Food In Varanasi

Food History of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Varanasi, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, is not only rich in its historical and spiritual legacy but also in its culinary traditions. The food culture here is deeply influenced by its religious and geographic aspects, reflecting a synthesis of flavors from various communities that thrived along the banks of the Ganges. Predominantly vegetarian due to the Hindu majority, the cuisine is known for its unique street foods and sweets, stemming from local crops like wheat and a variety of fresh vegetables. A diverse range of spices, local staples like rice and lentils, and a profusion of dairy products enhance the food palette of Varanasi, immersing travelers in its gastronomic richness.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Varanasi for Tourists

1. Kachori Sabzi - A traditional breakfast dish comprising spicy potato curry served with stuffed deep-fried bread. This dish is vegetarian.
2. Baati Chokha - Baked wheat balls served with mashed spicy vegetables, typically brinjal, and potatoes, making for a fulfilling meal. This dish is vegetarian.
3. Tamatar Chaat - A tangy and spicy chaat made with tomatoes, mixed with boiled potatoes, and topped with crispy namkeen and chutney. This dish is vegetarian.
4. Malaiyo - A frothy, creamy dairy dessert seasoned with saffron and cardamom, primarily available during the winter months. This dish is vegetarian.
5. Jalebi - A sweet, deep-fried, saffron-tinted spiral made of fermented batter and soaked in sugar syrup. This dish is vegetarian.
6. Thandai - A popular, refreshing drink made with milk, almonds, and a blend of spices, sometimes infused with bhaang (cannabis). This beverage is vegetarian.
7. Chena Dahi Vada - Lentil dumplings dipped in yogurt and garnished with spices and sweet tamarind chutney. This dish is vegetarian.
8. Rabri - A rich and creamy dessert made by condensing milk and garnishing it with nuts and saffron. This dish is vegetarian.
9. Langda Aloo - A chatpata (spicy) street snack made from boiled potatoes mixed with spices, tamarind chutney, and garnishing. This dish is vegetarian.
10. Dal Bati - Whole wheat balls cooked over firewood served with spicy dal (lentil soup), usually eaten with ghee. This dish is vegetarian.

Top Famous Restaurants in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

• Kashi Chat Bhandar - D-37/49 Baradev, Godowlia Road. Famous Food: Tamatar Chaat, Palak Chaat (Both vegetarian).
• Blue Lassi - CK 12/1, Kachori Gali, Chowk. Famous Food: A variety of Lassi flavors (All vegetarian).
• Deena Chat Bhandar - D-47/184, Ramapura Luxa, Near Kedar Ghat. Famous Food: Gol Gappa, Aloo Tikki (Both vegetarian).
• Baati Chokha Restaurant - B 1/128-3, Dumraun Bagh Colony, Assi. Famous Food: Baati Chokha (vegetarian).
• Shri Annapurna - Near Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Famous Food: Poori Sabzi, Jalebi (Both vegetarian).
• Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe - B-1/178, Assi Ghat. Famous Food: Wood-fired Pizza (vegetarian options available).
• Brown Bread Bakery - D 25/42, Pandey Ghat. Famous Food: Fresh Breads, Pies (Both vegetarian).
• Mark's Cafe - B1/201, Assi Ghat. Famous Food: Breakfast items like Pancakes, Omelettes (vegetarian options available).
• Vishnu Tea Emporium - Bangali Tola, Near Dasaswamedh Ghat. Famous Food: Variety of Chai (vegetarian).
• Dairy Corner - Lanka Road, Near BHU. Famous Food: Malaiyo, Lassi (Both vegetarian).