Must-Try Foods In Odisha (India) For Tourists 2026

Food History of Odisha, India

The food of Odisha, also known as Oriya cuisine, is simple, subtle, and yet flavorful, reflecting the culinary tradition of the region. It is largely influenced by the state's agrarian culture and the religious practices of the local population. The historical Jagannath temple culture has also significantly influenced Odiya food, with the temple's kitchen known for its massive production of sacred meals called "Mahaprasad," which consists of vegetarian dishes offered to Lord Jagannath. Another important influence is the long coastline of the state, which adds a variety of seafood to the region's diet, although we are focusing on vegetarian options here.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Odisha, India

Dalma (Veg) - Dalma is a quintessential Odiya dish made with lentils and a mix of vegetables, simmered with pan-fried spices and often served with rice or roti. It's nutritious and a staple in Odia households.
Pakhala Bhata (Veg) - A comforting dish, it consists of fermented rice soaked in water, usually eaten with a side of pickles, fried or mashed vegetables (bharta), and sometimes, fried fish, although it's primarily vegetarian.
Aloo Dum (Veg) - Alok Dum is Odisha's spicy version of potato curry, which is typically enjoyed with puri or stuffed Indian bread like parathas and is widely available across the state.
Chhena Poda (Veg) - This is Odisha's own cheesecake made with chhena (cottage cheese), sugar, and nuts. It's baked to perfection and has a caramelized sugar crust on top.
Rasabali (Veg) - A popular sweet dish originating from Kendrapara district, Rasabali is deep-fried flattened chhena soaked in thickened, sweetened milk.
Khicede (Veg) - Served as a prasad at the Jagannath temple in Puri, Khicede is a holy mix of rice, lentils, and vegetables, cooked together and seasoned with minimal spices, symbolizing the simplicity of temple cuisine.
Santula (Veg) - A simple yet delightful vegetable stew, made with a variety of vegetables, lightly spiced, and often enjoyed with rice.
Pithas (Veg) - A variety of sweet and savory cakes that are either baked, steamed, fried, or pancake-style. Notable among them are Enduri Pitha and Chakuli Pitha.
Badi Chura (Veg) - Badi Chura is a combination of sun-dried lentil dumplings(crushed) mixed with chopped onion, garlic, green chilies, and mustard oil. It is a flavorful side dish that accompanies pakhala or rice.
Kanika (Veg) - A sweet rice dish, fragrant with the aromas of ghee and spices such as cardamom and cloves. Often a part of the offering to deities and served as prasad.

Top Famous Restaurants in Odisha, India

Dalma Restaurant: Address: 7A, Station Square, Kharabela Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751001; Famous Food: Dalma (Veg)
Zaika: Address: 113/B, Master Canteen Area, Unit-III, Kharabela Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751001; Famous Food: Paneer Tikka (Veg)
Moti Mahal Deluxe: Address: 86/A-1, Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Near Rajmahal Square, Ashok Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751009; Famous Food: Malai Kofta (Veg)
Nakli Dhaba: Address: Mayfair Lagoon, 8-B, Jayadev Vihar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751013; Famous Food: Bhindi Sambhariya (Veg)
Honey Bee Bakery & Pizzeria: Address: 363, Shaheed Nagar Rd, near Aakash Institute, Saheed Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751007; Famous Food: Veg Supreme Pizza (Veg)