Puri, the sacred seaside town of Odisha, is not only famous for its temples and beaches but also for its soulful local cuisine. From divine temple food to spicy seafood curries, here’s a list of must-try local dishes and the best places to enjoy them.
1. Mahaprasad at Ananda Bazaar, Jagannath Temple
Why visit: The world-famous temple food cooked in earthen pots and offered to Lord Jagannath before being served to devotees.
Highlights: – Rice, dal, khichdi, vegetable curries – Prepared without onion or garlic – A holy, unique experience
Timing: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Entry: Price varies by item (token-based)
2. Prawn Malai Curry at Wildgrass Restaurant
Why visit: A coastal delicacy of prawns simmered in a spiced coconut milk gravy.
Highlights: – Creamy, aromatic flavors – Served with steamed rice – Freshly caught seafood
Timing: 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM
Entry: Meals from ₹350 per person
3. Dalma at Bhojohori Manna
Why visit: A homely lentil and vegetable stew seasoned with ginger and panch phoron spices.
Highlights: – Light and nourishing – Perfect with rice or roti – Classic Odia comfort food
Timing: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Meals from ₹250 per person
4. Crab Curry at Chung Wah
Why visit: Spicy, flavorful crab cooked in thick, traditional masala — a seafood lover’s treat.
Highlights: – Bold, coastal spices – Served with plain rice – Popular among tourists and locals
Timing: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Entry: Meals from ₹400 per person
5. Khicede at Jagannath Temple
Why visit: The temple’s sacred khichdi-style rice and lentil dish offered as part of Mahaprasad.
Highlights: – Lightly spiced and pure – Served with pickles and sweets – Considered auspicious to eat
Timing: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Entry: Part of temple offerings
6. Dahi Bara Aloo Dum at Grand Road Stalls
Why visit: Puri’s version of Odisha’s favorite street snack — tangy curd-soaked vadas topped with spicy potato curry.
Highlights: – Best enjoyed in the evening – Popular with locals and travelers – Quick, budget-friendly treat
Timing: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹30 per plate
7. Tandoori Pomfret at Pink House Restaurant
Why visit: A crispy grilled seafood starter marinated with coastal spices.
Highlights: – Juicy, flaky fish – Served with chutney and salad – Perfect beachside meal
Timing: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Meals from ₹300 per person
8. Chhena Poda at Kakatua Sweets
Why visit: Odisha’s famous baked cottage cheese dessert, caramelized and subtly spiced.
Highlights: – Smoky, sweet flavor – Made fresh daily – Great with evening tea
Timing: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹50 per piece
9. Fish Curry Rice at Peace Restaurant
Why visit: A staple coastal meal with tender fish cooked in spicy, tangy gravy served over hot rice.
Highlights: – Freshly caught fish – Bold masala base – Budget-friendly beachside eatery
Timing: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Meals from ₹200 per person
10. Rasabali at Sudam’s Sweets
Why visit: A festive sweet made of deep-fried cheese patties soaked in thickened, cardamom-scented milk.
Highlights: – Rich and creamy – Popular during festivals – Ideal after-meal dessert
Timing: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹30 per piece
Feature Image:- Photo by Syed Hussaini on Unsplash
