Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest cities, is not only a spiritual haven but also a paradise for food lovers. The narrow alleys of this sacred city are brimming with food stalls and eateries serving some of the most delectable and unique local dishes. From piping hot kachoris to the sweet and tangy tamatar chaat, Varanasi’s street food is a gastronomic delight that cannot be missed. Here, we present the top 10 must-try local foods in Varanasi, ensuring that your taste buds embark on a memorable journey.
10 Local Foods in Varanasi
1. Kachori Sabzi – The Traditional Breakfast Delight
A trip to Varanasi is incomplete without indulging in the famous Kachori Sabzi. This local breakfast staple consists of crispy, deep-fried kachoris stuffed with lentils and served with a spicy, flavorful potato curry. You can find two types of kachoris – Badi Kachori, filled with lentil stuffing, and Choti Kachori, with a mildly spiced potato filling. Pairing them with a glass of lassi makes for a perfect breakfast experience.
Where to Try:
- Ram Bhandar, Thatheri Bazaar
- Madhur Milan, Dashashwamedh Road
2. Tamatar Chaat – A Burst of Flavors
Unlike any other chaat you have tasted before, Tamatar Chaat is a unique dish native to Varanasi. Prepared with mashed tomatoes, boiled potatoes, and a blend of exotic spices, it is garnished with fresh coriander, crispy namkeen, and a dollop of ghee. This tangy, spicy dish is an explosion of flavors and a must-try for street food lovers.
Where to Try:
- Kashi Chaat Bhandar, Godowlia
3. Malaiyyo – The Winter Specialty
A seasonal delicacy, Malaiyyo is an ethereal dessert available only during the winter months. Made by whisking sweetened milk for hours until it turns into a frothy, saffron-infused cloud-like delight, this dish is topped with nuts and served in a traditional earthen cup (kulhad). The light, airy texture makes it an unforgettable experience.
Where to Try:
- Godowlia and Chowk Areas
- Gopal Mandir Lane
4. Baati Chokha – The Rural Treat
Originating from the Bhojpuri belt, Baati Chokha is a simple yet delicious dish made of wheat flour balls (baati) stuffed with sattu (roasted gram flour) and served with a spicy mashed potato and brinjal mix (chokha). It is traditionally cooked over an open flame, giving it a smoky, rustic flavor.
Where to Try:
- Baati Chokha Restaurant, Teliyabagh
5. Choora Matar – A Banarasi Poha Variant
Choora Matar is Varanasi’s take on poha (flattened rice). Unlike the Maharashtrian version, it is prepared with ghee, fresh green peas, and mild spices, creating a rich, aromatic dish that is perfect for a light meal. Served with a side of yogurt and pickles, it is a dish that reflects the simplicity and wholesomeness of Banarasi cuisine.
Where to Try:
- Deena Chaat Bhandar, Dashashwamedh Ghat
6. Dahi Bhalla – A Creamy Delight
This popular street food consists of deep-fried lentil dumplings soaked in creamy yogurt and drizzled with sweet tamarind chutney, mint chutney, and a sprinkle of aromatic spices. The contrast of flavors makes Dahi Bhalla an irresistible dish.
Where to Try:
- Kashi Chaat Bhandar, Godowlia
7. Litti Chokha – The Bihari Influence
A dish deeply rooted in Bihar and eastern UP, Litti Chokha is a cousin of Baati Chokha but with a slightly different preparation. The littis are stuffed with sattu and baked over coal, giving them a crispy texture. Paired with chokha (mashed potatoes and eggplant), this dish is an absolute delight for lovers of traditional flavors.
Where to Try:
- Pahalwan Litti Bhandar, Assi Ghat
8. Thandai & Bhaang Thandai – The Refreshing Drink
Varanasi is synonymous with Thandai, a refreshing milk-based drink infused with saffron, dry fruits, and a mix of aromatic spices. Some versions include Bhaang Thandai, a special variant infused with cannabis, which is legally available at government-authorized shops, especially during Holi.
Where to Try:
- Blue Lassi Shop, Godowlia
- Baba Thandai, Chowk
9. Rabri Jalebi – The Ultimate Sweet Indulgence
A plate of crispy Jalebis dipped in sugar syrup, paired with thick, creamy Rabri, is an absolute treat. The combination of hot, syrupy jalebis with the chilled rabri creates a mouth-watering contrast that dessert lovers cannot resist.
Where to Try:
- Madhur Jalpan, Chowk
10. Banarasi Paan – The Cultural Symbol
No food journey in Varanasi is complete without trying the famous Banarasi Paan. Known for its rich flavors, it is made using betel leaves, areca nuts, and a variety of sweet and aromatic fillings. Whether you opt for the meetha (sweet) or sada (plain) paan, it is an experience that lingers long after you leave the city.
Where to Try:
- Keshav Paan Bhandar, Godowlia
- Rajendra Chaurasia Paan, Lanka
Conclusion: Local Foods in Varanasi – Best Street Food in Varanasi
Varanasi’s food culture is an integral part of its heritage. Whether you are a street food enthusiast, a dessert lover, or someone looking for authentic local cuisine, the flavors of Varanasi will leave you craving for more. Each dish tells a story of tradition, culture, and culinary expertise that has been preserved for generations.