The flavors of India spread across the subcontinent like curry on a plate. A great variety of food is available here, with flavors and ingredients that spill out across international borders. India’s iconic signature delicacies have been savored by presidents and celebrities alike. Now it’s your turn. Here are India’s greatest food experiences you simply must not miss.
Try Regal Awadhi Delicacies in Delhi
The capital city of India, Delhi, is multi-layered and where several eras and epochs coexist. Monuments and mouthwatering delicacies date back from the rule of Turko-Afghan Sultans in the medieval period to the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan’s establishment of Shahjahanabad (now Old Delhi) in 1648. New Delhi was built during the British colonial era.
Today, Bukhara, the deluxe eatery at ITC Maurya hotel, is renowned for its eponymously named bukhara raan and daal (spiced leg of lamb with black bean daal). This hotel also offers the best of Awadhi delicacies, such as melt-in-mouth kakori kebab (minced lamb kebab) at Dum Pukht.
More rustic fare, reflecting the culinary influence of Turko-Afghan rulers, can be savored at Karim’s in Old Delhi, where the signature dishes are burra kebab, a chargrilled mutton kebab, and nihari paye, a flavorful gelatinous curry of shanks and trotters that’s slow-cooked overnight.
Next door, the New Jawahar (on Gali Kababyan) serves a seductive chicken ishtu. Inspired by the English “stew”, it uses twice the amount of onions to meat, allowing it to cook in its own juices, while whole dried red chilis add flavor without being overly pungent.
Savour Fabulous Nawabi Treats in Lucknow
The capital of Uttar Pradesh is known for its delicate, light, galouti kebabs, which have a pate-like texture. Originally created for a food-loving nawab who could not masticate—this delicious kebab has a rich history. You can try them at Tunday Kababi, a spot that has catered to a loyal clientele for three generations.
During winter, street vendors sell an exquisite frothy dessert made with foam of milk called nimish.
Exquisite Chaats Along Picturesque Ghats in Varanasi
As the bajra (a large boat with a flat deck) floats gently down the Ganges, it’s time to enjoy a movable feast of myriad savories and sweets. Deena Chat Bhandar offers beautifully spiced snacks, prepared before your eyes and served with sweet-and-sour chutneys, all accompanied by folk music as the sun sets on the river.
The following morning, explore breakfast stalls in Lanka, near Banaras Hindu University. At the Pahalwans stall, indulge in bedwi puri (wholewheat bread filled with spicy lentil paste), kachori, and lassi (an Indian milkshake prepared with sweet curd clotted cream).
Head to Hyderabad for Aromatic Biryanis and Pathar Kebabs
A landmark destination for food lovers, Hyderabad is known for its exceptional biryani. Bismillah Hotel along Pathar Gatti prepares stunning aromatic dum ki biryani—alternating layers of saffron-flavored rice and meat, slow-cooked with aromatic spices.
Hotel Shadab, a short walk away, is ideal for sampling khubani ka meetha, a dessert made with dried apricots and topped with fresh clotted cream—a true delight.
Taj Falaknuma Palace serves delicious pathar kebab traditionally cooked on a heated stone. Their other specialties include aghare ke baigan and dalcha ghosht, offering an authentic taste of Hyderabadi cuisine.
Relish Fresh Seafood Along Goa’s Coast
Goa, influenced by Portuguese rule for four centuries, boasts an impressive repertoire of delectable seafood served at beachside shacks. Renowned shacks like Martin’s Corner in Betalbatim specialize in dishes like xacuti and vindaloo, showcasing an exciting blend of flavors.
Find Vegetarian Heaven in Chennai
Southern India is a paradise for vegetarians with its plant-based snacks and coconut milk-based lentil soups. Roadside eateries like Murugan Idli serve fluffy steamed idlis and crisp dosai, paired with assorted chutneys.
Restaurants like Dasa Prakash offer a wide array of poriyals kozhambus and sambaar stew, showcasing the richness of South Indian cuisine.
Enjoy the Bewitching Flavors of Bengal in Kolkata
Once a vast province in British India, Bengal has been influenced by diverse culinary streams. In Kolkata, 6 Ballygunge Place showcases culinary gems like hilsa and machher cutlet in a beautiful setting.
Additionally, the Malai lobster marinated in creamy spices and baked in a tandoor at Sonargaon is an extravagant indulgence worth trying.