1. Kachori Sabzi:
Begin your Varanasi culinary journey with the flavorsome Kachori Sabzi. This popular breakfast dish features deep-fried, flaky kachoris served with a side of spicy and tangy potato curry, creating a satisfying start to your day.
Best Places:
- Kachori Gali: Thatheri Bazaar, Varanasi.
- Madhur Milan Sweets: Lanka, Varanasi.
- Pahalwan ki Lassi: Godowlia, Varanasi.
Price: ₹20 to ₹50 ($0.30 to $0.70).
2. Baati Chokha:
Indulge in the rustic charm of Baati Chokha, a traditional dish that originated in the heart of North India. Baked dough balls (baatis) are paired with mashed vegetables (chokha) and ghee, offering a wholesome and soul-satisfying meal.
Best Places:
- Deena Chaat Bhandar: Luxa Road, Varanasi.
- Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe: Assi Ghat, Varanasi.
- Kashi Chat Bhandar: Godowlia, Varanasi.
Price: ₹100 to ₹300 ($1.40 to $4.20).
3. Malaiyyo:
Savor the ethereal taste of Malaiyyo, a winter delicacy in Varanasi. This airy and creamy dessert is crafted with milk, saffron, and pistachios, creating a heavenly treat that melts in your mouth.
Best Places:
- Blue Lassi: Near Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi.
- Deena Chat Bhandar: Luxa Road, Varanasi.
- Pahalwan ki Lassi: Godowlia, Varanasi.
Price: ₹30 to ₹80 ($0.40 to $1.10).
4. Tamatar Chaat:
Delight your taste buds with the unique Tamatar Chaat, a Varanasi specialty. Juicy tomatoes are stuffed with a spicy and tangy mixture, creating a refreshing and flavorful street food experience.
Best Places:
- Kashi Chat Bhandar: Godowlia, Varanasi.
- Deena Chat Bhandar: Luxa Road, Varanasi.
- Blue Lassi: Near Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi.
Price: ₹30 to ₹80 ($0.40 to $1.10).
5. Thandai:
Quench your thirst with the traditional Varanasi beverage, Thandai. This chilled concoction is a blend of milk, almonds, and a mix of aromatic spices, making it a popular and refreshing drink, especially during festivals.
Best Places:
- Blue Lassi: Near Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi.
- Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe: Assi Ghat, Varanasi.
- Kashi Chaat Bhandar: Godowlia, Varanasi.
Price: ₹20 to ₹50 ($0.30 to $0.70).
6. Malai Gilori:
Indulge in the sweet delight of Malai Gilori. These luscious sweet rolls are made with condensed milk, khoya, and cardamom, creating a rich and flavorful dessert to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Best Places:
- Deena Chat Bhandar: Luxa Road, Varanasi.
- Blue Lassi: Near Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi.
- Kashi Chaat Bhandar: Godowlia, Varanasi.
Price: ₹20 to ₹80 ($0.30 to $1.10).
7. Banarasi Paan:
Conclude your meal with the iconic Banarasi Paan. These betel leaf wraps, filled with areca nut, catechu, and various aromatic ingredients, offer a refreshing and culturally significant end to your culinary experience.
Best Places:
- Ram Mishra Paan Bhandar: Godowlia, Varanasi.
- Ravidas Paan Bhandar: Assi Ghat, Varanasi.
- Pandit Banarasi Paan: Lanka, Varanasi.
Price: ₹20 to ₹50 ($0.30 to $0.70).
8. Litti Chokha:
Experience the rustic charm of Litti Chokha, a traditional Bihari dish widely enjoyed in Varanasi. Baked wheat balls (litti) are served with mashed vegetables (chokha), creating a hearty and flavorful meal.
Best Places:
- Deena Chaat Bhandar: Luxa Road, Varanasi.
- Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe: Assi Ghat, Varanasi.
- Kashi Chat Bhandar: Godowlia, Varanasi.
Price: ₹80 to ₹200 ($1.10 to $2.80).
9. Jalebi:
Indulge your sweet tooth with the classic Jalebi. These deep-fried swirls of batter are soaked in sugar syrup, creating a sweet and crunchy treat that is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Best Places:
- Madhur Milan Sweets: Lanka, Varanasi.
- Kashi Chat Bhandar: Godowlia, Varanasi.
- Deena Chat Bhandar: Luxa Road, Varanasi.
Price: ₹20 to ₹80 ($0.30 to $1.10).
10. Rabri:
Conclude your Varanasi culinary exploration with the decadent Rabri. This sweet dish is made by reducing milk and sweetening it, resulting in a creamy and rich dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Best Places:
- Blue Lassi: Near Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi.
- Deena Chat Bhandar: Luxa Road, Varanasi.
- Madhur Milan Sweets: Lanka, Varanasi.
Price: ₹30 to ₹80 ($0.40 to $1.10).