Varanasi Food Tour: Top 10 Dishes You Must Try
Varanasi Food Tour: Top 10 Dishes You Must Try
Varanasi Food Tour: Top 10 Dishes You Must Try Welcome to Varanasi, not just the spiritual capital of India, but also a paradise for food lovers. The narrow lanes of Kashi are filled with aromas of sizzling spices, bubbling sweets, and tangy snacks, offering an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Whether you’re a pilgrim, a backpacker, or a culture explorer, a Varanasi food tour is essential to complete your journey.
At TripCosmos.co, based in the heart of Varanasi, we offer curated food tours that take you through the most iconic street food joints, traditional eateries, and hidden culinary gems.
1. Kachori Sabzi – The Quintessential Banarasi Breakfast
Start your morning the traditional way with crunchy kachoris filled with a spicy lentil mix, served with hot, tangy aloo sabzi. Often enjoyed with jalebi on the side, this dish is best savored at old shops in Thatheri Bazaar or Vishwanath Gali.
Must-Visit Spot: Ram Bhandar, Thatheri Bazaar
2. Tamatar Chaat – A Banarasi Innovation
This is not your regular chaat. Tamatar chaat is a spicy-sweet mash of tomatoes, boiled potatoes, spices, ghee, and crispies. Served piping hot in a dona (leaf bowl), it’s a bold and flavorful surprise.
Where to Try: Deena Chaat Bhandar, Dashashwamedh Road
3. Baati Chokha – Rustic and Satisfying
A wholesome dish from eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, Baati Chokha includes wheat balls (baatis) roasted over coals and paired with mashed spiced vegetables (chokha), chutneys, and ghee.
Authentic Taste: Baati Chokha Restaurant, Teliyabagh
4. Malaiyyo – Winter’s Sweet Secret
Only available during winter mornings, Malaiyyo (or Nimish) is a cloud-like dessert made from milk froth, saffron, and cardamom. It literally melts in your mouth.
Pro Tip: Try it early morning near Godowlia or Chowk in the winter months.
5. Chena Dahi Vada – The Cool Tangy Delight
Unlike traditional dal-based vadas, this version is made with chena (curdled milk) giving it a light, creamy texture. Served chilled with sweet and tangy chutneys and fresh curd.
Where to Eat: Ksheer Sagar Sweets, Lahurabir
6. Thandai with Bhaang (Optional)
A Banarasi specialty, Thandai is a cooling drink made with milk, dry fruits, and spices. During Mahashivratri and Holi, locals add bhaang (cannabis) for a festive buzz.
Best Spot: Godowlia Chowk or local thandai shops near Kashi Vishwanath Temple
7. Dahi Chutney Golgappa – Banarasi Pani Puri Reimagined
These crispy, hollow puris are filled not just with tangy water but also sweet curd and chutneys – creating a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors.
Must-Try: Kaashi Chat Bhandar, Lanka
8. Lassi – Creamy and Luxurious
Thick, creamy, and topped with a layer of rabri or malai, Banarasi lassi is served in a traditional kulhad (clay cup) and flavored with rose or saffron.
Go-to Place: Blue Lassi Shop, near Manikarnika Ghat
9. Choora Matar – A Winter Breakfast Favorite
Flattened rice cooked with green peas, spices, ghee, and sometimes nuts – Choora Matar is Varanasi’s answer to poha. Best enjoyed hot with a cup of tea.
Famous For This: Kachori Gali during winter months
10. Rabri & Jalebi – Sweet Finale
Thickened sweet milk (rabri) paired with hot, syrupy jalebis is a combination made in heaven. It’s rich, decadent, and pure Banarasi bliss.
Try It At: Rajbandhu Sweets, Bhelupur
FAQs – Varanasi Food Tour
1. Is the Varanasi food tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! Varanasi cuisine is predominantly vegetarian, with a wide range of flavors and variety.
2. Is the food spicy?
Most local dishes are mild to moderately spicy. Our guides help customize spice levels where possible.
3. Is street food safe in Varanasi?
TripCosmos.co ensures all food stops are hygienic, local-approved, and safe for travelers.
4. Are food tours available throughout the year?
Yes. However, some seasonal delights like Malaiyyo and Choora Matar are available only in winter.
5. Can I request a private or customized food tour?
Absolutely! We offer customized food trails, including specific preferences, time slots, and even culinary workshops.
Why Choose TripCosmos.co for Your Food Tour?
- Local expertise from guides who know every flavor
- Visit authentic, offbeat eateries only locals know
- Great for foodies, bloggers, and culture seekers
- Walking tours, rickshaw rides & heritage street experiences
Taste the spirit of Varanasi in every bite. Book your Varanasi Food Tour with TripCosmos.co and turn every meal into a memory.
