A guide to the best foodie destinations in India if you’re doing a culinary tour, or simply want to try the best of what the country has to offer.

Delhi

The Indian capital is famous for its wild, wonderful and diverse street food. Stalls offer snacks, as well as dishes inspired by the country’s rich cultural heritage mix. Choose between Middle Eastern recipes introduced by the Mughals and Punjabi food from Pakistan. Plus, lots more.

The city has many fine restaurants. Bukhara offers timeless Indian food from a menu that hasn’t changed in four decades. Make sure you book ahead to savour the huge signature hot naans and malai kebabs. And you’ll be encouraged to eat with your hands.

Mumbai

When enjoying tours of India, no visit would be complete without going to Mumbai on the west coast. Here you’ll find a delicious mix of street food and traditional restaurants. Do not miss the classic pav bhaji and savour the vada pav (deep-fried potato dumplings in a bun). Other regional highlights include Mangalorean seafood and Goan Vindaloo. 

If you’re a foodie, Mumbai has it all, from contemporary restaurants to deli-style cafes to street food. To enjoy a sit-down meal, try the acclaimed Indigo restaurant, which serves up an eclectic fusion of European-Asian cuisine.

Kolkata

India’s cultural capital isn’t far behind in the food stakes either. The city’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of Bengali flavours, street food delights, and a touch of colonial influence. Kolkata is famous for its sweet treats, so try Rosogolla, a sponge made with syrup and chhena (cottage cheese). Fish is prominent in Bengali cuisine, so fish curries such as the simple yet satisfying Macher Jhol are popular.

Kolkata’s street food, such as spicy jhal muri and puchkas, has a deserved reputation beyond the city. For equally tasty but fancier fare, try legendary chelo kebabs at Peter Cat Restaurant and kati rolls at Zeeshan.

Jaipur

The “Pink City” is famed for its historic palaces and vibrant culture, as well as its vegetarian cuisine. Vegetarian specialties include dal bati churma, gatte ki sabzi and kachori. Jaipur is a great place to try authentic Rajasthani cuisine, so feast on pyaz kachori, the famous deep-fried pastry snack.

As well as street vendors and bustling bazaars, the city offers fine dining options such as The Rajput Room in Rambagh.

Amritsar

Situated close to the border with Pakistan, the beautiful city of Amritsar is home to the Golden
Temple. Don’t miss the opportunity to eat at the largest free kitchen in the world, the Langar at the Golden Temple. Here you’ll be served the free Langar meal of rice, dal, roti, sabzi, channa, kheer and sheera. Up to 100,000 people eat here for free each day! And the food is mostly made by volunteers who work for free – it’s a delicious and uplifting experience as all levels of society are welcome.

But when you’re looking to pay for your meal, head to the Grand Trunk, famed for its traditional
Amritsari dishes as well as more international fare.