Amritsar, one of the most popular heritage cities of India is known for three good reasons: the Golden Temple, Wagah Border and its food scenes. The food of Amritsar is so rich and flavorful that it has been unofficially referred to as the ‘culinary capital of India’. Its diverse range of flavors from every corner of the city is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Here’s a complete guide to the famous food of Amritsar and where you can eat them. When in Amritsar, there is no way you are leaving without experiencing the real Amritsari flavors.
Table of Contents
10 Amazing Food Of Amritsar To Try
1. Langar Ka Prasad
There is no better way to start your Amritsar food tour than by having the simple but delicious Langar Ka Prasad at the Golden Temple. After offering prayers head straight to Langar, the largest kitchen in the world that feeds more than 100,000 people every day, and that too for free. This humble meal which consists of dal, roti, sabzi, and kheer is eaten by sitting cross-legged on the floor with strangers. A soulfully-satisfying meal which is a must try.
Where To Eat: Golden Temple
2. Amritsari Kulcha
The most famous food of Amritsar is this tandoor-baked bread called Amritsari Kulcha which is crispy from the exterior and soft from the interior. It is generally stuffed with paneer, spiced potato or cauliflower. Traditionally it is served with tangy chole curry made of chickpea, and some potatoes and onions by the side. This local favorite is a staple breakfast option, however people have it at any time of the day as it’s quite an irresistible dish.
Where To Eat: Kulcha Land, Pehalwan Kulcha and All India Famous Amritsari Kulcha
3. Fish Tikka
Amritsari Fish Tikka is a must have for all fish lovers. Boneless chunks of fish are marinated in a special mixture of spices, yogurt, garlic, ginger, and gram flour. It is then grilled to perfection until it gets a smoky flavor. The delightful contrast of the crispiness from the outside and the tenderness from the inside will leave your taste buds craving for more. You will find the delicious fish tikka in almost all of the Amritsar food streets.
Where To Eat: Makhan Fish & Chicken Corner, Pehelwan Fish Shop
4. Dal Makhani
Dal Makhani is one of the primary dishes that is a must on any Punjabi platter. This creamy and buttery dal is made from slow-cooking black lentils and kidney beans along with spices. It is a stand-out dish often served for lunch or dinner along with butter naan, lachha paratha or rice. Be it a road side food stall or a fancy restaurant, Dal Makhani has to be on top of the menu list. In short this dish captures the true essence of a comfort food.
Where To Eat: Bharawan Da Dhaba, Kesar da Dhaba
Book Now: Private Half Day Amritsar Heritage Tour By Car
5. Sarson Da Saag
Sarson Da Saag, a famous food of Amritsar is more of an emotion than a dish. This winter specialty dish is a flavorful mustard green curry cooked in aromatic spices and ghee. It is always paired with ‘Makki Di Roti’ which is made of corn flour. This wholesome meal is packed with nutrition and great to be had during the winter months. Each bite of this quintessential Punjabi dish filled with flavors is sure to take you back in time.
Where To Eat: Kesar da Dhaba, Bharawan Da Dhaba
6. Chole Bhature
Another famous food of Amritsar is the soul-satisfying dish called ‘Chole Bhature’. This dish is a combination of two preparations; spicy chickpea curry called chole and deep-fried bread called bhature. It is generally enjoyed as a breakfast food but people in Amritsar have it for lunch and dinner as well. The dish is served with onions, green chilies, and pickles to bring out the unforgettable burst of flavors. You can find this iconic dish in every corner of Amritsar. Make sure you don’t miss it.
Where To Eat: Hansraj Chole, Kanha Sweets, Kanha Poori Shop
7. Tandoor Chicken Tikka
For those craving for some non-veg starters, the tandoori chicken tikka of Amritsar is an absolute must try. Boneless chicken pieces are marinated in a mixture of masalas and spices and cooked the traditional way, either in a traditional tandoor or grilled on coal. The smoky aroma of the chicken tikkas are sure to make your mouth salivate. The bright red color of the tikkas is what makes the dish look so delicious.
Where To Eat: Makhan Chicken Corner, Beera Chicken House, and Surjit Food Plaza
8. Stuffed Parathas
Stuffed parathas are one of the most famous foods of Amritsar that is loved by locals and visitors alike. Paratha lovers will fall in love with Amritsar instantly as they offer parathas of different varieties. A large ball of dough is stuffed with potatoes, cauliflower or paneer and then tossed on a hot thawa until completely cooked on both sides. These flaky and flavorful parathas are generally served with tangy pickles, creamy yoghurt and a chunk of butter. This dish is literally like a feast on the plate.
Where To Eat: Kesar da Dhaba, Pal Da Dhaba, Bharawan Da Dhaba
9. Sweet Lassi
To beat the scorching heat of Amritsar, a glass of chilled Lassi would be a great idea. Amritsar has many restaurants and road side stalls that offer the best lassi in the world. Lassi is a thick, creamy-based drink made with curd, khoya, cream and various nuts. There are many versions of this drink, some like it sweet and some like it salty. Sometimes the lassi is flavored with cardamom, mango or even pedas. This refreshing drink is generally served in earthen pots for that classic feel.
Where To Eat: Ahuja Milk Bhandar, Gian Lassi’s shop
10. Jalebi With Rabri
This combination of Jalebis with Rabri is a beloved sweet snack in Amritsar. It’s so good that the locals have it for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The spiral shaped Jalebis that are soaked in sugar syrup are topped with Rabri (sweetened thickened milk). This creamy dessert is so popular that it is available in almost all the sweet shops in Amritsar. Helping yourself to some Jalebis with Rabri will be the perfect way to end your Amritsar food tour.
Where To Eat: Ramesh Sharma Sweets, Sharma Sweets
Also Read: 9 Of The Best Places To Visit In Amritsar
Final Words
Each bite of the famous food of Amritsar promises a tapestry of irresistible flavors that is truly unforgettable. So, the next time you are here, make sure to go on a gastronomic journey. This is your opportunity to taste the authentic flavors that make Amritsar’s cuisine so special. Amritsar isn’t just a destination for sightseeing – it is also a food lover’s paradise!
FAQs
Bhai Kulwant Singh Kulchian Wale, Tara Chand Paneer Bhurji, Kesar Da Dhaba, Bharawan Da Dhaba, Kulcha Land, Gian di lassi, Novelty Sweets and Shahi Qila are some of the great street food spots to treat your taste buds.
Yes, Amritsar is known for its several dhabas that serve authentic Punjabi cuisine. Kesar Da Dhaba, Bharawan Da Dhaba, and Bade Bhai Ka Brothers Dhaba are some of the most iconic dhabas that are highly recommended.
Regardless of their religion, background, or social status, everyone is welcome to enjoy the simple, vegetarian meal offered free of cost. The Sikh community here serves thousands of people 24/7.
