India is known for its diversity, where people of different cultures, languages, and food preferences coexist harmoniously. Food reflects a region's unique tastes, culture, and history delightfully. You can understand a lot about a place's culture, traditions, and history through its food. Street food, especially, is a colourful way for an area to showcase its heritage. While we often enjoy proper meals with elaborate recipes, street food has a special place in our hearts. Chaat, a type of street food, is incredibly popular in India, no matter where you go.
Wherever you are in India, you'll find some version of chaat in the lanes and streets. It's a favourite among locals and a must-try for visitors. Chaat has become so famous that it has gained global recognition. There are many different types of chaat, and they've become so popular that restaurants now serve their versions, each with a unique twist from the chef.
Here are some of the most famous chaats and street food in India
1. Aloo tikki
This renowned chaat dish, popular not only in New Delhi but also in various North Indian regions, stands out as a top favourite among people. It features delectable ingredients like potato cutlets, spicy chickpea gravy, yoghurt, zesty and spicy sauces, along with an array of delightful toppings, promising a lip-smacking experience that will leave you craving for more.
Famous places in New Delhi to try aloo tikki:
- Prabhu Chaat Bhandar, Dholpur House, Shahjahan Road, UPSC Office Lane
- Sindhi Corner, 53/27, Ramjas Road, Near SGND Khalsa College, Karol Bagh
- Mangla Chat Waale, Outside Bhagwan Apartments, Gate Number 1, Opposite Aggarwal Sweets, Acharya Niketan Market, Mayur Vihar I
Price range: Rs 50 - 100 (approx.)
2. Ghugni
Ghugni, a beloved street food in Kolkata, ranks among the city's most popular chaat dishes. It consists of dried peas combined with diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and more, all elevated with a medley of mouthwatering sauces and spices. Ghugni promises to be one of the most delightful chaat items you'll ever taste.
Famous places to try ghugni in Kolkata:
- Dacre Street, James Hickey Sarani, Esplanade
- Ramji ghugniwala, Park Street area
- Kapilda’s Ghugni Chaat, Girish Park, Vivekananda Road, Singhi Bagan, Raja Katra, Kolkata
Price range: Rs 30 - 70
3. Kanji vada
Kanji vada, a unique chaat from Rajasthan, offers a delightful blend of flavour and health benefits. This refreshing treat, featuring yummy vadas, will leave you craving for more. What makes it even more special is that you can savour it without any guilt, as Kanji Vada is believed to be good for your health.
Famous places to try Kanji vada in Jaipur:
- Johari market
- Shekhawati Kanji Vada, 75, Anand Vihar, Binjari Marg, Benad Road, Jhotwara, Jaipur
- Tripolia bazaar
Price range: Rs 20 - 50
4. Palak patta chaat
Hailing from the streets of Uttar Pradesh, palak patta chaat stands out as one of the most renowned and beloved chaat dishes in North India. Crispy fried spinach leaves, paired with a delightful medley of sauces, yoghurt, and garnishes, will quickly make this chaat a favourite of yours.
Famous places to try palak patta chaat in Uttar Pradesh:
- Deena Chat Bhandar, D-47/184, Luxa Road, Dashashwamedh Road, Varanasi
- Kashi chat bhandar, D-37/49, Varanasi
Price range: Rs 50 - 100
5. Vada pav
Vada pav, also known as vada pao, is arguably the most iconic food associated with Mumbai and the broader state of Maharashtra. Tailored to the bustling, round-the-clock energy of Mumbai, this snack offers a hearty and convenient eating solution. Vada pav has risen to become a symbol, an essential part of every visitor's Mumbai experience, a must-try delicacy to truly immerse oneself in the city's vibrant culinary culture.
Famous places to try vada pav in Mumbai:
- Ashok Vada Pav, Off Cadel Road, Kirti College Lane, Prabhadevi, Mumbai
- Aaram vada pav, Capitol Cinema Building, Opp. CST Station, Mumbai CST Area, Mumbai
- Shivaji Vada Pav, Outside Mithibai College, Vile Parle West, Mumbai
Price range: Rs 20 - 100
6. Golgappe
This popular chaat dish goes by many names in different states and cities. It's called golgappe in Delhi and nearby regions, pani puri in Mumbai and neighbouring areas, and puchkas in Kolkata. However, the one common factor across all these variations is their irresistibly addictive taste. These tiny flavour-packed balls are famously known for making people unable to stop at just one, establishing themselves as some of the most renowned chaat items in India.
Famous places to try golgappe in New Delhi:
- Bangla Sweet House, 115-117, Bangla Sahib Marg, Gole Market, New Delhi
- Ashok Chaat Corner, Shop 3488, Chowk Hauz Qazi, Near Chawri Bazar, New Delhi
- Vaishnav chat bhandar, Shop 66-67/E, Near Chota Gali Chakkar, Kamla Nagar, New Delhi
Price range: Rs 20 - 150
7. Bhelpuri
Another renowned chaat, enjoyed in numerous states and cities, owes its popularity to its quick and convenient nature. Ideal for strolls with a delectable snack in hand, this sweet and tangy chaat offers a delightful, yet light, option for those craving something delicious.
Famous places to try bhel puri in Mumbai:
- Sharmaji Bhelpuri House, Kamala Bhuvan Building, MG Road, Vile Parle East, Mumbai
- Gupta chaat centre, Shop 3 & 4, LBS Market, Near Matunga Station, Matunga East, Mumbai
- Amritsari Chaat, Shop no.4, Nutan Jai Bharat building, Prabhadevi, behind Siddhivinayak temple, Dadar, Mumbai
Price range: Rs 20 - 100
8. Basket chaat
Directly from the nawabi streets of Lucknow emerges basket chaat, a street food that has earned immense fame in the city. It's so scrumptious that it rivals Lucknow's renowned kebabs and other non-vegetarian delights. This intriguing chaat offers a medley of flavours harmoniously blended into one delightful dish, making it a must-try for anyone seeking an unforgettable culinary experience.
Famous places to try basket chaat in Lucknow:
- Royal cafe, 9/7, Shahnajaf road, Opp. Sahara Ganj Mall, Prem Nagar, Hazratganj, Lucknow
- Dixit Chaat House, 15, Kasturba Market, Opposite Ram Manohar Lohia Park, Chowk, Lucknow
- Madhurima sweets, 52 Sri Ram Road, Aminabad, Lucknow
Price range: Rs 100 - 200
Disclaimer: The details mentioned throughout this blog are sourced from publicly accessible platforms. At Zeezest, we intend to share factual and verified information. Should there be any inconsistencies or variances in the information provided, please understand that these are entirely unintentional and not meant to mislead.