flavor.
10. Bal Mithai (Veg) - A famous sweet of the region, it is made from roasted khoa coated with white sugar balls.

Top Famous Restaurants in Nainital, Uttarakhand, India

1. Sakley's Restaurant & Pastry Shop

   Address: Mallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand

   Famous Food: Freshly baked pastries and cakes (Veg)

2. Zooby's Kitchen

   Address: Mall Road, Nainital, Uttarakhand

   Famous Food: Indian and Chinese vegetarian delicacies (Veg)

3. Café LakeSide

   Address: Mall Road, Nainital, Uttarakhand

   Famous Food: Wood fire pizza and coffee (Veg)

4. Giannis Pure Veg

   Address: Mall Road, Opposite Naina Devi Temple, Nainital, Uttarakhand

   Famous Food: North Indian Thalis and South Indian cuisine (Veg)

5. Machan Restaurant

   Address: The Mall, Nainital, Uttarakhand

   Famous Food: Paneer dishes and regional Kumaoni cuisine (Veg)

6. Tip Top Restaurant

   Address: Mall Road, Nainital, Uttarakhand

   Famous Food: Indian, Chinese and Continental vegetarian dishes (Veg)

7. Boat House Club

   Address: Nainital Boat House Club, The Mall, Nainital, Uttarakhand

   Famous Food: An array of delicious vegetarian snacks and main courses (Veg)