17 Best Street Foods in Varanasi You Must Try in 2024

Are you looking for the best street foods in Varanasi? If so, you’ve come to the right place.

As a local who resides in Uttar Pradesh, home to the amazing Varanasi city, I perfectly know what are the must-try street foods in Varanasi.

Varanasi, the spiritual and cultural capital of India, is not only known for its tourist attractions as vibrant ghats and ancient temples but also for its mouthwatering street foods. The city’s bustling streets are a gastronomic paradise, offering a diverse array of flavors and delicacies that can tantalize any food lover’s taste buds.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best street foods in Varanasi that this city has to offer, ensuring that you can relish these delectable treats while visiting the city.

Suggested – 7 Best Food Tours in Varanasi

Is Street Food in Varanasi Safe to Eat?

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Before diving into the delectable world of Varanasi’s street foods, you might be wondering about the safety of consuming street delicacies. Rest assured, Varanasi’s street food scene is generally safe, but like any other place, it is essential to exercise some precautions.

To ensure a safe culinary experience, opt for street vendors with a high volume of customers, as this indicates the food is fresh and popular. Observe the hygiene practices of the vendor and the cleanliness of the cooking area.

Additionally, it is advisable to avoid raw or undercooked foods, and instead, focus on hot and freshly prepared items. By following these guidelines, you can savor the deliciousness of Varanasi’s street foods without any worries.

“Varanasi Street Food Crawl” is my favorite food tour in Varanasi.

Best Street Foods in Varanasi

1. Kachori

Kachori, a beloved street food in Varanasi, is a deep-fried pastry that tantalizes the senses with its crispy texture and flavorful fillings. Whether it’s the spiced lentil mixture or the savory potato filling, each bite offers a burst of delightful flavors that keep food enthusiasts coming back for more.

This delectable treat is a popular breakfast option, and you can find vendors selling piping hot kachoris in almost every nook and cranny of the city.

2. Puri Sabzi

Puri Sabzi is a classic combination of fluffy, puffed bread (Puri) served with a delicious side of potato curry (Sabzi). This popular dish graces the plates of households and street food vendors, adding to the vibrant tapestry of cuisines in Varanasi.

The harmonious blend of spices and flavors in Puri Sabzi tantalizes taste buds and leaves a lasting impression on those who indulge in this hearty meal.

3. Chhena Dahi Vada

A unique twist on the traditional Dahi Vada, Chhena Dahi Vada showcases soft and spongy dumplings made from fresh cottage cheese (Chhena). These dumplings are lovingly soaked in creamy yogurt, garnished with spices, and served as a refreshing delight.

As a popular sweet and savory treat, Chhena Dahi Vada is an absolute must-try in Varanasi, symbolizing the diversity and creativity of the city’s street food scene.

4. Paan

No exploration of street foods in Varanasi is complete without indulging in the iconic Banarasi Paan. This betel leaf preparation is not just a mouth freshener but an integral part of the cultural fabric of the city.

With various fillings like gulkand, saffron, and sweet or savory ingredients, each paan offers a unique sensory experience that is deeply rooted in tradition.

5. Malaiyyo

As the winter breeze sweeps through the city, Malaiyyo emerges as a seasonal delight that captivates locals and visitors alike.

This frothy, creamy milk-based dessert is garnished with saffron, cardamom, and pistachios, making it a heavenly indulgence that melts in your mouth.

6. Thandai

Thandai, a traditional beverage with a cooling touch, holds a special place in Varanasi’s culinary heritage.

This flavorful milk-based drink is infused with dry fruits, spices, and herbs, and is particularly relished during festivals and religious celebrations.

7. Baati Chokha

Originating from Bihar, Baati Chokha has found its way into the heart of Varanasi’s street food scene. Baati, a round, baked bread, is served with chokha—a spicy blend of roasted eggplant, tomatoes, and potatoes.

This rustic dish pays homage to the regional flavors and adds a delightful twist to Varanasi’s diverse culinary landscape.

8. Peda

Peda is a delightful milk-based sweet, served in bite-sized portions, and adorned with various flavors and nutty garnishes. A beloved souvenir and a favored treat among locals, Peda adds to the array of traditional sweets that Varanasi proudly presents.

Each bite of Peda embodies the city’s rich culinary heritage and the skillful craftsmanship of its confectioners.

9. Lassi

Lassi, a yogurt-based drink available in classic, mango, or rose flavors, is a refreshing beverage enjoyed throughout the year in Varanasi.

As one of the popular beverages, Lassi highlights the prominence of dairy in the city’s culinary landscape and exemplifies the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation in Varanasi’s street foods.

10. Rabri Jalebi

Rabri Jalebi offers the best of both worlds—the creamy and sweetened condensed milk (Rabri) served alongside crispy, coiled jalebis. The combination of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable culinary experience.

As one of the best street foods in Varanasi, Rabri Jalebi embodies the city’s passion for indulgent sweets.

11. Samosa Chaat

Samosa Chaat is an innovative take on the traditional samosa, where the crispy pastry is broken into pieces and generously topped with spicy chickpea curry, yogurt, chutneys, and crunchy sev.

This mouthwatering fusion of flavors and textures epitomizes the inventive spirit of Varanasi’s street food scene.

12. Golgappa/Pani Puri

Golgappa, also known as Pani Puri in some regions, is a quintessential Indian street food that has found its place in Varanasi’s culinary landscape.

These hollow, crispy puris are filled with a tangy, spicy tamarind water and a mixture of chickpeas, potatoes, and spices. Each bite is an explosion of flavors, capturing the essence of street foods in Varanasi.

13. Aloo Tikki Chaat

Aloo Tikki Chaat is a popular snack featuring spiced potato patties (Aloo Tikki) served with chickpea curry, yogurt, and an assortment of chutneys.

This delightful blend of flavors and textures showcases the creativity and artistry of Varanasi’s street food vendors.

14. Chai (Tea) and Pakoras

A classic combination, Chai (Tea) and Pakoras are a comforting treat, especially during the monsoon season.

Savor a hot cup of spiced tea alongside crispy, deep-fried pakoras (fritters), a favorite among locals seeking warmth and flavor.

15. Ghugni

Ghugni is a popular street food in Varanasi, featuring spiced black chickpeas cooked to perfection.

Garnished with onions, tomatoes, and green chilies, this savory dish offers a delightful medley of flavors that delights food enthusiasts.

16. Baati Ki Khichdi

Baati Ki Khichdi, a soul-warming winter dish, offers a hearty blend of rice, lentils, and spices. As the temperature dips, savoring this comforting meal amidst the city’s charming winter ambiance is an experience that warms the heart.

17. Lavanglata

Lavanglata, a sweet delicacy with the enchanting aroma and taste of cloves (lavang), is an irresistible treat for those with a penchant for unique flavors.

Made from flour, sugar syrup, and aromatic spices, Lavanglata exemplifies the inventive side of Varanasi’s culinary offerings.

Tips for Trying Street Foods in Varanasi

Explore Busy and Popular Areas – Look for bustling streets and crowded food stalls. These areas are likely to offer a variety of delicious street foods and have a high turnover, ensuring freshness.

Embrace Local Specialties – Varanasi is known for its unique street food delicacies. Don’t miss out on trying famous dishes like “Kachori Sabzi,” “Tamatar Chaat,” and “Malaiyyo.” Embracing the local specialties will give you an authentic taste of the city’s culinary culture.

Hygiene Matters – Before indulging in any street food, pay attention to the hygiene of the food stalls. Opt for vendors who maintain clean cooking practices, use fresh ingredients, and follow proper food handling techniques.

Go Where the Locals Go – Follow the locals’ lead and head to the street food stalls they frequent. Locals know the best spots for delicious and safe street food options. Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation and ask for their recommendations.

Sample Assorted Sweets – Varanasi is famous for its mouthwatering sweets. Treat yourself to a variety of traditional desserts like “Malai Peda,” “Rasgulla,” and “Lassi.” Each sweet offers a unique taste that reflects the city’s rich culinary heritage.

Beware of Spice Levels – Varanasi’s street food can be flavorful and spicy. If you’re sensitive to spice, communicate your preferences to the vendor, and they’ll be happy to adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.

Avoid Tap Water – When trying street food, avoid consuming anything with tap water, including ice. Stick to bottled water to stay hydrated and safe from waterborne illnesses.

Try Regional Snacks – Indulge in regional snacks like “Chaat,” “Pani Puri,” and “Aloo Tikki.” These savory delights offer a burst of flavors and textures that are unique to Varanasi.

Eat Fresh and Hot – Street food in Varanasi is best enjoyed when fresh and hot. Eat your food as soon as it’s served to relish the crispiness and aroma of the dishes.

Trust Your Instincts – If something doesn’t seem right or if you have doubts about the quality of a particular stall, it’s best to skip it and look for another option. Trust your instincts and prioritize your well-being while exploring the street food scene in Varanasi.

Conclusion – Best Varanasi Street Foods

Varanasi’s street foods are not just meals; they are experiences that weave together the tapestry of the city’s culture and heritage. Each bite tells a story of the city’s past and present, making the culinary journey through Varanasi’s streets a truly unforgettable one.

So, loosen your waistbands and let your taste buds embark on an extraordinary adventure of flavors, as Varanasi’s street foods invite you to a banquet of tastes, textures, and traditions that will linger in your memory long after you leave this mystical city.

I personally love the Varanasi Street Food Crawl food tour in Varanasi.

FAQs – Best Varanasi Street Foods

1. What are the must-try street foods in Varanasi?

Varanasi is famous for its diverse street food offerings. Some of the must-try dishes include Kachori, Puri Sabzi, Chhena Dahi Vada, Tamatar Chaat, Paan, Malaiyyo, Thandai, Baati Chokha, Peda, Lassi, Rabri Jalebi, Golgappa/Pani Puri, Aloo Tikki Chaat, and many more.

2. Are the street foods in Varanasi safe to eat?

Yes, the street foods in Varanasi are generally safe to eat. However, it’s essential to choose vendors who maintain good hygiene practices and have a clean cooking area. Opt for freshly prepared, hot dishes to minimize any health risks.

3. What kind of cuisine is popular in Varanasi?

Varanasi is renowned for its vegetarian cuisine. The street foods here primarily focus on an array of flavorful and aromatic vegetarian dishes, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the city.

4. Can I find non-vegetarian street food options in Varanasi?

While Varanasi is predominantly known for its vegetarian street foods, some eateries and food stalls may offer limited non-vegetarian options. However, the city’s culinary identity is firmly rooted in its vegetarian delights.

5. Where can I find the best street food in Varanasi?

The bustling streets around the ghats, especially near Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Dashashwamedh Ghat, are prime locations to explore and savor the authentic flavors of Varanasi’s street foods.

6. Are there any international cuisines available as street food in Varanasi?

While Varanasi predominantly caters to its rich Indian culinary heritage, the city has seen growth in restaurants and cafes offering a fusion of global flavors. However, the essence of Varanasi’s street food scene lies in its traditional and regional delights.

7. Can I find vegan or gluten-free food options among Varanasi’s street foods?

Yes, many street food vendors in Varanasi understand the dietary preferences of visitors and offer vegan and gluten-free options. Communicate your dietary requirements, and they will be happy to assist you in finding suitable dishes to relish.