If you’ve really traveled through India and didn’t eat street food… respectfully, you missed half the experience.
Indian street food is bold, chaotic, flavorful, and deeply local. Every city has its own specialties, and every dish tells a story. This isn’t fancy dining — this is real India on a plate.
Here’s a state-by-state guide to the most iconic Indian street foods every traveler should try.
1. Delhi – Chaat That Hits Different
Delhi’s street food is loud, spicy, and unapologetic — just like the city itself.
Must-try dishes:
- Golgappa (Pani Puri)
- Aloo Tikki Chaat
- Chole Bhature
Best areas: Chandni Chowk, Lajpat Nagar
Pro tip: Eat where locals queue. Always.
2. Mumbai – Fast, Filling & Iconic
Mumbai’s street food is built for people on the move. Quick bites, big flavors, no nonsense.
Must-try dishes:
- Vada Pav (India’s OG burger)
- Pav Bhaji
- Bhel Puri
Best areas: Juhu Beach, CST area
Pro tip: Fresh bhaji matters — choose busy stalls.
3. Kolkata – Sweet, Spicy & Soulful
Kolkata’s street food is underrated and legendary at the same time. Subtle spices, strong flavors.
Must-try dishes:
- Kathi Rolls
- Puchka (Kolkata-style Pani Puri)
- Ghugni
Best areas: Park Street, New Market
Pro tip: Egg-based street food here is top-tier.
4. Amritsar – Butter, Bread & Bold Flavors
Amritsar doesn’t do “light food.” Everything is rich, filling, and comforting.
Must-try dishes:
- Amritsari Kulcha
- Chole
- Lassi (thick enough to be a meal)
Best areas: Near Golden Temple
Pro tip: Early mornings have the freshest food.
5. Jaipur – Royal Street Food with a Kick
Rajasthan’s street food balances spice and tradition perfectly.
Must-try dishes:
- Pyaz Kachori
- Mirchi Vada
- Ghewar
Best areas: MI Road, Bapu Bazaar
Pro tip: Kachoris taste best before noon.
6. Chennai – South Indian Street Classics
Crispy, fermented, coconut-based goodness everywhere.
Must-try dishes:
- Dosa with chutneys
- Idli
- Sundal
Best areas: Marina Beach, Mylapore
Pro tip: Watch the dosa-making — it’s an art.
7. Hyderabad – Spice & Meat Done Right
Hyderabad’s street food is a paradise for meat lovers.
Must-try dishes:
- Irani Chai & Osmania Biscuits
- Haleem (seasonal)
- Kebabs
Best areas: Charminar, Banjara Hills
Pro tip: Late nights = best kebabs.
8. Indore – India’s Cleanest Street Food Scene
Indore is obsessed with food — and it shows.
Must-try dishes:
- Poha Jalebi
- Bhutte ka Kees
- Garadu
Best areas: Sarafa Bazaar (night food market)
Pro tip: Start with poha in the morning, finish with jalebi.
Street Food Safety Tips for Travelers
Let’s be real — street food is safe if you’re smart.
✔ Eat hot, freshly cooked food
✔ Avoid cut fruits & tap water
✔ Stick to busy stalls
✔ Carry basic meds (just in case)
Do this, and you’ll be fine.
Experience India’s Food Culture with Great Tour India
At Great Tour India, we don’t just show you places — we help you taste India the right way. Our food-focused tours mix local favorites, hygiene-conscious vendors, and authentic experiences.
🍴 Because the best way to know India is through its food.
