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Varanasi is more than just a city- it is a living tapestry of traditions, lip-smacking street foods, and timeless charisma. While it is the ghats that resonate with chants and the scent of incense, or the busy streets, everything has a parallel story through food. Every corner of the city has a culinary gem - from simmering kachori bubbling in ghee to frothy winter-only delicacy malaiyo, which is served in kulhads.
Whether you are walking through Godowlia at dawn or watching the glow of Ganga Ghat at sunset, every bite in Varanasi delivers a taste of history and heart. So, if you are planning a trip to Varanasi during Dev Deepawali, celebrated on November 5, 2025, skip the usual cafe dinners. Instead, follow the irresistible aroma of the city’s bustling street foods. Here, the true charm lies in age-old local flavours that have been preserved through generations, carrying the spirit of Varanasi in every bite.
Kachori Sabzi
In Varanasi, every morning begins with plates of daal-filled kachoris served with a steaming bowl of rich, spicy potato curry. The crunchy, crispy exterior of kachori pairs beautifully with spicy aloo sabzi. Kachori sabzi sets the tone for the festive energy. One can find various local shops to enjoy these mouth-watering delicacies. This breakfast prepares the body and spirit to participate in the evening aartis and the vibrant diya-lit ganga ghats.
(Image credit: Wikimedia Commons)
Must try at: Ram Bhandar, Deena Chaat Bhandar, Banarasi Kachori, Nati imli, Varanasi
Malaiyo
A rare winter-only marvel in Varanasi, malaiyo is prepared from dew-laden milk blended with cardamom and whipped in clouds of sweetness. During the cold winter nights, shopkeepers across the city serve bowls of this light-airy treat. The delicate consistency melts in the mouth instantly, delivering a peaceful finish to strolls at ghats. The seasonal availability of malaiyo makes it both a luxury and a must-have ritual in the Varanasi winter festive spread.
Tamatar Chaat
Among the ocean of sweets and savouries available in the city, the famous tamatar chaat stands out, which is loved for its spicy-tangy taste profile. Ripe tomatoes are cut into halves and sprinkled with a blend of spices, chopped chillies, sev, and some lemon juice, making a bursting bite of flavours. On Dev Deepawali, when the air turns crisp and fireworks cover the sky, this loved street food or chaat is a refreshing palate-cleanser that gives you the taste of authentic foods of Varanasi.
(Image credit: Wikimedia Commons)
Must try at: Deena Chaat Bhandar, Kaashi Chaat Bhadar, Luxa, Varanasi
Banarasi Paan
It is often said that any trip to Varanasi is incomplete without trying the Banarasi paan. Betel leaf or paan rolled with nut, sweet saunf, and fragrant gulkand speaks volumes of hospitality, tradition, and festivity. The locals savour paan not only for the taste but also as a symbol of auspiciousness - something you must try at least once, on your trip to this holy city.
Must try at: Keshav Tambul Bhandar, Lanka, Varanasi
Baati‑Chokha
Though famous in nearby areas, baati-chokha has made its establishment in Varanasi’s must-try food spread. The baked baati, when paired with chokha, which is prepared by blending baigan, onion, tomato and a blend of spices, is a burst of various taste profiles in every morsel. Served with ghee and simple toor dal, this duo is a perfect balance of comforting, grounding, and deeply authentic.
(Image credit: Wikimedia Commons)
Must try at: Baati Chokha restaurant, Teliyabag, Varanasi
