1. Chandrika Gera Dixit – Vada Pav Girl, Delhi
- Specialty: Mumbai-style Vada Pav
Chandrika, famously known as Vada Pav Girl, became an overnight sensation after her candid Instagram Reels showcasing the preparation of authentic Mumbai-style Vada Pav went viral. From humble beginnings working at Haldiram’s, Chandrika started her own stall in Delhi. Her charm, cleanliness, and mastery of the Vada Pav instantly caught attention.
Her Instagram content features the making of over 50,000 Vada Pavs daily, her interactions with customers, and fun behind-the-scenes clips. Chandrika has become an inspiration, especially for women entrepreneurs, proving that traditional street food can create a massive online footprint.
Why Viral: Authenticity, female entrepreneurship, and visually engaging preparation reels.
2. Heera Paneer Wala – Amritsar, Punjab
- Specialty: Paneer Bhurji, Butter Paneer, Parathas
Located on Lawrence Road, Heera Paneer Wala has become one of Amritsar’s iconic food spots. Daman Singh’s stall gained viral fame when influencers started posting Reels of his perfectly spiced paneer dishes served with soft, buttery parathas.
The combination of rich flavors, generous portions, and Daman’s personal touch—often seen interacting with customers—created a perfect storm for social media virality. Food bloggers frequently highlight the stall in their “top things to eat in Amritsar” videos.
Why Viral: Mouthwatering paneer, authentic Punjabi touch, and influencer collaborations.
3. Manoj Bhai – Cycle Wali Thali, Delhi
- Specialty: Affordable Thali meals served on a cycle
Manoj Bhai took social media by storm with his creative idea of serving full meals on a bicycle. With a price as low as ₹40 per meal, his “Cycle Wali Thali” became an instant hit on Instagram Reels.
Reels show the innovative way the thali is served, the quick yet hygienic preparation, and the daily interactions with customers. His story resonates because it combines social service with entrepreneurship—helping people eat affordably while creating engaging content.
Why Viral: Unique delivery method, affordable meals, and heartwarming story.
4. Lali Chhangani Club Kachori – Kolkata, West Bengal
- Specialty: Club Kachori with potato curry and sev
In Kolkata’s bustling Burrabazar, Lali Chhangani serves what has been dubbed the city’s “perfect kachori.” Viral Instagram Reels often feature his meticulous preparation, unique garnishing, and vibrant presentation.
The appeal lies in the combination of crispy kachori, spicy potato filling, and crunchy sev, making it highly photogenic. Lali’s approachable personality and dedication to his craft have earned him a devoted social media following.
Why Viral: Iconic kachori, interactive vendor, photogenic food aesthetics.
5. Dolly Chaiwala – Nagpur, Maharashtra
- Specialty: Stylish chai served with flair
Dolly Chaiwala, based in Nagpur, became an internet sensation with his unique style and charismatic personality. His Instagram Reels showcase him serving tea with dramatic flair, often featuring slow-motion pours and vibrant visuals. His distinctive look, complete with sunglasses and flashy attire, adds to the entertainment value of his videos. His fame skyrocketed when Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates visited his stall and shared a video of their interaction, which went viral.
Despite a brief hiatus from Instagram, Dolly has expanded his brand and launched a franchise model for his tea stalls, aiming to bring his unique chai experience to a broader audience.
6. Balaji Kachori Bhandar – Chandni Chowk, Delhi
- Specialty: Nagori Halwa Puri and Kachori
Located in the heart of Chandni Chowk, Balaji Kachori Bhandar is renowned for its authentic Nagori Halwa Puri and Kachori. Their Instagram Reels highlight the preparation of these dishes, showcasing the crispy kachoris being served with spicy curries and sweet halwa. The vibrant colors and textures of the food, coupled with the bustling atmosphere of Chandni Chowk, make their videos a visual treat. The shop has garnered a loyal following among food enthusiasts and tourists alike.
7. Bhagirath Thali – Chandni Chowk, Delhi
- Specialty: Unlimited Punjabi-style Thali
Located in the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk, Bhagirath Thali has become a sensation for its Dilkhush Thali, offering unlimited servings of traditional Punjabi dishes at an unbeatable price. Priced at just ₹50, this thali includes generous portions of dal, sabzi, raita, and freshly baked naan. Makhan Singh, the owner, has garnered attention for his engaging presence and commitment to serving authentic flavors. His stall has become a must-visit for both locals and tourists seeking a hearty meal without breaking the bank.
8. Baba Ka Dhaba – Malviya Nagar, Delhi
- Specialty: Home-style vegetarian meals
Baba Ka Dhaba gained nationwide fame after a heartwarming video of Kanta Prasad, an elderly man, went viral on social media. The video showcased his struggles during the pandemic and touched the hearts of millions. In response, people flocked to his humble eatery in Malviya Nagar to support him. Today, Baba Ka Dhaba stands as a testament to the power of community and the impact of social media in uplifting local businesses.
These vendors have not only delighted taste buds but have also become cultural icons through their engaging content and unique offerings. Their stories are a testament to the power of social media in transforming local businesses into viral sensations.
