Street food is more than just a quick meal; It is an authentic reflection of local flavours, traditions and stories. For curious travellers, it offers an enriching experience, be it savoring a hot plate of chaat under the winter sky or discovering a new favorite sweet at a roadside stall. Over the past few years, the rise of food vloggers and influencers has boosted the popularity of India’s street food gems, inspiring a new generation of culinary explorers to set out on a delicious journey.
In celebration of this love for food and travel, the Godrej Food Trends Report 2024, curated by Godrej Vikhroli Cucina and developed with the insights of over 190 thought leaders – including celebrity chefs, food bloggers and nutritionists has identified the top Indian street food destinations. To find out this holiday season. A panel of experts have compiled a list of cities offering unforgettable street food adventures to end the year with culinary magic:
Lucknow: A Nawabi relationship with street food
The streets of Lucknow are a living museum of its Nawabi culinary heritage. Iconic places like Tunde Kebab are famous for their melt-in-the-mouth Galouti kebabs, while the aromatic biryani from Idris’s Biryani is a testament to the city’s delicious traditions. Don’t miss sweet delights like Ram Asare’s creamy Raja Ki Thandai or the crunchy Malai Gilori. With 90.3% of experts recommending Lucknow as a top destination, the city offers a royal feast for foodies.
Amritsar: Taste of Punjab on the streets
The streets of Amritsar are filled with the strong and hearty flavors of Punjab. At Kulcha Land, enjoy Amritsari Kulcha stuffed with spicy potatoes, pair it with spicy chickpeas and finish off with the iconic Gian Di Lassi, a creamy and lip-smacking drink. Explore the Golden Temple Langar for a unique communal dining experience, where food is a spiritual offering. Recommended by 88.3% experts, Amritsar promises a captivating journey through its culinary landscape.
Kolkata: City of foodies
Kolkata’s street food is synonymous with nostalgia and innovation. Enjoy spicy flavors with Puchkas, or try Nizam’s evergreen Kathi Rolls. Taste Jhalmuri, a spicy puffed rice concoction, while strolling down the bustling Park Street. Don’t miss out on trying Kolkata’s Chhanar Jilipi, a softer take on the classic jalebi. According to 86.4% of experts, the streets of Kolkata are a playground of unique flavors that every food lover must visit.
Banaras: A Soulful Culinary Journey
Banaras, with its spiritual feel, is equally captivating in terms of its street food. Savor the winter special Malaio at Shreeji, a sweet that is as light as a cloud. Dina’s Chaat offers the perfect blend of sweet, sour and spicy flavours, while Vatika’s Apple Pie offers an unexpected yet delightful combination. Complete your journey with tea at Lakshmi Tea Stall, where conversation flows as naturally as tea. A blend of history, spirituality and culinary innovation, Banaras is the favorite of 80.6% of experts.
