India’s street food isn’t just about taste — it’s an emotion shared across every lane and corner. From sizzling snacks to sweet delights, each city has a legendary spot that locals swear by. Here are five iconic street food shops every foodie must visit for an unforgettable culinary experience.
1. Paranthe Wali Gali – Delhi
📍 Location: Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi
🍽️ Famous Dish: Stuffed Parathas
Hidden in the narrow lanes of Old Delhi, Paranthe Wali Gali is a paradise for paratha lovers. These parathas are deep-fried in ghee and stuffed with fillings like aloo, paneer, rabri, or even banana! The shops here — some over 100 years old — have been feeding generations of food lovers.
Why Visit: Experience the real taste of Delhi’s street food legacy and centuries-old recipes cooked with love and tradition.
2. Ashok Vada Pav – Mumbai
📍 Location: Near Kirti College, Dadar, Mumbai
🍽️ Famous Dish: Classic Vada Pav
Known as Mumbai’s “burger,” Vada Pav is the soul of the city, and Ashok Vada Pav serves the most legendary version. Crispy potato vada sandwiched in soft pav, topped with spicy garlic chutney — this humble snack fuels millions every day.
Why Visit: This tiny stall has been serving celebrities and locals alike since the 1960s, making it a must-stop for every Mumbaikar and traveler.
3. Kesar Da Dhaba – Amritsar
📍 Location: Chowk Passian, Amritsar, Punjab
🍽️ Famous Dish: Dal Makhani and Lachha Paratha
Operating since 1916, Kesar Da Dhaba is a legendary Punjabi eatery. The rich, buttery Dal Makhani slow-cooked overnight is their star dish. Pair it with their soft lachha paratha and finish with a bowl of phirni for dessert.
Why Visit: This dhaba reflects the warmth of Punjab — simple, soulful food served with desi ghee and endless love.
4. Tunday Kababi – Lucknow
📍 Location: Aminabad, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
🍽️ Famous Dish: Galouti Kebab
Founded over 100 years ago, Tunday Kababi is synonymous with Lucknow’s royal cuisine. The melt-in-the-mouth Galouti Kebabs are made using more than 150 spices and minced meat so soft, you don’t even need teeth to enjoy them!
Why Visit: It’s a taste of Lucknow’s Nawabi heritage, served hot and fresh on every plate.
5. K.C. Das – Kolkata
📍 Location: Esplanade, Kolkata, West Bengal
🍽️ Famous Dish: Rasgulla
No trip to Kolkata is complete without visiting K.C. Das, the birthplace of the world-famous Rasgulla. This soft, spongy dessert soaked in syrup has been winning hearts for over a century.
Why Visit: You’re not just eating a sweet — you’re tasting a piece of Indian history and pride that traveled across the world.
From Delhi’s buttery parathas to Kolkata’s syrupy rasgullas, these iconic street food spots define India’s incredible food diversity. Each bite tells a story — of culture, history, and flavor passed down through generations.
So next time you’re on the road, skip the fancy cafes — walk to the streets, follow the aroma, and eat where India eats. 🇮🇳
