FOOD
Discover the best food in Varanasi - from traditional Banarasi sweets to authentic street food. Explore 10 must-try dishes including lassi, chaat, and kachori. Experience the rich culinary heritage of India's spiritual capital.
Banarasi Lassi
Banarasi Lassi is the crown jewel of Varanasi's beverage culture, a thick and creamy yogurt-based drink that has been perfected over generations. This traditional lassi is made by churning fresh curd with sugar, cardamom, saffron, and rose water until it achieves a velvety smooth texture. What makes it truly special is the method of preparation - it's traditionally served in earthen pots (kulhads) which not only keep it cool but also impart a subtle earthy flavor. The lassi is often topped with a generous dollop of malai (cream) and garnished with chopped nuts, making it a complete meal in itself. The Blue Lassi Shop in Kachauri Gali has been serving this iconic drink for decades, and their version is considered the gold standard among locals and tourists alike.
Kachori Sabzi
Kachori Sabzi represents the perfect marriage of crispy pastry and flavorful curry, making it Varanasi's most beloved breakfast dish. The kachori is a small, round, deep-fried pastry made from refined flour dough that's filled with a spiced mixture of yellow moong dal, fennel seeds, and aromatic spices. When fried to perfection, the exterior becomes golden brown and flaky while the interior remains soft and flavorful. It's traditionally served with a side of potato curry (aloo ki sabzi) that's mildly spiced and perfectly complements the rich kachori. The dish is often accompanied by tangy chutneys and pickles, creating a symphony of flavors that wakes up your taste buds in the morning. Kachauri Gali, as the name suggests, is the epicenter of this culinary delight.