Varanasi, the ancient city bathed in the sacred waters of the Ganges, is not just a spiritual haven but also a paradise for vegetarian and vegan travelers. Beyond the mesmerizing ghats and ornate temples lies a vibrant culinary scene, offering a unique blend of traditional flavors and contemporary offerings. This article delves into 20 must-eat places, guiding you on a delicious exploration of the city’s vegetarian and vegan delights.
1. Kachori Sabzi – A Classic Breakfast Treat
Start your day with a quintessential Varanasi breakfast, the Kachori Sabzi. These crispy, golden fried flatbreads, stuffed with spicy lentil or potato fillings, are best enjoyed with a side of hot and tangy sabzi (vegetable curry). Head to the bustling Chowk area or any local street vendor for an authentic and affordable experience.
2. Choora Matar – Savoring the Street Food Staple
Another popular breakfast option is Choora Matar. This dish features flattened rice stir-fried with green peas, spices, and garnished with chopped coriander and lemon juice. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a satisfying and light morning meal. Look for vendors near major ghats or temples, where it is often served piping hot with a cup of chai (tea).
3. Dahi Chutney Gol Gappe – A Burst of Flavors
Dahi Chutney Gol Gappe, also known as Pani Puri, is a street food phenomenon not to be missed. These crispy, hollow spheres made of fried dough are filled with a mixture of potatoes, chickpeas, and spices, then flooded with a blend of sweet and tangy chutneys and chilled yogurt. The explosion of flavors and textures is truly addictive. Explore the Chowk area or any street food stall for this iconic treat.
4. Baati Chokha – A Rustic Delight
For a taste of rural Varanasi, try Baati Chokha. This traditional dish features small, baked wheat balls (baati) served with various accompaniments like mashed brinjal (choka), onions, garlic chutney, and a spicy curry. Head to restaurants like Baati Chokha Restaurant near Raja Bazar Road for a wholesome and flavorful meal.
5. Tamatar Chaat – A Tangy Treat
Tamatar Chaat is a street food delight for those who enjoy a tangy twist. Chopped tomatoes are combined with onions, spices, and chutneys, creating a refreshingly spicy and vibrant dish. Sample this delicious snack from any street vendor and experience the vibrant street food culture of Varanasi.
6. Malpua – Sweet Indulgence for Breakfast
Malpua is a sweet dish perfect for a light and delicious breakfast. These fluffy pancakes are made from a batter of semolina and yogurt, deep-fried, and then soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup. They are often served warm, drizzled with saffron and pistachios, for a truly delightful start to the day. Find them at local sweet shops or street vendors specializing in breakfast options.
7. Malaiyyo – The Signature Sweet of Varanasi
Malaiyyo is Varanasi’s signature sweet, a creamy and dense milk pudding flavored with cardamom and saffron. This rich and decadent dessert is a must-try for those with a sweet tooth. Popular options include Agrawal Lassi Corner and Kashi Lassi Corner, known for their authentic malaiyyo recipe.
8. Thandai – A Refreshing Beverage
Thandai is a refreshing drink perfect for the hot and humid climate of Varanasi. This chilled beverage is made with milk, almonds, pistachios, fennel seeds, and a touch of rose water, offering a unique blend of sweet and floral flavors. Enjoy Thandai at street vendors or local restaurants, especially during the summer months.
9. Lassi – A Creamy and Flavorful Delight
Lassi, a classic yogurt-based drink, comes in both sweet and salty variations. Sweet lassi is perfect for a refreshing treat, while salty lassi offers a tangy and savory option. Explore the various flavors like mango, rose, and banana, or try buttermilk lassi for a traditional experience. Look for lassi stalls near ghats or visit renowned shops like Blue Lassi Corner for a taste of their unique offerings.
10. Pakoras – A Deep-Fried Delight
Pakoras are a popular Indian snack consisting of vegetables like cauliflower, potatoes, and onions dipped in a chickpea batter and deep-fried. They are typically served hot with chutney or various dipping sauces, providing a crispy and flavorful option for a quick bite or a side dish. Explore street vendors or local restaurants for this versatile snack.
11. Bowl of Compassion Cafe – A Haven for Health-Conscious Foodies (continued)
Bowl of Compassion Cafe offers a haven for health-conscious foodies seeking vegetarian and vegan options. Their menu features a variety of salads, wraps, and bowls made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Choose from a selection of creative combinations like quinoa salad with roasted vegetables, falafel wraps with hummus and pickled onions, or tofu scramble bowls with avocado and whole-wheat toast. Enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal in a peaceful and welcoming ambiance.
12. The Kashi Cafe – A Vegetarian Paradise
The Kashi Cafe, located near the Assi Ghat, is another paradise for vegetarian and vegan travelers. This cafe offers a variety of healthy and delicious options, including salads, wraps, sandwiches, and pasta dishes made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. They also boast a delightful selection of coffee and tea beverages, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed lunch or coffee break.
13. Vegan Lassi Shop – A Unique Twist on a Classic
Vegan Lassi Shop caters specifically to vegan travelers seeking a unique twist on the classic lassi. They offer various plant-based milk options like soy, almond, and coconut milk, allowing you to customize your lassi with your preferred flavors and ingredients. Experiment with unique combinations like mango lassi with coconut milk or rose lassi with almond milk, and discover a refreshing vegan take on this traditional beverage.
14. Kashi Chat Bhandar – A Vegetarian Street Food Paradise
Kashi Chat Bhandar is a popular street food stall near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. While they offer a variety of savory snacks, they specialize in vegetarian options like samosas filled with spiced potatoes and peas, aloo tikki (potato patties) topped with chutneys and yogurt, and Dahi Vada (deep-fried lentil dumplings soaked in yogurt). Witness the preparation of these local favorites and enjoy them in a casual, vibrant setting.
15. Durga Sweets – A Legacy of Sweets (Vegetarian Options)
Durga Sweets, established in 1947, is a renowned sweet shop known for its traditional Indian sweets, with several delicious vegetarian options. From gulab jamuns (syrup-soaked dumplings) made using milk solids instead of condensed milk, to milk-based barfi (dense fudge) flavored with nuts and spices, and kesar badam milk (almond milk infused with saffron), they offer a delightful selection of vegetarian sugary treats. Sample these sweet delights and experience the rich culinary heritage of Varanasi.
16. Holy Kashi Restaurant – A Vegetarian Buffet Experience
Holy Kashi Restaurant offers a vegetarian buffet experience perfect for trying a variety of local specialties. Choose from a wide range of curries, dals, rice dishes, and vegetables, all prepared using fresh ingredients and traditional methods. This restaurant provides a convenient and affordable option to delve into the rich vegetarian culinary landscape of Varanasi in a single setting.
17. Kashi Vibhu Cafe – A Fusion of Flavors
Kashi Vibhu Cafe offers a unique fusion of Indian and international vegetarian and vegan dishes. Their menu features creative combinations like vegan burgers made with lentil or chickpea patties, vegetable pizzas with innovative toppings, and pasta dishes with creamy cashew-based sauces. Enjoy this culinary fusion amidst a vibrant and modern cafe atmosphere.
Local Markets – Exploring the Vegetarian Delights
Varanasi’s vibrant local markets are a treasure trove for vegetarian and vegan travelers. Explore the bustling lanes of the Chowk area or the stalls near the ghats to discover fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and local vegetarian snacks. Sample local delicacies like samosas, pakoras, and chaat, all prepared without meat, and experience the diverse vegetarian offerings of the city.
Conclusion: A Vegetarian Culinary Adventure Awaits
Varanasi is not just a spiritual destination; it’s a haven for vegetarian and vegan travelers. From street food delights to fine dining experiences, the city offers a diverse range of vegetarian and vegan culinary adventures. Embrace the unique flavors, delve into the local food culture, and embark on a memorable culinary journey through the heart of Varanasi.