Varanasi is a paradise for food lovers, offering a mix of sacred flavors, street delights, and traditional vegetarian fare. Whether you're exploring local chaats or savoring authentic thalis, every bite here reflects the cultural soul of the city.

 

1. Baati Chokha

Why visit: A must-try for rustic, traditional eastern Indian cuisine in a folk-style setting.

Highlights: – Litti chokha – Bajra roti with ghee – Village-inspired ambience

Timing: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Entry: Pay per dish, approx. ₹300 per person

 

2. Kashi Chat Bhandar

Why visit: An iconic stop for lip-smacking Benarasi street snacks.

Highlights: – Tamatar chaat – Palak patta chaat – Crisp tikki chaat

Timing: 2:00 PM to 9:30 PM

Entry: ₹30–₹100 per item

 

3. Deena Chaat Bhandar

Why visit: A heritage chaat hub serving Varanasi’s most beloved street foods.

Highlights: – Aloo tikki – Dahi puri – Kachori with spicy sabzi

Timing: 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Entry: ₹20–₹80 per plate

 

4. Ram Bhandar

Why visit: Legendary spot for breakfast lovers and kachori sabzi enthusiasts.

Highlights: – Kachori-sabzi combo – Jalebi – Local morning crowd

Timing: 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Entry: ₹30–₹60 per plate

 

5. Pizzeria Vaatika Café

Why visit: Riverside café offering wood-fired pizzas and Banarasi apple pie.

Highlights: – Thin-crust pizza – Homemade apple pie – View of Assi Ghat

Timing: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Entry: Approx. ₹250–₹500 per person

 

6. Brown Bread Bakery

Why visit: Organic rooftop café known for its wholesome meals and travel community vibe.

Highlights: – Organic thali – Vegan options – Rooftop seating with live music

Timing: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Entry: Approx. ₹250–₹500 per person

 

7. Shree Café

Why visit: Cozy, home-style café tucked in the old city offering comforting Indian meals.

Highlights: – Paneer curries – Chapatis – Peaceful courtyard dining

Timing: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Entry: ₹150–₹300 per person

 

8. Sri Annapurna Restaurant

Why visit: A clean, family-friendly spot for satisfying vegetarian North Indian fare.

Highlights: – Rich paneer dishes – Buttery naan – Quick service

Timing: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Entry: ₹200–₹400 per person

 

9. Blue Lassi Shop

Why visit: World-famous for serving thick, fruit-filled lassis in traditional kulhads.

Highlights: – Mango lassi – Mixed fruit lassi – Authentic clay cups

Timing: 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Entry: ₹60–₹150 per lassi

 

10. Govinda’s Restaurant (ISKCON)

Why visit: Offers sattvic, no-onion-no-garlic meals in a spiritual and peaceful setting.

Highlights: – Daily thalis – Light khichdi – Clean, devotional environment

Timing: 10:30 AM to 9:00 PM

Entry: ₹150–₹300 per meal

 

Feature Image:- Photo by Rathaphon Nanthapreecha