Varanasi isn’t just a spiritual journey—it’s a culinary one too. In the winding lanes of this ancient city, food is more than sustenance; it’s tradition, emotion, and celebration served on a plate. From age-old recipes passed down through generations to flavourful street-side innovations, Varanasi offers a unique blend of sweet, spicy, and soulful flavours.
Whether you're savoring a hot plate of kachori sabzi at dawn, sipping on a thick lassi near the ghats, or indulging in the delicate sweetness of Malaiyyo on a winter morning, each dish captures the essence of Banarasi culture. Get ready to explore the rich and diverse food scene of Varanasi—where every bite feels like a blessing.
A classic Varanasi breakfast! Deep-fried kachoris (stuffed with lentils or spiced dough) served with a tangy, spicy potato curry. Best enjoyed at a local street stall early in the morning.
Where to try: Ram Bhandar (Thatheri Bazaar)
Unique to Varanasi, this spicy-sweet chaat is made with mashed tomatoes, spices, ghee, and topped with sev and coriander. It’s a flavorful explosion unlike any other.
Where to try: Deena Chaat Bhandar
A traditional dish from eastern UP and Bihar, consisting of round wheat balls (baati) stuffed or plain, served with chokha (spiced mashed potato, brinjal, or tomato).
Where to try: Baati Chokha Restaurant (Teliyabagh)
A dreamy, frothy sweet dish made from milk and saffron, available only in winter mornings. It literally melts in your mouth!
Where to try: Streets of Chowk or Vishwanath Gali (only in winter)
