1. Baadi
A traditional Kumaoni dish, Baadi is made from a mix of roasted millet flour and water, flavored with local spices. It’s a wholesome and nutritious meal, perfect for those looking to try authentic Kumaoni cuisine.
Best Places:
- Chandani Chowk, Mall Road
- Sher-e-Punjab, Nainital Bazaar
Price: ₹50-₹100
2. Aloo Ke Gutke
A beloved Kumaoni snack, Aloo Ke Gutke is made with boiled potatoes sautéed in mustard oil and seasoned with local spices. Simple but flavorful, it’s a must-try for potato lovers.
Best Places:
- Sonam Fast Food, Tibetan Market
- Nainital Food Cart, Tallital
Price: ₹40-₹80
3. Bhatt Ki Churkani
This dish made from black soybeans is a Kumaoni specialty that offers a unique flavor. It’s a delicious and healthy curry served with steamed rice or local bread.
Best Places:
- The Woods Restaurant, Ayarpatta
- The Himalayan Café, Mallital
Price: ₹120-₹200
4. Ras
Ras is a wholesome lentil-based dish cooked with a variety of local pulses and spices. Typically served with steamed rice, it’s a nutritious meal enjoyed in many Nainital households.
Best Places:
- Zooby’s Kitchen, Mall Road
- Purohit’s Food Court, Mallital
Price: ₹80-₹150
5. Bal Mithai
This iconic Nainital sweet is a fudge-like dessert made from roasted khoya and coated with sugar balls. It’s the perfect souvenir to take home and an absolute delight for sweet lovers.
Best Places:
- Mamu’s Sweets, Tallital
- Sakley’s Restaurant & Pastry Shop, Mall Road
Price: ₹100-₹250 per box
6. Singori
A traditional Kumaoni dessert, Singori is made from khoya and wrapped in maalu leaf, giving it a distinctive aroma. The soft texture and unique presentation make it an unforgettable sweet treat.
Best Places:
- Kumaon Sweets, Bara Bazaar
- Naina Sweets, Mallital
Price: ₹20-₹50 per piece
7. Arsa
A deep-fried, sweet dish made from rice flour and jaggery, Arsa is another Kumaoni delicacy that’s popular during festivals. It’s crunchy and flavorful, offering a taste of local traditions.
Best Places:
- Sardar’s Sweets, Bara Bazaar
- Pooja Confectionery, Nainital Bazaar
Price: ₹50-₹100 per pack
8. Thhatwani
This is a nutritious dish prepared with a combination of lentils and spices, slow-cooked to perfection. It’s a comforting meal typically served with bhang ki chutney (hemp seed chutney).
Best Places:
- The Kumaoni Restaurant, Ayarpatta
- Sonam Tibetan Restaurant, Mall Road
Price: ₹100-₹180
9. Gulgula
A popular snack in the hills, Gulgula is a deep-fried, sweet dumpling made from jaggery and wheat flour. Light and crispy, it’s the perfect snack to enjoy with a cup of chai.
Best Places:
- Anupam Restaurant, Mallital
- Chandni Chowk, Mall Road
Price: ₹30-₹60
10. Pahari Raita
This tangy side dish made from yogurt, cucumber, and local spices adds a refreshing touch to any meal. It’s simple, yet its cool, creamy taste balances out the spicier dishes.
Best Places:
- Boat House Club, Mall Road
- Embassy Restaurant, Mallital
Price: ₹40-₹70
Note: The culinary insights shared on this blog are a result of our extensive research and exploration. Taste is a personal journey, and preferences may vary. The hidden gems we’ve uncovered might be different for each palate. Enjoy the adventure, explore with an open mind, and let your taste buds guide you to your own unique discoveries! 🍴✨ #CulinaryExploration #TasteIsPersonal #menuwish