Food In Tirupati

Food History of Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India

The historic town of Tirupati is famous for its spiritual significance and its association with Lord Venkateswara Temple, which draws millions of pilgrims every year. The food in Tirupati is deeply influenced by the temple culture, with a strong tradition of vegetarianism to respect the Hindu dietary customs. Historically, the food served in the temple and the town has been satvik, which means it is made without the use of onions, garlic, or meat, aimed at maintaining the purity of the food served to the deity and the devotees.

Tirupati’s cuisine is also shaped by the Andhra culinary style, which is known for its rich flavors, spicy curries, and a wide variety of snacks and sweets. Over the centuries, the region has developed distinctive flavors that are not just limited to its iconic 'prasadam' (sacred food offered in the temple), but extends to the various eateries and local food experiences across the town.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India

1. Pulihora (Veg) - A tangy tamarind rice dish often given as prasadam in the temples of Andhra Pradesh.
2. Daddojanam (Veg) - A yoghurt-based rice dish that’s similar to curd rice, often used as prasadam in temples.
3. Vada (Veg) - A savory fried snack made from dal, spices and often served with a side of coconut chutney.
4. Pongal (Veg) - A comforting dish made from rice and moong dal, seasoned with cumin and pepper.
5. Laddu (Veg) - The famous Tirumala Laddu prasadam from the Lord Venkateswara Temple is a must-try. It is a sweet spherical delicacy made of gram flour, sugar, and ghee, with added cashews and cardamom powder.
6. Rava Kesari (Veg) - A sweet semolina pudding usually flavoured with saffron and has a vibrant orange or yellow color.
7. Andhra Thali (Veg) - A platter that includes a variety of different vegeterian dishes from Andhra cuisine, like rice, dal, curries, pickles, papad, and sweet.
8. Tomato Rice (Veg) - Spicy and tangy rice dish made with ripe tomatoes and aromatic spices.
9. Mirapakaya Bajji (Veg) - Chilli bajji is a hot favorite street snack where large green chillies are dipped in gram flour batter and fried.
10. Kaja (Veg) - A traditional sweet snack made from maida flour, deep-fried and soaked in sugar syrup.

Top Famous Restaurants in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India

1. Andhra Spice

   Address: 13-6-252, Peddakapu Layout, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh

   Famous Food: Gongura Mutton (Non-Veg) - However, as per your requirements not including cow non-veg food, there are also great vegetarian options like Paneer Tikka (Veg) and Gongura Pappu (Veg).

2. Maurya Restaurant

   Address: 330, G Car Street, Opp. Govindaraja Swamy Temple, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh

   Famous Food: South Indian Platters (Veg) and Thali Meals (Veg)

3. Hyderabad House

   Address: 183, Prakasam Road, Tata Nagar, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh

   Famous Food: Biryani Varieties (Non-Veg) - Given the restrictions, they also offer flavorful Vegetable Dum Biryani (Veg) and Paneer Butter Masala (Veg).

4. Hotel Mayura

   Address: Near APSRTC Bus Stand, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh

   Famous Food: Special South Indian Meals (Veg) and Curd Rice (Veg)

5. Saarangi Fine Dine Restaurant

   Address: 19-9-1A, Near Srinivasam Complex, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh

   Famous Food: Chettinadu Veg Curry (Veg) and Masala Dosa (Veg)