Flavors of Varanasi: What to Eat in the Spiritual City

Food is the soul of a city, and in Varanasi, it beautifully reflects the city’s culture and traditions. Known as a place that wakes up with the sunrise, breakfast holds special importance here. Locals often start their day with kachori-sabzi and jalebi or sometimes with idli-vada. For those who prefer a quieter start, cozy cafés across the city offer delicious alternatives.

From street-side snacks to traditional sweets and global café menus, Varanasi has something to satisfy every craving. Here are some of the must-try delicacies during your visit:

🥤 Drinks & Refreshments

  • Lassi – A refreshing yogurt-based drink, perfect for summers. The thick and creamy versions at Pehelwan Lassi (Lanka & Ramnagar) are legendary, though you’ll also find hidden gems in the old city lanes.

  • Malaiyyo – A winter specialty that looks like fluffy golden clouds and melts in your mouth. Best enjoyed at traditional shops in the old quarters or at Pehelwan Lassi.

  • Thandai – A festive drink made with almonds, fennel seeds, rose petals, saffron, and milk. Head to Gadolia crossings for authentic stalls. For the adventurous, there’s also the famous bhang thandai.

  • Tea in Kulhad – Savor piping hot tea in earthen cups across the city. Favorites include Dada’s Tea and Assi-Kashi Café. Don’t miss lemon tea at Pappu’s, Assi Ghat.

  • Pizza & Apple Pie – Savor authentic wood-fired pizzas and the city’s most loved apple pie at Pizzeria Vaatika. A perfect blend of Italian flavors and Banarasi charm, offering taste, tradition, and unforgettable dining.

🍬 Sweets to Savor

  • Rabri – Thickened milk sweet with rich flavors, best tried at Amma Lassi in Shivala.

  • Peda – Traditionally offered at temples, the laal peda from Sankat Mochan Temple is a must for anyone with a sweet tooth.

  • Jalebi – Crispy, syrup-soaked spirals that pair perfectly with kachori-sabzi for breakfast.

🍲 Traditional Dishes

  • Kachori Sabzi & Jalebi – The ultimate Banarasi breakfast! Try the hot, spicy versions at Kachori Gali or Ram Bhandar.

  • Baati Chokha – A rustic dish of wheat balls served with spiced mashed potatoes, ghee, and onions. Enjoy it at Baati Chokha Restaurant or local stalls near Nagar Nigam Park, Sigra.

  • Chura Matar – A winter delicacy made with flattened rice and green peas, perfect for both breakfast and snacks.

  • Bhog – Sacred temple food offered to deities and then served to devotees. Try it at Annapurna Temple at noon.

🍴 Street Food & Snacks

  • Chaat – Varanasi is famous for its variety: tamatar chaat, alu chaat, tikki chaat, papdi chaat, and more. The best place? Deena Chaat Bhandar near Godowlia.

  • Dahi Vada – Soft lentil dumplings soaked in curd, lightly spiced for the perfect balance.

  • Banarasi Paan – The iconic post-meal treat, prepared with betel leaf, spices, and sweet fillings. A cultural experience in itself!

☕ Cafés & Restaurants

Varanasi is packed with charming cafés thanks to its popularity with travelers. Here are some great picks:

  • Breakfast & International Options: Open Hand Café, Mark’s Café (with handicrafts on sale).

  • Italian & Continental: Karki’s Café (homemade pasta), Vaatika Café (thin-crust pizzas & apple pie).

  • Indian Cuisine: Itihaas Alley Kitchen, Carvaan Restaurant, Haifa Restaurant.

  • South Indian: Kerala Café, Ayyar’s Café.

  • Asian Cuisine: Shanti Restaurant, Aum Café, Bona Café (Korean/Japanese flavors).

  • Bakeries: Brown Bread Bakery, German Bakery & Shiva Café.

  • All-rounders: Roma’s Café, Jyoti Café, Amn-e-Khaas.

These cafés not only serve delicious food but also offer cozy ambiances, scenic views, and welcoming vibes—perfect for travelers who want to relax between sightseeing.

✨ Whether it’s sipping on a frothy lassi, relishing spicy street chaats, or enjoying a pizza by the Ganga, Varanasi offers a culinary journey as rich as its spiritual heritage.