7 Indian cities known for their street food delights: A feast of flavours

Mumbai: India’s vibrant food culture is incomplete without the mention of its diverse street food, which is an integral part of everyday life. From the bustling lanes of Delhi to the coastal streets of Mumbai, each city offers its unique culinary delights, blending flavours, spices, and traditions. These street foods are not only loved by locals but also attract food lovers from across the globe.

Here’s a journey through seven Indian cities that are famous for their delicious street food offerings, each with its signature dishes that you simply can’t miss.

1. Delhi: The Street Food Capital

Delhi’s street food is renowned for its diverse and bold flavours. Wander through Chandni Chowk, where you’ll find Golgappas (pani puri) that explode with tangy goodness or savour the indulgence of stuffed Parathas. Don’t leave without trying Aloo Tikki, Chole Bhature, and the mouth-watering Daulat ki Chaat. The rich diversity makes Delhi a must-visit for any street food enthusiast.

Old Delhi, in particular, is a haven for foodies, with narrow lanes bustling with food vendors serving delicious treats that have been passed down through generations.

2. Kolkata: A Sweet and Savoury Paradise

As India’s cultural capital, Kolkata’s street food is just as iconic as its arts. You must try Kathi Rolls, stuffed with chicken or egg or mutton, alongside spicy Puchkas (the Kolkata version of pani puri) and Jhalmuri, a puffed rice snack that’s perfect on the go. The city is also famous for its sweets, with Rasgulla and Sandesh being must-try desserts.

3. Lucknow: A Taste of Royalty

Known for its Mughal-influenced cuisine, Lucknow’s street food offers flavours that are both rich and traditional. The city’s Tunday Kebabs are legendary, made with minced meat and a secret blend of spices. Hazratganj is where you’ll find Awadhi-style Biryani, while basket chaat offers a perfect mix of crunch and spice. Hazratganj and Aminabad are two areas in Lucknow where you can experience the true essence of the city’s street food.

4. Amritsar: Heart of Punjabi Flavours

Amritsar, the heart of Punjab, is known for its rich and hearty street food. Start your day with the city’s legendary Amritsari Kulcha, stuffed bread served with chole (chickpea curry). As you explore the streets, don’t miss out on Lassi, a refreshing yoghurt drink, and the famous Aloo Tikki chaat. The flavours are robust, reflecting the vibrant culture of the region, making every bite an experience in itself.

5. Hyderabad: The City of Nizami Delights

Hyderabad is renowned for its royal Nizami cuisine, and its street food is equally remarkable. The city’s crown jewel, Hyderabadi Biryani, is a must-try for food lovers. Other street food delicacies include Keema Samosa, Irani Chai, and Osmania biscuits, which you can find in the bustling streets of Old Hyderabad.  The Charminar area is particularly known for its street food.

6. Indore: A Fusion of Flavours

With its culinary influences rooted in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, Indore is hailed as one of the best street food destinations in India. The city’s street food is a vibrant fusion of flavours that will leave you craving more! The heart of Indore’s street food scene is the bustling Sarafa Bazaar. Here, you can indulge in a variety of mouth-watering snacks, each offering a unique taste experience.

From the melt-in-your-mouth Dahi Badas at Joshi Dahi Bada House to the tangy Khatta Samosas at Swadisht Samosa Corner, every bite is a treat. Don’t miss out on the Sabudana Khichdi at Sawariya Seth and the crispy Khopra Patties at Vijay Chat House. For a refreshing drink, try the iconic Indori Shikanji – a surprising blend of milk, dry fruits, and buttermilk, topped with a special sweetness, unlike the typical lemon and water version. End your food journey on a sweet note with desserts like deep-fried Malpuas, giant Jalebas, and Hapus ice cream paired with Shrikhand. The old streets of Indore are brimming with these timeless delicacies, making the city a paradise for food lovers.

7. Surat: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Surat is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide range of street food that reflects its rich culinary heritage. Known for its unique combination of flavours—sweet, spicy, and tangy—Surat’s street food is a true reflection of the city’s vibrant culture.

One must-try dish is the iconic Locho, a soft, savoury snack made from ground lentils and topped with sev and chutney and the iconic Khaman, a fluffy and tangy Gujarati delight. Another local favourite is Undhiyu, a seasonal mixed vegetable dish cooked in earthen pots, which is typically enjoyed with puris. The Surti Sev Khamani, made from crumbled khaman topped with spicy sev and pomegranate seeds, is another flavorful option not to be missed.

If you’re craving sweets, Surat’s Ghari is a must-try. It’s a rich dessert made of mawa, ghee, and sugar, available in various flavours like pistachio and almond. To quench your thirst, try the cold Badam Pista Milk sold by roadside vendors, which is refreshing and nourishing. Finally, no trip to Surat would be complete without a taste of Ponk, a winter delicacy made of tender green jowar grains, roasted and enjoyed with spices or sev.

Apart from this, the city offers the best innovative egg dishes, ice cream varieties, pani-puris and whatnot. If you want to delight your taste buds, try everything Surat’s street has to offer from amazing varieties in momos to pizza to mocktails and even vada pav and frankies.

The street food scene in Surat is not only a reflection of its cultural diversity but also a testament to the city’s ability to blend tradition with innovation.

India’s street food culture is an exciting blend of regional flavours, local ingredients, and traditional recipes. Each city has its signature dishes that not only satisfy the palate but also tell a story of its history, people, and way of life.

Whether you’re a fan of spicy snacks, savoury delights, or sweet treats, the street food across these seven cities is a must-try for anyone who wants to explore the true essence of Indian cuisine. So, the next time you travel to one of these cities, make sure to dive into the vibrant street food scene and enjoy the culinary wonders it has to offer.